WO2008135243A2

WO2008135243A2 - Device and method for positioning and/or guiding a valuable document

Info

Publication number: WO2008135243A2
Application number: PCT/EP2008/003561
Authority: WO
Inventors: Karl-Heinz Leuthold
Original assignee: Giesecke & Devrient Gmbh
Priority date: 2007-05-04
Filing date: 2008-05-02
Publication date: 2008-11-13
Also published as: DE102007020996A1; WO2008135243A3

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for positioning or guiding a valuable document in a specified region, wherein the device comprises a gas supply device, which is provided with a gas outlet into which gas can be pressed, and a separating layer, which separates the gas outlet from the region and in at least one section is made of a material having open pores, which lead into the specified region, so that a gas layer can be formed between the valuable document in the specified region and the separating layer by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the pores.

Description

Device and method for positioning and / or guiding a

value document

The present invention relates to a device for positioning and / or guiding a value document.

Under value documents are understood leaf-shaped objects that represent, for example, a monetary value or an authorization and therefore should not be arbitrarily produced by unauthorized persons. They therefore have features which are not easy to manufacture, in particular to be copied, whose presence is an indication of the authenticity, i. the manufacture by an authorized agency. Examples of such value documents are chip cards, coupons, vouchers, checks and in particular banknotes.

During the machining of such value documents in a corresponding processing device, they frequently have to be transported along a transport path or at least approximately positioned for transport or separation from a stack in a predetermined position relative to the processing device for further transport. The transport may require a guidance of the value document, so that this follows the predetermined transport path.

Various alternatives are known for the transport of value documents. For example, air streams may be used to carry value documents at least along a plane. The guiding and positioning of documents of value by means of an air or general gas flow is understood here and in particular also below as meaning that the gas stream participates in guidance or positioning, although it still interacts with other devices, for example guide elements or forces, for example gravity , can work together. A corresponding device may have airflow over a massive baffle with channels through which air is blown to carry a document of value. The channels are formed by forming through holes in the plate at a suitable distance and angle, for example mechanically or laser drilled. In this way, although a desired air flow for guiding or positioning a document of value can be generated very precisely, the production of the plate by the large number of necessary and individually produced holes is time-consuming and therefore expensive.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a device and method for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined range which is easy to produce or which uses only means which are simple to produce.

The object is achieved on the one hand by a device for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined region with a gas supply having a gas outlet, is pressed into the gas, and a separating layer which separates the gas outlet from the region and in at least one section is formed of a material having open pores, which open into the predetermined area, so that a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined area and the separating layer can be formed by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the pores.

On the other hand, the object is achieved by a method for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined region, in which gas passes through pores of a separating layer in at least one section open-pored material is pressed, so that a gas layer between the value document and the release layer is formed.

In this case, the gas layer can in particular be formed or formed so that the value document is positioned and / or guided separately from the separating layer in the predetermined region by the gas layer, in particular by the gas layer forming a gas cushion on which the document of value is carried. The predefined region can extend in particular along a predetermined surface, preferably a plane, along which the document of value is guided by means of the gas layer.

For supplying the gas in the apparatus, the gas supply means, which may be in the simplest case, a hollow body, can be pressed into the gas through a Gaszuführöffnung gas, which is then pressed through the gas outlet into the release layer. But the gas supply means may also additionally comprise a valve by means of which the pressure or the gas flow from a pressure or gas source in the gas supply means is adjustable or controllable. The pressure or gas source therefore does not necessarily have to be part of the gas supply device, but this may also be the case.

The separating layer has the at least one section of the open-pore material, through the pores of which the gas stream is pressed. An open-pored material is understood to mean, in particular, also a material whose pores are formed at least as a by-product of the preparation, but not individually, in the production of the material and / or the shaping of the separating layer. In particular, such a material can be understood to mean an open-pored material whose pores are not produced individually by corresponding production steps, for example mechanical drilling or drilling with a laser are. By mechanical drilling or drilling with a laser individually introduced into a given material or workpiece after its production holes are referred to below as a distinction to the pores as channels.

The gas layer is formed by appropriate design of the device and corresponding supply of gas so that a positioned or guided document of value of a given type, in particular a predetermined basis weight, the release layer does not touch, but relative to this floats. The gas layer can therefore preferably form a gas cushion which separates the value document from the separating layer. For example, depending on the design and arrangement of the separating layer, the value document can float above or below the separating layer on a gas cushion formed by the gas layer.

The gas that is forced through the pores can basically be any pure gas or any mixture of gases, preferably air.

However, the gas layer does not need to consist exclusively of the gas pressed through the separation layer, but may also comprise gas from the environment of the value document, which enters the region between the separation layer and the document of value.

Preferably, the gas is pressed through the release layer so that documents of value with a basis weight preferably between 80 g / m ² and 110 g / m ^{2 can be} positioned or guided.

The use of a separating layer of an open-pore material has over the use of massive plates with it subsequently individually introduced channels or flow channels have the advantage that the separation layer is much easier and thus cheaper to produce. In addition, it has been found that many open-pored materials have a plurality of closely spaced pores, by means of which a particularly uniform gas layer can be formed, which allows a particularly good positioning or guidance.

In addition, the gas consumption can often be significantly reduced compared to devices with massive plates with holes. This could be due to the fact that on the one hand, the number of pores per area is greater than is typically the case with flow channels, and on the other hand by the often smaller width of the pores a slower gas flow is made possible, which in particular need not be strongly directed ,

Further embodiments and further developments are described in the claims, the description and the drawings.

The shape of the region and in particular a guide surface, along which the value document is to be positioned or guided in the region, can in principle be arbitrary, for example, it can be curved or flat. In particular, the separating layer may be provided by a layer of substantially constant thickness in the area intended for positioning, the surface of which corresponds to that of the guiding surface.

An open-pore material of the separating layer is understood as meaning a material which has pores which allow the passage of gas, preferably air, under pressure, more precisely overpressure, from one side of the separating layer to the other side of the separating layer. In this case, pores of the separating layer can also be connected to one another like a net. The pores are Preferably, in particular production-related, distributed randomly or irregularly. Moreover, at least some of the pores, preferably the majority of the pores, may preferably be non-straight, but at least partially tortuous, as is the case with many open cell materials.

The gas permeation properties of the separating layer, which are determined inter alia by the width and length of the pores and the number of pores with respect to the surface of the separating layer, can otherwise be arbitrary.

Preferably, in the device, however, the separating layer in the area of the pores has a pore-permeable gas permeability, in the context of this application defined as the quotient of the product of pressure drop across the separating layer and area of the separating layer and from the gas volume flow under normal conditions (temperature of 298, 15 K and pressure of 1 bar), through which the gas volume flow occurs, in the range of 1 s bar / m to 100 s bar / ms, particularly preferably 5 s bar / m and 50 s bar / m, on. In the method, a separating layer is preferably used which has a pore-permeable gas permeability in the region of the pores of between 1 s bar / m and 100 s bar / m, more preferably between 5 s bar / m and 50 s bar / m. If the separating layer in principle still has artificially formed flow channels, for example introduced through bores, connecting opposite sides of the separating layer, their contribution in the said gas permeability is not taken into account. This embodiment is particularly advantageous if the gas flow to be used during operation is to be kept low.

In principle, any material can be used as the material for the separating layer. In the context of the present invention, the separating layer may also have a multilayer structure in which each of the layers is porous. Insofar as reference is made below to the properties of the material of the layer, in the case of two- or multi-layered separating layers, this is understood to be a value determined over the entire thickness of the separating layer.

The mean diameter of the pores of the material of the separating layer can basically be chosen arbitrarily. In particular, in the device, the average diameter of the pores in the range between 0.2 .mu.m and 4 .mu.m. In the method, the material of the separating layer may be a material in which the average diameter of the pores is in the range between 0.2 .mu.m and 4 .mu.m, the average diameter of the pores can be determined by mercury pressure porosimetry. This embodiment may be particularly advantageous if the gas flow during operation is to be kept low.

The separating layer can in principle be formed from any open-pored material as a self-supporting layer or else as a layer supported by at least one supporting element.

Thus, in the device, the material may comprise a fabric having the pores, in particular a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, a knitted fabric, a braid, a fleece or a felt, or a film with the pores. In the method can accordingly be used as a material having a pore textile fabric, in particular a fabric, a knitted fabric, a knitted fabric, a braid, a nonwoven or a felt, or a film with the pores. The separating layer may for this purpose preferably be held by a frame-like structure with which it may optionally be tightly connected to the gas pressures used and the gas used. This embodiment makes it possible in a simple manner to position or guide documents of value over larger, even curved sections. Foiti can also or textile fabrics are very easily replaced and are available at very low cost. In particular, membranes are also understood as meaning films.

In the case of the films, pore-like channels or holes can also be produced by corresponding perforations in otherwise impermeable films. The subject of the present invention is therefore also a device for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined area with a gas supply device having a gas outlet into which gas can be pressed, and a separation layer which separates the gas outlet from the area and in at least one section is formed of a film with through-holes, which open into the predetermined area, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the holes, a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined area and the separating layer can be formed.

But it is also possible that in the device, the material contains an open-pore solid through which pores gas can pass and whose pores form at least a portion of the pores of the release layer. In the method, a material is preferably used as the material, which contains an open-pore solid through which pores gas can pass. In this context, solids are to be understood inter alia as open-cell foams. The use of solids has, inter alia, the advantage that the separating layer can be self-supporting with a suitable choice of the solid and, if appropriate, can also be processed simply. Although this is not necessary in principle, the release layer then consists entirely of the solid, possibly with the exception of fasteners or similar elements. Foamed metal, for example, can be used as the material. Such a separation layer is characterized by high electrical conductivity and thermal conductivity and can reduce charge effects, for example, with appropriate grounding.

Further, in the device, the material may include glass in which the pores are formed. Accordingly, in the method, as the material, a material containing glass in which the pores are formed can be used. The use of such a material has the advantage that it is abrasion resistant, chemically very inert and thus robust. In particular, open-glass sintered glass or a glass material obtainable from fused glass beads can be used as the glass. Particularly preferably, the separating layer consists of more than 90% by weight, better still completely, of open-pored glass.

But it is also possible that in the device, the material contains a ceramic in which the pores are formed. In the method, a material containing a ceramic in which the pores are formed can then be used as the material. Preferably, the release layer is then more than 90 wt .-%, better entirely made of ceramic. This embodiment offers, inter alia, the advantage that ceramic parts are easy to produce and, depending on the material used, also have a comparatively good thermal conductivity. In addition, ceramics can have a very high mechanical stability and hardness. For example, oxide ceramics or sintered ceramics can be used as ceramics.

In particular, in the device, the material may contain an alumina ceramic, more preferably at a weight fraction greater than 90%, more preferably greater than 99%. In the method can accordingly be used as a material material, the alumina ceramic in particular preferably contains by weight more than 90%, better more than 99%. Aluminum oxide ceramics are particularly characterized by a favorable production, compared with some other ceramic materials good machinability and a low price.

As a ceramic, for example, glass ceramic can be used.

Further, it is possible in the device that the material contains open-cell polymer foam, preferably more than 90 wt .-%, particularly preferably consists thereof. In the method can accordingly be used as a material material, the open-cell polymer foam, preferably more than 90 wt .-%, contains, more preferably consists thereof. Polymer foams have the particular advantage that their pore size and pore size distribution in conjunction with the mechanical properties of the polymer foam can be varied to a considerable extent.

As already described, the material can consist of only one material. However, it is also possible in the device that the material is a composite material containing hollow fiber or tube elements whose voids form the pores. In the method can be used accordingly as the material, a material which is a composite material containing hollow fiber or tube elements whose voids form the pores. The hollow fiber or tube elements may in particular be embedded in a matrix material which itself is open-pored or solid or closed-pore. In this way, a desired pore radius distribution can be achieved relatively easily.

The separation layer generally does not need to be transparent to optical radiation, ie electromagnetic radiation in the infrared or ultraviolet range or in the visible range. For specific applications In the case of the device, the separating layer can be transparent or translucent in at least one section in at least one predetermined wavelength range of optical radiation. In the method, a release layer which is transparent or translucent in at least one section in at least one predetermined wavelength range of optical radiation may accordingly be used as the separating layer. In this case, a transparent material is understood as meaning a material whose scattering power for the radiation in the predetermined wavelength range is so small that a geometrically optical imaging through the separating layer is still possible. Translucent material no longer has this property, but still has a transmittance in the predetermined wavelength range of preferably more than 5%. This embodiment makes it possible to examine or detect value documents by means of optical radiation in the predetermined wavelength range while they are adjacent to the separation layer. In particular, positioning or guidance in the area of sensors can be achieved in a very simple manner.

In principle, however, it is not absolutely necessary for this purpose that the separating layer comprises an open-pored material. Another object of the invention is therefore also a device for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined area with a gas supply device having a gas outlet, is pressed into the gas, and a separating layer which separates the gas outlet from the area and in at least one section Having channels which connect the gas outlet with the predetermined range, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the channels, a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined area and the separating layer is formed, wherein the separating layer at least in the region between the channels or in an area immediately adjacent to this is transparent or translucent. Furthermore, the subject of the present invention is a method for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined range, in which gas is forced through channels of a separation layer, so that a gas layer between the value document and the separation layer is formed, wherein the separation layer at least between the channels or is transparent or translucent in an immediately adjacent section.

Among other things, this device and the corresponding method can solve the problem of positioning value documents in the area of optical sensors or detection devices. With respect to the transparency or translucency of the release layer, the previously stated applies accordingly. The use of a nonporous transparent material for the release layer can offer the advantage that a geometrically optical imaging with higher quality can be achieved, since a scattering of pores or pore surfaces has no or no significant effect on the optical imaging.

If the separating layer is only translucent, it can advantageously simultaneously act as a homogenizing element in the beam path of an optical sensor.

The materials used for the separating layer are basically the same materials as for the first device or the first method, in which case, however, the pores need not be present.

In addition, transparent materials such as glass or transparent plastics, in particular transparent engineering plastics such as polycarbonates or polyacrylic plastics can be used as the material for the release layer. This device with a transparent separating layer can be used in any desired manner.

For example, the device may be provided with an optical detection device for detecting the value document and / or an optical sensor device or detecting at least one property of the value document in which at least a portion of the radiation path passes through the separation layer.

Another advantage of using the channels or pores may be that dirt or dust occurring in the region of the separating layer is kept away from the separating layer and thus contamination of the separating layer and thus impairment of the detection device or the optical sensor device can be prevented.

If only the cleanliness of the separating layer is to be achieved, however, the gas cushion in the described variants of the device need not necessarily be designed to carry the value document; rather it can be weaker too.

The subject matter of the present invention is therefore also a further device having an optical detection device for detecting a value document in a predetermined area and / or an optical sensor device or detecting at least one property of a value document in a predetermined area which has a radiation source for illuminating the value document and / or or a receiver for receiving radiation emanating from the radiation source or the value document, a gas supply device having a gas outlet into which gas can be pressed, and a separation layer separating the gas outlet from the region and at least one translucent or transparent section is formed of a material having open pores, which open into the predetermined area, and / or channels in at least one translucent or transparent portion, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the pores or channels, a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined range and the separation layer is bildbaren, and .in at least a portion of the radiation path from the radiation source to the document of value or from the document of value to the receiver by the separating layer is arranged.

The separating layer may in particular have at least one or more of the abovementioned features for in particular the porous separating layer, as long as the transparency or translucency is still present.

In particular, in the device or the further device with a transparent or translucent section of the separation layer in the gas supply before the separation layer at least one source of optical radiation in a predetermined wavelength range and / or at least one element for detecting optical radiation in a predetermined wavelength range and / or an optical component for deflecting optical radiation in a predetermined wavelength range be arranged so that a radiation path between the region and the source or the detection element or the optical component is given through the separation layer. In the method according to optical radiation in the predetermined wavelength range can be directed through the separation layer. Of course, the radiation path runs through the transparent or translucent region of the separating layer.

Alternatively or additionally, in the device or the further device, the gas supply device and the separating layer for optical Forming radiation in a predetermined wavelength range transparent or translucent window through which a radiation path for optical radiation from or into the area leads. This makes it possible to guide optical radiation through the device, so that in the device itself, in particular in the gas supply, no optical element needs to be arranged.

Both embodiments have the advantage that a guidance of a value document in the region of a sensor for an optical detection and / or examination of the value document is made possible with a very simple structure.

In all variants of the device mentioned so far, the separating layer can have at least two flow channels through which gas can be blown in a directed manner. In the case of the corresponding variants of the method, a separating layer can be used correspondingly which has at least two flow channels through which gas directed into the region can be blown, and gas can be blown out through these flow channels. By the directionally blown gas, a force can be exerted on the document of value so that it can be moved, for example.

The pores or channels and the flow channels can be supplied in different ways gas.

According to a first alternative, in the device or the further device, the flow channels are connected to the gas outlet of the gas supply, so that gas can be supplied from the gas supply to the flow channels. In the method, it is preferred that gas of the same gas or pressure source is pressed through the separating layer and the flow channels is blown. This embodiment allows a particularly simple supply of the flow channels with gas.

As a second alternative, at least one flow channel gas supply device, which is connected to the flow channels for supplying gas under pressure, may be provided in the device or the further device. In the method, a further gas can then be blown through the flow channels correspondingly independently of the gas pressed through the pores of the separating layer. This embodiment may be advantageous if the gas flow through the flow channels is to be adjustable to a document of value regardless of the positioning or guidance.

For this purpose, at least in the case where the Strömungskanalgaszuführungs- device is connected to the same gas or pressure source for supplying gas or pressure as the gas supply for the separation layer, the Strömungskanalzuführeinrichtung a signal-controllable control device for controlling the gas flow through the flow channels or generally have a signal controllable by gas or pressure source for feeding the flow channels.

In order to be able to exert a force on the documents of value which has at least one component parallel to the surface of the separating layer, at least one opening section of the flow channels opening into the region can be inclined relative to a surface of the separating layer facing the region in the device or the further device be. In particular, this can be an angle between a normal to the surface of the separating layer in the mouth region of the flow channel and the mouth portion of the flow channel greater than 1 ° and less than 90 °. If a movement of the document of value takes place in a predetermined transport direction, in the device or the further device the mouth sections may be formed relative to the surface of the separating layer facing the region such that gas streams flowing out of the flow channels carry velocity components parallel to the surface of the separating layer with fractions in a transport direction for the document of value, and thus the same direction. For example, the components may be parallel and rectified or each include an angle of less than 90 ° with the transport direction.

In particular, in the device or the further device, two of the at least two flow channels containing groups of flow channels may be formed in the separation layer, wherein the opening into the surface mouth portions of the flow channels of one group with those of the flow channels of the other groups in a projection on the Area facing surface of the separating layer include an angle greater than 10 °. Thus, during the transport of the value document by the speed components parallel to the surface and orthogonal to the transport direction, a tightening or stiffening of a value document positioned or guided by means of the device can be achieved. This can lead to less susceptible to transport disruption operation.

It is further possible in the device or the further device that are formed from the mouth sections at least two relative to the region facing the surface of the separation layer, that a flowing out of one of the two flow channels gas flow velocity components parallel to the surface of the release layer a share in a first transport direction for the value document and a gas stream flowing out of the other of the two flow channels has a velocity component parallel to the surface with a component in a second, opposite to the first transport direction for the document of value. With such a device, with appropriate gas supply to the flow channels, for example, optionally a transport of a value document in two different directions or a rotation can take place.

In particular, in the device or the further device for this purpose, the Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung two gas outlets, one of which is connected to a different one of the at least two flow channels, and a controllable by signals distribution device for distributing a gas flow to the two gas outlets. For example, the distribution device can have two signals which can be controlled by signals, a two-way valve which can be activated by signals, or two gas or pressure sources which can be controlled by signals. The signals may be, for example, electrical or optical signals.

Then, in the method as a separating layer, a separating layer may be used, in which opening into the region mouths of at least two of the flow channels in different directions open relative to a region facing the surface of the separating layer, and in response to a predetermined signal gas by a first or a second of the at least two flow channels is blown. In this way, for example, the transport direction can be changed, a switch function can be achieved, or a rotation of a value document can be obtained.

When using a device or a further device, as described above, a force can be applied to the value dough by the gas layer. be exercised because the gas moves in the gas layer on average over the Hache of the separation layer orthogonal to this. The guidance in the predetermined region can then be achieved, for example, by virtue of the forces exerted on the document of value exerted by the gas emerging from the pores at least approximately compensating for the gravitational force on the document of value. In this case, the device may be arranged below the transport path. However, it is also possible that at least one guide element for the document of value is arranged opposite the separating layer, which at least partially delimits the region together with the separating layer and which serves as a guide element or stop for the document of value which is away from the separating layer by the gas of the gas layer is urged in the direction of the guide element or the stop.

In order to achieve a particularly secure transport, however, an arrangement may be used which contains two of the described devices whose separating layers are opposite each other and delimiting the area. The supply of gas can be made from the same or different gas sources.

In the case of use in a banknote processing device, the device may furthermore have the separating layer arranged above the region, and the gas supply device and the flow channel gas supply device may be adjusted to one another in such a way that the value document floats at the separating layer when gas is supplied. In the method, gas or the further gas can be blown or pressed through the flow channels and the pores of the separating layer so that the document of value floats. In this case, the gas flow through the flow channels as a result, due to the Coanda or Bernoulli effect or the hydrodynamic paradox to a suction of the value document lead to the separation surface, while the gas from the pores of the separation layer one of the separation layer pioneering power to the value document. In this way, a Vereinzier can be realized.

The device is particularly suitable for the positioning or guidance of banknotes. The subject of the present invention is therefore also a bank note processing device with a device according to the invention. Banknote processing devices are understood in particular to be devices for sorting banknotes and / or checking the authenticity of banknotes and / or for checking the state of the banknotes and / or for counting banknotes.

The invention will be further explained by way of example with reference to the drawings. Show it:

1 is a schematic view of a bank note processing apparatus,

2 shows a schematic view of a section along a plane A-A illustrated in FIG. 3 through a positioning and guiding device according to a first embodiment in the bank note processing device in FIG. 1, FIG.

3 is a schematic plan view of the positioning and guiding device in Fig. 2,

4 shows a schematic view of a section through a positioning and guiding device according to a fifth embodiment, 5 shows a schematic view of a section along a plane AA illustrated in FIG. 6 through a positioning and guiding device according to a sixth embodiment,

6 is a schematic plan view of the positioning and guiding device in Fig. 5,

7 shows a schematic view of a section along a plane A-A illustrated in FIG. 8 through a positioning and guiding device according to a seventh embodiment,

8 is a schematic plan view of the positioning and guiding device in Fig. 7,

9 is a schematic view of a section through a positioning and guiding device according to a seventh (??) embodiment,

10 is a schematic view of a section through a positioning and guiding device according to an eighth embodiment,

11 is a schematic plan view of the positioning and guiding device in Fig. 10,

Fig. 12 is a schematic view of a section through another

Positioning and guiding device and a partially arranged in this light barrier, 13 shows a schematic view of a section through a positioning and guiding device according to yet another embodiment and a light barrier partly arranged therein,

14 shows a schematic view of a section through a positioning and guiding device according to yet another embodiment and a light barrier with a deflecting element arranged in the device,

FIG. 15 shows a schematic view of a section through a positioning and guiding device according to yet another embodiment and a light barrier with a light path passing through the device, and FIG

16 shows a schematic view of a section through a device with a detection device for detecting a value document according to a preferred embodiment.

A value-document processing device 10, in the example a bank-note processing device, in FIG. 1 has in a housing 12 an input pocket 14 for input of value documents 16 to be processed, in the example banknotes, a separator 18, which can access value documents 16 in the input compartment 14, a transport device 20 with switches 22 and in branches of a given by the transport device 20 transport path 24 after the switches 22 each output compartments 26 for receiving processed by the value-document processing device 10 value documents with stacker wheels arranged in front of 28 further has the bank note processing device 10 along the by the transport device 20th given transport path 24 a before the points 22nd arranged sensor arrangement 30 for detecting properties along the transport path 24 transported banknotes 16 and a control and evaluation device 32 which is connected at least to the sensor assembly 30 and the switches 22 via signal connections and for the evaluation of at least one property of a 30 detected by the sensor array value document 16 reproducing sensor signals of the sensor assembly 30 and control of at least one of the switches 22 is formed in response to the result of the evaluation of the sensor signals.

The sensor arrangement 30 can be designed, for example, for detecting optical properties of security features of banknotes, for example predetermined luminescent substances, and / or an image of the banknotes, for example for checking for cracks, and for determining the denomination of the banknotes. Corresponding sensor arrangements with optical sensors for banknote processing devices are known.

The control and evaluation device 32 detects the signals of the sensor arrangement 30 and examines in the example which denomination has a banknote 16 detected by the sensor arrangement 30 and whether it has at least one predetermined criterion in a trafficable, i. still suitable for further use as a means of payment, condition and genuine. Depending on the result of the check, the banknote 16 controls at least one of the switches 22 in such a way that the banknote is conveyed by the transporting device 20 into an output compartment 26 associated with the test result or corresponding to a predetermined type of banknotes and deposited there.

The transport device 20, which is only indicated in FIG. 1, comprises, among other things, at least one positioning and guiding device 34, shown only schematically as an example in FIG. 1, for positioning or guiding Value documents, in the example banknotes, according to at least one preferred embodiment of the invention, the value documents 16 positioned using pressurized gas or leads. To supply the device 34 with under a predetermined pressure gas, in the example ambient air, which is filtered by a not shown in the figures, provided for the reduction of dust in the sucked gas filter, the Wertdokumentbearbeitungsvorrichtung 10 has a with the device 34 for Supply of gas under a predetermined pressure connected gas source 36, in this example in the form of a pumping device, the ambient air sucks through the filter and the device 34 feeds.

The device 34 is shown in Figs. 2 and 3 in more detail, but also shown only schematically. It serves to position and guide a value document 16 in a predetermined area 38, which in this example is formed by an area above a level 40.

The apparatus 34 has a gas supply means 42 having a gas inlet 44 connected to the gas source 36 and a gas outlet 46 into which gas can be pressed. In this embodiment, the gas supply 42 is provided by a one or more parts running box with a bottom 48 and peripheral walls 50, in the bottom of the gas inlet 44 is fixed in the form of a nozzle. The gas outlet 46 is formed by the opening of the box formed by the upper portions of the walls 50.

The apparatus 34 further includes a separation layer 52 which separates the gas outlet 46 from the region 38 and is formed in at least a portion, in this example complete, of open pore material 54. This separating layer 52 is secured by means not shown in the figures. stigungseinrichtungen in the gas outlet 46 to the gas supply 42, in the example the circumferential walls 50, so pressure or gas tight connected that when operating the device 34 under pressure gas at best in a relation to the gas passage through the separation layer 52 small extent by the connection can escape. For example, the loss may be less than ten percent by volume of the gas flow at a differential pressure between gas outlet 46 and region 381 bar and 293K. The connection can be formed, for example, purely mechanically by means of a corresponding flange, against which the separating layer is pressed, or a bond or a combination of these types of connection.

In the separating layer 52 do not extend to scale in the figures and their course only greatly simplified open pores 54, of which at least a portion of the interior 56 of the gas supply 42, starting in the area 38 and so the interior 56 in the gas supply 42 with the Area 38 connects, so that supplied from the gas source 36, compared to the area 38 under pressure gas from the interior 56 through the gas outlet 46 and the pores in the area 38 can pass, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet 46 and Pores 54, a gas layer between the value document 16 in the predetermined region 38 and the release layer 52 is formed.

In the example, the thickness D of the separating layer 52 and the material of the separating layer 52, in particular its pore properties, are selected in coordination with one another such that the separating layer 52, in particular in the region of the pores 54, has a gas permeability which is determined by the pores 54, preferably between 1 s. m and 100 s bar / m, more preferably between 5 s bar / m and 50 s bar / m, in the example 16 s bar / m having. The gas permeability D is defined as the quotient of the product of pressure drop Ap over the separating layer and area A of the separating layer and from the gas volume flow dV / dt under normal conditions (temperature of 298.15 K and pressure of lbar):

dVIdt

The gas permeability is set off on the gas flow and gas pressure that can be supplied by the gas source 36 in such a way that documents of value with a surface weight of between 80 g / m ² and 110 g / m ² in the region 38, in particular approximately 1 mm to 3 mm above the plane 40 be positioned or guided.

The pores 54 shown only schematically in FIG. 2 may, depending on the material chosen for the separating layer 52, be tubular or at least partially form a network.

The average diameter of the pores 54, determined by means of mercury pressure poroimetry, is preferably in the range between 0.2 μm and 4 μm, in the example about 2 μm.

The pores 54, except for the fact that at least a portion of them connect the interior space 56 to the area 38, are random due to the manufacture of the material, with the directions of mouth portions in which gas passes through the pores 54 into the area 38 also fluctuate about a direction orthogonal to the plane 40 extending direction. As indicated by the arrows in Fig. 2, the discharged gas moves at least on exit from the pores 54 in the middle over the surface of the separating layer 52 from the latter in the direction of the securities 16.

In this embodiment, the material of the separation layer 52 is an open-pored solid, through the pores of which gas can pass. With other Ren words, the separating layer 52 may be formed by a plate of the solid, the thickness of which is preferably chosen so that the separating layer 52 is self-supporting, except the connections with the walls 50 so no further support elements needed to operate in the respect of the gas permeability Overpressure in the interior 56 withstand.

In this embodiment, the material is a ceramic, more specifically, a sintered ceramic in which the pores 54 are formed. The material in this example is alumina which is sintered to provide the desired porosity.

For positioning or guiding a value document, in the example of a banknote 16, in the predetermined region 38, gas, in the example filtered circulating air, is forced through the pores 54 of the separating layer 52 of open-pore material, so that a gas layer 57 is interposed between the value document 16 and the separating layer 52 is formed. The moving gas of the gas layer urges the value document 16 away from the separating layer 52.

Since the pores 54 are randomly distributed, the gas exiting through the pores 54 into the region 38 will be the document of value 16 against its gravity from the plane 40, i. Here, the region 38 of the surface facing the separation layer 52, lifted off without being transported by the gas in a direction parallel to the separation layer 52. If the value document 16 is introduced into the area 38 without an initial pulse, it can therefore be positioned without transport movement.

If the value document 16 already enters the region 38 approximately parallel to the plane 40 with an initial impulse, it is guided through the device along the separating layer 52 or the plane 40 or in the region 38. A device for positioning and / or guiding a value document according to a second embodiment differs from the device of the first embodiment only by the material of the separating layer. For the separating layer, in this example glass is used as the material in which the pores are formed. The glass is in particular sintered glass. All other components are unchanged, so that the comments on the first embodiment with respect to these components apply here.

A device for positioning and / or guiding a value document according to a third embodiment likewise differs from the device according to the first embodiment only by the material of the separating layer 52. For the separating layer, an open-pore polymer foam is used as the material in this example. Preferably, the polymer foam is mechanically so stiff that it is self-supporting in the sense already mentioned, that in addition to the connection with the gas outlet 46 no further support member is necessary to give the release layer 52 a predetermined shape, in the example a flat, plate-like shape , As a foam, for example, an open-cell polyurethane foam can be used. All other components are unchanged, so that the comments on the first embodiment with respect to these components apply here.

A device for positioning and / or guiding a value document according to a fourth embodiment likewise differs from the device of the first embodiment only by the material of the separating layer. For the release layer, a composite material is used in this example as a material containing hollow fiber or tube elements whose cavities form the pores. These can be embedded in a matrix or glued together. All other components are unchanged, so that the comments on the first embodiment with respect to these components apply here.

A device for positioning and / or guiding a value document according to a fifth embodiment in Figure 4 also differs from the device of the first embodiment by the material of the separating layer and the manner of attachment of the same to the gas supply.

Instead of the separating layer 52 made of a ceramic solid, a film or membrane which has the pores 54 'is now used as the separating layer 52'. With regard to the size, shape and arrangement of the pores, what has been described for the first embodiment also applies accordingly here. However, since a film is typically thinner than a ceramic material release layer, the pore diameters can be made smaller to achieve equal gas permeability.

Further, a film is not self-supporting, which is why the gas supply 42 is replaced by a Gaszuführeinrichtung 42 ', which differs from the gas supply 42 only in that the walls 50 are replaced by walls 50', at the upper edge of a frame 58 can be fastened. All other components are unchanged, so that the comments on the first embodiment with respect to these components apply here as well and the same reference numerals are used for the same components.

More specifically, the upper edges of the walls 50 'and the frame 58 are formed so that the separating layer 52' between the upper edges and the frame 58 can be clamped with approximately the same tightness as they has the connection between the walls 50 and the separating layer 52 in the first embodiment. For example, the frame 58 may be screwed to respective upper flanges of the walls 52 'at corresponding flanges, not shown in FIG. 4, or clamped by appropriate clips.

As a film or membrane, for example, an open-cell FTFE film can be used.

In a variant of this embodiment, the film used is a non-porous film in which holes instead of pores, for example by punching, are produced.

In yet another variant of this embodiment, instead of the film or membrane as the material, a fabric having the pores, in particular a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, a knitted fabric, a braid, a fleece or a felt is used. These sheets may preferably be made of synthetic fibers, in particular polymer fibers, for example nylon or polyester fibers. The pores can be formed in particular by the spaces between fibers of the textile fabric. Again, the porosities and gas permeabilities are similar to those in the previously described embodiments.

A sixth preferred embodiment in FIGS. 5 and 6 differs from the first embodiment only in that the separating layer has at least two flow channels through which gas directed into the region can be blown. For all other parts of the sixth embodiment, the same reference numerals are used as in the first embodiment and the explanations to the first embodiment apply mutatis mutandis here. The separation layer 52 "differs from the separation layer 52 only in that now two groups each having at least two, in each case more than 30 parallel linear flow channels 60 and 62 are formed, the two sides of the separation layer 52" so connect together that gas can be pressed from one side of the release layer 52 "through the release layer 52" on the other side of the release layer.

In this embodiment, the two groups of flow channels 60 and 62 respectively include flow channels that are parallel to each other. These flow channels, after formation of the separation layer by laser drilling, have been introduced individually into the separation layer 52. The flow channels 60 and 62 are arranged in two elongate parallel strips running parallel to the transport direction T so that they travel along the transport path of a value document The flow channels 60 and 62 respectively open at one of their ends in the gas outlet 46 and are therefore supplied with the same gas as the pores 54 of the separating layer 52 ". The other ends open into the area 38.

The number and the diameter of the flow channels 60 and 62 are therefore chosen so that the gas permeability of the separating layer 52 caused by the pores 54 of the separating layer 52 "differs from the gas permeability caused by the flow channels 60 and 62 only to the extent that the value document 16 is still held by the gas leaving the pores 54 in a predetermined minimum distance from the separation layer 52 ". As can be seen in FIG. 5, the flow channels 60 and 62 and thus also at least one mouth section 64 and 66 of the flow channels 60 and 62 opening into the region 38 are inclined relative to the surface 38 of the separating layer 52 "facing the region 38.

In particular, the flow channels 60 and 62 and thus their mouth portions 64 and 66 so relative to the region 38 facing surface of the separation layer 52 'is inclined, that from the flow channels 60 and 62 flowing gas streams velocity components parallel to the surface of the separation layer 52nd with shares in a transport direction T for the value document 16.

In operation, the gas supply device 42 presses gas into the gas outlet 46 and thus through the pores of the separating layer 52 "and through at least two flow channels, ie here the flow channels 60 and 62, respectively, so that gas is blown out into the area 38 and blown out The gas streams emerging from the flow channels 60 and 62 respectively transmit a force or tension by friction to the value document 16. By virtue of the mentioned orientation of the mouth sections 64 and 66, the forces or stresses each have a parallel and rectified direction to the transport direction T. aligned component, so that the value document 16 is moved by these components in the transport direction T.

Although not generally the case, in this embodiment, the two groups of flow channels 60 and 62 in the separation layer 52 "formed so that the opening into the surface mouth portions 64 of the flow channels 60 of the one group with those of the flow channels 62nd the other groups projected onto the region-facing surface of the separation layer 52 "at an angle α greater than 10 °. This alignment of the flow channels in conjunction with the arrangement in two opposite groups with respect to the transport direction causes friction forces or stresses to be exerted on the value document 16 to the edges of the document of value 16 parallel to the transport direction T, which is a transverse extension of the value document 16 and a kind of dynamic stiffening causes that supports safe transport even with lobbed documents of value.

A seventh preferred embodiment in Fig. 7 differs from the sixth embodiment essentially in that the flow channels do not open into the gas outlet 46 and are supplied via this with gas, but that regardless of the pressed through the pores of the separating layer gas through the flow channels another gas is blown, which in the present embodiment is of the same type as the gas supplied to the pores. Except for the corresponding changes, the structure is the same as in the sixth embodiment, so that the same reference numerals are used for the same components and the explanations thereof apply here as well.

For independent supply of the additional gas, the device has a Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung 68, which is connected to the flow channels 60 and 62 for supplying gas under pressure.

The Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung 68 in this embodiment has a further gas source 70 for supplying the other gas under pressure, in the example an electrically controllable pump for pumping the same air as for supplying the pores 54, and a conduit means 72, in the example an integrally formed molding, the suppliers forming supply channels 74, through which the further gas to the flow channels 60 and 62 can be fed.

The conduit means 72 is a plastic or metal molding, the comb-like arranged U-shaped channel sections 76 and is so connected to the separating layer 52 "that the channel sections 76 together with the separating layer 52" the supply channels 74, through which the further gas with Although not necessary, in this embodiment, the conduit means 72, in this example the gutter sections 76, are further configured to provide additional gas supplied to the conduit means 72 to the flow channels 60 and 62 can be fed simultaneously.

The effect of the pores 54 and the flow channels 60 and 62 is the same as in the sixth embodiment, but the pressure of the gas supplied to the pores 54 and the pressure of the further gas supplied to the flow channels 60 and 62 are independently adjustable. Thus, the positioning or guiding function can be achieved regardless of the speed of transport.

An eighth preferred embodiment in Fig. 9 differs from the seventh embodiment in that the device is arranged so that a document of value is positioned underneath the separating layer, ie held in suspension by the device against the force of gravity. The separating layer is arranged above the area for this purpose. Although the same gas supply as in the seventh exemplary embodiment could also be used in this exemplary embodiment, instead of the flow channel gas supply device 68, a modified flow channel gas supply device 68 'and a regulating device for controlling the flow rate are provided Distance of the value document from the separation layer by adjusting the pressure of the additional gas or the flow rate of the gas flows discharged through the flow channels 60 and 62, respectively. Otherwise, the components of the device do not differ from those of the device of the seventh embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used for the unchanged components and the corresponding explanations also apply in this embodiment.

In this embodiment, the Strömungskanalgaszuführein- device 68 'in addition to connecting lines has only one, in particular electrical, signals controllable Gasdruck- and / or Gasflußsteuereinrichtung, in the example an electrically controllable valve 78, which is connected to the supply of pressurized gas to the gas source 36 is that also supplies the gas outlet 46 under overpressure gas. A flow gas outlet of the valve 78 is connected to the supply channels 74 below the separation layer 52 so that gas from the gas source 36 can be supplied under pressure via a connection line to the gas pressure and / or gas flow control means 78 which reduces or respectively decreases the pressure according to the signals supplied thereto adjusts the gas flow through the gas pressure and / or gas flow control device 78 and supplies the gas to the supply channels 74, from where it flows into the region 38 due to the overpressure through the flow channels 60 and 62, respectively.

The control device 80 is connected to a sensor, not shown in detail, for detecting the position of a value document 16 located in the region 38 relative to the separating layer 52 ", for example its distance, and depending on the detected position and of a predetermined position by delivery of appropriate Signals the gas supply and more precisely the Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung, in this example in Shape of a control so that the value document 16 "floats on gas supply to the separation layer 52." In other words, through the pores of the separation layer and the flow channels gas or further gas is blown or pressed so that the document of value floats.

Such an arrangement is particularly suitable for use with a singler, for example singler 18, which serves to lift securities from a stack of securities upwardly and to deliver them individually to a transport line.

A ninth embodiment differs from the seventh embodiment in that the positioning and / or guiding function is combined with a switch function. For this purpose, a modified separation layer 52 '", modified supply channels 84 and 86 and a modified flow channel gas supply device 68" are provided in comparison to the seventh exemplary embodiment. The other components are unchanged, so that for the same reference numerals are used and the explanations to these apply here.

The separation layer 52 '"differs from the separation layer 52" only by the distribution of the flow channels 60 and 62, wherein depending on the size of the desired deflection, the angle in the plane of the separation layer 52' "between the flow channels can be selected.

The flow channels 60 and 62 arranged in rows only in this example are arranged such that gas flowing out of them extends at least approximately over the entire extent of the value document in a direction transverse to the transport direction of the document of value 16 in the entry region of the document of value 16 at the separating layer 52 '" the value document is effective. In particular, the rows of flow channels 60 are arranged alternately with the rows of flow channels 62 parallel to them.

Supplying the flow channels with additional gas now comprises the supply channels 82 and 84 which are both separate from one another and connected to different gas outlets of the flow channel gas supply device 68 " They are so arranged and connected to the separation layer 52 'that the pressure in the connection channels is at least substantially independent of that in the gas outlet 46 set and correspondingly more gas can be supplied to the flow channels 60 or 62.

The Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung 68 "now has the two gas outlets, and a signal-controllable distribution device for distributing a gas flow to the two gas outlets.

During operation, as a function of a predetermined signal, further gas is blown through a first or a second of the at least two flow channels, so that a value document 16 can be deflected in a corresponding direction.

In a variant of this exemplary embodiment, for example, the flow channels 60 with their mouth sections can be arranged in a projection onto the surface of the separating layer 52 '"parallel to the transport direction T, so that the switch is a branch of a straight line Transport path allows. Such a switch can be used for example as a switch 22.

By appropriate design of the flow channels, it is also possible to achieve a transport in opposite directions of transport. For this purpose, for example, the mouth portions of the flow channels 60 and 62 may be formed so relative to the area facing the surface of the separation layer, that a flowing out of one of the two flow channels gas flow velocity components parallel to the surface of the release layer with a share in a first transport direction for the Value document and a flowing out of the other of the two flow channels gas stream has a velocity component parallel to the surface with a share in a second, opposite to the first transport direction for the document of value.

In other variants of the sixth to ninth exemplary embodiments, the supply channels leading to the flow channels 60 and 62 can also be formed in the separating layer 52 ", for example by milling or corresponding shaping during the production of the separating layer to be covered according to the course of the supply channels shaped plate so that a substantial pressure equalization between the supply channels and the gas outlet 46 does not take place.

Further, it is possible to combine features of the above-mentioned embodiments to a further embodiment.

The following is an example of a tenth example of an apparatus for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined range, at least partially illustrated in FIG. 12, which, like the first embodiment, also a gas supply means having a gas outlet into which gas is compressible, and a separation layer separating the gas outlet from the region and a gas supply means.

The gas outlet and the gas supply means are formed substantially as in the first embodiment, so that the same reference numerals are used for these and their components and the explanations apply accordingly here. The only minor modifications are described below.

The separation layer 86 differs from the separation layer 52 in that it has channels 88 in at least one section, distributed over the entire area in this example, which connect the gas outlet to the predetermined area and by drilling into a plate which subsequently forms the separation layer 86 has a substantially non-porous material. The channels 88 are formed so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet 46 and the channels 88, a gas layer 89 between the value document 16 in the predetermined area and the release layer 86 is formed. The channels may in principle be inclined at will, but in the present example they run parallel to one another and at least approximately orthogonally to the surface of the separating layer 86.

The material of the release layer 86 is translucent to light so that light can pass through the release layer 86. For example, the release layer 86 may be provided by a densely sintered Ahθ3 plate with channels introduced therein. The separating layer 86 is therefore translucent at least in the section between the channels 88 or in an immediately adjacent section. The device is combined with a light barrier which, via a source 92 for optical electromagnetic radiation, in this example a light emitting diode with an optically directed emission of light in the red wavelength range as an element for detecting optical radiation, disposed in the gas outlet photodetector 90 to Detection of the radiation emitted by the source 92 and a control device 94 which is connected via a signal connection to the source 92 and drives them and connected via a further signal connection to the photodetector 90 and is designed to evaluate the output of this Detektionsssigna- Ie. The photodetector 90 is disposed in the gas outlet 46 and the source 92 above the separation layer 86 and the region 38 so that the light path from the source 92 passes through the transport path for the value documents 16 and the translucent separation layer 86 to the photodetector 90. The light barrier can thus be used to detect a value document 16 which does not substantially transmit the radiation of the source 92.

In this embodiment, the thickness of the separation layer 86 is selected as a function of the specific absorption of the material of the separation layer 86 so that the transmission of the separation layer 86 for the light of the source 92 is greater than 10%.

The gas supply device 46 is modified from the first embodiment in that the signal line to the photodetector 90 is guided in a gas-tight or pressure-tight manner through the bottom 48, which also carries the photodetector 90.

The separating layer with the channels thus serves not only for positioning and / or guiding the value document by means of a through the separating layer passing gas stream, but also as a cover of the photodetector 90 of the light barrier.

In another variant of this embodiment, the source 92 and the photodetector 90 may also be interchanged.

In a further variant can be used as the material of the separating layer glass, so that there is a transparent separating layer. When using such a separation layer, instead of the light barrier, an optically imaging sensor can also be used as an element for detecting properties of the value document.

An eleventh embodiment in Fig. 13 differs from the seventh embodiment in Fig. 7 only in the choice of the material of the separation layer 86 ', which otherwise corresponds to the separation layer 56 ", and in that otherwise the light barrier of the tenth embodiment is incorporated into the device The same reference numerals are used for the components which are unchanged with respect to the seventh and tenth embodiments, and the explanations therefor apply correspondingly also here.

The separating layer 86 'is now formed from a translucent, porous sintered AhCb ceramic which, on the one hand, forms the pores 54, which replace the channels 88 and pass through the gas into the region 38 for positioning and / or guiding the value document 16. On the other hand, it is chosen so that its transmission for the light of the source 90 is greater than 10%.

Also, this embodiment may be varied so that the positions of the source 92 and the photodetector 90 are interchanged. A twelfth embodiment in Fig. 14 differs from the eleventh embodiment only in that now the photodetector 90 is disposed outside the gas supply means. The latter has in its wall 50 "a window 96 at least partially transparent to the optical radiation of the source 92, in front of which the photodetector 90 is arranged Mirror, arranged to direct the optical radiation emitted by the source 92 through the separation layer 86 'and through the window 96 onto the photodetector 90. This has the advantage that no electrical leads are passed through the walls 50 or the floor 48 need.

A thirteenth embodiment in Fig. 15 differs from the twelfth embodiment only in that now the window 96 in the bottom 48 'is arranged, so that the deflection element can be omitted.

In further variants, it is possible, as the material of the separating layer glass or sintered glass, in particular a material obtainable by fusing glass beads, or a transparent plastic, in particular a porous plastic, which is obtainable by fusing and / or gluing small plastic particles, such as plastic beads , to use.

Moreover, it is also possible to use a transparent or translucent separating layer in the other exemplary embodiments mentioned above.

Other embodiments differ from the previously described embodiments, in which a transparent or translucent Separation layer is used, characterized in that a device independent of the device transport device for the value document is provided, for example, a belt transport device, and that the device is designed or operated so that by the gas flow through the pores or channels 88th formed gas cushion only dust or other contamination from the then serving only as a window separating layer. The separating layer need not extend in this case over the entire width of the document of value, but it is sufficient then that it forms a cover in the region of the beam path. The receiver is given by the photodetector in these embodiments.

By way of example, a corresponding variant of the first exemplary embodiment is shown in FIG. 16, in which the separating layer 52 is formed by a translucent or transparent separating layer 86 "of the same material as one of the separating layers 86 ', for example open-pore Al 2 O 3 ceramic Components that correspond to the first embodiment, the same reference numerals as used there and the explanations to this apply accordingly here.

The detection device is here given by the light barrier 90, 92, 94, which is constructed as in the eleventh embodiment and for which therefore the same reference numerals are used and the explanations on the embodiment also apply here.

The transport of the value document is now carried out via a transport device 100, in the example a belt transport system, and the gas flow through the gas outlet 46 is adjusted so that settle on the serving as a sensor or detector window separating layer 86 "no or little dirt or dust can, or there existing dust from the release layer and thus removed from the radiation path 102 between the radiation source 90 and the receiver 92.

The embodiment may be further modified as in FIGS. 14 and 15.

In addition, a reflection light barrier or a light sensor can be used instead of the transmission light barrier.

Furthermore, instead of the detection device, it is also possible to use an optical sensor device, for example for detecting luminescence radiation and / or color images of the value document.

Claims

Patent claims

Anspruch [en] A device for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined area with a gas supply means having a gas outlet into which gas can be pressed, and a separation layer separating the gas outlet from the area and in at least one section of open pore material is formed, which open into the predetermined area, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the pores, a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined area and the separating layer can be formed.

2. Device according to claim 1, wherein the separating layer in the region of the pores has a gas permeability caused by the pores in the range of 1 s bar / m to 100 s bar / m.

3. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the average diameter of the pores in the range between 0.2 .mu.m and 4 .mu.m.

4. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material comprises a fabric having the pores, in particular a fabric, a knitted fabric, a knitted fabric, a braid, a nonwoven or a felt, or a film with the pores.

5. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material contains an open-celled solid, can pass through the pores of gas.

6. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material contains glass in which the pores are formed.

7. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material contains a ceramic in which the pores are formed.

8. Apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the material comprises an alumina ceramic.

9. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material contains open-cell polymer foam.

10. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the material is a composite material containing hollow fiber or tube elements whose cavities form the pores.

11. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least a portion of the separating layer is transparent or translucent in at least one predetermined wavelength range.

12. A device for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined area with a gas supply having a gas outlet, is pressed into the gas, and a separating layer which separates the gas outlet from the region and in at least one section has channels which the gas outlet connect with the predetermined area, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the channels, a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined area and the separating layer can be formed, wherein the separating layer at least in the section between the channels or is transparent or translucent in a portion immediately adjacent thereto.

13. Device according to one of claims 11 or 12, with an optical detection device for detecting the value document and / or an optical sensor device or detecting at least one property of the value document in which at least a portion of the radiation path passes through the separation layer.

14. An apparatus with an optical detection device for detecting a value document in a predetermined area and / or an optical sensor device or detecting at least one property of a value document in a predetermined area, the radiation source for illuminating the value document and / or a receiver for receiving the Radiation source or the document of value emitted radiation, a Gaszuführeinrichtung having a gas outlet is pressed into the gas, and a separating layer which separates the gas outlet from the region and formed in at least one translucent or transparent portion of a material having open pores is, which open into the predetermined area, and / or in at least one translucent or transparent portion channels, so that by pressing gas through the gas outlet and the pores or channels, a gas layer between the value document in the predetermined area and the Tr layer is imageable, and which is arranged in at least a portion of the radiation path from the radiation source to the value document or from the value document to the receiver through the separation layer.

15. Device according to one of claims 11 to 14, wherein in the gas supply before the separating layer at least one source of optical Radiation in a predetermined wavelength range and / or at least one element for detecting optical radiation in a predetermined wavelength range and / or an optical component for deflecting optical radiation in a predetermined wavelength range is arranged so that a radiation path between the region and the source or Detection element or the optical component is given through the separation layer.

16. Device according to one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the gas supply means and the separating layer form a transparent or translucent for optical radiation in a predetermined wavelength range window through which a radiation path for optical radiation from or into the area.

17. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the separating layer has at least two flow channels through which gas directed into the area is blown.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein at least one flow channel gas supply means is provided, which is connected to the flow channels for supplying gas under pressure.

19. Device according to one of claims 17 or 18, wherein at least one opening into the region mouth portion of the flow channels is inclined relative to a region facing the surface of the separating layer.

20. Device according to one of claims 16 to 19, wherein the mouth portions are formed so relative to the region facing the surface of the separation layer that ausströ- from the flow channels gas streams have speed components parallel to the surface of the release layer with shares in a transport direction for the document of value.

21. Device according to one of claims 17 to 20, wherein two of the at least two flow channels containing groups of flow channels are formed in the separation layer, wherein the opening into the surface mouth portions of the flow channels of one group with those of the flow channels of the other groups in a projection enclose an angle greater than 10 ° on the area of the interface facing the area.

22. Device according to one of claims 17 to 21, wherein at least two of the mouth portions are formed so relative to the region facing the surface of the separation layer, that a flowing out of one of the two flow channels gas stream a velocity components parallel to the surface of the separation layer with a Share in a first direction of transport for the document of value and a flowing out of the other of the two flow channels gas stream having a velocity component parallel to the surface with a share in a second, opposite to the first transport direction for the document of value.

23. Device according to one of claims 17 to 22, wherein the Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung two gas outlets, one of which is connected to another of the at least two flow channels, and a controllable by signals distribution device for distributing a gas flow to the two gas outlets, comprising ,

24. Device according to one of claims 17 to 23, wherein the separating layer is arranged above the region, and in which the Gaszusfüh- device and the Strömungskanalgaszuführeinrichtung are adjusted to each other so that the value document floats at gas supply to the separating layer.

25. A method for positioning or maintaining a value document in a predetermined area, in which

Gas is forced through pores of a release layer in at least a portion of open cell material so that a gas layer is formed between the value document and the release layer.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein a release layer is used, which has a pore-related gas permeability in the region of the pores between 1 s bar / m and 100 s bar / m

27. The method according to claim 25 or claim 26, wherein the material used is a material in which the average diameter of the pores is in the range between 0.2 μm and 4 μm.

28. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the material used is a fabric having the pores, in particular a woven fabric, a knitted fabric, a knitted fabric, a braid, a fleece or a felt, or a film with the pores.

29. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, wherein the material used is a material which contains an open-pore solid through which pores gas can pass

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the material used is a material containing glass in which the pores are formed.

31. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 29, wherein the material used is a material containing a ceramic in which the pores are formed.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the material used is a material containing alumina ceramic.

33. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 32, wherein the material used is a material containing open-cell polymer foam.

34. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 33, wherein the material used is a material which is a composite material containing hollow fiber or tube elements whose cavities form the pores.

35. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 34, wherein as a release layer, a release layer is used, which is transparent or translucent in at least one section in at least one predetermined wavelength range.

36. A method for positioning or maintaining a value document in a predetermined area, in which

Gas is forced through channels of a separating layer, so that a gas layer between the value document and the separating layer is formed, wherein the separating layer is transparent or translucent at least between the channels or in a directly adjacent thereto portion.

A method according to claim 35 or 36, wherein optical radiation in the predetermined wavelength range is directed through the separation layer.

38. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 37, wherein a separating layer is used which has at least two flow channels, is directed through the gas directed into the region, and in which gas is blown through these flow channels.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein, regardless of the pressed through the pores of the separating layer of gas through the flow channels another gas is blown.

40. The method according to claim 38 or 39, wherein a separating layer is used as the separating layer, in which opening into the region mouth portions of at least two of the flow channels in different directions open relative to a region facing the surface of the separating layer, and in dependence on a predetermined Signal gas is blown through a first or a second of the at least two flow channels.

41. The method according to any one of claims 38 to 40, wherein gas or further gas is blown or pressed through the flow channels and the pores of the separating layer such that the document of value floats.

42. An apparatus for positioning or guiding a value document in a predetermined area with a gas supply means having a gas outlet into which gas can be pressed, and a separation layer separating the gas outlet from the area and in at least one portion of a film having through holes is formed, which open into the predetermined area, so that by pressing gas through the Gas outlet and the holes a gas layer between the document of value in the predetermined area and the separating layer is bildbar.