CN101715590B - Method and apparatus for sorting articles - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of sorting a plurality of items, and an apparatus for performing the method are disclosed. The apparatus includes the steps of: detecting one or more characteristics of each item; sorting any items whose detected characteristics meet a first set of predetermined criteria to a first destination; sorting any other items to a second destination; determining whether There are two conditions as to whether any item sorted to the second destination has detection characteristics that meet the second set of predetermined criteria, and whether any item that is sorted to the second destination has detection characteristics that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria. detection signatures; as determined in step d), if the second destination includes one or more items having detection signatures that meet a second set of predetermined criteria, and includes one or more items that have detection signatures that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria or a plurality of items, sorting any item in the second destination whose detected characteristics meet a second set of predetermined criteria to a third destination; and sorting any other item in the second destination to a fourth destination.

Description

Method and device for sorting objects

technical field

The invention relates to a method for sorting objects, and a device for implementing the method. The disclosed technique and apparatus are particularly suitable for sorting items of value, eg currency including banknotes and coins, in addition to other documents such as securities, tokens, checks and the like. The invention will thus be described primarily in relation to its use with banknotes, but it will be appreciated that the method and apparatus are equally suitable for sorting other objects.

Background technique

A variety of banknote sorters are known, including a multi-bag sorter such as that described in US-A-5394992. This sorter has two pockets - into which the sorted banknotes are output. A stack of banknotes to be sorted is input into a device that uses sensors to detect characteristics of each banknote and outputs the banknotes to one or the other of the pockets based on the detected characteristics. In this way, banknotes identified by the sensor having certain characteristics (eg incorrect orientation, different denominations, etc.) can be separated from other banknotes in the stack.

Such double bag sorting machines have the inherent limitation that they can only sort a stack of banknotes into two groups. Since it is necessary to use a sorter with more than two output pockets (ie one pocket for each "type") for separating more than two "types" of banknotes from a mixed stack into a single group. This adds considerable complexity and cost to the device. Furthermore, the number of bags that can be constructed in a single machine is practically limited by size factors and technical constraints.

WO 01/99060-A1 discloses two embodiments of a device suitable for sorting and processing paper material such as banknotes. The first embodiment has five output destinations in addition to one "shredder" output, and sorts banknotes to these destinations according to predetermined criteria. A second embodiment includes a reduced size sorting device with three output destinations plus a "shredder" output. The apparatus of the second embodiment can be used in a classification method similar to that of the first embodiment. Both of these embodiments require more than two output pockets to sort more than two "types" of banknotes from a mixed stack.

When using the device of any of the embodiments of WO 01/99060-A1, there is the option of re-feeding banknotes which have been sorted to a specific output destination. This method allows certain banknote stacks to be revalued and sorting criteria to be reapplied. This may correctly sort notes that were incorrectly sorted on the first "pass". However, the process for the re-feed operation is complex and would double the processing time of the device in efficiency for only a small increase in classification accuracy.

DE 10117822-A1 discloses another device for sorting banknotes. The device includes three output destinations, wherein a banknote input location can be used as one of the output destinations. The apparatus of this publication may be adapted to classify denominations in more than two denominations or "types". This is made possible by using three output destinations. This publication teaches that one or more output destinations are configured as destinations for more than one denomination or "type" of banknotes. Then after the first sorting, the operator is instructed to re-feed the stack of banknotes present in one of these destinations in order to further divide the stack into stacks of unique denominations. Once the banknotes have been refed, their characteristics are detected again and a new set of sorting criteria is applied to sort the refed banknotes into one of three output destinations. Although this device allows sorting of more than two "types" of banknotes, it requires three output destinations and the length of time used to perform sorting of two or more denominations or types is efficient in one sorting "pass" twice as much.

WO 02/27670-A1 discloses a banknote handling machine for inputting and outputting fed banknotes. Such machines are suitable for handling large quantities of banknotes of various denominations in order to manage deposits and withdrawals. Such machines include a number of secure cassettes located within the machine into which banknotes of a particular denomination are to be sorted. Sorted banknotes of specified denominations can then be removed from these bins when the operator requests withdrawals.

EP1643462-A2 also discloses a similar currency sorter having a plurality of boxes adapted to store banknotes sorted according to a plurality of criteria. Specifically, EP1643462-A2 discloses a display device that enables an operator to observe the contents of each output destination. In the above two publications, various sorting criteria may be applied when the banknotes arrive at one of the storage boxes from the input destination. However, the devices of the above two patent publications both disclose the use of more than two output destinations for sorting banknotes. Additionally, both devices are bulky and require complex control devices to provide complex sorting functions. One problem with such complex devices is that a comprehensive in-depth knowledge of the device and classification method is required. These machines are adapted to handle large quantities of banknotes, so the time required for sorting small stacks of banknotes is relatively long. In addition, due to the internal implementation of multiple classifications, errors are likely to occur, which is also obscure to the operator.

Therefore, there is a need for a method for sorting valuable items that is clear and concise to the operator and can be completed in a short time. Furthermore, there is a need for an apparatus suitable for efficiently sorting valuable items to increase throughput in various sorting environments.

Contents of the invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a method of sorting a plurality of items using a sorting device, comprising:

a) detect one or more characteristics of each item;

b) sorting to a first destination any item whose detection characteristics meet a first set of predetermined criteria;

c) Sorting any other items to a second destination;

d) Determine whether any of the items sorted to the second destination have detection characteristics that meet the second set of predetermined criteria, and whether any items sorted to the second destination have detection characteristics that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria. standard detection features;

e) if, as determined in step d), the second destination includes one or more items having detection characteristics that meet a second set of predetermined criteria, and includes one or more items that have detection characteristics that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria multiple items, sorting to a third destination any item whose detection characteristics at the second destination meet a second set of predetermined criteria; and

f) Sorting any other items in the second destination to a fourth destination.

By sorting items in this way according to first and second criteria, it becomes possible to use a double bag (first and second "destination") sorting device to sort items into at least three types: the first is output As a result of step (b), the second species is in step (e) and the third species is in step (f). These categories can represent any characteristic of the item. For example, in the case of banknotes, a stack of banknotes may be divided into different orientations, currencies, denominations, etc., based on the banknote's fitness level (ie, the condition of the banknote) and/or whether the banknote is genuine.

In addition, the method provides an efficient means of sorting multiple items because step (d) uses the characteristics of each item detected in step a) to determine whether the second destination includes a mix of banknotes, and if found In the presence of mixing, only the second sorting to the third destination and the fourth destination is performed. Unnecessary second sorting, which increases efficiency, can thus be avoided. Based on step (d) the operator may also be provided with an indication that the second destination does not contain a mixture of documents, i.e. the fed banknote stack only includes two "types", whereby no further notice is required in the second destination. Banknote sorting. The determination of step (d) can save a lot of time and greatly increase productivity when dealing with large throughputs. In the prior art, it is not possible to determine whether a mix of banknotes is included in the output destination, so that a second sorting usually needs to be performed even if the second destination only includes banknotes of one "type". The method of the present invention thus prevents such "useless sorting".

In a particular embodiment, the sorting device includes only two output destinations, wherein the third destination is one of the first or second destination and the fourth destination is the other of the first or second destination. This enables the method to be performed on a two-bag sorter, reducing the need for additional output destinations when performing the complex sorting of the prior art.

Preferably, the item is a paper document such as a banknote. However, as mentioned above, the method can be applied to any item that needs to be sorted.

In certain embodiments, the first and third destinations are the same, whereby an output bag of the sorter can be used as both the first and third destination. In alternative embodiments, (ie, if those items sorted out in the second category are to be sorted elsewhere), different destinations may also be used. In other embodiments, the second destination and the fourth destination are the same. Thus, the method of the present invention enables one or more of two fixed destinations or "bags" to be used as a third and/or fourth "virtual" destination or "bag", such as the first The destination may be used as a third "virtual" destination and the second destination may be used as a fourth "virtual" destination. This in turn allows sorting machines with more than two bags to be simulated on one double bag sorter. It is further possible to repeat the method a selected number of times and provide an additional classification into the nth and/or (n+1)th destination. This has the effect of being able to simulate an infinite number of destinations on a two-bag classifier.

In certain embodiments, the second set of predetermined criteria is equal to the first set of predetermined criteria. If the third and fourth destinations are also equal to the first and second destinations, respectively, then the method allows for a single classification based on a first set of predetermined criteria to include multiple "passes" in which the Items for the second/fourth destination can be re-fed and the first set of criteria can be re-applied.

Preferably, the detected characteristics of the item include one or more of authenticity, currency, denomination, condition and orientation, but any characteristic of the item detectable by a user or device may be used instead.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first set of predetermined criteria is that the item is genuine and in a condition suitable for reuse. By first sorting out all items that are genuine and suitable for use, these items can be quickly and reliably ejected and sent for recycling. Also, in many cases these items form a major part of the many items to be sorted, and by separating them for the first time, the work required to sort the remaining items is minimized.

Preferably, the second set of predetermined criteria is that the item is genuine. This completes the classification to distinguish genuine but unsuitable banknotes from non-genuine banknotes (ie incorrect currency, foreign items or counterfeits).

The criteria may include one or more requirements that the detected characteristics must meet in order for the article to be considered "authentic" and/or "fit for purpose". This may be pre-set in the form of a series of thresholds or other constraints that must be met by the measured parameters of the item, for example, optical characteristics such as UV reflectance, fluorescence, opacity, and/or confirming the presence of certain expected values on each item. Some security features, such as magnetic features, security printing, etc.

In some embodiments, the second set of criteria may be applied to banknotes in the second destination without further analysis of the items (ie, without re-detecting their characteristics), thereby expediting the second sort. This can be achieved by registering characteristics of each item sorted to the second destination, and using this information to sort the items according to the second criteria. Alternatively, it may be preferred in some circumstances that step (e) includes detecting one or more characteristics of each item in the second destination. These features may or may not be the same as those detected in step (a).

In some particularly preferred embodiments, steps (e) and (f) are performed on an article traveling at a different speed than steps (a)-(c). The second sorting can be performed faster or slower than the first sorting. For example, if the first sort has removed all unsuitable banknotes that require careful handling, faster processing may be advantageous in the second sort. If it is known that unsuitable banknotes are still present, slower processing in the second sorting may be advantageous, since by reducing the travel speed further damage to the banknotes is prevented and the risk of jamming is reduced. Also, slower processing can improve the detection of features of the item. For example, better style recognition could be achieved by passing banknotes more slowly through the sensor array. The speed of the item may be adjusted by changing the speed at which the item is transported, or by changing the speed at which the item is input to the device.

Preferably, step (b) of the method comprises displaying data relating to the item in the first destination. Particular embodiments include displaying the total value of those items in the first destination, or the number of sheets of those items. This enables the user to quickly assess that sorting has been successful and communicate the displayed information to the recycler with sorted items.

In an alternative embodiment, upon detection of a first sort termination event, data relating to the first sort and/or detected banknote characteristics - such as sheet counts or individual banknote values - are stored. Such a first category termination event may include, among other things, receiving user input (eg, pressing a button) or elapse of a predetermined period of time (eg, 30 seconds). Said data may then be displayed to the user at the end of the method and may include the total number and/or total value of all banknotes in the first destination. After the last step of the method, data related to the second classification may also be stored upon detection of a termination event of the second classification. The second category termination event may be in a similar form to the first category termination event. Likewise, this data can also be displayed to the user after the method completes. The data may comprise information about the banknotes in the third destination and the fourth destination, ie number or total value.

Advantageously, if it is determined in step (d) that all items sorted to the second destination meet a second set of predetermined criteria, the next step may further comprise indicating this to the user. This makes it obvious to the user that steps (e) and (f) do not need to be performed in certain cases. Preferably, the indication includes displaying data relating to the items in the second destination, such as total value or number of sheets.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, steps (a) to (c) are repeated for a second plurality of items, prior to step (d). In some cases, the second batch of items includes items sorted to a second destination. This is advantageous in the handling of stacks in which only a small fraction of items do not meet the first set of criteria (ie are sorted to a second destination). The batches of items may be sorted according to the first criteria before those items that do not meet the first criteria are sorted according to the second criteria. This can greatly increase overall processing speed. The method is also applicable to start performing step (d) when the first classification end event is detected.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the first set of predetermined criteria is selected on the basis of those detected characteristics of the first item to be sorted such that the first item to be sorted complies with the first set of predetermined criteria. This allows a quick start-up of the machine as the standard can be automatically selected.

More preferably, the second set of predetermined criteria is selected based on those detected characteristics of the first items to be sorted from the second destination such that the first items sorted in the second destination meet the second set of predetermined criteria.

Preferably, the method further comprises determining whether each item meets a third set of predetermined criteria, and indicating to the user if there are any items meeting the third set of criteria. The method can thus be used to quickly locate a particular type of item, or even a single item (eg if it is identified with a serial number or similar). Advantageously, said indication is indicated to the user by an indicator adjacent to the bag into which the or each item meeting the third set of predetermined criteria is to be sorted. This makes it sufficiently clear to the user where the identified item was found for quick retrieval.

In particular embodiments, the method is stopped if the detected characteristics of any of said items meet a third set of predetermined criteria. This ensures operator attention and allows easy removal of items. Preferably, the third set of predetermined criteria is mutually exclusive with the first set of predetermined criteria and the second set of predetermined criteria. More preferably, the third set of predetermined criteria is that the item is suspected of being counterfeit.

In a particular embodiment, step (b) includes storing information related to items sorted to the first destination; and wherein step (e) includes, in the case of sorting, using the information on any other items in the re-fed items at the destination, updating the information stored in step (b).

By re-feeding the banknotes sorted to the second destination, and repeating steps b) and c), features meeting the first set of predetermined criteria can be found from the second destination but were not sorted on the first pass out items. For example, two genuine, applicable banknotes may overlap during the first pass. This will be detected as a "double" and the note will be passed to the second destination. On a second pass with previously rejected banknotes it is possible that the banknotes will be fed differently so as not to overlap; thus on the second pass the banknotes will be added to the sorted banknotes already present in the first destination. Re-feeding and re-sorting banknotes from the second destination can be repeated any number of times.

In an alternative embodiment, step (b) includes storing a first set of information related to items sorted to a first destination upon detection of a first end-of-sort event; and step (f) includes upon detection of A second set of information relating to any items sorted to the first, second, third and fourth destinations is stored upon the second sort end event.

As previously mentioned, these sort end events can occur upon receipt of user input or after a set period of time has elapsed. The first set of information and the second set of information may be displayed to the user either via a printout or via a display method connected to the slip counter. Said information can also be displayed on a display of a computer connected to the counter.

Similar to the previously described method embodiments, the method may also include performing multiple passes during the first or second sorting process. In the second category, including steps e) to f), the user can also generate a "repeat" command to reset the second set of information and allow steps e) and f) to be repeated again. As previously stated, in a preferred embodiment the first and third destinations are the same and the second and fourth destinations are the same.

The present invention also provides:

an input device for feeding items into the device;

two or more output destinations;

a diverter system capable of diverting the item to a selected one of the output destinations;

one or more sensors for detecting one or more characteristics of each item fed from the input device; and

a controller operatively coupled to the commutator system and the one or more sensors;

The controllers include:

A first module adapted to determine whether an item meets a first set of predetermined criteria based on one or more characteristics detected by one or more sensors, and if it meets the first set of criteria, operate the diverter system to place the sorting the item to a first output destination; if it does not meet the first set of criteria, sorting the item to a second output destination; and

The second module, which is suitable for:

Determining, based on the one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, the number of items that meet a second set of predetermined criteria to be sorted to the second destination, and based on the one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, , determining the number of items sorted to the second destination that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria;

Wherein the second module is further adapted to configure said sorting device based on the results of the two determinations performed by the second module.

A sorting device configured as described above, allowing configuration of the sorting device based on the content of the second destination; for example, the second module may output a screen indicating that the second destination contains a mixture of banknotes or only one type of banknote, which would then allow the control system to output a suitable indicator to the operator of the device. Such means utilize information recorded by one or more sensors to generate additional data that can be used to improve the efficiency of the sorting equipment.

In a particular embodiment, the second module is adapted to change the state of the sorting device if the result of both determinations performed by the second module are non-zero; i.e., the second module determines that there is Mixture of banknotes. In another embodiment of the present invention, the controller further includes a third module configured to operate the commutator system if both determinations performed by the second module are non-zero, wherein Operating the diverter through the third module includes sorting the item from a second output destination to a third output destination if the item meets a second set of criteria based on one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors , and if the item does not meet a second set of criteria based on one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, the item is sorted from the second output destination to a fourth output destination. As a result, the additional data generated by the controller module can be used to carry out the classification process in a manner not present in the prior art.

Description of drawings

The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 schematically shows a dual bag sorter used in an embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 shows a flow chart illustrating the steps involved in a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 3 shows a continuation flow diagram illustrating additional steps that may be conditionally performed according to the first embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 4 shows a flow chart illustrating the steps involved in a second embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 shows a flow chart illustrating the steps involved in a third embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 6 shows a continuing flowchart illustrating additional steps that may be performed according to the third embodiment;

Figures 7A-7K illustrate a graphical user interface displaying a working embodiment performed using the method of the present invention; and

8A-8D illustrate exemplary print results produced by a printing device connected to the dual bag sorter shown in FIG. 1 .

Detailed ways

One example of banknote classification requirements involving more than two banknote "types" is established by the European Recycling Framework (ERF), sometimes referred to as the Banknote Recycling Framework (BRF). Set, the agency administers counterfeit detection and suitability classification for credit institutions and other professional cash managers in Europe. This embodiment requires recognition of the following banknotes:

"A"-(i) Documents not identified as Euros; and

(ii) Suspected counterfeit euros;

"B1" - real and "applicable" Euros; and

"B2" - real but "not applicable" euros;

Wherein "applicable" and "not applicable" respectively refer to banknotes meeting predetermined quality standards and banknotes not meeting said standards.

In a traditional sorting process, a machine with more than two pockets (at least two pockets plus a reject pocket) would be required to perform the process, although such a machine could do the process in one pass of the banknotes.

Referring to Figure 1, a double bag sorter 1 suitable for use with the present invention comprises, in addition to a user interface 6, an input bin 2 for feeding banknotes and two output pockets P1 and P2. The two output bags are provided with optional value indicators V1 and V2 respectively. Also, an alarm device such as an LED 7 next to the pocket P2 is used to indicate the presence of a particular banknote in the pocket P2 - for example a suspected counterfeit Euro. Optionally, a similar LED is provided next to the bag P1 to convey information about the contents of the bag P1.

The banknotes are transported between the components by a conventional transport system, which will not be described in detail here. After being fed into the apparatus 1, the characteristics of each banknote are detected by one or more sensors 3 such as IR detectors, UV monitors, fluorescence detectors, magnetic detectors, imaging devices, etc. optical sensor. The results are output to a controller 4 which controls a diverter 5 to direct each banknote to output P1 or output P2. The controller 4 may comprise one or more modules adapted to perform the classification method described above.

The machine is operable to perform the two classifications described in the flowcharts of FIGS. 2 and 3 . The procedure of said operation and any other relevant information can be indicated to the user via the user interface 6 . A first embodiment of the present invention begins with the method of FIG. 2 . The process starts when a stack of banknotes is received (step S200). The characteristics of each banknote (including at least the authenticity and condition of the banknote) are then detected in step S05. Banknotes meeting the criteria for a banknote to be considered genuine and suitable for use are sorted to a first destination, pocket P1 (step S210). All other banknotes are diverted to the second destination, pocket P2 (step S220). The first method thus sorts category B1 (genuine, applicable banknotes) into pocket P1; category B2 (genuine, non-compliant banknotes) and category A (unrecognizable or suspected counterfeit banknotes) into pocket P2.

Preferably, the denomination indicator V1 of pocket P1 will indicate the calculated value (step S215 ) for B1 type notes which test true and apply, and/or will display the number of sheets via V1. During this process, the user interface 6 may display "BRF FIT" to inform the user of the current classification.

In step S225, the process determines whether all banknotes sorted into the second destination P2 are of the same "type" (i.e., whether any items sorted into the second destination have detection characteristics that meet some predetermined set of criteria). , and whether any items sorted to the second destination have detection characteristics that do not meet some predetermined set of criteria). If the system determines that all notes sorted to P2 meet the second criterion (ie no "miscellaneous" notes are present), the process may end at step S240. This thus prevents unnecessary second sorting from being performed which increases efficiency. This determination may also be performed using the detection characteristics of each banknote recorded at step S205, indicating that further detection is required to proceed to step S225 of determining whether pocket P2 contains a mixture of different types. In this case, preferably, if it is determined that the pocket P2 contains only banknotes of type B2, the value indicator V2 displays the value or number of banknotes in the pocket P2 (step S30).

When other banknotes (such as type A banknotes) are found to be present in pocket P2 (i.e., at least one of the items sorted to the second destination has detection characteristics meeting a second set of predetermined criteria, and is sorted to the second destination If at least one of the items on the ground has detection characteristics that do not meet a second set of predetermined criteria—items of two different “kinds”), the following procedure is applied: value indicator V2 is cleared or the display screen is not displayed to force The banknotes in the pocket P2 need to be reclassified; and if at least one A(ii) banknote is detected, the "suspected counterfeit banknote" alarm 7 is turned on (step S235).

After completing the first sorting, the banknotes in pocket P1 can be recycled (i.e., returned to currency circulation), and the banknotes in pocket P2 can occur as follows: in the case where a value is displayed on indicator P2 (i.e. , the output P2 contains only qualified B2 banknotes), the banknotes in the bag P2 can be returned to the service center or the bank (as shown in step S240); in the case where no value is displayed, the banknotes in the bag P2 can be used The second sort is re-sorted into A and B (as shown in Figure 3) as follows; or the banknotes in pocket P2 can be inserted a second time into the machine to perform a second "pass" of the first sort . This process will be described in more detail with respect to the second embodiment.

If a mixture of banknotes is sorted to a second destination in the first sort, the process typically moves to the second sort starting at step S300 in FIG. 3 . The banknotes in the second pocket P2 can be removed and reinserted into the device via the input, or can be re-entered into the system directly from P2. Optionally, the features of banknotes from P2 may be detected in step S305. However, it is also possible to reuse the results of the earlier identification performed in step S2, as long as a record is kept indicating the results for each banknote. In step S310, all the considered genuine banknotes in P2 are sorted into P1, and the others are sorted into P2 (step S320). Thus, the second process sorts B2 type notes (genuine, "not suitable" notes) into pocket P1, wherein if any B1 type notes are not separated from the banknote stack on the first pass, then the Any remaining Type B1 notes (genuine, "suitable" notes) and non-compliant notes are moved into pocket P1; while Type A notes (unrecognized or suspected counterfeit notes) are moved into pocket P2.

Preferably, the value indicator V1 of the pocket P1 will indicate the value (step S315 ) or the number of genuine banknotes of type B2 counted. The value indicator V2 of the pocket P2 will normally not show any value, since the pocket P2 contains only type A notes. The user interface 6 typically displays "UNFIT" to identify the second category.

Typically, pocket P2 will contain banknotes of type A(i), e.g., banknotes not recognized as Euros because: the banknote is partly foreign currency; banknotes; or banknotes that are badly defaced or vandalized.

In the rare case (detected in step S305) of type A(ii) suspected counterfeit notes (Euros) contained in pocket P2, the alarm 7 will be turned on again (step S325), requiring the operator to manually identify and remove the suspected counterfeit Euros (i.e. all banknotes in P2 have the appearance of Euros) for delivery to national authorities (e.g. police) in accordance with national regulations.

The process may then end in step S330. In other embodiments, a third, fourth and subsequent sorting may be performed on banknotes output to P2 by repeating at least steps S8, S9 using any applicable criteria for sorting banknotes.

Although this first embodiment of the invention has been described with reference to banknote recycling mechanism standards, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that banknotes may be sorted using a wide variety of other user-defined criteria. For example, instead of detecting whether a banknote is "suitable" or "not suitable", the device may sort the banknotes according to denomination (ie 5 euros or 10 euros), or based on any other measurable characteristic of an item of value.

Advantages of the proposed dual-bag process

The proposed two-step sorting process makes it possible to use a double-bag sorter to distinguish between suitable and non-suitable banknotes in addition to identifying non-genuine or counterfeit banknotes. The above procedure is especially advantageous because: 1) The operator cannot accidentally "forget" to perform fitness sorting, since all "good notes" of class B1 will go into bag P1 in the first sorting ("ATM FIT") for immediate recycling; 2) the removal of the value indicator V2 will prompt the operator to re-sort the banknotes using a second sort (“UNFIT”) to separate valuable but unsuitable banknotes from category B2 from valueless banknotes from category A Separation; and 3) For processing larger stacks, the off grades in bag 2 can be accumulated in the first sort and processed a total of 2 times in a single second sort.

Example: If the machine can process 100 notes at a time, a customer stack of 1000 notes will require 10 repeats of first sorting per feed of 100 notes, and only one second sorting to process all out-of-grade bags of P2 notes (For example, here the stack includes 80 banknotes of 7% "B1" banknotes and 1% "A" banknotes): ie a total of 11 sorts. This is equivalent to 2 x 10 times sorting 100 banknotes into the first "authentic" category and then the second "fitness" category, instead of doing the first "ATM FIT" category and then the second "UNFIT" category as follows: That is, a total of 20 sortings would need to be performed using the traditional prior art method (after the first sorting, only 10 banknotes would be sorted out, leaving 990 banknotes to be authenticated, requiring 10 more sortings). By performing the specific classification described above, the process can thus be accelerated.

In other cases, however, it may be advantageous to choose an alternative standard. For example, the first criterion could simply be "the banknote is genuine" and the second criterion "the banknote is suitable for reuse". In this way, fewer features of banknotes need to be assessed in the first sort, whereas fitness features will still need to be collected in the second sort.

Alternatively, if the second set of predetermined criteria used on the second sort is set to the first set of predetermined criteria (e.g., genuine, applicable banknotes), the second sort will become the second set of the first sort. Pass, allowing the dual bag sorter to reprocess banknotes that were not accurately detected or recognized on the first pass.

Once the above two sorts have been performed, one or more sorts may be performed on items that have been sorted to the fourth destination to distinguish counterfeit banknotes from other unidentified documents such as foreign currency.

Altogether, this allows efficient and reliable four-category sorting (applicable, Containing one type of note simply displays the value on the bag, while providing an indication to the operator if a suspected counterfeit note is contained in the bag.

In a preferred embodiment, a first classification is used to sort between "genuine, fit" banknotes and "offsort" banknotes. If the "off-grade" notes contain only "genuine, not applicable" notes, show the value and complete the process.

If the first "off-grade" 'other' is a mixed note, then a second sort is performed to sort between 'genuine' notes and 'off-grade notes'. Usually, 'genuine notes' in the second category will all be 'genuine, not applicable', but if a 'genuine, applicable' note is not recognized in the first category but only in the second category If recognized, the banknote is then added to any "genuine, non-applicable" banknotes.

The second category of 'off-grade' will generally only include unrecognized banknotes and counterfeit banknotes, both of which require manual sorting. To reduce the risk of unnoticed counterfeit notes during manual sorting, at the end of the first sort and/or at the end of the second sort, the machine will indicate if there are suspected counterfeit notes in the off-grade.

Variation of the first embodiment

It should be understood that the first embodiment described above is exemplary only, and that the method can be implemented in a variety of ways, including but not limited to any of the following:

1) alerting said operator if the "out-of-waiting product" (the content of the second bag P2 or the second or fourth destination) is only of at least one specific type;

2) The system according to (1), wherein the operator is alerted if "off-grade" contains only "true, not applicable";

3) The system according to (1), wherein the operator is alerted if "off-grade" contains only "true, applicable".

4) The system according to (2) or (3), wherein the operator is alerted by displaying the value and/or number of sheets of the item in the off-grade product.

5) A system according to (1), (2), (3) or (4) where there are more classification categories than bags/destinations.

6) The system according to (5) as follows, wherein three or four way sorting is performed using a double bag machine.

7) A method of processing comprising sorting between a class and out-of-class items, and then sorting out-of-class items in the first class in a second class such that any items found in the assortment classes of the first class are placed in the classification category of the second classification.

8) A system according to (7), where the item is a document and in particular a banknote.

9) Alert the operator if a suspected counterfeit is included in the off-grade product.

10) Following the system according to (9), here the alarm is given by means of a red LED adjacent to the bag containing the suspected counterfeit.

11) A method that continues bi-directionally sorting between a class and off-grade until the off-grade contains only one class, or two classes to be manually separated.

12) The system according to (11) as follows, where the class is assigned dynamically in response to the first banknote seen.

13) A method of determining the composition in an off-grade product and, in response thereto, selecting a class for classification in the next classification.

14) A method that determines the composition in off-grade product and alerts an operator or external system.

15) A method of processing comprising classifying between a class and rejects, then classifying rejects of the first class in a second class, using different thresholds for the applicability of the second class such that Off-grade products in the first assortment are less likely to be classified as in the first assortment category when processed in the second assortment.

16) The method according to (15) as follows, where the article is a document, especially a banknote.

17) The method according to (16), wherein in the second assortment the banknotes are classified into the current class, but any other items that can be found in the assortment classes of the first assortment are placed as out-of-class.

18) The system according to (1)-(17) is as follows, where when a specific category is encountered, the processing is stopped.

19) A system according to (18), where said particular category is a suspected counterfeit.

20) The system according to (18), where said specific category is the type of genuine banknote that is encountered unexpectedly in the second sort.

21) A method of sorting (separating) in a subsequent (second/third...) sorting process using the authentication results (test criteria) in the first sorting and the known sequence of banknotes.

22) The following system according to (21), where the first classification is between "true" and "substandard", the second classification will be "true" between "applicable" and "not applicable" separation.

23) A system according to (21) or (22), where the next classification is performed at a higher or lower speed than the previous classification.

24) The following system according to any one of (1) to (23), where when a suspected counterfeit is found, an image is captured.

The following alternatives to the first embodiment are also envisaged:

The first category is between 'genuine, not applicable' and 'substandard'. Usually the 'true' in the second category will all be 'true, applicable', but if a 'true, not applicable' note is not recognized in the first category but only in the second category recognized, it is added to any 'genuine, applicable' banknotes.

As for the preferred embodiment, the second classification is a classification between 'genuine, not applicable' and 'off-grade'. If the off-grade is only one type of banknote, that category is indicated to the operator so that the process can be completed.

If after the second sorting, mixed non-compliant banknotes and applicable banknotes are mixed, the amount and nature of the mixture is indicated to the operator or external system, eg 94 suitable, 5 borderline, 1 non-compliant.

A different threshold is used for the suitability of the second classification such that an off-grade product in the first classification is less likely to be classified as classified in the first classification category when processed in the second classification.

Any of the above-mentioned methods, but just stop processing when running into a suspected counterfeit banknote.

Any of the above methods, but stop processing when an unexpected genuine banknote type is encountered in the second sort.

Using the authentication results from the first sort and the known sequence of banknotes, sorting (separation) is performed in the following second (third) sorting. This has the advantage of allowing the second sort to be done at a higher speed when there are no mistransmissions in the first sort. This also avoids the complication of banknotes of critical fitness being sorted differently during the second sorting.

This one embodiment may sort between genuine and off-grade banknotes in a first sort, and separate genuine banknotes between fit and non-fit in a second sort.

Among other things, documents can be processed at a slower rate, can be on another machine, images of some or all documents can be captured, or serial numbers can be captured for tertiary sorting rather than manual second sorting etc. Classification.

Other embodiments of the invention

A second embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 4 . The method shown here was also carried out using the two-bag sorter 1 shown in FIG. 1 . As before, a stack of banknotes to be sorted is placed on the device at step S400 and the banknotes are fed through the device at step S405 to detect characteristics of the banknotes such as authenticity and fitness for use. Although the invention has been described in relation to truth and fitness, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that any other criteria may also apply. At step S410, the detection of authenticity and fitness features for each banknote allows all banknotes deemed authentic and suitable for reuse ("ATM FIT") to be sorted to a first destination, pocket P1. In step 5415, the data obtained by the device 1 about each banknote may be stored in memory as each banknote is sorted. This data could be banknote characteristics, serial or issue numbers, value, etc. This thus results in a list of data records relating to the banknotes in pocket P1 which is updated as each additional banknote is fed into the pocket. In certain embodiments, the data relating to the banknotes in the first pocket may simply be the cumulative number or total value of the sorted banknotes, in other cases it may be possible to store details about all the characteristics of each banknote.

At step S420, all other banknotes are sorted to the second destination, pocket P2, as previously described. Again, as with the first pocket, there is an option to store in memory data about each banknote sorted to the second destination. This data may be updated in relation to each additional banknote sorted to the second destination. Banknotes sorted to the first and second destinations are described as representing a "pass" to the first sort. According to a second embodiment of the invention, at step S430 the user now has the option of performing a second pass through the first sort using banknotes that have been sorted to the second destination.

If the user chooses to perform a second pass on banknotes sorted to a second destination of the device, they can enter the device 1 by removing the banknotes from the second destination and refeeding the banknotes—that is, by The step returns to step S400 - to perform this classification. During this second pass, the characteristics of each banknote are generally re-inspected, and in step S410, any banknotes deemed genuine and suitable for reuse are sorted to the first destination, pocket P1; S420, all other banknotes are sorted to the second destination, bag P2. If, on the second pass, some of the banknotes originally sorted to the second destination are found to be genuine, suitable (i.e., have banknote characteristics meeting the first set of predetermined criteria), they will be re-sorted to the The first destination is to add to the stack of banknotes already present in the pocket 1 according to the first pass of the first sort. At step S415, each banknote added to the first destination in the second pass will generally also update the data record relating to the banknotes present in pocket P1. If additional banknotes are re-sorted to the first destination on the second pass, the data on the banknotes in the second destination will need to be reset and recalculated at step S425. At the end of the second pass, the user will generally have the same or less number of banknotes in the second destination than on the first pass.

Any number of passes may be performed in the first sort to ensure that all genuine and applicable banknotes (ie banknotes meeting the first criteria) are successfully detected. After all required passes have been made, the first classification may end and the process may end at step S440. Alternatively, all steps after the determining step in FIG. 2 may be performed. If the later steps of FIG. 2 are performed, and it is decided to also perform the steps of FIG. 3, multiple passes can also be performed in the second sort in a manner similar to the multiple passes of the first sort, but in this case, The banknotes are sorted to a third destination and a fourth destination. This can be performed in a manner similar to the method of FIG. 4 . The data stored in steps S415 and S425 may also be displayed to the user at step S435.

Performing multiple passes in a single classification has many advantages. In certain cases, it may be that banknotes meeting the first set of predetermined criteria are not successfully detected or identified on the first pass through the sorting. In addition, due to the irregularity of feeding and transport, some banknotes meeting the predetermined first set of criteria will be overlapped and detected as "double banknotes", and thus sent to the second destination together with other miscellaneous banknotes. In a second or subsequent pass, it is unlikely that the same feeding or transport irregularities will reoccur, whereby the banknotes can be successfully detected and sorted. In some cases, the stack of banknotes in the second destination may also be reversed or fed in a different direction in order to identify undetected banknotes. Since the banknotes present in the first destination are still in the first destination, the number of banknotes in the first destination will increase as subsequent passes are performed, while the number of banknotes in the second destination will decrease. Typically, repassing will stop when the number of banknotes being conveyed to the second destination remains constant after several passes. This method of using multiple passes for a single classification is also suitable for operation with the method of the first embodiment or any of the method variants of the first embodiment.

A third embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 5 . In this scheme, the banknotes are reinserted into the device 1 at step S500 as previously described, and various characteristics of each banknote are detected to sort the banknotes to a first destination (S510) or to a second destination according to a variety of predetermined criteria. Two destinations (S515). In the third embodiment of FIG. 5, this first classification may also include multiple passes as disclosed in relation to the second embodiment. However, in the third embodiment, when the user is ready to proceed from the first category to the second category, these categories allow a "category-end" event to occur, which will be triggered by the device at step S525. 1 detected. Such a "sort-end" event may consist of pressing a "Miscellaneous Notes" button present on the device 1 or may consist of clicking an icon in the user interface 6 . Alternatively, the device 1 may be adapted to wait a predetermined length of time after the last pass, and to generate a first "sort-end" event if no user interaction is detected during this time. A "sort-end" event may also be generated if the device detects that either of the pockets P1 and P2 is empty (ie the banknotes previously in the pockets have now been removed).

When the device 1 detects the first "sort-end" event, data relating to the banknotes in the first destination - bag 1 - will be stored in the device memory, or possibly to an external computer, in step 535 on the system. As with the second embodiment, this data may include a list of characteristic data about each banknote in pocket P1, or may include the number or total value of successfully sorted banknotes. Once the first sorting end event is detected, at step S540, the first sorting criteria will be reset, and the second set of predetermined sorting criteria will be changed or input by the user. This second classification is shown in FIG. 6 . As with the second sorting of the previous embodiment, banknotes fed to the device 1 will be sorted to a third destination in step S610 if they have characteristics detected in step S605 that meet the second set of predetermined criteria. In certain cases, the third destination may be bag P1. At step S615, any banknotes that do not meet the second set of criteria are sorted to a fourth destination, which may be pocket P2. As with the first sort, multiple passes of the second sort can be performed. As each banknote in the second assortment is processed, data is collected about the banknotes within the third and fourth destinations in a manner similar to the data collected in the method shown in FIG. 4 .

Once the required number of passes has been performed, a second "sort-end" event may be generated, which is detected by the device 1 at step S630 and ends said second sorting process. Similar to the first "Sort-End" event, this second "Sort-End" event may be the pressing of a button such as "DONE" present on the device 1, or an event generated after a predetermined amount of time has elapsed. Once the second "sort-end" event is detected, the collected data about the banknotes in the third and fourth destinations is stored in memory at step S635. As previously mentioned, this data may include the total number or total value of all banknotes in each destination.

Once the second "category-end" event is detected, the device 1 can display three pieces of information to the user at step S640, which may be: the collected information related to being sorted to the first destination in the first category data collected in relation to banknotes sorted into a third destination in a second sort; or data collected in relation to banknotes sorted into a fourth destination in a second sort The data. If the first and second categories include the categories "genuine" and "fit" banknotes described in the first embodiment, the first category data may include the total number of "genuine, fit" banknotes and/or The total value, second category data associated with the first destination may include the total number and/or total value of "genuine" but "not applicable" banknotes, while the second category data associated with banknotes in the fourth destination A third set of data may include the total number of any other banknotes in P2 or the miscellaneous banknote pocket. Again, the LED 7 next to the second bag can be used to indicate to the user whether any counterfeit notes are included in the fourth destination. The classification data, or a part of the classification data, may be displayed on the user interface 6 of the device 1, on the screen of an attached computer system, on a remote display or may be printed out using a connected printer.

In a variant of the third embodiment of the invention, the device 1 may further be adapted to receive a "repeat" instruction allowing for repeating the second category. Once the "repeat" instruction is received at step S625, for example, the instruction may be received after the user presses the "repeat" button, the collected classification data for the second classification will be reset at step S620, allowing the user to All the banknotes in the third and fourth destinations are taken out and they are re-fed to the device 1 in order to re-perform the second sorting.

The second sort can be repeated any number of times to provide an unlimited number of "virtual" destinations or bags in addition to the two "real" destinations or bags provided by the dual bag sorter.

Additional Examples of Classification Criteria

In some implementations of the first through third embodiments of the present invention, a particular denomination may be set as one of the first set of predetermined criteria. For example, a user may wish to sort out all "genuine, applicable" 10 Euro notes. In this case, the means may be adapted to apply the denomination criteria by default to the second set of criteria to ensure that only banknotes of the selected denomination are sorted in the second sort to the third destination.

An alternative change includes using the denomination criteria in the first classification, but not setting the denomination criteria as one of the second set of predetermined criteria for the second classification by default. In this case, the denomination criteria forming part of the first set of predetermined criteria may be stored and compared with data collected in the second sorting on banknotes sorted to the third destination. If all banknotes in the third destination are found to match the denomination criteria set as part of the first set of criteria, the LED next to the third destination can be set to have a set lighting pattern or color, for example illuminated by green Lights or flashes green. If the third destination is found to include a mixed denomination other than the denomination selected as part of the first set of predetermined criteria, the LED next to the third destination may be activated to a different lighting pattern, such as flashing green lighting Instead of green lighting, or flashing red lighting instead of flashing green lighting.

Issue number or banknote issue class may also be another criterion that can form part of the first or second assortment. For example, in the first sorting, one of the criteria can be set such that all banknotes of reject issue class or issue number are sorted to the second destination. Upon second sorting, a second set of predetermined criteria may then sort the same issue class or issue number to be withdrawn to a third destination such that the banknotes in the first destination are "genuine" but "not applicable" And belongs to the issue to be withdrawn (withdrawn). This may represent a time saving option as banknotes in the third destination will normally be returned to the bank.

working example

A working example of the classification by the operator of the device 1 will now be described with reference to FIGS. 7A to 7K . These figures show a number of user interface screens displayed as part of a Graphical User Interface (GUI) that may be used to perform the method of any embodiment of the invention.

In the following examples, reference will be made to physical output destinations P1 and P2, such as shown in FIG. A "virtual" banknote destination, eg where the logical destination represents a stack of banknotes as well as the banknotes currently in the physical output destination.

Beginning with Fig. 7A, before commencing sorting, the operator is presented with a screen 700A which displays in a header 705 text indicating that the apparatus 1 is ready to sort a new batch of banknotes. Starting a new batch will generally reset the total count and total value of banknotes sorted to any logical banknote destination. At the bottom of the screen 700 is a space where up to four icons can be displayed to the operator. Each icon may correspond to an associated function key located below the icon. In FIG. 7A, the icon "Back" 710 is shown, which indicates that if the operator presses the first function key in the row of four laterally spaced keys, the operator can use the Classified data, or added to data from a previously performed classification. If the device 1 is in automatic start mode, the screen 700 will be displayed until the operator places a stack of banknotes in the input bin 2 . If the device 1 is in manual start mode, banknote sorting will not start until the operator presses an appropriately assignable "start" key. After the sorting has been initiated, the banknotes can be fed to the device 1 respectively along a transport path surrounded by one or more sensors 3, before the banknotes pass to the diverter 5 and to one of the physical output destinations P1 or P2 , to detect the features of each banknote. In this no-"separate" sorting example, the first output destination P1 is used to receive banknotes that pass the BRF "applicable" standard (i.e., B1 banknotes) and the second output destination P2 is used as "miscellaneous notes". "cull pocket" to accept banknotes that do not meet the stated criteria.

After banknotes have been fed into the apparatus 1 and sorted to one of the output destinations P1 or P2, the operator is presented with a screen 701 as shown in Figure 7B. This screen shows the cumulative total value and cumulative total for two logical banknote locations—L1 in row 725 and L2 in row 720; value and total. In this embodiment, assuming that the total number for the new batch has been reset and 15 banknotes conform to the BRF applicable standard and have been sorted to the first logical banknote destination L1, it means that 15 banknotes are physically sorted to the first logical banknote Destination P1. The number and value of the banknotes in the logical banknote destination L1 are shown in row 725; where column 730 shows the total value of all banknotes that have been sorted to the first logical banknote destination L1 and column 735 shows the sorted The number of banknotes in the output destination to the first logical banknote destination L1.

Notes sorted to the second physical output destination P2 are not shown in row 720, but are shown in escrow row 715, representing the contents of a logical "money bag". In this embodiment, an "add" icon 745 is also displayed above the third function key. The presence of an "Add" icon 745 indicates that all banknotes physically sorted to the second output destination P2 are of the same "type", ie recognized and authentic but do not meet the BRF applicable criteria, ie are B2 grade. The data in row 715 shows that there are 7 banknotes of this "type" in the second output destination P2 and that the denominations of the detected banknotes provide an output destination totaling 35 euros. The screen 700B thus shows the results of the first "pass" of the first classification described with reference to steps S405 to S425 of FIG. 4 .

In some variant embodiments, in addition to displaying the "add" icon 745, an indicator such as a lighting device 7 comprising a bi-color LED may be configured to display a first color and/or provide a first lighting pattern to indicate a second output all banknotes in destination P2 pass a second set of predetermined criteria, and the output destination does not contain any items with detection characteristics that do not meet the second set of predetermined criteria, where the second set of predetermined criteria includes that the banknote is authentic and recognized (whereas the first set of criteria including banknotes is BRF compliant).

At this stage, the operator may use the banknotes sorted to the second output destination P2 for a second "pass" of sorting (ie, by means of S430). If the operator takes out the banknotes in the second output destination P2 before pressing the function key below the "Add" icon 745, the data in row 715 can be reset, and the banknotes in the second output destination P2 Can be re-fed through device 1 . In most cases this would again sort the banknotes to the second output destination P2 and provide the same data in row 715 . However, in certain cases, if a banknote is incorrectly detected as B2 on the first "pass", it will be correctly detected on the second "pass" and the banknote will be sorted into The first output destination P1, and its related data will be added to the data in row 725 for the first logical destination.

If the operator is satisfied with the data displayed in screen 700B, they can press the function key below the "Add" icon 745 to transfer the recorded information about the second output destination P2—that is, the data present in the logical "money pocket" The data of the banknote in " is added to the data about the second logical destination L2 - that is, displayed in row 720; that is, the data in row 715 is added to row 720, although the banknote exists in the same Physical output destination P2. Pressing the function key located below the "add" icon 745 represents a classification end event as detected in step S525 of FIG. 5, where data on the second output destination P2 is also stored at step S535. In some variants, if all banknotes in the physical second output destination P2 consist of banknotes conforming to the B2 standard, in particular cases after a period of time has elapsed, the device 1 may be configured to convert the banknotes of line 715 to The data is automatically added to the total in row 720 for the second logical destination.

After pressing the function key located below the "Add" icon 745, the operator is presented with a screen 700C as shown in FIG. 7C. As can be seen, the information previously listed in row 715 has been added to row 720 . Icon 745 is now also replaced by a “remove” icon 750 . If the operator presses the function key located below the “remove” icon 750 , the data recently added to the cumulative total for the second logical destination L2 in row 720 is removed. Thus, in this example, pressing the function key located below the "remove" icon 750 is equivalent to activating the "repeat" command, as described with respect to step S625 in the third embodiment. Thus, as described with respect to step S620, pressing the function key located below the icon resets the recent classification data on the second output destination P2.

In a particular embodiment of the invention, an operator may take banknotes present in physical locations P1 and P2 and move them to two separate banknote stacks representing a first logical destination and a second logical destination. When the banknote is withdrawn, the total value will remain in rows 720 and 725 indicating the cumulative total value in the two stacks representing the first and second logical positions. If the operator discards a banknote at the second output destination P2 according to the above classification, and adds more banknotes to input area 2 for another classification, the total value in row 720 will be reset, which is what will be described below. The situation in Figure 7D.

Fig. 7D shows the result of processing another banknote stack of 5 banknotes, ie, performing another first sorting while discarding previously sorted banknotes in the second output destination P2. In the example shown in Figure 7D, two 5 Euro banknotes have been detected as BRF eligible and thus have been physically sorted to the first output destination P1 and have been added to row 725 with respect to the first logical The total value of the destination. However, Figure 7D illustrates a situation in which the additional stack of banknotes includes one or more banknotes that do not meet the second criterion. These banknotes will be sorted to the second output destination and will be deposited on top of the seven banknotes previously sorted to destination P2. This means that the second destination now includes a mixture of banknotes meeting the second standard and banknotes not meeting the second standard (e.g. some banknotes meeting the authenticity criteria and/or identified in the sorting process, and some Banknotes that do not meet the authenticity criteria and/or are not recognized in the sorting process). A similar sequence of events will occur if the second output destination is empty before additional sorting is performed on the banknote stack comprising a mixture of banknotes complying with the second standard and banknotes not complying with the second standard.

The second output destination is selected by the "Separate" icon 755 present above the third function key, and by combining a zero value entry in column 730 of row 715 and a total non-zero sheet count in column 735 of row 715. The mixture of different banknote "types" in P2 is indicated to the operator. In this case, the total value in column 735 indicates that there are 10 banknotes present in the physical output destination P2 (i.e., the seven banknotes that were previously sorted plus the other three banknotes that were recently fed to the device 1) , which at this stage indicates that 10 bills are in the logical "miscellaneous money bag". In particular embodiments, the color or illumination pattern of the indicator LEDs such as 7 may be changed to provide a different signal than that provided when the banknotes in the second output destination P2 all meet the second standard, i.e., Display a second color and/or a second lighting style. The display of the "separation" icon 755 and the indicator 7 all indicate to the operator that another classification is needed, that is, not all banknotes in the second output destination P2 are as estimated in the step similar to S225 of Fig. 2 Same "type".

When presented with screens 700B-700D, the operator may also press the function key located below the "DETAIL" icon 740 at any time to display details about each banknote that has been processed by the device 1 . Such details may include, for example, a list of characteristics of the banknotes processed and details of any criteria with which the banknotes conform or do not comply.

After sorting the results shown in FIG. 7D, if the operator presses the third function key located below the "Separate" icon 755, they are presented with screen 700E as shown in FIG. 7E. Pressing the "Separate" key allows a second "Separate" classification to be performed, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 6 . To indicate that the second classification is being performed, in the "split" procedure, the GUI screen is displayed in reverse video mode as can be seen in Figures 7E and 7F. The second sort can also be considered a "sort within a sort", where notes sorted to the second output destination P2 can be further sorted without interfering with sorting BRF applicable or B1 notes to the first logical destination. When screen 700E is presented to the operator, if the operator does not wish to perform the "Separate" procedure, he may press the function key located below the "End" icon 770 to end the batch sort.

Before starting the second sorting, the operator removes the banknotes in the first and second output destinations P1 and P2 and places them in two separate stacks. In the second sort, banknotes from the good (ie first) output destination P1 are set aside and not used. Screen 700E shows that the device 1 is ready to receive a banknote stack corresponding to banknotes that have previously been deposited into the second output destination P2, ie representing banknotes in a logical "money pocket". Again, depending on the selected activation mode, the operator will place banknotes from the second output destination P2 to the input module 2, or wait or press a key to start the second sorting. The "separation" or second classification further classifies suspected counterfeit banknotes or unrecognized banknotes to the second output destination P2 (that is, banknotes that do not meet the authenticity standard), and non-counterfeit banknotes (that is, banknotes that meet the authenticity standard) Banknotes) are sorted to the first output destination P1. In the example shown in FIG. 7F , three banknotes have been detected as suspected counterfeit or not identified (ie, category A) and have been sorted to the second output destination P2 , which is shown in row 715 . It is then detected that seven banknotes pass the authenticity criteria (i.e. category B2) and have been sorted to the first output destination P1, however in the "separated" sorting the total value and total of the banknotes sorted to the first output destination P1 is added to the total value for the second logical destination L2 as shown in row 720 . Row 725 shows banknotes that were previously sorted to the first output destination P1, and this data is now set aside.

In "Separate" mode, the existing sorting mode settings related to banknote suitability (which is part of the first criterion) have no effect, and the sorting sorts genuine banknotes into the first output destination P1, while suspected counterfeit or The recognized banknotes are sorted into a second output destination P2 (ie based on a second criterion different from the first criterion). After performing separate sorting, the operator can view the details of the sorted banknotes again by pressing the function key located below the "detail" icon 740 . To end the “separate” mode, the sorted banknotes are removed from the second output destination P2 and the first output destination P1 and the function key located below the “close” icon 675 is pressed. Banknotes that have been detected as suspected counterfeit banknotes or unrecognized banknotes in the second output destination P2 are set aside and can be reported to relevant departments. Banknotes sorted to the first output destination P1 in the "Separate" sort are placed into banknotes previously removed from the second output destination P2 prior to the "Separate" sort (representing the output in the second logical destination L2). banknotes), while leaving the stack of banknotes in the first output destination P1 that was removed before the "separate" sorting, since this stack of banknotes will constitute the first logical destination L1.

After the operator exits the "Separate" mode, the data previously displayed in row 720 of screen 700F—typically corresponding to genuine but non-applicable banknotes sorted into the first output destination P1 in the "Separate" category— - Added to the stored banknotes previously associated with the banknotes sorted to the second logical destination L2 (ie added to the data shown in row 720 of screen 700D). This in turn produces the output screen shown in Figure 7G. When faced with screen 700G, the operator has three options: 1) they can proceed to process more banknotes in a particular batch of banknotes by pressing the function key located below the "Continue" icon 765; The function key located under the "separate" icon 755, to process more "miscellaneous" banknotes; or 3) they can finish processing a batch of banknotes by pressing the function key located under the "end" icon 755. In certain variant embodiments, if the operator does not press the key within a set time limit—for example, 15 seconds—an audio alert may be activated and a screen 700H as shown in FIG. 7H may be displayed to the operator . If the operator thinks they have finished processing a batch of banknotes, they can press the function key located below the "Yes" icon 790 . If they wish to continue processing more banknotes in a particular batch, they may press the function key located below the "No" icon 780 . However, if they wish to erase all data related to the existing batch, they can press the function key located under the "Delete" icon 785. If the function key located below the "Delete" icon 785 is pressed, the screen is restored to a screen similar to that of 700G, but with the "Details" and "Remove" icons of screen 700C, and the "End" icon 775 of screen 700G. If the function key located below the "Yes" icon 790 is pressed, sorting of a batch of banknotes is complete and the system returns to the idle screen 700A. If the function key located below the "Delete" icon 785 is pressed, a screen 700I may be displayed to the operator in which placing a banknote on the input module 2 will automatically restart the batch process and overwrite the data from the previous batch of banknotes. Categorized data. In a preferred embodiment, screen 700I is not shown and the system returns to screen 700A. If the operator presses the function key located below the "Back" icon 710 in Figure 7I, the operator is presented with screen 700J as shown in Figure 7J. In screen 700J, the operator is presented with a "Yes" icon 790 as in screen 700H, but is also presented with a "Resume" icon 795 . If the operator presses the function key located below the "Restore" icon 795, the data associated with the deleted batch is restored and all totals for that batch are restored. The operator may then process further banknotes in the batch and add the data to the data stored in relation to previous banknotes processed in the batch. Pressing the function key located below icon 790 confirms that the batch of forms is still deleted.

At any time so far in the sorting process, the operator can also press the "Total Value" key which allows the operator to view the total value of all banknotes in the pockets, since the data is cleared last. The Totals screen is shown at 700K in Figure 7K. In row 701, the banknotes sorted to the second logical destination (i.e., the genuine but not applicable banknotes physically sorted to the second output destination P2 in the None-"Separate" sorting) are displayed for a particular batch. , or the total value and number of genuine but non-applicable banknotes physically sorted to the first output destination P1 in the "separate" sorting, and in row 702, the banknotes sorted to the first logical destination L1 are displayed. The total value and number of banknotes (i.e. genuine and applicable banknotes that were physically sorted to the first output destination P1 in the None-"Separate" sorting), and in row 703, the display that has been sorted to the first logical Total value and number of banknotes for destination L1 or second logical destination L2. These total values thus do not include information on suspected counterfeit or unknown banknotes (type A) that were first physically sorted to a second output destination in the No-"Separate" sorting and then in "Separate" After being physically sorted again in sorting to a second output destination (ie, logically sorted to a third "miscellaneous note" destination). In this mode, the operator can press and hold the "Total Value" key to obtain a general catalog analyzing the total value of the banknote by denomination. In these cases, a "lot" is generally defined as a note processed between a lot start event, which may be a note being fed in response to screen 700A, and a lot end event, which may be This includes pressing the function key below the "Yes" icon 790 after pressing the function key below the "End" icon 775 .

After completing a batch, the operator also has the option of entering an operator-defined reference number for that batch, which can point to an associated data printout, or can be used to retrieve sorted data from memory. To enter a lot reference, the operator may be presented with a user interface screen in which the operator may use a number of input keys to enter a reference number or reference string. This enables an operator to more easily retrieve data relating to a particular batch of banknotes.

Although the above examples have been provided with reference to the BRF classification, it must be noted that similar steps apply to any other type of classification in which the first and second criteria are replaced as applicable with respect to issue, currency, denomination , orientation, and note orientation etc. criteria for one or more of them.

Using a printing device operatively connected to the apparatus 1, the data as shown in screens 7A to 7K may also be provided as a printout. Such a printing device may be a thermal printer, such as one of the TSP 700II series offered by Star Micronics. 8A-8D illustrate a series of exemplary printouts.

Figure 8A shows an exemplary printout from the "separate" or second category (as described with reference to Figure 7F). Starting at the top of Figure 8A, the output shows: the number or reference of the current batch; the user identifier of the current user; the current processing mode - "AUTH-ONLY" shows that only the authenticity criterion is applied ; one or more lines, which show the currency and denomination of any banknote in the currency and the first output destination P1, and the number of banknotes and their value; one line, which shows the currency and denomination of any banknote in the first output destination P1; The number and total value of all banknotes of all denominations. Lines including "*" marks delineate each classification process.

Figure 8B shows an exemplary printout from the first category, output similar to the results shown in Figures 7C and 7G. Starting at the top of Figure 8B, the output shows: current device or machine identifier; current batch or reference; current user's user identifier; current processing mode - "BRF" indicates that a BRF classification is being processed; one or more lines, It shows the currency and denomination of any banknotes that are logically sorted to the second logical destination, i.e., BRF "not applicable" banknotes, as well as the number of banknotes and their value; one or more rows, which shows Currency and denomination of any banknote that is logically sorted to the first logical destination—that is, the BRF "applicable" banknote -and the number of banknotes and their value; Number of all banknotes of all denominations for two logical destinations and their total value.

Figure 8C shows an example printout of statistical data details related to multiple BRF classifications. From the top of Figure 8C, the output shows: the current device or machine identifier; the range of batches to which the statistics relate, in the form of the first batch number or reference and the last batch number or reference; one or more row showing the currency and denomination of all banknotes whose data has been added to the total number for the second logical destination L2—that is, for the BRF that was added by pressing the function key corresponding to the "Add" icon 745 Data of "not applicable" banknotes, and the number of banknotes of each denomination and their value; one row, which sums up the number of banknotes and their value figures on the second logical destination L2; one or more rows, which shows the number of banknotes according to Currency and denomination of all banknotes for which the first criterion is sorted to the first logical destination L1 - i.e. all banknotes for which the BRF "applies" - and data for each denomination of banknotes and their value; The number of banknotes and their value figures about the first logical destination L1 are given.

Figure 8D shows a statistical array similar to Figure 8C for the no-BRF classification process using the Russian ruble. In this embodiment, the total value of the banknotes is calculated from the banknotes that meet a set of criteria (top half of the output) and those that do not (bottom half of the printout). An example of a non-BRF sorting could be a sorting where the first criterion is whether the banknote has a certain upward facing side and the second criterion is whether the banknote is oriented in a certain way.

Claims (33)

1. A method of sorting a plurality of paper values using a sorting device, the method comprising: a) feeding said plurality of items into said sorting device; b) detecting one or more characteristics of each item using said classification device; c) sorting to a first destination of said sorting device any item whose detection characteristics meet a first set of predetermined criteria; d) sort any other item to a second destination of said sorting device; e) using the sorting device to determine: whether any items sorted to the second destination have detection characteristics that meet a second set of predetermined criteria, and whether any items sorted to the second destination have detection characteristics that do not meet the second set of criteria; detection characteristics for a set of predetermined criteria; f) if, as determined by said sorting device in step e), the second destination includes one or more items with detection characteristics meeting a second set of predetermined criteria and with detection characteristics not meeting the second set of predetermined criteria output one or more items from the sorting device indicating this; g) sorting, based on said indication, any item from the second destination whose detection characteristics meet a second set of predetermined criteria to a third destination of said sorting facility; and h) sorting any other items from the second destination to a fourth destination of said sorting device; wherein the sorting device comprises only two output destinations, and wherein the third destination is one of the first destination or the second destination and the fourth destination is one of the first destination or the second destination another. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the item is a banknote. 3. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the detected characteristics of the item include one or more of authenticity, currency, denomination, condition, issue and orientation. 4. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the first set of predetermined criteria is that the item is authentic and in a condition suitable for reuse. 5. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the second set of predetermined criteria is that the item is genuine. 6. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein step (f) comprises detecting one or more characteristics of each item from the second destination. 7. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein steps (f) and (g) are carried out with the article in a different shape than the article in steps (b) to (d) when steps (b) to (d) are carried out Execute while traveling at the speed of travel. 8. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein step (c) of the method comprises displaying data relating to the item in the first destination. 9. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein if in step (e) it is determined that all items sorted to the second destination meet a second set of predetermined criteria, this is indicated to the user. 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the indicating includes displaying data related to the item in the second destination. 11. A method as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein if in step (e) it is determined that not all items sorted to the second destination meet the second set of predetermined criteria, this is indicated to the user. 12. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein steps (b) to (d) are repeated for a second plurality of items prior to step (e). 13. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the first set of predetermined criteria is selected based on those detected characteristics of the first item to be sorted such that the first item to be sorted conforms to the first set of predetermined standard. 14. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the second set of predetermined criteria is selected on the basis of those detected characteristics of the first item to be sorted from the second destination such that from the second destination The first item to be sorted meets the second set of predetermined criteria. 15. A method according to any preceding claim, further comprising determining whether each item meets a third set of predetermined criteria, and indicating this to the user if any item meets the third set of criteria. 16. A method as claimed in claim 15, wherein said indication to the user is made by an indicator adjacent to the bag into which the or each item meeting a third set of predetermined criteria is sorted. 17. A method as claimed in claim 15 or 16, wherein the method is stopped if the detected characteristics of any of said items meet a third set of predetermined criteria. 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the third set of predetermined criteria is mutually exclusive with the first set of predetermined criteria and the second set of predetermined criteria. 19. The method of any one of claims 15-18, wherein the third set of predetermined criteria is that the item is a suspected counterfeit. 20. The method of claim 1, wherein: said first destination and third destination are the same; said second destination and fourth destination are the same; and The second set of predetermined criteria is the same as the first set of predetermined criteria. 21. The method of claim 1, wherein step d) comprises: upon detection of a first end-of-sort event, storing a first set of information relating to items sorted to a first destination; and step g) comprises : upon detection of a second end-of-sort event, storing a second set of information related to items sorted to one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth destinations. 22. The method of claim 21, wherein step e) is not performed until a first sort end event is detected. 23. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein step (c) includes storing information relating to items sorted to the first destination; and wherein step (f) includes, where sorting is performed, using The information stored in step (c) is updated with information regarding any additional items from among the re-feed items sorted to the first destination. 24. The method of claim 23, further comprising repeating steps f) and g) a plurality of times. 25. The method of claim 21, wherein the first sort end event and/or the second sort end event are generated after receiving user input. 26. The method of claim 21, wherein the first sort end event and/or the second sort end event is generated after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. 27. The method of any one of claims 21-26, further comprising: i) Displaying the first set of information and the second set of information. 28. The method of claim 27, wherein step h) comprises one of printing the information, or displaying the information on a display screen. 29. The method of any one of claims 21-28, wherein the method further comprises: j) Receive repeat instructions; k) resetting said second set of information; and l) Repeat steps f) and g). 30. The method of claim 21, wherein prior to step f), the method further comprises: re-feeding items sorted to the second destination, and repeating steps c) and d). 31. The method of claim 30, wherein step c) further comprises generating a first set of information after step c) and using information related to any items from the re-feed items sorted to the first destination The first set of information generated by the additional item information update. 32. A sorting apparatus for sorting paper values comprising: an input device for feeding items into the device; Exactly two output destinations; a diverter system capable of diverting items from said input device to selected ones of the output destinations; one or more sensors for detecting one or more characteristics of each item fed from the input device; and a controller operatively coupled to the commutator system and the one or more sensors; Wherein said controller includes: A first module adapted to determine whether an item meets a first set of predetermined criteria based on the one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, and to operate the diverter if the item meets the first set of criteria operating the diverter system to sort the item to a first output destination, and operating the diverter system to sort the item to a second output destination if the item does not meet the first set of criteria; The second module, which is suitable for: determining whether one or more items sorted to the second destination meet a second set of predetermined criteria based on the one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, and determining whether one or more items sorted to the second destination do not meet a second set of predetermined criteria based on the one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors; Wherein said second module is further adapted to, based on positive results of the two determinations performed by the second module, output an indication of whether further classification is required; and, A third module configured to operate the commutator system if both determinations performed by the second module are positive, wherein operating the commutator system by the third module includes, if An item that has been sorted from the input device to the second output destination meets a second set of criteria based on one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, sorting the item to a third output destination , and if the item does not meet the second set of criteria based on the one or more characteristics detected by the one or more sensors, sorting the item from the second destination to a fourth output destination, Wherein the third destination is one of the first destination or the second destination, and the fourth destination is the other of the first destination or the second destination. 33. A sorting device according to claim 32, wherein said second module is adapted to change the state of the sorting device if further sorting is required.

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