WO2002041263A1 - Coin processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

A coin processing device (1), comprising a storage part (4) for storing a plurality types of coins, circulatingly feeding routes (10a to 10d) for circulating the coins to the storage part (4), a coin type identifying part (20) for identifying the types of the fed coins, and a sorting part (30) for selectively discharging a desired coin from among the fed coins based on the results of identification by the coin type identifying part (20), wherein, in the feeding routes (10a to 10d), the coins are disposed on a continuous moving surface in the attitude arranged in feeding direction to lower the height of the structure of the device, whereby the size of the device can be reduced.

Description

 Specification

 Coin processing equipment

 【Technical field】

 The present invention relates to a coin processing apparatus that performs coin processing such as coin identification, counting, and payout.

 [Background Art]

 Cash registers at retail stores, POS (point of sales) terminals, ATM (automatic telephone machine) equipment at financial institutions, vending machines, etc. can determine the type of coin lending paid by customers, In other words, it is necessary to have a function of counting the number of coins for each denomination and paying out change.

 In conventional coin processing equipment, when multiple coins enter the slot at once, an optical sensor detects coin insertion, separates and transports stacked coins, and sorts coins by denomination. , Count the number and store it in the statistic of each denomination. When the denomination and the number of change are instructed from the host device, a predetermined number of coins are taken out from the corresponding denomination of the denomination and discharged from the outlet (for example, Utility Model Registration No. 25009366) Such) .

 [Problems to be solved by the invention]

There are six types of coins in Japan: 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen, 500 yen, and 500 yen. depends at least six types of _c coin it is necessary to prepare the denomination Sutatsu force the country in _c conventional coin processing apparatus existing species, as denomination increases, denomination Sutatsu force and denomination transport path This increases the complexity and size of the equipment. A prior art having a denomination-based statistic force is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. Hei 9-274746.

 An object of the present invention is to provide a coin processing device capable of performing coin processing with a small and simple configuration even if there are many denominations.

It is another object of the present invention to provide an improved coin processing apparatus capable of rapidly discharging money such as change by a combination of a plurality of coin types and the number of coins. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

 The present invention provides a storage means for storing a plurality of types of coins,

 Circulation transport means for transporting the coins stored in the storage means along the transport path and returning the coins to the storage means;

 Denomination identification means for identifying the type of coin to be conveyed,

 The coin processing device according to the present invention is provided with a sorting device for selectively discharging a desired coin among the conveyed coins based on the identification result of the denomination identifying device. The coins stored in the storage means are randomly circulated and transported without bias to a specific denomination, and the denomination identification means identifies the type of coin being transported by size, thickness, weight, pattern, material, etc. When a coin is detected, the sorting means selectively ejects it. For example, if the amount of money to be discharged is 123 yen, assuming that one 100 yen coin, two 100 yen coins, and three 1 yen coins are to be discharged, denomination discrimination means Identifies coins that are sequentially conveyed, and when the first 100 yen coin passes, it is ejected by the sorting means, then when the 100 yen coin passes, it is ejected, and then the 100 yen coin passes. Return to the storage means without discharging, and then discharge when the 1-yen coin passes, and so on until the 1-yen coin is discharged.

 By adopting such a recirculation method, it is not necessary to secure a plurality of denomination staples and denomination transport routes as in the past. Coin processing can be performed.

 The present invention can also be used as a coin sorter for extracting only a specific denomination from a large number of coins or extracting only forged coins.

 Further, the present invention can be used as a money counter which can count the number of coins by denomination by putting a large number of coins of which total amount is unknown into empty storage means and setting the sorting means to fully open. .

 The coins to be processed are not limited to public coins issued by the banknote authorities, but can be similarly applied to private coins issued by game centers and authorized gambling centers.

According to the present invention, the coins stored in the storage means are transported by the circulating transport means. And returns to the storage means to circulate again. The denomination identifying means is provided in the middle of the transport path and identifies the type of coin to be transported. In the transport path, coins from the storage means can be transported, and coins from the reserve storage means can be transported as shown in FIGS. 8 to 20 described later. Coins from the means are transported. The denomination identifying means identifies the type of coin conveyed in this way as described above. In the present invention of claim 1, the reserve money storage means, the coin insertion means, and the like may not be provided.

 Further, the present invention is characterized in that in the detection area of the denomination discriminating means, the coin transport path is inclined along the direction orthogonal to the transport, and a coin positioning portion is provided at a lower end of the transport path.

 According to the present invention, the coin transport path is inclined in the detection area of the denomination identifying means, and a coin positioning section such as a step or a projection is provided at a lower end of the transport path so that coins can be transported along the transport path. When the coin moves along, it is urged downward by its own weight and abuts the coin positioning portion at the lower side end, thereby regulating the position of the end face of the coin. As a result, when the denomination identifying unit identifies the denomination based on the shape and dimensions of the coin, the position of the coin is stabilized, and the identification accuracy is improved.

 In addition, by using the own weight of the coin, there is no need to provide a special urging means, so that the configuration is simplified.

 Further, the present invention is characterized in that a coin insertion means for supplying coins to the circulating conveyance means is provided downstream of the storage means and upstream of the denomination identification means. According to the present invention, by providing coin input means for supplying coins on the upstream side of the transport of the denomination identifying means, coins inserted into the input section are transported by the circulating transport means, and are provided by the denomination identifying section. Since denominations can be identified, input denominations, quantity and total amount can be managed accurately.

 The present invention also includes a reserve storage means for storing reserves for coins and supplying the reserves upstream of the denomination identifying means on the transport path,

The sorting means selectively guides a desired coin among the coins whose denominations have been identified based on the denomination identification result of the denomination identifying means to the storage and storage means, and guides the coin to the reserve storage means, Alternatively, it is discharged.

 According to the present invention, reserves for coins are stored in reserve storage means, so that change can be discharged quickly. This reserve is the number of coins for each of a plurality of denominations. For example, four 1-yen coins, one 5-yen coin, four 10-yen coins, one 50-yen coin, one tenth Four 0-yen coins and one 500-yen coin may be used for a total of 999 yen. Thus, for example, when purchasing a product of less than 100 yen on a 100-yen bill, by selecting the desired type and number of coins from the reserve, Any amount of change can be discharged. In another embodiment of the present invention, the reserve may be configured so that the reserve is a total amount of a predetermined fixed amount and the full amount of the reserve is discharged as change. When the reserve is discharged, the denomination discriminating means performs a denomination discriminating operation. According to the present invention, the sorting means responds to the denomination discriminating result of the denomination discriminating means. Among them, the desired coin is selectively guided to the storage means or the reserve storage means, and the desired coin is discharged. The coins from the storage means may be selectively directed to the reserve storage means, the coins from the reserve storage means may be selectively ejected, or the denominated coin or All coins guided to the transport path without the denomination identifying means performing the denomination identifying operation may be stored in the storage means by the sorting means. The coins input from outside may be configured to be supplied directly to the storing and storing means without passing through the transport path from the coin input means.

 Further, according to the present invention, the storage means has a storage inlet to which coins are supplied, and a storage outlet to discharge coins one by one,

 The circulating transport means,

 The coins are transported in this transport direction along a transport path extending from the storage outlet to the storage inlet,

It has an auxiliary transport path that continues in the transport direction from the sorting means located upstream of the storage inlet to the storage outlet, Reserve storage means

 It has a reserve storage space for storing reserves formed in at least a part of the auxiliary transport path.

 According to the present invention, a transport path is formed from the storage outlet of the storage means to the storage inlet. The distribution means is disposed in the middle of the transport path, and forms an auxiliary transport path extending from the distribution means to the storage outlet along the transport path. At least a part of the auxiliary transport path along the transport direction is prepared. It is used as a reserve storage space for storing coins for gold storage means. In this way, coins conveyed from the storage outlet of the circulating conveyance means toward the storage inlet can be selected and distributed by the distribution means in the middle of the transport path, and the reserve can be guided to the reserve storage space and stored. The reserve is realized by a combination of the denomination of each coin and the number of coins for each denomination, and the amount of the reserve is such that all types of change can be realized regardless of the amount of change. The change may be combined, or if the change is always a fixed amount, the combination may be the amount corresponding to the change.

 Further, the present invention is characterized in that the reserve storage means is provided with a stopper means capable of stopping coins at the most downstream position in the transport direction of the reserve storage space.

 According to the present invention, the reserve storage space is provided with stopper means for stopping and storing coins serving as reserves, whereby the reserves are always maintained even if the circulating transport means operates. It can be stored in a storage space. Therefore, the auxiliary transport path having at least a part of the reserve storage space can be made as short as possible, and the configuration can be downsized, and the desired type of coins and the number of coins can be quickly removed from the reserve storage space. It is easily possible.

 The present invention also includes a coin insertion means for supplying coins input from the outside to the transport path,

 The denomination identifying means is characterized by identifying each denomination of a coin from the storage means, a coin from the reserve storage means, and a coin from the coin input means.

According to the present invention, the denomination identifying means for operating the sorting means is provided for each coin commonly supplied to the transport path from the storage / storage means, the reserve money storage means, and the coin insertion means. In order to identify the denomination, the denomination identifying means can be used also. Therefore, the configuration can be simplified.

 Also, in the present invention, in the transport path, the coins are transported in a posture arranged on a continuous moving surface,

 The auxiliary transport path is characterized in that coins are stored in a posture aligned on a continuous moving surface.

 According to the present invention, the transport path and the auxiliary transport path of the circulating transport means have continuous moving surfaces in which coins are aligned. Therefore, instead of a configuration in which coins are stacked vertically for each denomination as described in connection with the background art described above, the configuration can be reduced and the size can be easily reduced.

 Further, according to the present invention, the storage means includes:

 A rotary table rotatable about a vertical axis,

 A storage drive source for rotating the rotary table,

 The storage inlet and the storage outlet face the rotary table,

 The transport path and the auxiliary transport path are located outside the rotary table in the radial direction, and the outlet from which coins are discharged by the sorting means is located outside the radial transport path of the rotary table. It is characterized by being performed.

 According to the present invention, the rotary table is rotated around the vertical axis by the storage drive source, and coins supplied from the storage inlet can be supplied one by one to the storage outlet, thereby simplifying the configuration. Can be planned. Further, a transport path and an auxiliary transport path are disposed radially outward of the rotary table. For example, a coin discharge port to be discharged as change is provided radially outward of the rotary table. In this way, the transfer path and the auxiliary transfer path are provided concentrically with the rotary table, so that the configuration can be further simplified and the size can be reduced.

 Further, according to the present invention, the sorting means includes:

 A coin that is located downstream of the denomination identification means in the transport direction and leads to the storage inlet and the outlet

A first sorting mechanism that sorts coins into coins leading to the auxiliary transport path;

The coins guided to the storage inlet and outlet by the first sorting mechanism are transferred to the storage inlet. It is characterized by including a second sorting mechanism for sorting coins to be guided and coins to be guided to the outlet.

 According to the present invention, the distribution means is realized by the first and second distribution mechanisms. The first sorting mechanism guides coins for the reserve storage space of the reserve storage means, and the remaining coins are guided to the storage inlet of the storage means by the second sorting mechanism, or to the outlet, for example, as change. . Thus, the configuration of the first and second distribution mechanisms facilitates the simplification of the distribution mechanism.

 Also, in the present invention, the circulating transport means may include

 An annular plate rotatably provided concentrically with the rotary table of the storage means, and a transport drive source for rotating the annular plate in the transport direction,

 The moving surface of the annular plate forms a common transport path on the upstream side in the transport direction from the first distribution mechanism of the transport path and an auxiliary transport path,

 The second distribution mechanism is provided on a branch transport path downstream of the first distribution mechanism on the transport path.

 According to the present invention, the transport path and the auxiliary transport path of the circulating transport means are realized by the moving surface of the annular plate which is driven concentrically with the rotary table by the transport drive source. This transport path includes a common transport path upstream of the first distribution mechanism and a branch transport path downstream of the first distribution mechanism. The transport path and the auxiliary transport path can be configured by the annular plate. This also makes it possible to reduce the size and simplify the configuration.

 The present invention also provides a storage means for storing a plurality of types of coins,

 Reserve storage means for storing coins from the storage means in a posture in which the coins are aligned on a continuous moving surface;

 Denomination identifying means for identifying the denomination of the coin from the reserve storage means,

 A coin sorting device for selectively ejecting a desired coin based on a denomination identification result of the denomination identification unit. '

According to the present invention, coins, which are reserves, are stored in a lined up position on a continuous moving surface. This makes it possible to reduce the configuration and facilitate downsizing. In the present invention The circulating transport means may not be provided.

 [Brief description of the drawings]

 These and other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description and drawings.

 FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the present invention.

 FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an embodiment of the present invention.

 FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a configuration of one embodiment of the present invention.

 FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of one embodiment of the present invention.

 FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation.

 FIGS. 6 (a) to 6 (h) are graphs showing examples of the results of analyzing the appearance probabilities of denominations.

 FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b) are block diagrams showing a configuration example of the coin processing device, FIG. 7 (a) shows the configuration example shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and FIG. FIG. 8 is a simplified plan view of a coin processing apparatus 61 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

 FIG. 9 is a simplified sectional view of the storage means 64.

 FIG. 10 is a simplified perspective view of the sorting means 73.

 FIG. 11 is a circumferential development diagram showing the sorting means 73 in a simplified manner.

 FIG. 12 is a simplified perspective view showing a part of the reserve money storage means 68.

 FIG. 13 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the coin insertion means 66.

 FIG. 14 is a simplified plan view near the connection position where the common transfer path 93 and the input transfer path 139 are connected.

 FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. 8 to 14.

 FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processing circuit 151 of FIG.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the deposit operation of the processing circuit 15 1 FIG. 18 is a flow chart for explaining an operation for storing and replenishing a predetermined reserve in a reserve storage space 96 of the reserve storage means 68 with coins.

 FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of dispensing the change of the processing circuit 151 to the discharge port 69 and discharging the change.

 BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

 Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of a coin processing device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

 1 and 2 are perspective views showing an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a configuration of one embodiment of the present invention. The coin processing device 1 includes a main body case 2, a cover 3, a storage section 4, a transport path 10a to 10d, a denomination identifying section 20, a plate-shaped sorting section 30, and a discharge path. It is composed of 3 5 etc.

 The cover 3 is attached to the rear end of the main body case 2 so as to be openable and closable, and constitutes a housing having a clamshell structure as a whole. At the upper part of the cover 3, there is provided an input section 3b having an opening for supplying coins Q to the storage section 4 with the cover 3 closed.

 On the upper surface of the main body case 2, a hopper-shaped storage section 4 is formed so that a plurality of types of coins Q can be mixed and stored. A rotating table 5 for stirring the coins Q is provided on the bottom of the storage unit 4. At the center of the turntable 5, a mountain-shaped protrusion 5a having a peak eccentric from the center of rotation is formed to increase the stirring efficiency. In FIG. 3, the shape of the protrusion 5a is indicated by a contour line.

 When the rotary table 5 rotates, centrifugal force acts on the coins Q on the rotary table 5 to urge the coins Q toward the wall surface of the storage unit 4, so that the coins Q can be easily carried out. A rectangular discharge opening (not shown) slightly larger than the maximum outer diameter and the maximum thickness of the coin Q to be processed is formed in a part of the wall surface of the storage unit 4. The carry-out opening is set at the same surface position as the upper surface of the rotary table 5, and serves to separate the coins Q at the bottom from the pile of coins Q stacked in the storage unit 4 one by one.

As shown in FIG. 3, a belt 6 is stretched between the outer periphery of the rotary table 5 and the pulley 7, and the pulley 7 is driven to rotate by a motor (not shown), whereby the rotating tape is rotated. Le 5 rotates clockwise.

 The transfer path 10a is formed horizontally so as to communicate from the discharge opening of the storage section 4 to the transfer downstream side. The transport path 10a is formed in a flat groove having a width slightly larger than the maximum outer diameter of the coin Q to be processed, and guides the coin Q in a lateral posture.

 In the transport path 10a, the belt 6 is arranged so as to slightly protrude from the transport surface, and the coin Q can be transported by friction with the belt 6.

 In front of the main body case 2, an inclined surface 2a is formed, which is inclined forward and downward at about 45 ° to the horizontal plane, and communicates with the downstream side of the transport path 10a along the inclined surface 2a. Path 10b is formed. The transport path 10b is formed in a flat groove having the same dimensions as the transport path 10a, and the transport surface is inclined along the direction perpendicular to the transport, so that the coin Q is biased by its own weight, and the coin end face is removed. Positioning.

 On the inclined surface 2a, a transport path 10c communicating with the transport downstream side of the transport path 10b is formed, and serves as a path for raising the coin Q. The transport paths 10b and 10c are L-shaped as a whole, and the curve connecting them is provided with an auxiliary wheel 11 so as to protrude from the transport surface. Is easy.

 The cover 3 also has an inclined surface 3 a inclined forward and downward. The inclined surface 3 a faces the inclined surface 2 a of the main body case 2 with the cover 3 closed. Pulleys 9a to 9d are provided on the inclined surface 3a, and the belt 8 is stretched over the pulleys 9a to 9d so as to conform to the shapes of the transport paths 10b and 10c. When the cover 3 is closed, the belt 8 can press the coins Q present in the transport paths 1 O b and 10 c against the transport surface. At this time, when the pulley 9a is driven to rotate by the motor 51b (FIG. 4 described later), the belt 8 moves in the downstream direction of conveyance, and the coin Q is conveyed by friction with the belt 8.

 On the upper surface of the main body case 2, a transport path 10d communicating with the transport downstream side of the transport path 10c is formed. The transport path 10d is formed in a gutter shape inclined from the top of the transport path 10c toward the upper part of the storage unit 4, and guides the coin Q passing through the transport path 10c to the storage unit 4.

Thus, the transport paths 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d are press-contact transported belts 6 and 8. The circulation transport unit is configured to transport the coins Q stored in the storage unit 4 one by one by transport and return to the storage unit 4 again.

 The transport path 1 Ob includes a denomination identifying unit 20 for identifying the type of the coin Q to be transported, and a desired coin among the coins Q transported based on the identification result of the denomination identifying unit 20. A sorting unit 30 for selectively discharging Q is provided, and the sorting unit 30 is arranged downstream of the denomination identifying unit 20 in the transport direction.

 The denomination identification unit 20 identifies the type of the coin Q by its size, thickness, weight, pattern, material, and the like. Here, a method of optically measuring the outer diameter of the coin Q will be exemplified. The denomination identification unit 20 has a line CCD (charge coupled device) sensor in which a large number of light receiving units are arranged in a straight line.

 In the detection area of the denomination identification unit 20, two detection openings 21a and 21b are formed in the inclined transport path 10b. The lower detection opening 21a is formed in a range through which the lower end of the coin Q passes. The upper detection opening 21b is formed in a range where the upper end of the coin Q passes. On the other hand, on the inclined surface 3 a of the cover 3, light-emitting elements 22 a, 22 b such as LEDs (light-emitting diodes) face the detection openings 21 a, 21 b with the cover 3 closed. Is provided.

When the coin Q passes through the transport path 1 Ob with the cover 3 closed and the coin Q blocks light from the light emitting elements 22a and 22b, the line CCD sensor detects the lower and upper ends of the coin Q. The _c- measurement value that can measure the outer diameter of coin Q by detecting the position of coin Q and performing appropriate signal processing makes it possible to identify the denomination of coin Q by comparing it with the threshold value set for the denomination Become.

 A coin leading end detecting unit 23 that detects the leading end position of the coin Q passing through the carrying path 10b is provided on the downstream side of the transport of the denomination identifying unit 20. The coin tip detecting section 23 has a point detecting type light receiving element such as a photodiode. A light emitting element 24 such as an LED (light emitting diode) is provided so as to face the coin tip detecting section 23.

Here, since the belt 8 is located near the center of the transport path 10 b, the transport path is set so that the light from the light-emitting element 24 travels almost parallel to the transport surface and enters the coin tip detecting section 23. 1 0 b _c that both sides are arranged coin leading edge detection unit 2 3 and the light emitting element 2 4 On the downstream side of the transport of the coin leading end detecting section 23, a sorting section 30 for selectively discharging a desired coin Q out of the coins Q passing through the transport path 10b is provided. The sorting unit 30 has a hinge shaft 31 on the downstream side of the transfer, and the upstream end of the transfer is a swing end, and is opened and closed by, for example, an electromagnetic solenoid 54a (see FIG. 4). In a normal state, the sorting unit 30 is held on the same surface as the transport path 10b and passes the coin Q, but when the coin Q is ejected, the swing end of the sorting unit 30 is set for a predetermined time. Only the transport path 1 O b rises, and coin Q drops down. The dropped coin Q is discharged from the discharge path 35 and stored in, for example, a coin receiving section 36 shown in FIG.

 Opening and closing of the sorting unit 30 can be determined by whether or not the coin Q identified by the denomination identifying unit 20 is a desired denomination. The opening / closing timing of the sorting unit 30 is based on the detection timing of the coin tip detecting unit 23, and takes into account a delay in accordance with the coin transport speed and the distance from the coin tip detecting unit 23 to the swing end of the sorting unit 30. To decide. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of one embodiment of the present invention. The coin processing device 1 includes a CPU (central processing unit) 50 operating according to a predetermined program such as a microcomputer, a RAM (random access memory) 50 a for storing data and programs, and a ROM (read only memory). ) 5 O b, motor control circuit 51, denomination identification circuit 52, coin tip detection circuit 53, sorting unit drive circuit 54, sensor detection circuit 55, display unit drive circuit 56 And an interface (I / F) section 57.

The motor control circuit 51 controls the start / stop timings / rotation speeds of the motors 51a and 51b that drive the pulleys 7 and 9a, respectively. The denomination identifying circuit 52 drives the line CCD sensor of the denomination identifying section 20, controls the lighting of the light emitting elements 22a and 22b, processes the output signals from the sensors, and processes the signals from the CPU 5. Feed to 0. The CPU 50 identifies the denomination by measuring the outer diameter of the coin Q by the denomination identification program. 'The coin tip detecting circuit 53 processes an output signal from the light receiving element of the coin tip detecting section 23 to detect the tip passing timing and controls the lighting of the light emitting element 24. The distribution unit drive circuit 54 opens and closes the distribution unit 30 based on a command from the CPU 50. Drive the solenoid 54a.

 The sensor detection circuit 55 processes output signals from the cover open sensor 55a that detects the open / closed state of the cover 3 and the distribution open sensor that detects the open / closed state of the distribution unit 30, and supplies the processed signals to the CPU 50.

 The display drive circuit 56 controls a LED lamp 56 a provided on the front panel or the like of the main body case 2 and indicating the operation state of the device. The interface 57 transmits and receives data to and from an external host computer (hereinafter, sometimes abbreviated as a host) such as a POS terminal in accordance with a communication standard such as RS232C. .

 FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation. First, when the power is turned on, the CPU 50 performs a predetermined initialization operation, and then waits in step S1 until a start instruction is issued from the host HC via the interface unit 57. Upon receiving the start instruction, in step S2, the CPU 50 starts driving the belts 6 and 8 and continuously sends out the coins Q stored in the storage unit 4 one by one, and the transport path 1 It is circulated and transported along 0 a to l 0 d.

 Next, in step S3, the denomination identifying unit 20 measures the outer diameter size of the coin Q to be conveyed, and the CPU 50 compares the measured value with a threshold value set for the denomination to determine the denomination of the coin Q. Identify. Next, in step S4, the flow returns to step S3 and waits until a change instruction is issued from the host HC.

 Upon receiving the change instruction in step S4, the CPU 50 sets a change counter for each denomination in accordance with the contents of the change instruction. For example, if the change instruction amount is 123 yen, 1 yen counter is 3, 5 yen counter is 0, 10 yen counter is 2, 50 yen counter is 0, 100 yen counter is 1, 500 yen counter is 0 Set to. The change instruction may be a number of money types.

 Steps S5, S6, and S20 to S22 are routines for determining the amount of coins stored in the storage unit 4, and will be described later in detail.

Next, in step S7, after the change counter is set, if the change counter corresponding to the denominated denomination is 0 by the denomination identifying unit 20, it is determined that the coin is a non-ejected coin, and the process returns to step S3. If the change counter corresponding to the identified denomination is 1 or more, The process proceeds to step S8, and when the coin leading end detecting section 23 detects the leading end, in step S9, the CPU 50 opens the sorting section 30 at a predetermined timing and is identified as a discharged coin. Selected coin Q and discharge it from discharge path 35.

 Next, in step S10, the CPU 50 subtracts one change counter corresponding to the discharged denomination. For example, if the coin Q passing through the denomination identification unit 20 is 10 yen, the 10 yen counter is decremented by one. In step S11, it is determined whether the change balance is 0 yen, that is, whether or not all change counters are 0, and steps S3 and subsequent steps are repeated until the change balance becomes 0 yen.

 When the change balance becomes 0 yen, the process proceeds to step S12, where the CPU 50 stops driving the belts 6 and 8, and ends the change discharging operation.

 Next, a coin storage amount determination routine will be described. In step S5, the CPU 50 counts the number of times that the denomination discriminating unit 20 has detected and the number of coins Q that have passed since the time when the change instruction was issued, and then, in step S6, the number of times of detection and the predetermined first threshold value Compare. If the number of times of detection is smaller than the first threshold value, it is determined that the denominations to be circulated and transported are all present, and the process proceeds to step S7.

 On the other hand, if the number of detections is equal to or greater than the first threshold, it is determined that the desired denomination is in short supply, and the process proceeds to step S20, where the CPU 50 turns on the LED lamp 56a of the display panel. The host sends a status signal to the HC to notify the user of the event. Further, in step S21, the number of detections is compared with a predetermined second threshold. The second threshold is set to an upper limit that allows normal operation, and if the number of detections is smaller than the second threshold, the process proceeds to step S7 in the empty state.

 On the other hand, if the number of detections is equal to or greater than the second threshold, it is determined that it is difficult to discharge the coin Q required for change, and the process proceeds to step S22, where the CPU 50 sets the LED lamp 5 6 on the display panel. Blinks a or sends a status signal to the host HC to announce the empty. After that, the operation proceeds to step S12 with the change discharge error, and the operation ends.

FIG. 6 is a graph showing each example of the results of analyzing the appearance probabilities of denominations. Here, the number of detections and the probability distribution until four 10-yen coins pass are shown. Applying the binomial distribution theory, the total number of coins Q is Nail, the number of 10-yen coins is Nten, the number of coins Q other than 10 yen is Netc, the desired number of 10-yen coins is m, and the number of detections is Let n be n and the appearance probability p of a 10-yen coin can be calculated by the following equation (1).

^{Nten P ra, ^,. Nten} P m to Netc ^P i- m,ヽ

~~ ^ + ^{∑ {} i ^C m— i-1 ^X … ")

Nall ^r ra i = m + l Nail 丄 i In Fig. 6 (a),

 Nten (number of 10 yen coins) = 1 20,

 Nail (total number of coins) = 450,

 Netc (number other than 10 yen coin) = 330

In the case of, the probability p that 10 yen coins pass the desired number m = 4 = before the number of detections n reaches 40 is 99.8%.

 In Fig. 6 (b), when Nall = 430 and Nten = 100, the probability that four 10-yen coins will pass before the number of detections n reaches 40 is 99.3%.

 In Fig. 6 (c), when Nall = 410 and Nten = 80, the probability that four 10-yen coins will pass by the time the number of detections n reaches 40 is 97.3%.

 In Fig. 6 (d), when Nall = 400 and Nten = 70, the probability that four 10-yen coins will pass by the time the number of detections n reaches 40 is 94.6%.

 In Fig. 6 (d), when Nall = 400 and Nten = 70, the probability that four 10-yen coins will pass before the number of detections n reaches 40 is 94.6%.

 In Fig. 6 (e), when Nall = 390 and Nten = 60, the probability that four 10-yen coins will pass before the number of detections n reaches 40 is 89.6%.

 In Fig. 6 (f), when Nall = 380 and Nten = 50, the probability of passing four 10-yen coins until the number of detections n reaches 40 is 80.5%.

 In Fig. 6 (g), when Nall = 365 and Nten = 35, the probability of passing four 10-yen coins before the number of detections n reaches 40 is 73.8%.

In Fig. 6 (h), when Nall = 350 and Nten = 20, the probability that four 10-yen coins will pass before the number of detections n reaches 40 is 31.6%. From these results, when the storage ratio of a specific denomination decreases, the number of detections required before discharge increases, for example, in Fig. 6 (h), even if 40 coins Q pass, a 10 yen coin It can be seen that the possibility of discharging four sheets is about 30%. Therefore, it is preferable to encourage replenishment of denominations with a low storage ratio and maintain the denomination storage ratio as even as possible. Therefore, the first and second threshold values in steps S5 and S21 are determined in consideration of the allowable time from the change instruction from the host HC to the completion of change discharge, the appearance probability of denominations, the change discharge efficiency, and the like. Set.

 An example of the operation will be described using the above equation (1).

Probability that four 10 yen coins can be discharged with n = 4 detections! (4) is 4

2 0 X 1 1 9 X 1 1 8 X 1 1 7

 = 4.87 x 1 0 1 3

 4 5 0 X 4 4 9 X 4 4 8 X 4 4 7 The probability p (5) that 5 coins can be ejected with 5 detections n = 5 is

 20 P 4 33 θ Ρ 1

P (5) = ( ₅ C ₄ 1 4 c 4 ノ X

 4 50 P 5

 Five! 1 2 0 X 1 1 9 X 1 1 8 X 1 1 7 X 3 3 0

 ) X

Four ! . ■ 1! . 4 5 0 X 4 4 9 X 4 4 8 X 4 4 7 X 4 4 6 = 4 X 3. 6 0 5 X 1 0 _ 3 = 1 4. 4 2 X 1 0- 3 7 coin processing device FIG. 7A is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration, FIG. 7A shows the example of the configuration shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, and FIG. 7B shows another example of the configuration.

First, in Fig. 7 (a), coins Q inserted from the input unit 3b are stored in the storage unit 4, and when a change instruction is received from the host, the coins Q in the storage unit 4 are transported one by one. It is circulated along 1 0 al 0 d. A denomination identification unit 20 and a sorting unit 30 are arranged on the transport path 10b to identify the denomination of the coin Q transported by the denomination identification unit 20. Separately, if the denomination is desired, the sorting unit 30 is opened to selectively discharge.

 FIG. 7 (b) is different from the first embodiment in that an input unit 3c is disposed downstream of the storage unit 4 and upstream of the denomination identifying unit 20. By providing such a loading section 3c on the upstream side of the transport of the denomination identifying section 20, the coin Q inserted into the loading section 3c is transported by the circulation transport section, and the denomination identifying section 20 recognizes the coin type. Becomes possible. Therefore, before being mixed into the storage unit 4, the denomination, the number of pieces, and the total amount of money input to the input unit 3c can be accurately controlled. Therefore, the denomination and the number of coins Q stored in the storage unit 4 can be accurately controlled, and the empty or overflow (when the total number of coins Q exceeds the storage amount of the storage unit or when a specific amount of coins is exceeded) (When the percentage of species is increasing).

 In the example of Fig. 7 (b), an example is shown in which the loading section 3c is arranged on the downstream side of the transport of the storage section 4 and on the upstream side of the transport of the denomination identifying section 20, but the loading section is shown in Fig. 7 (a). The same effect can be obtained by devising the route from the input unit so that coins Q are supplied from the upstream side of the denomination identification unit 20 without coins being input to the storage unit 4 as the same position as be able to.

 FIG. 8 is a simplified plan view of a coin processing apparatus 61 according to another embodiment of the present invention. The coin processing device 6 1 basically includes a storage means 6 4 having a storage inlet 6 2 to which the coin Q is supplied and a storage outlet 6 3 for discharging the coin Q one by one, and the storage and storage means 6. Circulation means 65 for transporting coins Q stored in 4; coin input means 66 for supplying coins Q supplied from the outside to supply means 65; and transport means 65. Denomination identification means 6 7 to be provided, preparation for storing reserves as change 伞 storage means 68, outlets 69 to discharge change to customers, first sorting mechanism 7 1 and second sorting mechanism 7 And 2 and 3 sorting means.

FIG. 9 is a simplified sectional view of the storage means 64. A turntable 75 is provided on the coin processing device main body 74 so as to be rotatable around a vertical axis 76. The rotating table 75 has a raised portion 78 near the center of a horizontal disk 77, and a projection 79 formed on the disk 77. The coin Q supplied from the storage inlet 62 moves on the rotary table 75 by the rotation of the rotary table 75 in the rotation direction 81. It can be stored and stored in a uniform pile on the turntable 75 in contact with the ridges 8 and the protrusions 79. The rotation direction 81 is the same direction as a transport direction 92 described later. A hopper peripheral wall 83 of a storage hopper 82 is formed on an outer peripheral portion of the rotary table 75, and a guide portion 84 that is inclined downward from the base end of the hopper peripheral wall 83 toward the inside of the rotary table 75 in the radial direction. Is formed. At the lower part of the guide portion 84, a downwardly facing exit passage 85 for guiding the coin Q is formed between the rotating tape 75 and the disk 77. A single coin Q is guided into the outlet passage 85, and the coin Q is discharged one by one from the storage outlet 63.

 A pulley 86 is provided below the turntable 75. A belt 87 is wound around the pulley 86, and a storage drive source including a motor M R1 (see FIG. 15 described later) is provided.

8 Rotated by 8.

 The transport means 65 has a transport path 91 extending from the storage outlet 63 of the storage means 64 to the storage inlet 62. The transport path 91 includes a common transport path 93 extending from the storage outlet 63 to the first sorting mechanism 71, and a branch transport path 94 extending from the first sorting mechanism 71 to the storage inlet 62. The branch transport path 94 is formed above the auxiliary transport path 95 and is inclined so as to be shifted upward toward the downstream side in the transport direction 92. The transfer means 65 has not only the above-described transfer path 91 but also an auxiliary transfer path 95 extending from the first sorting mechanism 71 to the storage outlet 63 along the transfer direction 92. A part of the auxiliary transport path 95 forms a reserve storage space 68 for storing reserves on standby. The transporting means 65 includes an endless annular plate 98 having a horizontal continuous moving surface 97 concentric with the rotating table 75 radially outward of the rotating table 75, and is rotatable about a vertical axis 76. In addition, the coin processing device main body 74 is provided. This annular plate

A belt 101 is wound around a pulley 99 integrally formed with the belt 98, and is driven in a transport direction 92 by a transport drive source 102 including a motor MR 2 (see FIG. 15). It is driven to rotate. The moving surface 97 of the annular plate 98 has a radial width 103 (see FIG. 8), and the coins Q are arranged side by side by the cover body 104 in the conveying direction 92. It is transported almost horizontally. The cover body 104 forms a radially inner peripheral wall 105 of the moving surface 97 on the annular plate 98 and a radially outer peripheral wall 106 to move the coin Q. Guide on plane 9 7

 The denomination identifying means 67 identifies the denomination of the coin Q by detecting the size, shape, metal material, and the like of the coin Q transported along the common transport path 93. For example, in this embodiment, a coil driven by an AC signal source is arranged above the moving surface 97 of the annular plate 98, and has the dimensions and shape of the coin Q mounted on and conveyed on the moving surface 97. Detects the value of the inductance that depends on the magnetic permeability of the metal material and identifies the denomination.

 FIG. 10 is a simplified perspective view of the sorting means 73. The distribution plate 107 of the first distribution mechanism 71 is provided to be angularly displaceable by a swing shaft 108 extending horizontally in the radial direction of the annular plate 98. The distribution plate 107 is driven to be angularly displaced by an electromagnetic solenoid SL1 via a link mechanism 109.

 An endless annular groove 1 11 concentric with the annular plate 98 is formed facing the moving surface 97 of the annular plate 98. A projection 112 is formed at an end of the distribution plate 107 on the upstream side in the transport direction 92, and the projection 112 can be fitted into the groove 111.

 FIG. 11 is a circumferential development diagram showing the sorting means 73 in a simplified manner. In the state shown in FIG. 11, the distribution plate 107 of the first distribution mechanism 71 is inclined downward, and the above-mentioned projections 112 are formed by the grooves 1 formed in the annular plate 98. 11 The coin Q1 that fits into 1 and is therefore on the common transport path 93 is conveyed by riding on the distribution plate 107 and on the branch transport path 94 as indicated by reference numeral Q2. Be guided. The state in which the coin Q3 is being conveyed on the auxiliary conveyance path 95 is shown.

 In the first distributing mechanism 71, the distributing plate 107 is angularly displaced by the driving of the electromagnetic solenoid SL1, and the protruding portion 112 of the distributing plate 107 is moved along the common transport path 93 as indicated by an arrow 113. Displaced upward. As a result, the coin Q1 on the common transport path 93 passes below the sorting plate 107 shown by the imaginary line 107a in FIG. 11, and as shown by the reference numeral Q3. The sheet is transferred to the auxiliary transfer path 95.

In the first distributing means 71, drive wheels 114 and 115 are arranged before and after the distributing plate 107, respectively. The front drive wheel 114 contacts the upper surface of the coin Q1 on the common transport path 93, and reliably transports the coin Q1 downstream in the transport direction 92. With the sorting plate 1 07 of 1 lowered, coin Q 1 is placed on the sorting plate 1 07 After that, it is ensured that the sheet is conveyed by contacting the rear drive wheels 115 on the branch conveyance path 94. The rear drive wheel 1 15 contacts the upper surface of the coin Q 2 (see FIG. 11) on the branch transport path 94, and the coin Q 2 passes through the second sorting mechanism 72 to the storage / storage means 64. Ensure supply to storage inlet 62 or transfer to outlet 69. These front and rear drive wheels 1 14 and 1 15 are linked by a belt, and coins Q l and Q 2 are moved along the transport direction 92 by the distribution drive source 117 including the motor MR 3. Is driven to rotate. The references Q 1 to Q 3 and the following references Q 6 to 8, 11 may be referred to collectively by the aforementioned reference Q.

 The second distribution mechanism 72 has a distribution plate 118 that is driven by angular displacement about a vertical axis. In the state shown in FIGS. 8 and 10, the sorting plate 1 18 guides the coin Q rising on the branch transport path 94 to the storage inlet 62 of the storing and supplying means 64. The distribution plate 118 is driven by an electromagnetic solenoid SL2 via a link mechanism 119 for angular displacement. When the distributing plate 1 18 is angularly displaced by the drive of the electromagnetic solenoid SL 2 as shown by the arrow 1 2 1 in FIG. 10, the coin Q that has risen on the branch transport path 94 is discharged to the outlet 6 9 And is discharged through passages 122. In this way, the distribution plate 1 18 closes the passage 122 in FIG. 10, thereby distributing and guiding the coin Q of the branch transport path 94 to the storage inlet 62, and the distribution plate 1 18 In a state where the storage inlet 62 is closed as indicated by reference numeral 121 of 10, the coin Q on the branch transport path 94 is distributed and guided to the path 122 as described above.

FIG. 12 is a simplified perspective view showing a part of the reserve money storage means 68. The reserve storage means 68 has a stopper means 123 at a position downstream of the reserve storage space 96 in the transport direction 92. The stopper means 123 is disposed upstream of the storage outlet 63 in the transport direction 92. The stopper means 1 2 3 includes a stop piece 1 24 having a substantially L-shaped vertical section along the transport direction 92, and a stop piece 1 2 4, which extends horizontally in the radial direction of the annular plate 98. It includes a support shaft 125 supporting angular displacement about an axis, a link mechanism 126 connected to the stop piece 124, and an electromagnetic solenoid SL3 connected to the link mechanism 126. The stop piece 124 has a protrusion 127. The protrusion 1 27 fits into the groove 1 1 1 of the annular plate 98, thereby stopping the coin Q in the reserve storage space 96. It is reliably stopped by the pieces 1 2 4. The annular plate 98 is constantly rotating in the transport direction 92. The projecting portion 127 of the stop piece 124 is displaced above the moving surface 97 of the annular plate 98 as shown by an arrow 128 so as to be above the reserve storage space 96. The coin Q moves below the stop piece 124 in the transport direction 92 and is supplied to the transport path 91.

 A coin presence / absence sensor 1 29 is provided upstream of the stopper 1 2 3 of the stopper means 1 2 3 in the transport direction 92. The coin presence / absence sensor 12 9 detects the trailing end of the most downstream coin Q in the transport direction 92 in contact with the stop piece 124 and stopped, that is, the trailing end of the coin train.

 FIG. 13 is a simplified cross-sectional view of the coin insertion means 66. The coin Q input from the outside is supplied onto the input rotary table 13 1. The loading rotary table 13 1 is rotatably provided around a vertical axis 13 2. A peripheral wall 1 3 4 constituting an input hopper 1 3 3 for storing coins Q is provided on the input rotary table 1 3 1. A belt 13 6 is wound around a pulley 13 5 fixed to the insertion rotary table 13 1, and is driven to rotate by arrows 13 8 by an input drive source 13 7 including a motor MR 4. . In this way, the coins Q on the input rotary table 13 1 are supplied to the common transport path 93 via the input transport path 13 9 one by one.

 FIG. 14 is a simplified plan view near the connection position where the common transfer path 93 and the input transfer path 139 are connected. In the middle of the common transport path 93, the contact pieces 141, 142 that come into contact with the outer peripheral edge of the coin Q are displaced from the peripheral walls 105, 106 radially outward of the annular plate 98. It is formed. As a result, the coins Q 6, Q 7, Q 8 conveyed adjacent to and abutting in the conveying direction 92 come into contact with these contact pieces 14 1, 14 2 to form the annular plate 98. Displace radially. As a result, a space 144 exists between the coins Q6 and Q8. Such an interval 144 ensures that the denomination of the coin Q is identified by the denomination identification means 67 downstream in the transport direction 92.

The loading conveyance path 13 9 is located downstream of the contact pieces 14 1, 12, and the peripheral walls 14 4, 14 extending radially outward of the annular plate 98 from the peripheral walls 105, 106. 5 is connected to the eccentric transport path 1 4 6. Deviated transport path 1 4 6 and denomination identification means A spring member 147 for pressing the conveyed coin Q11 against the radially outer peripheral wall 106 of the annular plate 98 is provided between the spring member 147 and the spring member 147. When the coin Q 11 on the moving surface 97 of the annular plate 98 is conveyed in the conveying direction 92, the coin resiliently contacts the spring member 147 and contacts the peripheral wall 106. This spring member 147 comes into contact with the coin Ql1 to exert a spring force. The peripheral walls 105 and 106 are formed as concentric circles centered on the vertical axis 76 of the turntable 75. When the coin Q11 is conveyed while being in contact with the peripheral wall 106, the denomination identifying means 67 accurately determines the denomination which depends on the size, shape, metal material, etc. of the coin Q11. Can be detected. The spring member 147 may be realized by a leaf spring, but may be, for example, a brush rotating clockwise on the moving surface 97.

 FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the embodiment of the present invention shown in FIGS. For example, a signal representing the amount of change from the host computer 152 in the POS register is supplied to the processing circuit 151 implemented by a microcomputer or the like. The processing circuit 15 1 is also provided with outputs of a denomination identifying means 67 and a coin presence / absence sensor 127, whereby the motors MR 1 to MR 4 and the electromagnetic solenoids SL 1 to SL 3 are provided. Controlled. The memories Ml to M4 are connected to the processing circuit 15 1. The memory Ml stores the denomination of the coin Q stored in the storage means 61 and the number of coins for each denomination. The memory M 2 stores the current number of coins Q of each denomination stored in the reserve storage space 96 in the reserve storage means 68 and the target number of coins of each denomination. Is stored. The target number of coins for each denomination is, for example, 1 yen 4 sheets, 5 yen 1 sheet, 10 yen 4 sheets, 50 yen 1 sheet, 100 yen in order to achieve a reserve of 999 yen This is information about 4 yen and 1 500 yen. The memory M3 stores the number of each denomination to be paid for the change given by the host computer 152. In the memory M4, the number of coins Q of the remaining balance of the change remaining without being discharged to the discharge port 69 is stored for each denomination. The processing circuit 151 is also provided with a timer 153 for control.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the processing circuit 151 of FIG. When the purchase price is supplied by coin Q in the P〇S register, In step a1, a deposit command signal is output. When the change is to be discharged to the discharge port 69 and paid out, in step a2, a change payout command signal is output. In order to store the reserve of the coin Q in the reserve storage space 96 by the reserve storage means 68, a reserve replenishment command signal is output in step a3.

 FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the deposit operation of the processing circuit 151. Prior to performing the depositing operation, the insertion rotating table 13 1 of the coin insertion means 66 is driven to rotate in the direction of the arrow 1 38 by the motor MR 4. The motor MR1 of the storage means 64 is stopped, and the turntable 75 remains stopped. In the stop means 1 23 of the reserve storage means 68, the stop piece 124 is in the lowered position as shown in FIG. 12, and the coin Q is kept stopped.

In step b1, when the processing circuit 151 receives the deposit command signal from the host computer 152 in step a1 in FIG. 16 described above, the processing proceeds to the next step b2. In step b 2 of FIG. 17, the second sorting mechanism 72 places the sorting plate 118 into the storage inlet 62 of the storage means 64 as shown by the solid line in FIG. 8 and FIG. The electromagnetic solenoid SL2 is driven so as to lead to In step b3, the electromagnetic solenoid SL1 in the first distribution mechanism 71 is controlled so that the distribution plate 107 is displaced above the arrow 113 as shown in FIG. At this time, the motor MR3 of the first distribution mechanism 71 may be stopped, or may be constantly driven to rotate.

In step b4, the motor MR2 is driven to rotate the annular plate 98 in the transport direction 92. In step b5, the motor MR4 of the coin insertion means 66 is driven, and the insertion rotation table 1331 is rotated in the forward direction of the arrow 138. In step b6, the count N of the counter 155 provided in the processing circuit 151 is reset to zero. In Step b7, it is determined whether or not the coin Q is detected by the denomination identifying means 67, and if the coin Q is detected, the process proceeds to Step b8. In step b8, the count value N of the counter 155 is incremented by one, and in step b9, it is determined whether the number is equal to or greater than a predetermined number K, and the number of coins Q is equal to or greater than the value K. If so, proceed to step b 10, and connect the motor MR 1 of the storage means 6 4 to It is reversely driven by a predetermined amount which is a predetermined angle in the direction opposite to the arrow 81. As a result, the coins Q stored and stored in the rotary table 75 are deposited at a uniform height by the action of the ridges 78 and the projections 79, for example, a large amount near the storage inlet 62. Coin Q will not be deposited. Then, in step b11, the count value N is reset to zero, and the process returns to step b7. After the coin Q inserted into the coin input means 66 is identified by the denomination identifying means 67, the coin Q is passed from the first sorting mechanism 71 to the second sorting mechanism via the branch transport path 94. It will be supplied from 7 2 to the rotary table 75 through the storage inlet 62. The denomination of each coin Q detected by the denomination identifying means 67 is stored in the memory Ml by counting the number of each denomination.

 If it is determined in step b7 that the coin Q has not been detected by the denomination identifying means 67, the process proceeds to the next step b12, where a coin entry to be detected next by the denomination identifying means 67 is made. The timer 153 measures whether the time interval is equal to or longer than a predetermined time W1. This time W 1 may be 1 second, for example. When the coin entry time interval is longer than the time W1, the process proceeds to step b13, in which the motor MR4 of the coin insertion means 66 is stopped, and thereafter, the motor is reversely rotated in the opposite direction of the arrows 138. As a result, the coin Q in the input rotary table 13 1 is moved by the raised portion 15 7 and the projection 15 8 to break the pile of coins Q deposited on the rotary table 13 1 Coins Q remaining in the coin input means 66 and not supplied due to hanging or the like can be supplied to the input transport path 1 39.

In this way, in step b14, the motor MR4 is stopped, the insertion rotary table 131 is rotated forward in the direction of arrow 1338, and the inserted coin Q is supplied to the insertion transport path 1339. In step b15, similarly to step b12, the denomination identifying means 67 measures whether the coin entry time interval to be detected next is equal to or longer than a predetermined time W2. When the coin entry time interval is longer than the time W2, the process proceeds to step b16. In step b16, it is determined that the inserted coin Q does not exist, and the motor MR4 is stopped. In the next step b17, the motor MR1 is stopped. Thus, the coin Q from the coin input means 66 is stored in the storage means 64. The number of sheets stored for each denomination is stored in the memory Ml.

 FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining an operation for storing and replenishing a predetermined reserve in the reserve storage space 96 of the reserve storage means 68. At this time, the motor MR 4 of the coin insertion means 66 is stopped, and the stop piece 1 24 of the stopper means 123 is lowered by the action of the solenoid SL 3, and the coin Q is stopped. Has become. In step cl, in the second sorting mechanism 72, the sorting plate 118 is angularly displaced by the electromagnetic solenoid SL2 so as to guide the coin Q to the storage inlet 62 of the storage means 64. In step c2, the motor MR2 is driven to rotate, and the annular plate 98 of the transfer means 65 is driven to rotate in the transfer direction 92. At step c3, the rotary table 75 is driven to rotate forward as indicated by the arrow 81 by the motor MR1 of the storage means 64. In this manner, the coins Q are supplied one by one from the storage outlet 63 of the storage means 64 to the common transport path 93 while the operation of rotating the annular plate 98 in the transport direction 92 is stabilized. In step c4, the denomination of the coin Q is identified and determined by the denomination identifying means 67. If it is determined in step c5 that the coin is a denomination of the coin Q selected to be replenished for storage in the reserve storage space 96, in step c8, the transport direction 92 of the coin Q , That is, the end on the downstream side in the transport direction. Therefore, in step c9, the sorting plate 107 of the first sorting mechanism 71 is raised in accordance with the detection of the front end of the coin Q, and the coin Q is guided to the auxiliary transport path 95. After the coins Q for each predetermined denomination have been stored in the reserve storage space 96, the operation for capturing the coins Q in the reserve storage space 96 has been completed in step c10. Judge and proceed to the next step c 11. When coins Q should be stored in the reserve storage space 96, the process returns from step c10 to step c4.

If it is determined in step c5 that the coin is not the denomination of the coin Q to be replenished and stored in the reserve storage space 96, then in step c6, the coin Q is determined by the denomination identifying means 67. , That is, the end on the downstream side in the transport direction 92, and thereafter, in step c7, the sorting plate 107 is moved down by the first sorting mechanism 71, whereby the coin Q is It is guided to the branch conveyance path 94, and is supplied from the storage port 62 to the rotary table 75 of the storage means 64 through the second distribution mechanism 72. In step c 11, a predetermined number of coins Q for each denomination is stored in the reserve storage space 96 and the reserve is secured. 7 is lowered as shown in FIG. 11 to bring the coin Q to the branch transport path 94. Then, in step c12, the motor MR1 is stopped, and the turntable 75 is stopped. In step c 13, the motor MR 1 is rotated for a predetermined time W 3 in the opposite direction of the arrow 81 to break the pile of coins Q deposited on the rotary table 75, and to store the coin at the storage outlet. 6 Return the coin Q staying in the vicinity of 3 to the inside of the rotating table 75 so that the coin Q does not inadvertently exit the transport path 91 from the exit 63. In step c14, the motor MR1 is stopped.

 FIG. 19 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of dispensing the change of the processing circuit 151 to the discharge port 69 and discharging the change. In FIG. 19, the processing circuit 15 1 generates a change payout command signal, and in step d 1, the operation from step d 2 is performed according to the payout command. At this time, the motor MR4 remains stopped, and the input rotary table 1 31 is stopped. The motor MR1 is stopped, and the rotary table 75 is stopped. Further, the stop piece 1 2 4 of the stopper means 1 2 3 is lowered by the action of the solenoid S L 3 to keep the coin Q in the reserve storage space 96 stopped.

 In step d2, in the second sorting mechanism 72, the sorting plate 1 18 is formed by the action of the electromagnetic solenoid SL2 as shown by the imaginary line in FIGS. The coin Q of 94 is in a state of being guided from the passage 122 to the outlet 69.

 In step d3, the annular plate 98 is rotationally driven by the motor MR2. In step d4, the sorting plate 107 is raised in the first sorting mechanism 71, and the coin Q is transported to the auxiliary transport path 95, which is an initial state. After the rotation of the annular plate 98 is stabilized, in step d5, the stop piece 1 2 4 of the stopper means 123 rises as indicated by the arrow 1 28 in FIG. 12 and the reserve storage means 68 The coin Q in the reserve storage space 96 in the above is transported in the transport direction 92 by the annular plate 98.

Reserved coins to be paid out by the coin presence sensor 1 2 9 in step d 6 It is determined whether the trailing end of the row, that is, the end of the coin Q stored in the most upstream side in the transport direction 92 has been detected. By detecting the trailing end of this coin row, it is confirmed that all the coins Q stored in the reserve storage space 96 have been conveyed. If the trailing end of the coin Q is detected by the coin presence / absence sensor 1 29, in the next step d7, the stop piece 1 24 of the stopper means 1 2 3 descends as shown by the solid line in FIG. Then, the conveyed coin Q is stored again in the reserve storage space 96 without being discharged to the discharge port 69 as change, and the coin Q in the reserve storage space 96 remains stopped.

 In step d8, it is determined whether or not the coin entry time interval detected by the denomination identifying means 67 has exceeded a predetermined time W5. This time W5 may be 2 seconds. If the time interval of coin entry into the denomination discriminating means 6 7 is equal to or longer than the time W 5 described above, it is determined that the transport of the coins stored in the reserve storage space 96 has been completed, and the next step d 9 Then, the motor MR 2 is stopped and the annular plate 98 is stopped. If the time interval of coin entry into the denomination discriminating means 67 is less than the time W5 in step d8, the process proceeds to the next step d10, where the denomination discriminating means 67 determines the denomination of the denomination. Done. In step d11, the balance of the change, that is, the balance of the change obtained by subtracting a part of the change already paid out and supplied to the outlet 69 from the change amount is calculated. If the balance of this change is zero, the process proceeds to step d8. If the balance of the change is not zero, the process proceeds to step d12, and the denomination of the coin Q selected for the change is detected by the denomination identifying means 67 to discharge the balance of the change. Is determined. When it is determined that the denomination is selected as the change, the front end of the coin Q is detected in step d13, and in step d14, the sorting plate 107 is moved by the first sorting mechanism in FIG. And the coin Q is transported to the branch transport route 94. Thus, in step d15, it is determined whether or not the balance of the change has become zero, and if it has become zero, the distribution plate 107 of the first distribution means 71 is raised in step d16. The coin Q is guided to the auxiliary transport path 95.

If it is determined in step d12 that the denomination of the coin Q detected by the denomination identifying means 67 is not the denomination selected for the remaining change, the next step is performed. In step d18, the sorting plate 107 of the first sorting means 71 is raised to move the coin Q to the auxiliary transport path 95. Lead to. In this way, when the reserve coins Q supplied from the reserve storage space 96 are not used for change, they are returned to the reserve storage space 96 via the auxiliary transport path 95 again. Therefore, the coin Q for each denomination required for the reserve can be quickly stored in the reserve storage space, and the coin Q supplied from the storage outlet 63 of the storage means 64 can be used. The operation of recognizing the denomination and refilling the reserve storage space 96 can be completed in a short time.

 Even if the trailing end of the coin row of the reserve to be paid out by the coin presence / absence sensor 12 9 in step d 6 has not yet been detected, the change payout operation is performed in steps d 20 to d 28. . This payout operation is the same as the operation in steps d10 to d18 described above.

 The present invention is capable of the following embodiments.

(1) Store reserves, which are predetermined combinations of denominations of coins and the number of coins for each denomination, and achieve one or more predetermined amounts by at least a part of coins constituting this combination. Reserve means for storing coins, a denomination discriminating means for identifying a denomination of coins conveyed from the reserve money storage means, and the predetermined amount in response to an output representing the identification result of the denomination discriminating means. And a sorting means for selectively discharging coins from the reserve money storing means. According to the present invention, reserves for coins are stored in the reserve storage means, and the reserves are, for example, four 1-yen coins, one 5-yen coin, four 10-yen coins, and 50 One yen coin, four 100 yen coins, and one 500 yen coin, the amount of which is 999 yen, the denomination of such coins and the number of coins for each denomination According to the predetermined combination with, it is possible to achieve all kinds of amounts from 1 yen to 999 yen, for example, for change. Therefore, even when there are multiple types of change amounts, the change amount of each amount is set to a predetermined amount, such as change, from the reserve based on the identification result of the coin identified by the denomination identifying means. Then, coins are selected and discharged by the sorting means. Therefore, coins that achieve a predetermined amount can be quickly discharged. Become like

 According to the present invention, the reserve storage means stores reserves, which are a predetermined combination of the denomination of coins and the number of coins for each denomination, so that reserves such as change

One or more types of money can be quickly achieved using the coins that make up the combination. As a result, coins constituting the predetermined amount can be quickly discharged.

 (2) Includes storage means for storing a plurality of types of coins, and the sorting means selects coins from the coins conveyed from the storage means so as to be reserves for the combination, and reserves the coins. A coin processing device, wherein the coins are sorted so as to be conveyed to a storage means, and among the coins from the reserve storage means, coins which are not ejected are sorted back to the reserve storage means.

 According to the present invention, a plurality of types of coins stored and stored in the storing and storing means are identified by the denomination identifying means, and reserves of the coins of the combination are stored in the reserve storing means. In this way, coins are selected by the sorting means and transported to the reserve storage means. Further, among the coins supplied from the reserve storage means, for example, coins which are not used as change and are not discharged are returned to the reserve storage means again by the sorting means. In this way, the reserve of the coins of the combination is automatically stored in the reserve storage means, and the non-discharged coins of the coins of the reserve storage means are returned to the reserve storage means. Thereby, the operation of storing coins of the combination in the reserve storage means can be performed quickly.

 ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the coin stored in the storage means is selectively supplied to the reserve storage means, thereby automatically obtaining the coins constituting the reserve. Can be.

(3) A coin input means for supplying coins input from the outside to the storage means, and the denomination identifying means identifies a denomination of the coin supplied from the coin input means to the storage means, and stores and stores the coin type. A counter that counts the number of coins stored in the means for each denomination, and a denomination that responds to the output of the counter and derives a signal indicating a denomination shortage when the combination of reserves cannot be achieved. And a shortage detecting means. According to the present invention, coins input from the outside by the coin input means are supplied to the storage means and stored, and the denomination of the coin supplied from the coin input means to the storage means is denomination identification. Identified by means. Therefore, the number of coins of each denomination stored in the storage means can be counted by the counter. When the combination of coins stored as reserves in the reserve storage means cannot be achieved based on the output of the counter, the denomination shortage detection means detects the coins stored in the storage means. A signal indicating that the denomination is insufficient is derived and announced. Thus, for example, the worker can perform an operation of replenishing coins of a denomination that is insufficient in the storage means. Therefore, coins of the above-mentioned combination can always be stored in the reserve storage means, whereby one or a plurality of predetermined amounts of money can be achieved and discharged by the coins.

(4) Storage and storage means for storing a plurality of types of coins, wherein a storage inlet for supplying coins and a storage outlet for discharging coins one by one are provided at offset positions around the storage and storage means. Means for storing and storing coins, from the storage outlet to the storage inlet, along the transport path, in this transport direction, a transport path for transporting, and from the middle of the transport path to the storage outlet, an auxiliary transport path continuous in this transport direction. And a denomination identifying means that is provided in the middle of the transport path and identifies the type of coin being transported, and is provided upstream of the denomination identifying means in the transport direction, and is inserted from outside. Coin supply means for supplying coins to the transport path, reserve storage means having a reserve storage space for storing reserves formed in at least a part of the auxiliary transport path, and denomination identifying means for the transport path. Transport method A sorting unit that is provided downstream and guides coins whose denominations have been identified to storage and storage means, and guides or discharges them to reserve storage means, and control means, and denomination identification results from the denomination identification means. In response to the output, the coin from the coin input means is guided to the storing and storing means by the sorting means, and the coin from the storing and storing means is selected between the storing and storing means and the reserve storing means by the sorting means. A coin processing device, comprising: a control means for selectively guiding coins from a reserve storage means to a reserve storage means and a discharge port by a sorting means. According to the present invention, the coins stored and stored in the storage means can return from the storage outlet to the storage inlet via the transport path of the circulating transport means. And an auxiliary transport path extending from the storage outlet to the storage outlet, and at least a part of the auxiliary transport path forms a reserve storage space of the reserve storage means. A denomination discriminating means is provided in the middle of the transport path. The denominations of coins supplied from the storage means are respectively identified, and sorting means is provided on the transport path downstream of the denomination identification means in the transport direction. By the control operation of the control means in response to the output from the denomination discriminating means, the allocating means first guides the coins input by the coin input means externally to the storage means, and the coins input from the outside Once stored in the storage means. Coins from the storage outlet of the storage means are supplied and stored in the reserve storage means in such a manner that the number of coins is equal to the number of coins for which the reserve is achieved. When coins such as change are ejected, the coins from the reserve storage means are selectively guided to the outlet.

 (5) The control means controls the coins from the storage means so that a plurality of types of coins to be stored in the reserve storage space of the reserve storage means and the number of coins of each type become a predetermined combination. A coin processing device characterized by sorting by a sorting means. According to the present invention, the reserve storage means stores a predetermined combination of a denomination of coins and the number of coins for each denomination as reserves. Therefore, coins that achieve one or more predetermined amounts of money can be quickly discharged and supplied to an outlet for change, for example. Moreover, since the reserve uses the coin of the storage means, the reserve can be automatically stored in the above-described combination, and automation can be performed.

According to the present invention, of the coins supplied from the reserve storage means, the remaining coins which have not been discharged as change or the like are returned to the reserve storage means again. To achieve this, only the ejected coins need to be replenished from the storage means. As a result, coins constituting the reserve stored in the reserve storage means can be quickly dispensed. (6) Including change operation means for calculating change in response to the output of coin denomination means from the coin input means, the control means responding to the output of the change operation means, and controlling the change from the reserve storage means. A coin processing device for controlling a sorting means so that coins are discharged by a change amount.

 According to the present invention, for example, in a vending machine, change is calculated by change calculation means, and coins from the reserve storage means are identified by denomination identification means so that the change amount is achieved, The distributing means is operated to discharge to the discharge port. Thus, the change can be quickly discharged to the discharge port.

 In another embodiment of the present invention, the reserve storage means stores coins of the predetermined combination and discharges all coins constituting the reserve to an outlet, for example, as change. May be. In such an embodiment, the denomination discriminating means does not perform the operation of discriminating the denomination of coins from the reserve storage means. Discharge all to the outlet. Thereby, the configuration of the control means can be simplified.

 According to the present invention, among the coins to be supplied from the storing and storing means to the reserve storing means, when the combination cannot be achieved, the shortage of money is notified, so that the worker is in short supply. The work of collecting coins of the denomination into the storage means can be performed reliably. Thus, the coins of the combination can always be surely stored in the reserve storing means. Therefore, money such as change can be reliably discharged.

 The present invention may be embodied in various other forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the above-described embodiment is merely an example in every aspect, and the scope of the present invention is shown by the claims, and is not limited by the specification text.

 Further, all modifications and changes belonging to the equivalent scope of the claims are within the scope of the present invention.

 [Industrial applicability]

According to the present invention, coins stored in the storage means are not biased to a specific denomination. The coins are circulated and conveyed at random, and the denomination discriminating means operates by discriminating the type of coin to be conveyed, and when the desired coin is detected, the sorting means selectively ejects the coins. By adopting such a recirculation system, it is not necessary to secure a plurality of denomination statistic forces and denomination-specific transport paths as in the past, so that an increase in denominations can be easily dealt with. In the detection area of the denomination discriminating means, the coin transport path is inclined, and the coin positioning section is provided at the lower end of the transport path, so that the coin position is stabilized, so that the denomination identification accuracy is improved.

 By providing a coin insertion means for supplying coins on the upstream side of the denomination identification means, it is possible to identify the denomination by the denomination identification means. Can be managed accurately.

 According to the present invention, for example, for a use such as change, a predetermined reserve is stored in coins in reserve storage means, and an operation of discharging a desired amount of coins as change is thereby performed. Can be done quickly.

 ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the denomination identification means provided in the middle of the conveyance path can also be used for identifying the denomination of each coin from the storage means, the reserve storage means, or the coin insertion means. Thus, the configuration can be simplified.

 According to the present invention, in the transport path and the auxiliary transport path of the circulating transport means, the coins are arranged in a posture in which the coins are arranged on a continuous moving surface, and therefore, the coins are not stacked and deposited. And miniaturization becomes possible.

 Further, according to the present invention, the transport path of the circulating transport means and the auxiliary transport path are formed radially outward of the rotary table of the storage means, so that the configuration is also small. Can be achieved. Thus, according to the present invention, a desired coin can be quickly discharged, and its configuration can be simplified to reduce its size.

Claims

The scope of the claims  1, storage means for storing a plurality of coins,  Circulation transport means for transporting the coins stored in the storage means along the transport path and returning the coins to the storage means;  Denomination identification means for identifying the type of coin to be conveyed,  A coin processing device, comprising: a sorting unit for selectively discharging a desired coin among the conveyed coins based on the identification result of the denomination identifying unit.  2. The coin processing device according to claim 1, wherein in the detection area of the denomination discriminating means, the coin transport path is inclined along a direction orthogonal to the transport, and a coin positioning portion is provided at a lower end of the transport path. apparatus.  3. The coin processing device according to claim 1, wherein a coin insertion means for supplying coins to the circulating conveyance means is provided downstream of the storage means and upstream of the denomination identification means.  4. Includes reserve storage means for storing coin reserves and supplying them upstream of the denomination identification means on the transport route,  The sorting means selectively guides a desired coin among the coins whose denominations have been identified to the storage and storage means, guides the coin to the reserve storage means, based on the denomination identification result of the denomination identification means, or 2. The coin processing device according to claim 1, wherein the coin is discharged.  5. The storage means has a storage inlet through which coins are supplied, and a storage outlet through which coins are discharged one by one.  The circulating transport means,  The coins are transported in this transport direction along a transport path extending from the storage outlet to the storage inlet,  It has an auxiliary transport path that continues in the transport direction from the sorting means located upstream of the storage inlet to the storage outlet,  Reserve storage means 5. The coin processing device according to claim 4, further comprising a reserve storage space for storing reserves formed in at least a part of the auxiliary transport path. 6. The coin processing according to claim 5, wherein the reserve storage means includes a stop means for stopping coins at a most downstream position in the transport direction of the reserve storage space. 7. Coin insertion means for supplying coins input from the outside to the transport path, wherein the denomination identification means includes a coin from the storage means, a coin from the reserve storage means, and a coin from the coin insertion means. The coin processing device according to claim 4, wherein each denomination is identified.  8. The transport path is characterized in that coins are transported in a lined up position on a continuous moving surface, and the auxiliary transport path is stored with coins in a lined up position on a continuous moving surface. The coin processing device according to claim 5, wherein  9, storage means  A rotary table rotatable about a vertical axis,  A storage drive source for driving the rotary table to rotate,  The storage inlet and the storage outlet face the rotary table,  The transport path and the auxiliary transport path are located outside the rotary table in the radial direction, and the outlet from which coins are discharged by the sorting means is located outside the radial transport path of the rotary table. The coin processing device according to claim 5, wherein the coin is processed.  10. The sorting means  A first sorting mechanism that is arranged downstream of the denomination discriminating means in the transport direction and that sorts coins leading to a storage inlet and a discharge outlet and coins leading to an auxiliary transport path;  10. The system according to claim 9, further comprising a second sorting mechanism for sorting coins guided to the storage inlet and the outlet by the first sorting mechanism into coins leading to the storage inlet and coins leading to the outlet. Coin processing equipment.  11, circulating transport means  An annular plate rotatably provided concentrically with the rotary table of the storage means, and a transport drive source for rotating the annular plate in the transport direction, The moving surface of the annular plate forms a common transport path upstream of the transport path first sorting mechanism in the transport direction and an auxiliary transport path, 10. The coin processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the second sorting mechanism is provided on a branch transport path downstream of the first sorting mechanism on the transport path.  12, storage means for storing a plurality of types of coins,  Reserve storage means for storing coins from the storage means in a posture where the coins are arranged side by side on a continuous moving surface;  Denomination identifying means for identifying the denomination of the coin from the reserve storage means,  A coin sorting device for selectively ejecting a desired coin based on a denomination identification result of the denomination identification unit.