EP1376488A1 - Autonomous device and method for managing, depositing and dispensing money - Google Patents

Abstract

Autonomous device (1) for the receipt and supply of coins and banknotes and for the sorting and counting thereof. The device is coupled to a computer system (3) and has means for receipt and sorting of coins and means for receipt and sorting of notes. The receipt and sorting means then connect to storage means for the storage of sorted notes and coins. At least a part of the stored notes and coins are available for redistribution.

Description

The present invention relates to a controller and a management method money, receipts, or cash, usable in particular for automate this management, especially in the case of scattered users geographically and each managing their own cash register.

In the area of automated coin management, it is known devices using a coin sorter for counting coins, and hoppers for distributing cash, of a composition preprogrammed in a microcontroller integrated in the PLC. Such devices are described in whole or in part by US patents 5,830,054, US 6,196 913, and FR 2 784 772. These devices make it possible to improve productivity for certain coin management tasks, mainly in stores of some importance. Their capacities do not allow them however, not automate the creation of cash funds comprising banknotes, and they also have a geometry suitable for a single type of cash drawer. In addition, the limits of their programming possibilities do not always allow them to perform enough different tasks to authorize a sufficiently versatile use or according to a sufficiently autonomous operation.

Patent application FR 0105624 teaches a background distributor can be managed and programmed more flexibly by a computer of a standard type, for dispensing predetermined quantities of coins of different types as well as two types of banknotes. Because of its flexibility and the distribution of banknotes, such a machine allows to increase the productivity of the services of a central cash register in a medium or large retail store, but it still requires to be completed on a regular basis, and offers only a limited number of operations.

To manage the receipts and cash funds of small units, such as small shops or services in which each stakeholder manages his own cash register independently, like driver-receivers of public transportation or bar or food servers it can however be useful to automate more and more diverse tasks without occupying staff for this purpose.

For example, it may be useful to allow such a stakeholder to get rid of your recipe and make it count and save so regular to avoid, in particular to limit losses in the event of theft. he can also be useful to allow such a stakeholder to obtain, or to buy, change anytime. Such tasks are particularly difficult to automate when the various parties are not gathered in the same place, and / or circulating in places little or badly secure.

An object of the invention is then to propose an automaton and a method management of money, receipts, or cash funds, the management or programming be flexible enough and capacities sufficiently important to allow more autonomous operation.

An object of the invention is also to propose an automaton and a method management of money, revenue, or cash, needing to be monitored, emptied or fed less frequently.

Another object of the invention is also to propose an automaton and a process for managing money, receipts or cash, which can be fed or emptied by interventions that do not interfere with the management of funds contained in the device, and therefore by less specialized personnel or less empowered.

Another object of the invention is also to propose an automaton and a process for managing money, receipts or cash, allowing its users to perform operations at frequencies and according to more flexible quantities, allowing them a more flexible and more sure of their case.

These goals are achieved by an automatic cash management or recipe or cash, in the form of coins and banknotes, usable by a user to perform one or more operations including depositing, sorting, or counting coins or banknotes, this machine comprising means for receiving, sorting, storing and distributing parts, and means for receiving, sorting, storing and distributing tickets, the machine being coupled to a computer system, said machine being characterized in that the dispensing means are capable of dispensing a specific composition of different types or values of coins or banknotes and more particularly the distribution of coins made at the outlet of parts storage means, the parts being distributed in different compartments of a container or a cash drawer of determined shape, insertable into a housing of the automaton, the storage means thus being arranged in a geometry, interchangeable and adapted to the specificity of the container or cash drawer of defined shape of which at least one compartment receives coins of the same value.

According to a particular feature, the automaton includes means for memorization of information representing the coins and tickets received by the means of reception or distributed by the means of distribution during a operation, this information being stored in association with a identification of a user of the PLC for this operation.

According to one feature, the distribution means are controlled by control means controlled by the computer system to distribute, for each type or value of coin or ticket, a determined quantity stored or calculated by the computer system according to a type requested operation, identification of the user of the PLC, or of a quantity or value of coins or notes received by the receiving means and sorting, or a combination of these.

According to a particular feature, the means for storing coins comprise a plurality of hoppers having unitary ejection means of parts and of means for counting the parts ejected and fed each by the same type or the same value of coins, these coins being able be brought to them automatically from reception and sorting facilities of coins.

According to a particular feature, the parts ejected from the hoppers are routed by a plurality of chutes whose outlets are arranged according to a specific geometry to distribute the pieces distributed in different compartments of a shaped container or cash drawer determined, at least one of these compartments receiving coins of the same type or value.

According to one feature, at least two troughs are combined in one distribution block determining a geometry of distribution of the parts suitable for a type of container or cash drawer, this distribution block being positioned at the outlet of the hoppers by positioning means allowing the use of several different interchangeable blocks adapted to different types of containers.

According to a particular feature, the automaton comprises at least two blocks of interchangeable distribution whose exchange is achieved by means actuation controlled by the computer system or by the user.

According to a particular feature, the means for storing banknotes comprise at least two storage cassettes provided with means for distribution and counting, each of these cassettes containing banknotes of the same type or value, as well as at least one cassette receiving tickets of several different types, at least one of these cassettes that can automatically receive tickets from the media receiving and sorting tickets.

According to a particular feature, the automaton includes means for communication with a computerized portable object comprising means of memorization, and memorizing at least one piece of identification data of a PLC user.

According to a particular feature, the storage means are enclosed in a closed device, known as a dispenser, so as to make them inaccessible to the user coins and banknotes stored, this dispenser comprising transfer means external coin or bill, these transfer means comprising at least a container supplying the storage means of the distributor or receiving coins or banknotes from inside the dispenser, these means of transfer that can supply the distributor or be supplied by the distributor and can be transported out of the distributor by a transfer operator, without said operator having access to the coins or tickets contained in the distributor or in the transfer means.

According to a particular feature, the means for receiving the coins are located in the upper part of the dispenser, and include a receiving tray receiving coins to be sorted, a hollow loading disc taking each pieces one after the other in the bin to bring them in front of a detector then at the top of an inclined ramp running above the means of storage, so that the pieces pass reception and sorting means towards the storage means under the effect of gravity, the opening of storage means inputs being controlled by the system IT depending on the type or value of the part detected by the detector, the dispenser comprising a receptacle located at a height determined lower than that of the reception and sorting means, this receptacle capable of receiving parts to be sorted deposited by the user at a height significantly lower than that of the reception and sorting means, then be moved by means of elevation to said means of reception to pour the coins it contains.

According to a particular feature, the computer system comprises a internal computer located inside the dispenser and storing parameters allowing autonomous operation of the PLC for a plurality of operations.

According to one feature, the internal computer is able to communicate with a keyboard external to the dispenser and constituting input means for this computer, via a temporary electrical connection or wireless communication means, without requiring the opening of the distributor.

According to a particular feature, the computer is able to communicate with the at least one computer system external to the PLC, via a computer network or a permanent or temporary computer link, this communication allowing the reading or configuration, remotely, of available operations or databases used during these operations.

According to a particular feature, the computer system comprises a computer using an operating system operating by means interactive selection and configuration, such as a graphical interface interactive to implement operations management or configuration available or databases used during these operations.

• une fenêtre principale de gestion permettant d'accéder aux autres fenêtres, et permettant également de quitter la session lancée par l'utilisateur,
• une fenêtre concernant les opérations disponibles à sélectionner, les dites opérations étant réalisées par le système,
• une fenêtre de paramétrage principale comprenant plusieurs champs de saisie de paramètres utilisée lors de la mise en route ou lors d'un contrôle ou lors d'un inventaire, la validation des paramètres pouvant être réalisée en cliquant sur un icône,
• une fenêtre permettant de saisir le paramétrage d'un ou de plusieurs types de fond de caisse,
• une fenêtre comprenant la liste des différents utilisateurs pouvant accéder aux opérations proposées par le système, ladite liste comprenant des paramètres d'identification des utilisateurs, et
• une fenêtre concernant les paramètres utilisateur affichée pour un utilisateur et correspondant aux opérations qu'il est autorisé d'accéder, et le mode de réalisation de ces opérations.

According to a particular feature, the interactive means can be represented by display windows on a screen, said windows being:

• a main management window allowing access to the other windows, and also making it possible to leave the session launched by the user,
• a window relating to the available operations to be selected, the said operations being carried out by the system,
• a main configuration window comprising several fields for entering parameters used during start-up or during a control or during an inventory, the validation of the parameters can be carried out by clicking on an icon,
• a window allowing to enter the configuration of one or more types of bottom of body,
• a window comprising the list of the different users who can access the operations proposed by the system, said list comprising parameters for identifying users, and
• a window concerning the user parameters displayed for a user and corresponding to the operations which he is authorized to access, and the mode of carrying out these operations.

• identification d'un utilisateur par saisie à travers des moyens de saisie ou par lecture, par des moyens de communication avec un objet portable informatisé, de données informatiques mémorisées dans des moyens de mémorisation dudit objet portable informatisé ;
• sélection d'un type d'opération à réaliser, par interaction avec l'utilisateur à travers des moyens d'affichage et des moyens de saisie, ou par lecture ou calcul par le système informatique à partir de l'identification de l'utilisateur ;
• réception de pièces ou de billets de banque dans des moyens de réception de pièces ou des moyens de réception de billet ;
• reconnaissance, tri des pièces ou billets reçus par type ou par valeur, par des moyens de tri de pièces ou des moyens de tri de billets ;
• comptage de chaque type ou valeur de pièces ou billets reconnus par des moyens de comptage ;
• acheminement par des moyens d'acheminement et stockage automatisé des pièces ou billets reçus dans des moyens de stockage comprenant au moins un conteneur de type recevant des pièces ou billets d'un même type ou d'une même valeur ;
• calcul par le système informatique d'une valeur reçue correspondant aux pièces ou billets reçus et reconnus, et mémorisation, dans des moyens de mémorisation, de données représentant cette valeur reçue associée à des données identifiant l'utilisateur.

To achieve these goals, the invention also provides an automated method for managing money or receipts or cash, in the form of coins and notes, characterized in that it comprises the following steps:

• identification of a user by input through input means or by reading, by means of communication with a computerized portable object, of computer data stored in means for memorizing said computerized portable object;
• selection of a type of operation to be performed, by interaction with the user through display means and input means, or by reading or calculation by the computer system from the identification of the user;
• receiving coins or banknotes in coin receiving means or bill receiving means;
• recognition, sorting of coins or banknotes received by type or value, by coin sorting means or banknote sorting means;
• counting of each type or value of coins or notes recognized by counting means;
• routing by means of automated routing and storage of the coins or notes received in storage means comprising at least one type container receiving coins or bills of the same type or of the same value;
• calculation by the computer system of a received value corresponding to the coins or tickets received and recognized, and storage, in storage means, of data representing this received value associated with data identifying the user.

• sélection d'une combinaison de pièces ou billets de différents types ou valeurs à distribuer, par interaction avec l'utilisateur à travers des moyens d'affichage et des moyens de saisie, ou par lecture ou calcul par le système informatique dans des moyens de mémorisation, à partir de l'identification de l'utilisateur ;
• commande par le système informatique de la distribution de la combinaison choisie, par des moyens de distribution de pièces ou des moyens de distribution de billets ;
• calcul par le système informatique d'une valeur distribuée correspondant aux pièces ou billets distribués, et mémorisation, dans des moyens de mémorisation, de données représentant cette valeur distribuée associée à des données identifiant l'utilisateur.

According to one feature, the method further comprises the following steps:

• selection of a combination of coins or banknotes of different types or values to be distributed, by interaction with the user through display means and input means, or by reading or calculation by the computer system in storage means , from the user identification;
• control by the computer system of the distribution of the selected combination, by means of distribution of coins or means of distribution of tickets;
• calculation by the computer system of a distributed value corresponding to the coins or tickets distributed, and storage, in storage means, of data representing this distributed value associated with data identifying the user.

According to a particularity, unrecognized or recognized coins or banknotes of a type or value not corresponding to a type container are stored in a common container which is not used to supply the coin dispensing means or ticket dispensing means.

According to one feature, the method further comprises a step of search, by the computer system in one or more databases data, data associated with the identified user and representing one or more several parameters previously memorized and determining a type of bottom structure, or the geometry of one or more cash drawers corresponding to the user, or an authorized transaction amount, or authorized hours of use, or one or more types of authorized operations.

According to a particular feature, an operation available to the user using interactive selection means comprises an operation for depositing recipe for charging to a user account, or distributing a fund of cash register, or counting or sorting the coins or notes included in a cash register, or counting and sorting for reconstitution of a cash register, or purchase of currency, or withdrawal of funds, or a combination of these.

• la figure 1a représente l'automate selon l'invention et sa connexion avec un système informatique distant,
• la figure 1b représente l'automate dans un mode de réalisation où le système informatique est un ordinateur interne intégré à l'intérieur du distributeur, et communique avec un clavier externe sans fil
• la figure 2a, représente schématiquement, en vue de face, l'intérieur de la partie réception et distribution de pièces du distributeur de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 2b représente, en vue de côté, l'agencement des dispositifs de dépôt, d'élévation, de réception et tri, et de distribution d'un distributeur de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 3 représente un premier type de tiroir-caisse,
• les figures 4a, 4b, et 4c représentent respectivement en perspective, en vue de dessus et en vue de face, le bloc de distribution adapté au premier type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 5 représente un deuxième type de tiroir-caisse,
• les figures 6a, 6b, et 6c représentent respectivement en perspective, en vue de dessus et en vue de face, le bloc de distribution adapté au deuxième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 7 représente un troisième type de tiroir-caisse,
• les figures 8a, 8b, et 8c représentent respectivement en perspective, en vue de dessus et en vue de face, le bloc de distribution adapté au troisième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 9 représente un quatrième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 10 représente en perspective le bloc de distribution adapté au quatrième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 11a représente un écran principal de choix parmi les opérations principales disponibles,
• la figure 11b représente un écran principal de gestion et paramétrage de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 12 représente un écran de paramétrage général de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 13 représente un écran de paramétrage des types de fonds de caisse mémorisés par l'automate,
• la figure 14 représente un écran de paramétrage de la liste des utilisateurs mémorisée par l'automate,
• la figure 15 représente un écran de paramétrage des opérations autorisées à un utilisateur et mémorisées par l'automate,
• la figure 16 représente un organigramme comprenant les étapes exécutées lors du retrait de fond de caisse à l'aide de l'automate selon l'invention.

The invention, with its characteristics and advantages, will emerge more clearly on reading the description made with reference to the appended drawings in which:

• FIG. 1a represents the automaton according to the invention and its connection with a remote computer system,
• FIG. 1b represents the automaton in an embodiment where the computer system is an internal computer integrated inside the dispenser, and communicates with an external wireless keyboard
• FIG. 2a, schematically represents, in front view, the interior of the part for receiving and distributing parts of the distributor of the machine according to the invention,
• FIG. 2b represents, in side view, the arrangement of the devices for depositing, elevating, receiving and sorting, and for distributing a distributor of the machine according to the invention,
• FIG. 3 represents a first type of cash drawer,
• FIGS. 4a, 4b, and 4c represent respectively in perspective, in top view and in front view, the distribution block adapted to the first type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 5 represents a second type of cash drawer,
• FIGS. 6a, 6b, and 6c represent respectively in perspective, in top view and in front view, the distribution block adapted to the second type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 7 represents a third type of cash drawer,
• FIGS. 8a, 8b, and 8c represent respectively in perspective, in plan view and in front view, the distribution block adapted to the third type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 9 represents a fourth type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 10 shows in perspective the distribution block adapted to the fourth type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 11a represents a main screen of choice among the main operations available,
• FIG. 11b represents a main screen for managing and configuring the automatic device according to the invention,
• FIG. 12 represents a general configuration screen for the automatic device according to the invention,
• FIG. 13 represents a screen for configuring the types of cash funds memorized by the automaton,
• FIG. 14 shows a screen for configuring the list of users stored by the PLC,
• FIG. 15 represents a screen for configuring the operations authorized to a user and stored by the automaton,
• FIG. 16 represents a flowchart comprising the steps carried out during the withdrawal of the bottom of the body using the automaton according to the invention.

Before approaching the description of the invention, it is necessary to specify the following concepts.

The automatic device according to the invention consists of a distributor (1) coupled to a computer system (3). The dispenser (1) according to the invention, shown in Figures 1a, 1b and 2b, has the shape of a rectangular block consisting mainly from two parts (10, 11). A first part (10) is intended for receiving and distributing coins while a second part (11) is intended for the reception and distribution of banknotes.

The first part (10), larger than the second part (11), comprises in particular, seen from the outside, a cover (100), a keyboard (101) of input associated with a screen (102, 107), both embedded in the cover (100) and a housing (103) for positioning a cash drawer (2) intended to receive coins. This housing (103) consists of a hole drilled in the bottom of a side panel (104) with a larger surface area of the cover (100), over its entire length, this hole being of sufficient size to insert any type of cash drawer (2). Housing (103) will also include a cash drawer support surface in the receipt of coins. The cover (100) can be opened to fill the machine with coins, banknotes, to maintain or repair it. The keyboard (101) will be used, among other things, to enter a code confidential viewed on the screen (102, 107) or to choose the type of operation desired by the user. This aspect of the invention will be described later.

Inside the first part (10) of parts dispenser currency, shown schematically in Figure 2a, we find a plurality of hoppers (4) ("hopper" in English) adjacent and aligned. A hopper (4) is associated with a category of parts. For example, in France or in Europe, for a currency like the Euro, there could be a hopper (4) for pennies, a hopper (4) for pennies, a hopper (4) for five-cent coins, a hopper (4) for coins ten cents, a hopper (4) for twenty-cent coins, a hopper (4) for fifty cents coins, a hopper (4) for coins of a euro. The hoppers (4) are all identical and do not have a structure particular according to the category of coins they receive. In however depending on the size of the category of coins received, the hoppers (4) can store more or less parts.

These hoppers (4) include an inlet for introducing the coins and an outlet (40) for the parts. The pieces are ejected one by one by one ejector (not shown). According to the invention, the outlet (40) of each hopper is placed opposite the entrance to a coin distribution chute. The exit of the distribution chute is placed opposite a compartment of a cash drawer (2). Figures 2a and 2b are schematic representations of inside the first part (10) of the dispenser (1). In reality, the hoppers (4) have a more complicated structure including in particular an ejector of a type known. The distribution of parts will be managed entirely by the software management. In particular, according to the invention, each hopper will have nearby from its output a counter of the number of parts ejected. This counter will be, for example, consisting of a photoelectric cell detecting the passage of each piece ejected. The count made will be taken into account immediately by the software which will automatically debit what has been actually distributed.

The set of chutes forms a single distribution block (5) which is removable from the dispenser (1). The arrangement and shape of the chutes in the distribution block depend on the location of the compartments in the cash drawer (2) to which the distributor (1) is supposed to distribute parts of change. According to the invention, the first part (10) of the distributor (1) can therefore receive, by a hooking system (105) and positioning, different distribution blocks (5) depending on the configuration of the cash drawer (2) to feed. This attachment system (105) consists, for example, of two pins (59) positioned on the sides of the distribution block (5) and intended to slide in ramps formed inside the first part (10) until blocking the distribution block (5).

In a variant not shown here, several distribution blocks of different geometries are available in the dispenser, and can be interchanged by exchange means such as a carousel, actuated by the user or controlled by the computer system depending on the operation to be performed or a type of cash drawer corresponding to a user identified, and stored as a parameter by the computer system.

The cash drawer (2) is intended to be inserted in the housing (103) provided in the first part (10) of the dispenser (1) for receiving rooms. According to the invention, in each distribution block (5), the troughs (50) will have an arrangement adapted to the configuration of the cash drawer (2). In each distribution block (5), the troughs (50) have a surface routing of the parts oriented towards the vertical median plane of the block of distribution (5). The troughs (50) have an outlet with a section smaller than the section of the inlet of the chute communicating with the outlet (40) of at least one hopper (4).

For example, a first type of cash drawer (2a), shown in the figure 3, consists of a row of six identical compartments (20a). according to the invention, the distribution block (5a), shown in FIG. 4a, 4b and 4c, adapted to this cash drawer (2a) will include six chutes (50a, 51a) having entrances (500a, 510a) adjacent and aligned opposite the outlets (40) of the hoppers (4) and adjacent and aligned outlets (501a, 511a), each outlet (501a, 511 a) being placed above a compartment (20a) different from the cash drawer (2a). This cash drawer (2a) has only six compartments (20a) for seven hoppers (4). Two hoppers (4) therefore distribute a compartment of the cash drawer (2a) via a common distribution chute (51a) whose inlet (510a) is enlarged compared to the inlets (500a) of the other troughs (50a). A compartment (20a) of the cash drawer (2a) will then receive coins from two hoppers.

A second type of cash drawer (2b) is shown in Figure 5. This cash drawer (2b) will include, for example, a lockable lid (21b) (22b). It also includes two rows (r1, r2) of compartments (20b). A first row (r1) has four compartments and a second row (r2) has six compartments (20b). The first row will include, for example, two identical central compartments (20b) taken between two larger compartments (23b) for storing, for example example, banknotes. The six compartments (20b) of the second row (r2) and the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) are intended to receive coins from the hoppers (4). The according to the invention, distribution chutes will be arranged to supply these compartments (20b) of the cash drawer (2b). The distribution block (5b), shown in Figures 6a, 6b and 6c, will include a chute (51b) for supply the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) and six troughs (50b) to feed the compartments (20b) of the second row (R2). The entrances (500b, 510b) of the trunking (50b, 51b) are adjacent, aligned and placed each opposite the outlet (40) of a hopper (4). The chute (51b) supplying the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) is central. The outlet (511b) of this central chute (51b) is offset compared to the other outlets (501b) of the trunking to be able to supply compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) of the cash drawer (2b). The second row (r2) of the cash drawer (2b) will, for example, be the first inserted into the housing (103) provided for positioning the cash drawer (2b). The outlet (511b) of the central chute (51b) is offset towards the outside when the distribution block (5b) is hooked by the hanging system (105) in the first part (10) of the dispenser. This central chute (51b) will, because it feeds the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) of the cash drawer (2b), a larger section outlet (511b) than the other outlets (501b) from the trunking (50b) each giving only on a compartment (20b) of the cash drawer (2b).

A third type of cash drawer (2c), represented in FIG. 7, also includes two rows (r1, r2) of compartments. Both rows include a large common compartment (22c). A first row (r1) comprises, in addition to this common compartment (22c), three other compartments aligned. Among these three compartments, two (24c) are identical and a last one (23c) is larger than the other two. The second row (r2) includes, in addition to the common compartment, five identical adjacent compartments (20c). These are the last five compartments (20c) which are fed by the hoppers (4) of the distributor (1) through the chutes arranged in a block. According to the invention, the block of distribution (5c) corresponding, represented in FIGS. 8a, 8b, and 8c, will include, four adjacent entrances (500c, 510c). According to the invention, the block distribution (5c) will include three entries (500c) of trunking (50c) of identical sections, two of these inputs being at one end and the other of these inputs being at the other end of the distribution block (5c). This group of two troughs placed at one end and this trough placed at the other end are separated by the last chute (51c) having an inlet (510c) with a larger section important to collect coins from multiple hoppers (4) of the distributor (1), for example coming from four hoppers (4) of the distributor. The outlets (501c, 511c) of these chutes (50c, 51c) are also adjacent and aligned and are five in number, each being placed above a compartment (20c) of the cash drawer (2c) to be supplied. The outlet (511) from the chute (51c) with an enlarged inlet according to the invention is separated in two separate outlets to supply two separate compartments (20c) of the cash drawer (2c). These two compartments of the cash drawer may include each, for example, two categories of coins from two hoppers (4) of the distributor (1). The distributor (1) can also have several hoppers (4) comprising the same category of parts.

Another type of cash drawer (2d), shown in Figure 9, will include mainly two rows (r1, r2) of compartments. A first row (r1) includes large compartments (21d) for storing the bank notes and other bank card receipts. A second row (r2), for storing coins, includes, as shown in the figure 9, seven identical compartments (20d) adjacent and aligned. According to the invention the distribution block (5d) for supplying the cash drawer compartments will have seven chutes, as shown in figure 10. The chutes (50d) according to the invention will be arranged so as to supply these seven compartments (20d). The distributor (1) will include, as described above, for example seven hoppers (4), as shown in Figure 2a. A hopper (4), including a category of coins, will feed a compartment (20d) of the cash drawer (2) via a chute (50d) of the distribution (5d). According to the invention, the chutes will have inputs (500d) adjacent aligned, each facing the outlet (40) of a hopper (4) and of outputs (501d), also adjacent and aligned, each giving on a compartment (20d) different from the cash drawer (2d).

According to the invention, all of these distribution blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) are of same dimensions so that they can be hung in the dispenser (1) under all hoppers (4). The distribution block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is removable dispenser (1) and interchangeable depending on the type of cash drawer (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) to be supplied. The distribution block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) will be positioned by the attachment system (105) in the distributor (1) without touching the internal or external structure of the distributor (1). According to the invention, it will therefore possible to adapt the dispenser to the supply of any type of cash drawer by changing only the distribution block. The different types of cash drawer and distribution blocks shown above are in no way limitative, other cash drawers can be considered in association with other suitable distribution blocks.

According to the invention, the second part (11) of the dispenser (1) will include a distribution module (12) using one or more cassettes, for example two cassettes (121, 122), each containing a single ticket category. The second part (11) of the dispenser will then include means for withdrawing from a cassette and for routing tickets, for example made up of rollers for routing tickets to outside. These means (12) for distributing tickets, as for coins, may include a cell counting the number of tickets actually distributed, this value being entered in the computer system (3). The computer system (3) will memorize in its database (db1) the number of tickets that the distributor (1) must issue for each category of tickets. The banknotes will thus be treated as the coins and the manner of proceed from the computer system (3) will be similar to that used for the distribution of parts. The distributor will therefore issue the number of tickets stored for each category of tickets. The ATM can for example, store up to 4,000 banknotes. During each operation comprising a distribution, it will be possible to assign to each user, the value in banknotes that one wishes to distribute.

In a variant (not shown), the storage hoppers of coins and note storage cassettes have closing means as well as locking or sealing means electrically or mechanically controlled when opening the distributor (1), or controlled by the computer system (3). One or several hoppers or cassettes are then fixed in the distributor by reversible fixing means, so as to allow the extraction of one or more several of them, together or separately. During an operation of emptying or supplying the PLC, it is then possible for an operator to transfer to replace one or more hoppers present in the distributor by other hoppers of a determined content, and to put the automaton back in service with the new hoppers, without having access to the content of the hoppers. For this, the cassettes or hoppers are closed when the cover, or front, and can only be removed once locked or sealed. These cassettes or hoppers are then replaced by other closed cassettes, and locked or sealed, which cannot be unlocked or unsealed then open only after fixing in the dispenser or after closing the cover of the distributor.

In the upper part of the first part (10) of the dispenser (1), a money receiving device (13) is arranged above the hoppers of storage, as shown schematically in Figures 2a and 2b. In the case of a transaction including a deposit of coins by a user, this coin receiving device receives the loose parts, recognizes and sorts them by type or by value, counts them for each type or value, then routes them by gravity to the storage hoppers (4) assigned to each of the coin types or values. The documents received and recognized, when they correspond to the types or values stored, may thus be redistributed during an operation comprising a distribution of coins, later or during the same operation. A hopper (41) additional will receive unrecognized parts, or parts recognized but not corresponding to a type or value assigned to a storage hopper (4), or spare parts in relation to capacities other storage hoppers (4).

Typically, this device (13) for receiving coins comprises a receiving tank (134) receiving the coins to be sorted, in which turns a hollow loading disc (135) which takes the pieces one after the other the other in the tank, until the last, to bring them to the top of a inclined ramp (137) running over troughs (138) leading to different hoppers (4, 41). At the entrance to this inclined ramp (137) is a known type recognition device (136) recognizing the type, or the value, as well as the authenticity of the pieces brought by the disc (135) of loading. Depending on the recognition made by the device (136) recognition, different actuators (139) arranged along the ramp and controlled by the computer system (3) or by means of commands depending on the recognition device (136), eject each part towards the chute leading to the hopper of the recognized type or value. AT the entrance to each chute and the ramp is a counting device of a known type (not shown), for example by optical cell, which holds the counts the number of coins entered into each hopper. Information from recognition device and those of the different counting cells are transmitted to the computer system, which corroborates them and uses them to calculate and store the value and composition of all the pieces filed by the user. At the end of the ramp (137) the parts not recognized fall and are received in an eighth hopper (41), where they can be stored or returned to the user.

In the lower part of its facade, the first part of the distributor (1) has a hatch (131) which can be unlocked, for example on control of the computer system, and where the user can dump the coins he wants to deposit. These parts then fall to a receptacle (132) mobile, for example with a capacity of around 1000 pieces, which is moved to the top by actuating means (133), in a time of approximately 4 seconds. This mobile receptacle then constitutes an elevator which will bring the parts spilled to the tank located at the entrance of the device (13) of receipt of parts. This elevator provides the device for receiving parts above the hoppers, while allowing the user to easily pour the parts into a hatch low enough to limit the effort and movement required. Such an arrangement thus allows to obtain a distributor of compact shape and reduced size and of a satisfactory ergonomics.

In its second part (11), the dispenser (1) comprises a device (14) receiving banknotes. In the case of an operation comprising a deposit of banknotes by a user, this device receipt of tickets receives tickets one by one, recognizes them and sorts them by type or by value, counts them for each type or value, then routes them up to the storage cassettes (121, 122) allocated to each of the types or values of tickets. Tickets received and recognized, when correspond to the types or values stored, can thus be redistributed during an operation comprising a distribution of banknotes, later or during the same operation. A third cassette (123) will receive unrecognized tickets, or tickets recognized but not corresponding not to a type or value assigned to a storage cassette (121, 122), or redundant tickets compared to the storage capacity of others storage cassettes.

Typically, this bill receiving device (14) includes a bill insertion opening in the front of the dispenser (1). The user introduces one by one the tickets he wants to deposit, and these are driven by successive rubber rollers along a path routing. On this path is arranged a device of a known type of ticket recognition, for example by optical scanning under several lights using lights from different spectra. Depending on the type or of the recognized value for each ticket entered by the user, said ticket is then referred to the corresponding cassette (121, 122, 123). In variant not shown, the machine includes a delamination device in which the user deposits the tickets to be recognized in the form of batteries or loose sets. This delinking device extracts the banknotes one by one bundle inserted, and sends them to the recognition device described more high. At the entrance to each cassette (121, 122, 123) and to the device (14) for reception of banknotes there is a counting device, for example per cell optical, which takes account of the number of banknotes entered in each cassette. The information of the recognition device and that of the different count cells are transmitted to the computer system, which corroborates with each other and uses them to calculate and store the value, and possibly the composition, of all the tickets introduced by the user.

Because some operations include deposit by a user coins or banknotes, at least part of which can be reused for perform a dispensing operation, the machine according to the invention can operate on an autonomy which is less limited by the capacities of its means of storage.

According to the invention, the distributor (1) is controlled by a system computer (3), as illustrated in Figures 1a and 1b, running software management of operations that can be performed by the PLC at the request of a user of this automaton. This software includes a management and configuration part allowing to memorize settings adapted to the mode of use of the PLC, and the users of this PLC. This software also includes an operating part, which provides the interface between the PLC and the user, to choose and order the operations to be performed.

The management and configuration part is mainly accessible using a keyboard (32) communicating with the computer system (3), or is accessible from another computer system (36) by communication IT via a computer network (34), for example via the Internet, or a telephone link (35) using a modem (33).

The operating part is directly used by the user of the controller to perform an operation, and communicates with it through a display screen and input means accessible to the user. These input means can be for example a reduced keyboard (101) arranged in front of the dispenser or a screen (107) displaying different choices in different areas of the screen and keys (106) external to the screen arranged next to these different areas, or a touch screen detecting a contact of the finger on the screen at one of these areas.

According to a variant, this computer system (3) can manage several dispensers of the type of the invention at the same time.

This software will manage the different operations that can realize the machine, in particular the deposit of receipts or the withdrawal of funds, the simple coin counting, money buying, direct distribution of funds of cash and restocking, or the deposit of a cash bottom for counting and reconstitution of a restocked fund.

In the part of the software carrying out the management and configuration of the PLC, a main management screen (220), represented in FIG. 11b, provides access to the various functionalities of the software. For this, this screen (220) will include a strip (221) of software type controls control button, which can be selected individually. This selection can be made, for example, by a mouse click on the button desired, and will cause the display, in a specific part of the window, a new screen window with information or controls software related to this button. This strip (221) will include, for example, a button, called, for example, "Setup" (223) allowing configure, for example, the distribution of coins or banknotes, or the list authorized users and their authorized operations, identification of the accounts assigned to them, or identification codes of these users. By clicking on this button, it will be possible to configure the software.

• L'automate comportera une pluralité de trémies (4) de stockage devant distribuer des pièces de monnaie, par exemple sept trémies. Dans chaque trémie (4), on stockera une seule catégorie de pièces, c'est à dire un seul type de pièce, ou plusieurs types d'une même valeur. Un paramètre à saisir (242) sera donc la valeur unitaire des pièces introduites dans chaque trémie. Cette saisie (242) sera effectuée sur la fenêtre d'écran (240) de paramétrage général. Par exemple, dans cette fenêtre (240) nous choisirons que dans une première trémie, seront introduites des pièces ayant une valeur de 1,00 euro, dans une deuxième trémie, des pièces de 0,50 euro, dans une troisième trémie, des pièces de 0,20 euro, dans une quatrième trémie, des pièces de 0,10 euro, dans une cinquième trémie, des pièces de 0,05 euro, dans une sixième trémie, des pièces de 0,02 euro, et dans la septième trémie, des pièces de 0,01 euro.
• L'automate comportera une pluralité de cassettes (121, 122, 123) de stockage de billets de banque, par exemple trois cassettes. Dans chacune des deux cassettes (121, 122) devant distribuer des billets, on stockera une seule catégorie de billets, c'est à dire un seul type de billet, ou plusieurs types d'une même valeur. Un paramètre à saisir (241) sera donc la valeur unitaire des billets introduits dans chaque cassette. Cette saisie (241) sera effectuée sur la fenêtre d'écran (240) de paramétrage général. Par exemple, dans cette fenêtre (240) nous choisirons que dans une première cassette, seront introduits des billets ayant une valeur de 10,00 euros, dans une deuxième cassette, des billets de 5,00 euros, et dans la troisième cassette (123), aucun billet ne sera introduit.
• Un autre paramètre à saisir sera le nombre minimal de billets en stock dans chaque cassette, en dessous de laquelle devra être affiché un message d'alerte. Ce message précisera, par exemple, qu'il faut réapprovisionner l'automate en billets.
• De même, pour toutes les trémies de pièces, le nombre minimal de pièces (244) de stock dans chacune des trémies est saisi. En dessous de cette valeur, un message d'alerte sera affiché. Ce message précisera qu'il faut réapprovisionner la trémie pour laquelle l'alerte est activée.
• Deux autres paramètres à saisir seront, par exemple, un code (245) et un mot de passe (246), nécessaires pour effectuer la vidange de l'automate. La saisie de ce code à l'aide du clavier (32) externe, ou à l'aide du clavier (101) sur l'automate est suivie d'une sélection de retrait de fond de caisse pour provoquer la vidange complète de l'automate.
• Enfin, les derniers paramètres à saisir sont une heure de début (247) et une heure de fin (248). La durée entre ces deux heures définit la tranche horaire pendant laquelle les utilisateurs sont autorisés à retirer des fonds de caisse ou des réassorts.

First of all, a general configuration of the automaton can be carried out in a general configuration screen window represented diagrammatically in FIG. 12, for example during start-up or during a control or an inventory. This screen window (240) will include several fields for entering parameters to be stored in a database.

• The machine will have a plurality of storage hoppers (4) for distributing coins, for example seven hoppers. In each hopper (4), a single category of coins will be stored, ie a single type of coin, or several types of the same value. A parameter to be entered (242) will therefore be the unit value of the coins introduced into each hopper. This entry (242) will be made on the screen window (240) for general configuration. For example, in this window (240) we will choose that in a first hopper, coins with a value of 1.00 euro will be introduced, in a second hopper, coins of 0.50 euros, in a third hopper, coins of 0.20 euro, in a fourth hopper, coins of 0.10 euro, in a fifth hopper, coins of 0.05 euro, in a sixth hopper, coins of 0.02 euro, and in the seventh hopper , 0.01 euro coins.
• The machine will include a plurality of cassettes (121, 122, 123) for storing banknotes, for example three cassettes. In each of the two cassettes (121, 122) for distributing tickets, a single category of tickets will be stored, that is to say a single type of ticket, or several types of the same value. A parameter to be entered (241) will therefore be the unit value of the banknotes introduced into each cassette. This entry (241) will be made on the screen window (240) for general configuration. For example, in this window (240) we will choose that in a first cassette, will be introduced banknotes having a value of 10.00 euros, in a second cassette, banknotes of 5.00 euros, and in the third cassette (123 ), no ticket will be introduced.
• Another parameter to enter will be the minimum number of tickets in stock in each cassette, below which an alert message must be displayed. This message will specify, for example, that the machine must be replenished with banknotes.
• Likewise, for all coin hoppers, the minimum number of pieces (244) of stock in each of the hoppers is entered. Below this value, an alert message will be displayed. This message will specify that it is necessary to replenish the hopper for which the alert is activated.
• Two other parameters to enter will be, for example, a code (245) and a password (246), necessary to perform the emptying of the PLC. The entry of this code using the external keyboard (32), or using the keyboard (101) on the automaton is followed by a selection of withdrawal of the bottom of the body to cause the complete emptying of the PLC.
• Finally, the last parameters to enter are a start time (247) and an end time (248). The duration between these two hours defines the time slot during which users are authorized to withdraw cash or restocking.

The validation of these parameters will, for example, be carried out by clicking on an icon (249) called, for example "OK". Selection using mouse of another icon (250) will cancel this setting and keep the previous setting.

The configuration of the PLC in the management software includes the implementation and storage, in a database (db2) of stored data in the means (M) for storing the computer system (3), of a list of the different users authorized for the PLC. In this database data, in relation to each of these users are also memorized parameters defining the operations authorized to them and the embodiment of these various operations.

This list can be viewed and modified in a screen window (280) shown in Figure 14. In this window, an identification code (281) different is entered to identify each user. At this code identification (281) is associated with the name (282) of the user. Each user has a password (283) which will be stored in the database (Db2). This password (283) corresponds to a code that the user will be brought to enter on the keyboard (101) of the distributor (1) to perform one of the operations available to him. This password (283) can be changed by the user from the keyboard (101) of the dispenser (1), in one operation accessible from the "User Options" choice of the choice window (210) described below. It will be possible to delete a user from the list by clicking on a specific icon in a banner (290) of icons.

For each user in this list, the database (db2) will store information (284) called "user type", which is displayed and can be edited in this window. This information (284) from type of user for example in the form of a graphical interactive control of type “drop-down list” proposing different values proposed for the software for this information (284). The user type corresponds to a classification category of authorized users. From a setting of the software itself, not detailed here, this user type information can be used by software to suggest predetermined values for certain parameters associated with the corresponding user, or to propose a choice of PLC operations or configuration sub-menus the PLC depending on this type of user. For example, a type can represent a cashier's host or hostess supermarket, which will use the machine exclusively to withdraw one or more checkout fund and / or checkout replenishment. This type of user can also be a bus driver traveling on a line whose terminus is close to the distributor, and who will use the machine to deposit its recipe and to replenish its cash fund. This type of user can also be a merchant external to the organization managing the machine, which can use the machine exclusively to carry out balance operations neutral, like counting or sorting money, or positive balance like deposit of recipe at the end of the day.

For each user on this list, the database (db2) can storing information (285) called “account number”, which is displayed and can be edited in this window. This account number identifies data stored in the storage means (M) and representing a financial value held by the user with the organization managing the machine and the money it contains. For each operation performed by the user with the automaton, the computer system stores the value of the deposited currency in debit or credit from this account or removed, or the difference of these values. For example, the balance of one operation as a deposit of revenue with redistribution of a cash fund will be charged to the credit of the account assigned to the user, and may be reimbursed or revalued in another form at the end of the period or by direct transfer from the body managing the machine to an account bank belonging to said user or to his employer.

For each user on this list, the database (db2) can storing information (286) called “account status”, which is displayed and can be edited in this window. This account status represents a type of operation authorized or programmed for the account of this user, and can for example understand the limitation to only credit operations to the account, or identify this account as representing only a statement of the cash or restocking funds withdrawn by a host or cashier.

For each user on this list, the database (db2) can storing information (287) called "maximum differential", which is displayed and can be edited in this window. This maximum differential represents the maximum financial value corresponding to the total balance of operations that can be authorized to this user during a period of given time, for example a day. This information may constitute useful security to limit the risks, in particular in the event of fraud by a an individual posing as an authorized user.

For each user on this list, the database (db2) can storing information (288) called “authorized hours”, which is displayed and can be edited in this window. This information represents the schedules, in the day or in a week, where this user can use the machine.

For each user belonging to this list of users, the database (db2) of data stores other parameters defining certain limits or characteristics of each type of operation authorized to said user. These additional parameters can be viewed and changed in a screen window (270) entitled “User Parameters”, represented by figure 15. This window can be obtained from the window (280) displaying the list of users, by a click of the mouse on the line of a user followed by a click on a specific icon, displayed in the icon strip (290).

This window (270) of user parameters resumes the display (271) of the information line corresponding to the user in the list user, and also allows modification. For this user, this window displays and allows the modification of a list (279) of operations which are authorized, and a certain amount of information representing parameters (272), specific to these types of operations and to this user, by example of limits or modes of operation.

For one or more of the operations including a distribution of coins, a parameter (272) next to each transaction can indicate the code of a distribution block (5) whose geometry corresponds to that of the cash drawer used by this user.

For a deposit operation, a parameter (273) can indicate a maximum number of deposits allowed for a given period, for example per day.

For a fund distribution or restocking operation, a parameter (274) can indicate the code of a bottom of the body composition to use for this user. This composition can be entered and saved as described below.

For a counting or counting with sorting operation, a parameter (275) can indicate the number of counting operations authorized to this user for a given period, for example per day.

For a money purchase transaction, a parameter (276) can indicate the code of one or more coin compositions and / or tickets corresponding to one or more determined sums to be converted into currency, from a deposit, or by charging to an account or by purchase using a credit or debit card. Although can be used under different conditions, these compositions can be entered and stored as cash as described lower.

A configuration of the types of cash available will consist of enter the parameters linked to the list of cash funds to store them in a database (db1) stored on the computer system (3). In a specific screen window (260), represented in FIG. 13, it will be possible enter and store the configuration of one or more types of background checkout. The configuration of a fund consists of choosing the number of tickets and the number of coins of each category that we want to distribute for this fund. Several different users may have different funds, that is to say different compositions. Of new cash funds can be added to the list by clicking on a specific icon displayed within a strip of icons (261). A first parameter to enter is the code (262) used to identify the bottom of the body. Then, you will have to enter the number (263) of tickets of each type that you wish to assign to this fund. Then, you will have to assign the number of coins (264) to be distributed in each coin category. The total amount (265) of the fund will be calculated automatically. He will be it is also possible to delete an existing cash fund by selecting the line corresponding to the bottom of the body that you want to delete and by clicking on a specific icon for removing the banner (261) of icons.

According to a variant of the invention, it will also be possible in a screen window (not shown) to configure the system's serial port computer to which the distribution machine is connected. It will be possible in this window, specify for each coin value, the number of the hopper which is assigned to this value. The same category of parts can be distributed over several hoppers. However, a hopper cannot understand coins of different values.

The validation of all these parameters is, for example, carried out in clicking on an icon called, for example, "OK".

In the operating part of the software, the computer system (3) asks the user to identify himself, and offers him the different operations that it is authorized to perform, in particular according to its own parameters to this user, parameters specific to the PLC, and quantities of change remaining inside the storage means of the machine.

The identification of the user can be done by known means and in various ways depending on the embodiments, certain modes of realization that can use several modes of identification. According to users or according to the types of users, or according to the types of operations which are authorized, an identification mode can be requested by the PLC rather than another, depending on the degree of security offered by each of these modes. A choice of identification modes can be stored in the form a parameter specific to the user or to a category of users.

These means of identification may include entering the code (281) user followed by entering the password (283) memorized for this user. These means of identification may also include the communication of the PLC with a portable object held by the user and containing digital data, for example a magnetic badge or a transponder, or comprising a microprocessor and executing an algorithm identification, for example a smart card, specific or multi-application.

Once the user has been identified with the PLC, or before this identification, according to the embodiments, the software offers him to choose the or the operations he wishes to perform. The main operations are grouped together in the form of choices displayed (230) on the screen (107) of the distributor (1), as illustrated in FIG. 11a. The selection of these choices can be by entering on the keyboard (101) a number corresponding to the desired choice, or by pressing one of the external keys (106) located on the sides of the screen and next to which the different choices are displayed.

If the identification is done before the choice of operation, the software may not propose only the operations available to this user at that time. Yes the identification is done after the choice of the operations, the software can propose all operations available at that time, then request identification and restrict the choice, or block the operation if the user had chosen a operation which is not authorized to him.

To carry out an operation to withdraw a fund or a restocking, the user, for example a cashier or hostess, must choose the "Cash withdrawal" (216) or Withdrawal restocking "(217) operation in the screen (210) for choosing the operations.

The operation then proceeds as follows, one of which flowchart is shown in Figure 16. The dispenser is closed and connected to the computer system (3) which controls it. Each hopper (4) is filled with coins of a certain category of coins. The block of distribution (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) installed in the distributor (1) is that suitable for type of cash drawer (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) to be supplied. In some modes of realization, the software or the user can order a block change distribution, if several different blocks are available, so as to use the block adapted to the cash drawer used. If controlled by the system IT, this change of distribution block is done by choosing the block adapted to the identified user, by reading in the database (db1) corresponding to a code (272) identifying this cash drawer or the distribution adapted to it.

The hostess or cashier will start in a first step (300) by positioning its cash drawer (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) in the housing (103) provided in the distributor (1), as shown in Figures 1a, 1b and 1c. The receptionist or cashier enters in a second step (301), using the keyboard (101), its identification code on the screen (102, 107) of the dispenser as well as his password. The computer system (3) identifies the hostess of cashier or the cashier by going to check (302) the identification code and the associated password in the database (db2) including particularly the list of cashier hostesses and cashiers who is associated. In the event that the hostess or host's identification code checkout, password or both are false, an error (303) is generated and an error message is displayed on the screen (102, 107) of the dispenser (1). This message may suggest, for example, to start typing again. In however, if the identification code and associated password are found in the database (db2), the system (3) controls the display (304) a menu on the screen (102, 107) of the dispenser (1). This menu can understand, for example, three options. A first option will be, for example, withdrawal of the bottom of the body. A second option will be, for example, restocking withdrawal and a third option will be modification (305) password.

If the hostess or the cashier chooses the first or the second option (306), the computer system (3) consults the different databases (db1, db2). The computer system (3) must first check if the hostess or checkout host is in the time slot (307) configured to be able to make one of these withdrawals. If it's not the case, no withdrawal (308) will be possible. If so, the computer system (3) will have to consult the database (db2) of the list of hostesses or checkout hosts and see if the checkout hostess or host is allowed to pick up its bottom of body or restocking (309). If the cashier hostess or not authorized, then no withdrawal (308) will be possible, the computer system (3) will then block the withdrawal process. If the cashier or hostess is authorized, the system will check whether the cashier hostess has not already withdrawn its number of authorized cash or restocking funds per day (310). Yes this is the case, the computer system (3) will block the withdrawal process (308). If this is not the case, the computer system (3) has two possibilities: that the cashier or cashier wishes to withdraw a cashier or get restocking. In the first case, the computer system (3) reads in the cash register code (311) associated with the identifier of the cashier hostess or host. The computer system (3) then searches in the database (db1) this fund background code. Once he has found this code in the database (db1), the system reads the values defining this fund. These values will be the number of tickets for each category of ticket to be distributed for this fund and the number of coins to distribute in each coin category. The computer system then orders the distributor for the distribution of tickets and coins (312). In the second case (313), i.e. in the case where the hostess or the cash desk host wishes to withdraw restocking, the computer system (3) must read in the database (db2) if the hostess or the cashier has not already removed the maximum allowable restocking value (313). If so, none withdrawal (308) will not be possible. However, if this is not the case, the hostess or the cashier can enter the amount of restocking (314) he wishes to withdraw, this must not exceed the maximum authorized value.

To carry out a deposit operation, for example the receipt for a day or half a day, the user identifies himself to the machine and choose the "Deposit" operation. The software then commands actuating means, for example electromagnets or jacks electric, which open a panel masking the entry of the device (14) of receipt of tickets, and unlocks or opens the flap (131) for receiving tickets rooms.

The user introduces the banknotes which he wants to deposit in the device (14) receiving tickets, and pours all the coins he wants to deposit in this receiving hatch (141). The tickets entered are then recognized, counted, and fed into the storage cassettes (121, 122, 123) of the distributor. The number of recognized tickets in each category is transmitted the computer system (3) which calculates the amount they represent, and stores this amount. Unrecognized tickets can be returned to the user by the PLC, at the input of the receiving device or by the ticket distribution means of the dispenser module (12). The tickets recognized as belonging to a category to which a cassette (121, 122) specific storage is affected will then be routed to this same cassette, from where they can be redistributed during an operation any with the distribution of tickets. Recognized tickets but of a category without a specific cassette will be stored in the third cassette (123), from where they can be extracted during a next emptying or reloading operation.

The poured parts fall into the receptacle (142), which is moved by actuation means, for example by a chain or a drive belt along a guide rail. This receptacle mobile is moved to the top of the dispenser where it pours its contents into the tray (134) for receiving the device (13) for receiving parts. The number of recognized parts in each category is transmitted to the system (3) computer which calculates the amount, and stores this amount. Rooms recognized as belonging to a category to which a hopper (4) of specific storage is affected will then be routed to that same hopper, from where they can be redistributed during any operation comprising a distribution of parts. The recognized parts but of a category without a specific hopper will be stored in the eighth hopper (41), from which they can be extracted during a next emptying or reloading operation.

After counting and valuing the coins and notes deposited by the user, the computer system checks the amounts thus paid and updates in its storage means the data representing the account assigned to the user, adding the value of the deposited currency.

When the user chooses a recipe deposit operation and reconstitution of the bottom of the body, the automaton successively performs a deposit operation, followed by distribution of a new cash fund corresponding to the cash register code memorized for this user. The the value of the distributed fund is then subtracted from the amount deposited, and it is the balance of this operation which is charged to the user's account.

The user can also choose a counting operation, followed or not a sort by category. He will then deposit a quantity of money which he wants to count, in the form of coins eVou tickets. The automaton then goes count and value, then redistribute coins and notes received, or others of the same number in the same categories. This operation can in particular be offered as a counting service to users with whom the controller does not have enough direct or trusting relationship to assign them an account, sums paid then being fully redistributed. If the user chooses a counting and sorting operation, and if the PLC has a block of distribution compatible with a user's cash drawer, redistribution of the deposited currency will be done with this block. It is thus possible to offer to such users a currency sorting service based on quantities supplied in bulk.

For users without an account, or for restocking partial, it is possible to carry out a currency purchase transaction, i.e. for distributing money in the form of coins and / or banknotes of the categories available, in a specific composition, and in exchange for a deposit of currency representing the same value. This currency purchase can be made from many ways.

en billets de 10 , le logiciel peut proposer de distribuer des pièces 1 ou des pièces de 0,50 , ou une répartition égale en valeur de pièces de 1 et de pièces de 0,50 .A first way is to deposit, as described above, an amount chosen by the user. The software then displays a screen (not shown) proposing one or more categories of coins or notes which constitute the main component of the money distributed in exchange for the deposit. For example, for a deposit of 100

in tickets of 10 , the software can offer to distribute coins 1 or 0.50 coins , or an equal distribution in value of 1 coins and coins of 0.50 .

A second way is for the user to choose a type composition from a choice of composition, similar to background standard boxes, offered by the software. The value of the chosen composition will be then displayed and must be filed by the user as described above, or will be debited from the user's account. These compositions can be entered and stored in the configuration software, in the same way as the funds, and the codes (276) of some of these compositions can be saved as parameters associated with a user or group users.

In a variant, it is also possible to make a purchase of change using a credit card in a known manner, for example by the means of the smart card reader (108) used for the identification of the user. For a user with an account memorized by the system computer, such a purchase of money can also be debited from said account.

The machine can also offer a simple withdrawal of funds, without particular constraint on the composition of the currency constituting these funds, in the same way as a traditional ATM machine type distributor Bank or ATM, using the card reader identification chip to communicate with a credit card.

According to the invention, the main configuration or management screen includes a button, for example called "Daily" (222), which when is activated, allows you to view operations that have been performed by users of the controller for some time, for example, in the day.

According to the invention, the machine will also include a printer communicating with the computer system (3) and printing sheets or tickets, at least one of which can be retrieved by the user at outside the dispenser. These tickets will indicate a report of each transaction, and may include the precise composition of the currency distributed or money paid.

Likewise, the computer system (3) will memorize a report. complete of each operation, in its storage means, for the purposes archiving, auditing, or financial compensation between operations made with the machine and the bank accounts of users and the management body of the machine.

In a particularly compact embodiment shown in Figure 1b, all or part of the computer system (3) is enclosed inside of the dispenser (1), for example in the form of a microcomputer (31) of a current model. In this variant, the screen incorporated in the dispenser has sufficient graphic display characteristics to be able to display all the management menus used by the computer system and described upper. The screen used can for example be an active matrix screen (107) TFT type. These screens include in particular graphic windows using menus, icons, and graphic and interface controls interactive graphics such as Windows (registered trademark) of the company Microsoft, MacOS from Apple, or X-Windows from Sun (registered trademarks). Some of these screens may display choices to performed by the user in the form of graphic marks located on the edge of the screen, next to external buttons (106) present on the edge of the screen. These external buttons can be used by the user to make a selection fast among the choices offered by a display generated by the software, by example a type of transaction or an amount among several to withdraw.

In addition to the external buttons (106) and the keyboard (101) integrated into the distributor (1), this variant of the machine according to the invention comprises a independent external keyboard (32) for entering all the data or information necessary for the operation of the microcomputer (31). This independent keyboard is of a common type for the microcomputer used, for example example a standard 89-key computer keyboard or a keyboard standard computer with 103 or 104 keys. This independent keyboard is in communication with the microcomputer (31) enclosed inside the distributor (1) by a radio or infrared type wireless link, or by a classic connection by a wire which can be disconnected and reconnected easily without opening the dispenser (1). Thus, a responsible person can approach the distributor (1) with this external keyboard (32) and make any configuration or query operation of the computer system (3) without need to open the dispenser (1).

The computer (31) located inside the dispenser (1) is provided for ability to communicate with at least one computer system external to distributor (1), managing for example the accounting of a chain of stores equipped with this type of distributor or belonging to an operating organization this automaton. This communication can be done through a connection permanent or temporary, for example by a computer network or by a telephone link and a modem, or a radio-telephone link, or any other digital link.

The distributor (1), or the external keyboard (32), can also include a terminal capable of communicating with a computerized portable object comprising an electronic circuit, or a microprocessor, or memorizing information computer, for example a smart card reader (108). This player allows then perform authentication or encryption operations during the use of the machine, directly on the dispenser (1) or during operations controlled using the external keyboard (32).

It should be obvious to those skilled in the art that the present invention allows embodiments under many other specific forms without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. Therefore, the present modes of achievement should be considered illustrative, but may be modified in the field defined by the scope of the appended claims, and the invention should not be limited to the details given above.

Claims (21)

Cash or recipe or cash management machine, in the form of coins and banknotes, usable by a user to carry out one or more operations including the deposit, sorting, or counting of coins or banknotes bank, this machine comprising means (13) for receiving, sorting, storing and distributing coins, and means (14) for receiving, sorting, storing and distributing banknotes, the machine being coupled to a computer system (3), said automaton being characterized in that the distribution means are capable of distributing a determined composition of different types or values of coins or notes and more particularly the distribution of coins produced at the outlet of the means of parts storage, the parts being distributed in different compartments of a container or a cash drawer of determined shape, insertable in a housing of the machine, the means storage ens thus being arranged according to a geometry, interchangeable and adapted to the specificity of the container or the cash drawer of determined shape of which at least one compartment receives pieces of the same value. Automate according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises means for memorizing information representing the coins and notes received by the reception means or distributed by the distribution means during an operation, this information being memorized in association with the identification of a user of the PLC for this operation. Automate according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the distribution means are controlled by control means controlled by the computer system (3) to distribute, for each type or value of coin or ticket, a determined quantity stored or calculated by the computer system according to a type of operation requested, an identification of the user of the machine, or a quantity or value of coins or banknotes received by the means (13, 14 ) receiving and sorting, or a combination of these. Automatic machine according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the coin storage means comprise a plurality of hoppers (4) having unitary coin ejection means and means for counting the ejected coins, and each supplied with the same type or the same value of coins, these coins being able to be brought to them automatically from the means (13) for receiving and sorting coins. Automatic device according to claim 4, characterized in that the parts ejected from the hoppers (4) are conveyed by a plurality of chutes (50), the outlets of which are arranged according to a specific geometry allowing the parts distributed in different compartments (20 to 24) to be distributed ) of a container or a cash drawer (2) of determined shape, at least one of these compartments receiving coins of the same type or value. Automatic machine according to claim 5, characterized in that at least two chutes are combined in a distribution block (5) determining a geometry of distribution of the parts adapted to a type of container or cash drawer (2), this distribution block being positioned at the outlet of the hoppers (4) by positioning means (59) allowing the use of several different interchangeable blocks adapted to different types of containers (2). A machine according to claim 6, characterized in that it comprises at least two interchangeable distribution blocks, the exchange of which is carried out by actuation means controlled by the computer system (3) or by the user. Automatic machine according to claim 7, characterized in that the banknote storage means comprise at least two storage cassettes (121, 122) provided with distribution and counting means, each of these cassettes containing banknotes of the same type or of the same value, as well as at least one cassette (123) receiving tickets of several different types, at least one of these cassettes being able to automatically receive tickets coming from the means (14) for receiving and sorting tickets . Automaton according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that it comprises means (108) of communication with a computerized portable object comprising storage means, and storing at least one data item of identification of a user of the PLC. Automate according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the storage means (4, 41, 121, 122, 123) are enclosed in a closed device, called a dispenser (1), so as to make it inaccessible to the user stored coins and banknotes, this dispenser comprising means for external transfer of coins or banknotes, these transfer means comprising at least one container supplying the storage means of the distributor or receiving coins or banknotes from inside of the distributor, these transfer means being able to supply the distributor or be supplied by the distributor and being able to be transported out of the distributor by a transfer operator, without said operator having access to the coins or tickets contained in the distributor or in the means transfer. Machine according to claim 10, characterized in that the means for receiving the coins are located in the upper part of the dispenser (1), and comprise a container (134) for receiving coins to be sorted, a disc (135) for loading hollowed out taking each pieces one after the other in the tray to bring them in front of a detector (136) then at the top of an inclined ramp (137) running above the storage means, so that the pieces pass means (13 ) of reception and sorting towards the means (4, 41) of storage under the effect of gravity, the opening of the inputs of the storage means being controlled by the computer system according to the type or the value of the part detected by the detector (136), the distributor (1) comprising a receptacle (132) situated at a determined height lower than that of the means (13) for receiving and sorting, this receptacle (132) being able to receive coins to be sorted filed by the utility isator at a height significantly lower than that of the means (13) of reception and sorting, then be moved by means (133) of elevation to said means (13) of reception to pour the pieces therein contains. Automatic device according to one of claims 10 to 11, characterized in that the computer system (3) comprises an internal computer (31) located inside the dispenser (1) and memorizing parameters allowing the autonomous operation of the automatic device for a plurality of operations. A machine according to claim 12, characterized in that the internal computer (31) is able to communicate with a keyboard (32) external to the dispenser (1) and constituting input means for this computer, via a temporary electrical connection or wireless communication means, without requiring the dispenser to open (1). A machine according to one of claims 12 to 13, characterized in that the computer (31) is able to communicate with at least one computer system (35) external to the machine, via a computer network or a permanent or temporary computer link (34), this communication allowing the reading or the setting, remotely, of the available operations or of the databases (db1, db2) of data used during these operations. Automaton according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the computer system (3) comprises a computer (31) using an operating system operating according to interactive selection and configuration means, such as a graphical interface interactive, to implement the management or configuration of available operations or databases (db1, db2) of data used during these operations. Automate according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the interactive means can be represented by display windows on a screen, said windows being: a main management window allowing access to the other windows, and also making it possible to leave the session launched by the user, a window relating to the available operations to be selected, the said operations being carried out by the system, a main configuration window comprising several fields for entering parameters used during start-up or during a control or during an inventory, the validation of the parameters can be carried out by clicking on an icon, a window allowing to enter the configuration of one or more types of bottom of body, a window comprising the list of the different users who can access the operations proposed by the system, said list comprising parameters for identifying users, and a window concerning the user parameters displayed for a user and corresponding to the operations which he is authorized to access, and the mode of carrying out these operations. Automated process for managing money or receipts or cash, in the form of coins and notes, identification of a user by inputting through input means (101) or by reading, by means (108) of communication with a computerized portable object, of computer data stored in storage means of said computerized portable object; selection (210) of a type of operation to be carried out, by interaction with the user through display means (107) and input means (101, 106), or by reading or calculation by the system ( 3) IT based on user identification; receiving coins or banknotes in coin receiving means (13) or bill receiving means (14); recognition, sorting of coins or tickets received by type or value, by means (13) for sorting coins or means (14) for sorting banknotes; counting of each type or value of coins or banknotes recognized by counting means (13, 14); routing by means (13, 14) of automated routing and storage of the coins or tickets received in storage means comprising at least one container of the type (4, 121, 122) receiving coins or bills of the same type or of the same value; calculation by the computer system (3) of a value received corresponding to the coins or tickets received and recognized, and storage, in storage means, of data representing this received value associated with data identifying the user. Method according to claim 16, characterized in that it further comprises the following steps: selection of a combination of coins or banknotes of different types or values to be distributed, by interaction with the user through display means (107) and input means (101, 106), or by reading or calculation by the computer system (3) in storage means (M), based on the identification of the user; control by the computer system (3) of the distribution of the chosen combination, by means (5) of coin distribution or means (115) of banknote distribution; calculation by the computer system (3) of a distributed value corresponding to the coins or tickets distributed, and storage, in storage means (M), of data representing this distributed value associated with data identifying the user. Method according to one of claims 16 to 17, characterized in that the unrecognized or recognized coins or banknotes of a type or value not corresponding to a container (4, 121, 122) of type are stored in a common container (41, 123) which is not used to supply the means (5) for dispensing coins or the means (115) for dispensing banknotes. Method according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized in that it further comprises a step of searching, by the computer system (3) in one or more databases (db1, db2) of data, for data associated with the user identified and representing one or more parameters previously memorized and determining a standard composition of the bottom of the body, or the geometry of one or more cash drawer (2) corresponding to the user, or an authorized amount of operation, or authorized hours of use, or one or more types of authorized operations. Method according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized in that an operation available to the user using the interactive selection means comprises an operation for depositing revenue for charging to a user account, or for distributing '' a cash bottom, or counting or sorting of coins or notes included in a cash box, or counting and sorting for reconstitution of a cash bottom, or buying money, or withdrawing funds, or a combination of these operations.

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