JP4186033B2 - Magnetic card and IC card processing method in handling device for plural types of memory cards - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a handling device for a memory card such as an IC card.
In particular, the present invention relates to a memory card handling device for encoding and dispensing a memory card.
[Prior art]
The present applicant manufactures and sells a contact IC card dispenser / encoder known as SCD-1000.
The device is fitted to a host machine adapted to accept valuable items such as coins and credit cards.
[0002]
The host machine instructs the card dispenser to take out the IC card from the store such as a cassette.
The card is sent to the writing section along the transfer path according to the instruction of the host machine.
In this section, electrical contacts are engaged with corresponding contacts on the card.
Data corresponding to the appropriate monetary value is transmitted to the card and stored.
After that, the card passes through the outlet which is an exit and is paid out.
This dispenser can also add additional monetary value to pre-encoded cards.
[0003]
Note that the user, that is, the user, can insert the card through the outlet opening. In this case, the card is transferred from here to the writing section.
The above is described in more detail in EP-A-0 961 219, published in European Patent Application.
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, this card dispenser / encoder has limited convenience.
Specifically, this card dispenser / encoder can only write to contact cards.
An object of the present invention is to provide at least two heads in a memory card handling apparatus.
[0004]
In other words, an object of the present invention is to provide at least two heads in the transfer path of the memory card.
Specifically, an object of the present invention is to provide an electrical contact that contacts a contact type IC card and an antenna that communicates with the contactless type IC card.
More specifically, an object of the present invention is to provide a magnetic head in addition to an electrical contact that contacts a contact type IC card and an antenna that communicates with the contactless type IC card.
[0005]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  The present invention is arranged in the order of a bezel for receiving and discharging a magnetic card or IC card along a straight transfer path, a magnetic head, a pressure roller of a transfer roller and an idler, and a communication means with the IC card. In a handling apparatus for a plurality of types of memory cards which is located on the side of the transfer roller and below the communication means, a distribution roller and an idler are disposed between the bezel and the magnetic head. Are arranged in a positional relationship between the distribution roller and the idler before the card passes between the transfer roller and the idler. The magnetic card or IC card inserted into the bezel by reverse rotation is pulled into the apparatus, and if the inserted card is a magnetic card After the magnetic card has passed through the magnetic head, the transfer roller and the distribution roller are rotated forward and returned to the bezel side, and are stopped and inserted while being sandwiched between the pressure contact portions of the distribution roller and the idler. If the IC card is an IC card, the IC card is sandwiched between the transfer roller and the pressure contact portion of the idler, and communication is performed by the communication unit while being temporarily stopped at a communicable position by the communication unit. The transfer roller and the distribution roller are rotated forward and returned to the bezel side and stopped in a state where the distribution roller and the idler are sandwiched between the press rollers, and after the magnetic card or the IC card is stopped,The idler shaft that is in pressure contact with the transfer roller (11) Is the shaft of the transfer roller (Ten) The transfer roller is rotated after the magnetic card or the IC card is turned downward toward the communication means side.The magnetic card and the IC card are processed by storing the magnetic card or the IC card on the side of the transfer roller and on the lower side of the communication means by reversing the rotation.
[0006]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. That is, an embodiment of a method of processing a magnetic card and an IC card of a plurality of types of memory card handling devices according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0007]
FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view showing an embodiment according to the present invention.
FIG. 1B is a schematic perspective view showing main components of the embodiment.
FIG. 1C is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1B, with some parts removed.
FIG. 1D is a perspective view showing three types of memory cards that can be handled by the embodiment.
FIG. 2 to FIG. 14 are partial side views of the same embodiment as above, and show operating states in various different modes.
15 to 17 are explanatory diagrams for illustrating different states of the shutter device.
FIG. 18 is a block circuit diagram illustrating how the embodiment is coupled to the controller of the host machine.
[0008]
The apparatus of the embodiment includes a pair of side plates 100 and 101 that are substantially L-shaped as a housing (see FIG. 1A).
A card cassette place 102 is formed in the rear part of these side plates 100 and 101 (see FIG. 1B).
A stack of cards 20 encoded at location 102 is stored.
The bottom card of the stack 20 is held on the support plate 103 (see FIG. 1B).
The support plate 103 has a slot 103A.
The clutch roller 14 is exposed through the slot 103A.
[0009]
The clutch roller 14 has a portion 14A having a high coefficient of friction.
The portion 14A is partially protruded.
The roller 14 is attached to the shaft 19 via a solenoid operated clutch (not shown).
This solenoid operated clutch is indicated by reference numeral 220 in the block circuit diagram of FIG.
The shaft 19 extends between the side plates 100 and 101.
A clutch driving pulley 18 is fixed to the shaft 19 (see FIG. 1C).
[0010]
The motor driven belt 15 is stretched around the small diameter portion of the pulley 18 and the composite pulley 16 and the pulley 13 (see FIG. 1A).
The pulley 13 is firmly fixed to the drive shaft of the payout motor 17 (see FIG. 1B).
The roller 14 meshes with a clutch (not shown) and rotates counterclockwise in response to driving of the motor 17 (see FIG. 1C).
Thus, the roller 14 feeds the card at the bottom of the stack 20 forward (see FIG. 11).
The sent card passes under the gate 21 and meshes with the roller 22.
[0011]
The roller 22 is rotatably attached to the shaft 36 (see FIG. 1B).
The shaft 36 is firmly fixed between the pair of side plates 100 and 101. A gap is formed between the roller 22 and the card gate 21.
This gap is formed so as to pay out only one card at a time (see FIG. 11).
As described above, the feed roller 22 freely rotates the shaft 36.
This is because the paid out card is passed under the card gate 21 with a minimum friction coefficient.
[0012]
During this time, the clutch roller 14 actually drives the card forward (see FIG. 11).
The dispensed card then passes through the nip.
This nip is formed by a pair of discharge rollers 23 and a pair of discharge idlers 24 fixed to the shaft 105.
The clutch roller 22 is disengaged when the dispensed card passes through this nip.
Then, the discharge roller 23 sends out the card between the antenna 25 and the electric contact holding plate 27 (see FIG. 12).
[0013]
The device described above is similar to the device described in EP-A-0 961 219 published in European patent application. However, the antenna 25 is excluded.
A card positioned between the antenna 25 and the plate 27 is received in a further nip.
This nip is formed between a pair of transfer rollers 6 and a pair of transfer idlers 7 (see FIG. 1C).
The transfer roller 6 is attached to the shaft 10 so as not to rotate.
The shaft 10 is driven by a motor 17 with a belt 30 for transfer driving interposed therebetween.
[0014]
The card is further fed to another nip by the transfer roller 6.
This nip is formed between a pair of distribution rollers 3 and a corresponding distribution idler 4 (see FIG. 1C).
From here, the card is taken out of the device through the bezel / outlet bezel 2 (see FIG. 5).
The distribution roller 3 is attached to the shaft 110 so as not to rotate (see FIG. 1C).
A distribution drive pulley 33 is fixed to the shaft 110.
The pulley 33 is driven by the motor 17 with the belt 32 for distribution driving interposed therebetween (see FIG. 1B).
[0015]
Needless to say, the belt 32 is also stretched around the pulley 31 for transfer driving.
Of course, the pulley 31 is fixed to the shaft 10.
When handling a memory card, the card may be collected as necessary.
For this purpose, a pair of idlers 7 are mounted between a pair of plates 35 (see FIG. 1C).
These plates 35 are pivoted around the shaft 10.
As a result, the idler 7 can be rotated clockwise as shown in FIG.
[0016]
This is because the card is directed to the collection place below.
This is described in more detail in EP-A-0 961 219.
Two sensors 122 are fixed to the side plate 100 (see FIG. 1A). These sensors 122 provide signals regarding the position of the plate 35.
This is for controlling the collecting motor 34 when the card is collected (see FIG. 1B).
In addition, light reflection type sensors 120, 121, and 123 are provided in the apparatus to monitor a moving card.
[0017]
In other words, these sensors 120, 121 and 123 are used to monitor the card being transferred.
A sensor (not shown) for detecting the empty state of the card cassette is also provided.
This sensor is denoted by reference numeral 200 in FIG.
The card is inserted into the apparatus via the bezel 2 of the receiving port / outlet opening and is taken out of the apparatus.
A combination of the bezel 2 and the shutter 38 is shown in FIG. 1B.
A more detailed combination of the bezel 2 and the shutter 38 is shown in FIGS.
[0018]
Each of FIGS. 15 to 17 shows a front view and a sectional end view of the shutter device.
As will be described later, the metallic shutter 38 can basically be operated in two modes.
The bezel 2 is combined with a rectangular T-plate shutter 38 to increase security.
Small pentagonal plate protrusions PF are fixed at right angles to both sides of the upper edge of the shutter 38.
The shutter 38 is disposed on the surface of a large rectangular T-shaped plate 40 so as to be slidable in the vertical direction.
[0019]
The bezel 2 is made of a resin having a rectangular ring shape that is long horizontally.
The bezel 2 covers the upper edge of the shutter 38 and is fixed to the upper edge of the resin plate 40.
Of course, the laterally long bezel 2 is formed with a lateral slit for inserting a card.
A plunger 41 of a solenoid 37 is suspended from each side piece of the rectangular T-shaped shutter 38.
Note that the pin 42 at the upper end of the plunger 41 is movable in a small rectangular hole LH of the shutter 38.
[0020]
Of course, an elongated bar magnet may be incorporated in the slightly longer plunger 41.
Each solenoid 37 accommodates the lower half of each plunger 41 so as to be movable up and down.
A pair of solenoids 37 is fixed to both sides of the horizontally long plate TP.
The horizontally long plate TP is attached to the lower part of the back surface of the plate 40.
The pair of solenoids 37 is normally off, that is, in a non-excited state in the case of FIG.
[0021]
At this time, the plunger 41 of the solenoid 37 is held or latched by each permanent magnet PM.
In other words, the solenoid 37 can be said to be a single latch type solenoid.
In addition, the upper ends of the two slightly longer springs 39 are fixed to the respective sides of the plate 40.
Each lower end of the spring 39 is fixed to each corner of the lower edge of the shutter 38.
Therefore, the shutter 38 is normally moved slightly upward by the pair of springs 39.
[0022]
As a result, the card entry passage EP is normally blocked by the shutter 38 (see FIG. 15).
That is, the card entry passage EP formed in the bezel 2 and the plate 40 is normally blocked.
Accordingly, rainwater or the like does not enter the apparatus from the bezel 2.
The opening / closing position of the shutter 38 is monitored via an optical sensor 210.
For example, one of the protrusions formed on both sides of the shutter 38 is detected by the sensor 210.
The sensor 210 is fixed to, for example, an upright piece of the horizontally long plate TP.
[0023]
As a result, a failure of the shutter 38 can be detected.
"Mode 1: Accept card"
In the state shown in FIG. 15, the card is inserted into the bezel 2 of the receiving port / outlet port. The leading edge of the inserted card hits the wedge surface 43 of the projecting piece PF fixed to the shutter 38 at a right angle.
As a result, the shutter 38 is moved slightly downward against the spring 39 (see FIG. 16).
Thus, the card CR passes through the receiving / outlet bezel 2.
As soon as the card CR completely passes over the wedge surface 43, the shutter 38 returns to the closed state (see FIG. 15).
[0024]
That is, the shutter 38 returns to its closed state by the action of the spring 39. Of course, the card approaching the bezel 2 from the inside of the apparatus also hits the inner wedge surface 43 ′ of the projecting piece PF.
For example, a card that is paid out or returned to the user strikes the inner wedge surface 43 'from the right side of FIG.
As a result, the shutter 38 is moved downward, and the card passes through the bezel 2 of the receiving port / outlet port (see FIG. 16).
"Mode 2: Card lockout"
For example, when the card is accessed inside the apparatus through the bezel 2, the solenoid 37 is kept on with a reverse current.
[0025]
When the solenoid 37 is turned on, i.e., excited with a reverse current, the latching action of the permanent magnet PM is ignored.
That is, when the solenoid 37 is excited with a reverse current, the plunger 41 protrudes by the action of the spring 39 (see FIG. 17).
When the pair of plungers 41 project, the card entry passage EP formed in the bezel 2 and the plate 40 is blocked.
Thus, when the card is inserted into the bezel 2, the leading edge of the card hits the block surface 44 of the protruding piece PF.
Block surface 44 is perpendicular to the movement of the card. As a result, the card cannot move the shutter 38 downward.
[0026]
That is, another new card is prevented from being inserted into the apparatus from the bezel 2.
Of course, the card approaching the bezel 2 from the inside of the apparatus also hits the inner block surface 44 'of the protruding piece PF.
For example, a card to be paid out hits the inner block surface 44 'from the right side of FIG.
Thus, the card cannot move the shutter 38 downward.
In other words, in the case of FIG. 17, the card cannot pass through the card entry path EP from each direction.
[0027]
Of course, the optical sensor 210 is also used while the card is prevented from entering the device.
In other words, sensor 210 checks whether shutter 38 is really in the desired position.
If the shutter 38 is not at the desired position, the signal of the sensor 210 is sent to the host machine.
That is, it is pointed out that the signal of the sensor 210 is sent to the host machine and the processing of the card data is not safe.
When returning the shutter 38 to the position shown in FIG. 15, the solenoid 37 is turned on with a positive current.
[0028]
In other words, when the shutter 38 is returned to the original position, the solenoid 37 is instantaneously excited with a positive current, that is, turned on.
As a result, the plunger 41 is pulled into the solenoid 37 against the spring 39.
The plunger 41 is held or latched by the permanent magnet PM.
As described above, the solenoid 37 is a single latch type solenoid.
Thus, the shutter 38 is pulled back to the predetermined position in FIG.
From the above, it goes without saying that the solenoid 37 may be a double latch type solenoid.
[0029]
For example, in FIG. 17, the solenoid 37 is instantaneously turned on or excited by a reverse current, and the plunger 41 is projected.
Of course, the protruding plunger 41 may be latched by the permanent magnet PM.
In this case, although not shown, the solenoid 37 is of course improved for double latching.
As the last head, a magnetic head 5 is disposed between the transfer roller 6 and the distribution roller 3 (see FIG. 1C).
The apparatus described above is coupled to the controller 300 of the host machine (see FIG. 18).
[0030]
Of course, an interface electronic device 310 mounted on the printed circuit board 320 is interposed.
The electronic device 310 provides an interface between the controller 300 of the host machine and the various sensors described above.
In addition, the electronic device 310 provides an interface between the controller 300 and the motor and solenoid.
Electric power is supplied to the electronic device 310 via the power supply interface 330.
On the other hand, the printed circuit board 320 holds the CPU, that is, the central processing unit 340.
[0031]
The central processing unit 340 is connected to the host controller 300 via a serial interface.
The interface electronics 310 is connected to the interface 340 of the magnetic decoder.
This interface 340 is connected to the magnetic head 5.
The interface electronic device 310 is connected to the antenna 25 via an interface 350 of a contactless IC card.
The controller 300 of the host machine is connected to the connector 27 of the contact type IC card.
[0032]
As another embodiment, a contact IC card interface 360 may be provided.
In this case, the controller 300 of the host machine is coupled to the connector 27 via the printed circuit board 320 and the interface 360.
The host machine typically includes an operator display (not shown) and a keyboard (not shown).
Of course, this display or the like is coupled to the controller 300. Therefore, the apparatus can be operated in various modes depending on the host machine.
In general, each head formed by the magnetic contacts 5 and the electrical contacts of the plate 27 and the antenna 25 can be used for both reading and writing.
[0033]
However, typically, the magnetic head 5 is used only for reading information from the magnetic strip of the memory card.
Of course, the memory card is inserted through the bezel 2 of the receiving port.
Encoding can be performed via either the antenna 25 or the contact point of the plate 27, whichever is appropriate.
Please refer to FIG. 1D here before describing examples of operating modes.
FIG. 1D illustrates a magnetic card 1 having a magnetic strip 8.
Further, the contactless IC card 12 including the embedded IC chip 12C and the antenna 12A is described.
[0034]
FIG. 1D shows a contact-type IC card 26 having an electrical contact 29.
UpThe operation of the present embodiment having the above-described configuration will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. Here, the main operation of this embodiment will be summarized before the description.
Mode 1: Accepts magnetic cards for payment and sells contactless IC cards.
Mode 2: Accept contact type IC card for payment and sell contactless type IC card.
[0035]
Mode 3: Accept the magnetic card for payment and reload the contactless IC card.
Mode 4: Accept contact type IC card for payment and reload contactless type IC card.
"Mode 1"
"Accepting magnetic cards as payments through the same card slot from the same mechanism for the sale of contactless cards"
(A) A magnetic card is inserted by a user through a slot of a card receiving / ejecting slot, and data contained in the magnetic card is read out.
[0036]
That is, the magnetic card 1 is sent by hand into the receiving / outlet bezel 2 from the position shown in FIG.
At this time, the magnetic card 1 is taken in by the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4 (see FIG. 3).
These distribution means 3 and 4 are driven by a motor 17 (FIG. 1B) rotating in the opposite direction.
That is, the payout motor 17 is driven through the pulley 13, the belts 15, 30, the pulley 31, the belt 32, and the pulley 33.
At this time, the clutch roller 14 is not rotating.
[0037]
This is because when the motor 17 is rotated in the reverse direction, it does not mesh with the shaft 19 of the clutch roller 14.
In other words, a clutch (not shown) operated by the solenoid 220 (FIG. 18) is not used.
This is described in some detail in EP-A-0 961 219, which is a published European patent application.
Further transfer of the magnetic card 1 begins by covering the magnetic head 5 (see FIG. 3). The magnetic card 1 is taken in by the transfer roller 6 and idler 7 before completely passing through the distribution roller 3 and idler 4.
[0038]
The transfer roller 6 and the idler 7 keep feeding the magnetic card 1 until the magnetic card 1 completely passes through the magnetic head 5 (see FIG. 4).
When the magnetic card 1 passes through the magnetic head 5, the data stored in the magnetic strip 8 is read and sent to the host machine.
(B) Following receipt of data read from the magnetic card from the host machine, that is, electrical output from the host machine, the mechanism returns this magnetic card to the user.
That is, the motor 17 is further rotated in the reverse direction, that is, the forward direction.
Thus, the magnetic card 1 is fed in the direction of the bezel 2 by the transfer roller 6 and the idler 7.
[0039]
Finally, the magnetic card 1 is sent to a stationary position by the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4 (see FIG. 5).
As a result, the magnetic card 1 is exposed from the receiving / outlet bezel 2.
It seems that the user can easily collect the magnetic card 1.
(C) If the user does not collect the magnetic card within the set time, the magnetic card is returned to the housing and stored.
In other words, the magnetic card 1 is placed in a stationary state for the set time at the position shown in FIG.
When the magnetic card 1 is not collected by the user's hand, it is detected by the sensor 120 (FIG. 1B).
[0040]
When the magnetic card 1 is detected by the sensor 120, the motor 17 is driven.
As a result, the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4 are driven via the belt and the pulley.
That is, if the magnetic card 1 is between the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4, the magnetic card 1 can be returned into the mechanism.
When the magnetic card 1 comes between the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4 and between the transfer roller 6 and the idler 7, the magnetic card 1 is stopped (see FIG. 6).
In this stationary position, the pinion gear 8 is driven by the motor 34 (see FIG. 1B).
[0041]
The pinion gear 8 then drives the gear segment 9 (see FIG. 1C).
The gear segment 9 is fixed to a 6-shaped recovery plate 35.
The plate 35 rotates around the shaft 10 of the transfer roller 6.
Therefore, the shaft 11 of the transfer idler 7 turns around the transfer roller 6 (see FIG. 7).
As a result, the magnetic card 1 is tangent to both the transfer roller 6 and the transfer idler 7. When the magnetic card 1 is rotated about 40 degrees, the pinion gear 8 of the collection motor 34 is stopped (see FIG. 8).
Therefore, the magnetic card 1 is stopped at the position shown in FIG.
[0042]
At this stage, the transfer roller 6 is driven and the magnetic card 1 completely passes through the transfer roller 6 and the idler 7 (see FIG. 9).
Thereby, the magnetic card 1 is stored for searching by hand, for example.
(D) A contactless IC card is paid out from the stored stack, and is prepared for wireless communication between the IC card and the host device.
As described in (b) of “Mode 1”, when the magnetic card 1 is returned to the user, the contactless IC card 12 is paid out.
That is, when the user successfully collects the magnetic card 1, the contactless IC card 12 is paid out.
[0043]
In other words, the contactless IC card 12 is sold to the user as follows.
When the pulley 13 of the motor 17 is driven, the clutch-driven pulley 18 and the release-driven pulley 16 are driven.
It has been previously described that these pulleys 13, 16, and 18 have belts 15 interposed therebetween (see FIG. 1A).
The clutch driven pulley 18 is firmly fixed to the shaft 19 of the clutch roller 14.
Accordingly, the roller 14 is driven via a solenoid-driven clutch (not shown) (see FIG. 10).
[0044]
As a result, the lowermost contactless IC card 12 of the stored stack 20 is shuffled forward (see FIG. 11).
The shuffled contactless IC card 12 passes through the gap between the gate 21 and the supply roller 22.
The tip of the IC card 12 is pulled out by a discharge roller 23 and an idler 24.
Almost simultaneously, the clutch operated by the solenoid 220 (FIG. 18) is released from the roller 14.
The discharge roller 23 and the idler 24 feed the contactless IC card 12 further forward.
[0045]
The contactless IC card 12 fed forward is positioned above the radio frequency antenna 25 (see FIG. 12).
That is, the contactless IC card 12 is stationary under the electric contact holding plate 27.
At this stationary position, radio frequency communication is performed between the host machine and the contactless IC card 12.
(E) Responds to input signals from the host machine as pointed out below.
(I) When host card communication is completed successfully.
“In this case, the card is sent out from the receptacle / outlet bezel for dispensing, and an electrical output signal is provided to the host machine indicating that it has been done.”
[0046]
That is, the contactless IC card 12 is moved in the direction of the bezel 2 from the position shown in FIG.
The IC card 12 is fed in the direction of the bezel 2 by the transfer rollers 6 and 7 and the distribution rollers 3 and 4.
As shown in FIG. 5, the IC card 12 passes completely through the transfer roller 6 but does not pass through the distribution roller 3.
Therefore, at this time, the contactless IC card 12 is stationary for payout.
In other words, the IC card 12 is stationary in the same manner as the magnetic card 1 described in (b) of “Mode 1”.
[0047]
The user may not take out the contactless IC card 12 from the bezel 2 within the set time.
In this case, the same method as for the magnetic card 1 described in (c) of “Mode 1” is performed.
(Ii) For example, when communication is unsuccessful due to damage to a contactless IC card.
“Secure the card, remove the card from the payout path of the mechanism and store it, and automatically repeat step (d) until step (e) (i) is achieved.”
[0048]
First, the contactless IC card 12 is sent in the direction of the bezel 2 from the position shown in FIG.
That is, the IC card 12 is sent by the transfer roller 6 and idler 7 in the direction of the bezel 2 of the receiving port / outlet port.
Before the contactless IC card 12 enters the bezel 2, the transfer roller 6 is stopped as shown in FIG.
That is, the IC card 12 is stopped at the same position as the magnetic card 1 described in (c) of “Mode 1”.
Thus, the contactless IC card 12 is secured in the same manner as described in (c) of “Mode 1”.
[0049]
"Mode 2"
“For contactless card sales, contact IC cards are accepted from the same mechanism through the same card slot as payment.”
(A) The contact type IC card is inserted by the user through the card slot of the receiving port / outlet port, and the card is arranged so that the connector for the 8-way type IC card makes an electrical contact with the IC pad of the card.
First, the contact type IC card 26 is inserted into the bezel 2 of the receiving port / outlet port by hand.
That is, it is the same method as the magnetic card 1 in (a) of “Mode 1”.
The contact type IC card 26 inserted into the bezel 2 is taken in by the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4.
[0050]
The distribution roller 3 and the idler 4 are driven by a motor 17 via a belt or a pulley.
Thus, the contact type IC card 26 is sent in the direction of the IC card connector 27.
The IC card 26 is further taken in by the transfer roller 6 and the idler 7.
The contact type IC card 26 is sent until it is caught by the protrusion 28 of the IC card connector 27.
In other words, the IC card 26 is sent to a position where it is stopped by the protrusion 28 of the connector 27.
[0051]
The IC card connector 27 is moved sideways and downward by the contact type IC card 26 (see FIG. 13).
As a result, the connector 27 moves and contacts the IC connection pad 29 of the IC card 26.
When the IC card connector 27 is completely aligned with the IC connection pad 29, the transfer roller 6 is stopped (see FIG. 14).
Thus, the contact type IC card 26 is stationary and ready for host card communication.
(B) An electrical output signal is provided to the host machine to indicate that the connector has contacted the IC pad of the card.
[0052]
(C) Respond to an electrical input signal from the host machine to indicate that the host card communication has been successfully completed.
In this case, the card is sent out from the slot of the receiving port / outlet for collection, and an electric output signal is provided to the host machine in order to indicate that it has been done.
That is, the contact type IC card 26 is moved in the direction of the bezel 2 from the position shown in FIG.
In other words, the IC card 26 is moved in the direction of the bezel 2 by the transfer rollers 6 and 7 and the distribution rollers 3 and 4.
On the other hand, the IC card connector 27 is returned to a stationary position by a spring (not shown).
[0053]
The contact IC card 26 passes through the transfer roller 6 but does not pass through the distribution roller 3 (see FIG. 5).
That is, this IC card 26 is stationary for recovery preparation.
The contact-type IC card 26 stands still in the same manner as the magnetic card 1 described in “b” of “Mode 1”.
In some cases, the user does not remove the contact IC card 26 from the bezel 2 within the set time.
In this case, the same method as for the magnetic card 1 described in (c) of “Mode 1” is performed.
[0054]
(D) The contactless IC card is dispensed from the stored stack, and the radio frequency communication preparation is performed between the contactless IC card and the host device.
After collecting the contact type IC card 26 used by the user, the contactless type IC card 12 is paid out.
The contact type IC card 26 is paid out like the magnetic card 1 described in (d) of “Mode 1”.
(E) Responds to input signals from the host machine as pointed out below.
(I) The host card communication is successfully completed, the card is sent out from the slot in the receptacle / outlet for collection, and an electrical output signal is provided to indicate that it has been done to the host machine.
[0055]
That is, (e) and (i) of “Mode 1”.
(Ii) For example, when a contactless IC card is damaged and communication is unsuccessful, the card is secured, that is, the card is removed from the payout path of the mechanism and stored, and steps (e) and (i) are achieved. Step (d) is automatically repeated until
That is, it is performed as in (e) (ii) of “Mode 1”.
"Mode 3"
“Accepting magnetic cards as payments for reloading of contactless cards inserted by the user through the same card slot”
[0056]
(A) When the magnetic IC card is inserted through the card slot of the receiving port / outlet by the user, the data contained in the magnetic card is read out.
That is, as in (a) of “Mode 1”.
(B) The data read from the magnetic card is pointed out by the reception from the host machine, that is, the electrical output from the host machine, and the magnetic card is returned to the user.
That is, as in (b) of “Mode 1”.
(C) If the user does not remove the magnetic card within the set time, retrieve the magnetic card and store it for retrieval.
That is, as in (c) of “Mode 1”.
[0057]
(D) A contactless IC card inserted by the user through the slot of the receiving port / outlet port is prepared for radio frequency communication performed between the contactless IC card and the host device.
That is, like the magnetic card 1 described in (a) of “Mode 1”.
First, the contactless IC card 12 is supplied by hand to the slot of the receiving port / outlet port.
The IC card 12 is taken in by the distribution roller 3 and the idler 4.
These distribution means 3 and 4 are driven by a motor 17 via a belt and a pulley.
[0058]
Then, the transfer of the contactless IC card 12 into the mechanism starts.
The contactless IC card 12 is stationary below the radio frequency antenna 25.
That is, it is stopped at a place similar to the case of the contact type IC card 26 shown in FIG.
Thus, radio frequency communication is performed between the host machine and the contactless IC card 12.
(E) In response to the electrical input signal from the host machine to indicate that the host card communication has been completed, the card is sent out from the receiving / outlet slot for collection and pointed out In order to do so, an electrical output signal is provided to the host machine.
[0059]
That is, (e) and (i) of “Mode 1”.
"Mode 4"
“Accept contact IC cards as payment for reloading contactless cards inserted by the user through the same card slot.”
(A) When a contact type IC card is inserted by the user through the card slot of the receiving port / outlet port, the connector of the 8-way type IC card is arranged to make electrical contact with the IC pad of this card. .
That is, as in (a) of “Mode 2”.
[0060]
(B) An electrical output signal is provided to the host machine to indicate that the connector has contacted the card's IC pad.
That is, as in (b) of “Mode 2”.
(C) In order to indicate that the host card communication was successfully completed, in response to an electrical input signal from the host machine, the card was sent out from the slot of the receiving / outlet for collection. In order to point out, an electrical output signal is provided to the host machine.
That is, as in (c) of “Mode 2”.
(D) A contactless IC card inserted by the user through the slot of the receiving port / outlet port is prepared for radio frequency communication performed between the contactless IC card and the host device.
[0061]
That is, as in (d) of “Mode 3”.
(E) In response to an input signal from the host machine indicating that the host card communication has been completed, the card is sent out from the slot of the receiving port / outlet for collection, and to indicate that it has been performed. Provides electrical output signals to the host machine.
That is, (e) and (i) of “Mode 1”.
【The invention's effect】
As described above, the memory card handling device of the present invention includes at least two heads in the same transfer path.
As a result, different types of cards can be handled by the same device using the same transfer path.
[0062]
In one example, the monetary value is stored on a magnetic strip placed on a memory card.
Then, the monetary value may be transferred from this magnetic strip to another IC card.
In this case, it can be achieved by the memory card handling apparatus according to the present invention.
Specifically, this is accomplished by first inserting a card of magnetic strip into the transfer path.
In this case, the magnetic card is transferred to the first head.
[0063]
This is because the money information is read from the magnetic strip and the new reduced money value is written to the magnetic card.
The magnetic card is then returned to the user.
Next, the contact type IC card is transferred through the same passage by the same transfer system.
For example, it is transferred from the card store to the second head.
Here, the monetary value is recorded on the IC card.
After that, this IC card is paid out through the same outlet.
Normally, no monetary value is stored in the magnetic card.
[0064]
Stores information about the cardholder's account.
For example, information such as account numbers, sort codes, names, and deadlines are stored.
This information is read by the first head and transferred to the host machine controller.
For example, to perform an authority check at a related financial institution via a modem link.
An IC card is issued as soon as it is authorized.
This issued IC card has the correct monetary value transferred by the second head.
[0065]
What is evaluated is that the first head normally reads information from the memory card.
In a desirable apparatus, the second head can both read and write information.
In a preferred example, the device further comprises a third head.
This is because reading from the card and AND / OR writing are performed in a third mode different from the first and second modes.
In this case, if the first head is a magnetic head, the second head includes an electrical contact for contacting the contact IC card.
[0066]
Next, the third head includes an antenna for communicating with the contactless IC card.
Of course, each head is electrically coupled to several interface electronics.
This is because each head is connected to the controller of the host machine.
In addition, the apparatus preferably includes a control unit or central processing unit CPU.
This is because various components of the apparatus are controlled in response to signals from the control system of the host machine.
[0067]
Preferably, the device further comprises a memory card store location.
And the transfer system is extended here.
Of course, the transport system may further include a memory card supply system.
This is because the memory card is pulled out from the store position.
A shutter is preferably provided to reduce the risk of unauthorized use.
This is to close the outlet / inlet when the memory card is not inserted into the apparatus.
This is also for preventing the memory card from being pulled out from the unit.
[0068]
Alternatively, forgery is prevented during / after data processing of the memory card.
Of course, the mechanism can also be used to retrieve stolen credit / debit cards.
In other words, a mechanism may be used to hold hot listed credit / debit cards.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1A is a schematic perspective view showing an embodiment according to the present invention.
FIG. 1B is a schematic perspective view showing main components of the embodiment.
FIG. 1C is a perspective view similar to FIG. 1B with some parts removed.
FIG. 1D is a perspective view showing three types of memory cards that can be processed by using the embodiment described above.
FIG. 2 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 3 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 4 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 5 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 6 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 7 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 8 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 9 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 10 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 11 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 12 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 13 is a partial side view of the embodiment, showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 14 is a partial side view of the embodiment showing the operation of the mode.
FIG. 15 is a front view and a sectional end view of the shutter device, respectively.
FIG. 16 also shows a front view and a sectional end view of the shutter device, respectively.
FIG. 17 also shows a front view and a sectional end view of the shutter device, respectively.
FIG. 18 is a block circuit diagram illustrating how the embodiment is coupled to the controller of the host machine.
[Explanation of symbols]
Memory card. ...
1: Magnetic card.
12: Contactless IC card.
26: Contact IC card.
housing.・ ・ ・ ・ ・ ・
100: Side plate.
101: Side plate.
Opening. ...
2: Bezel.
Wireless communication means. ...
25: Antenna.
roller. ...
6: Transfer roller.
10: Shaft of transfer roller.
Idler. ...
7: Transfer idler.
11: Transfer idler shaft.

Claims (1)

The pressure contact part of the bezel (2), the magnetic head (5), the transfer roller (6) and the idler (7) for receiving and discharging the magnetic card (1) or the IC card along the straight transfer path; A plurality of types of memory cards arranged in the order of communication means (25, 27, 28) with the IC card, and stored on the side of the transfer roller and below the communication means. In handling equipment,
A distribution roller (3) and an idler (4) are pressed between the bezel and the magnetic head, and the transfer roller and the idler are placed before the card passes through the distribution roller and the idler. Arranged in a positional relationship between the pressure contact parts of
A magnetic card or IC card inserted into the bezel by reversing the distribution roller and the transfer roller is drawn into the apparatus,
When the inserted card is a magnetic card, after the magnetic card passes through the magnetic head, the transfer roller and the distribution roller are rotated forward and returned to the bezel side, and a pressure contact portion between the distribution roller and the idler Stopped in a sandwiched state,
When the inserted card is an IC card, the communication means communicates in a state where the IC card is held between the transfer roller and the pressure contact portion of the idler and is temporarily stopped at a communicable position by the communication means. Then, the transfer roller and the distribution roller are rotated forward and returned to the bezel side and stopped in a state sandwiched between the pressure roller and the idler.
After the magnetic card or the IC card is stopped, the shaft (11) of the idler pressed against the transfer roller is rotated around the shaft (10) of the transfer roller so that the magnetic card or the IC card is on the communication means side. The magnetic card and the IC card are stored so that the magnetic card or the IC card is stored on the side of the transfer roller and below the communication means by the reverse rotation of the transfer roller. Method.

Images