BRPI0721488A2 - Apparatus; METHOD FOR OPERATING A BANKING TRANSACTION SYSTEM IN RESPONSE TO A DATA SUPPORT RECORD; METHOD OF CATCHING ENCODED RECORDS; AND METHOD OF CAPTURING MAGNETIC MARKING AREAS IN CODED RECORDS THAT INCLUDE FINANCIAL CHECK - Google Patents

Description

"APPARATUS; METHOD FOR OPERATING A BANKING TRANSACTION SYSTEM IN RESPONSE TO A DATA SUPPORT RECORD; METHOD FOR CAPTURING CODED RECORDS;

FIELD OF THE ART This invention relates to data record controlled systems that allow an individual to use specific equipment that can be classified in US Class 235, US Subclass 382. In exemplary embodiments, specific equipment includes an auto machine. -Bank service that operates in response to data included on user cards. This invention also relates to encoded record retention devices which may be classified in U.S. Class 235, U.S. Subclass 486.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION ATMs are known in the prior art. Such ATMs operate in response to data read from encoded records. ATMs are commonly used to conduct transactions such as withdrawing money, checking account balances, paying bills and / or receiving user deposits. Other types of ATMs may be used to purchase tickets, issue coupons, present checks, print receipts and / or perform other functions, or to a consumer or service provider. For the purposes of this description any device that is used to perform transactions involving value transfers must be designated as a bank self-service machine.

ATMs can benefit from improvements.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

One objective of an exemplary embodiment is to provide a system controlled by media records.

An additional object of an exemplary embodiment is to provide a coded record capture device and method.

An additional objective of an exemplary embodiment is to provide a self-service banking machine. An additional objective of an exemplary embodiment is to provide a register controlled calculating apparatus.

An additional purpose of an exemplary embodiment is to provide a deposit acceptance apparatus that can be used to accept, retract and verify the authenticity of the items.

Additional objectives of the exemplary embodiments will become apparent in the Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention and in the following appended claims.

In an exemplary embodiment, a bank self-service machine includes a card reader. The card reader is intended to read the data included on the user cards. Data read from user cards is used to identify authorized users who can perform transactions on the machine. The exemplary modality operates to accept documents. These documents may include checks, notes and / or other types of documents. A single deposit acceptance device can accept 5 multiple document types. In this embodiment, a document, such as a check, is received through an opening in the housing of the banking machine and moved along a transport path in a first direction through a first transport. The 10 sensors that are operative to capture the document move in a suitable location within the device. The document is then disengaged from the first transport and engaged in a couple of second transports which are arranged relative to each other in the first direction. The 15 second transports engage the document and are operative to move the document along the transport path to a transverse direction from the first direction. The first transport disengages from the document, so that the second transports can move the document and align an edge thereof extending along the first direction with a plurality of non-contact sensors. At least one processor operates according to its schedule to control second transports and control document movement in the second direction, so that one edge of the document is aligned with non-contact sensors that serve as a "virtual wall" for purposes of positioning the document. Once the document is aligned so that an edge extends in the first direction in the desired orientation, the first transport reengages the document while the second transports disengage. The document is then moved back in the first direction after one or more suitable pickup devices. In the exemplary embodiment, because the document is aligned along the first direction, documents that are checks may have magnetic marking areas, such as a MICR line or other portion thereof, read by operating one or more magnetic sensors. , such as a magnetic read head. Alternatively or, in addition, when the document is moved in a first direction, the document's magnetic properties may be read, or otherwise captured in a plurality of locations by one or more magnetic sensors, which are operative to read the properties. document, including the markup areas on the document, such as the MICR line and / or other features.

In this exemplary embodiment the check is moved in a first direction after a pair of scan sensors. The scan sensors are operative to read optical marking areas on each side of the check and produce image data that corresponds to them. Data corresponding to the optical marking areas may be processed so that data corresponding to the images of the front and back of the check or portions thereof are generated and stored by operating the processor in one or more machine data stores. of bank transactions. Check marking areas can also be analyzed for the purpose of determining information relating to the check so that it can be used to conduct a transaction.

In this mode, once a check has been moved beyond sensors that capture data that corresponds to the optical marking areas, the check is usually moved in the first direction in an area that can serve as a check collateral area. In some embodiments the collateral area may be of sufficient length so that multiple checks or other documents may be temporarily stored therein. In the exemplary embodiment, the machine operates to determine whether the check will be accepted or returned to the consumer while the check is kept in the escrow area. For example, in some embodiments, one or more processors in the banking machine may operate to determine if the check can be read accurately enough, cleared for cash payment or otherwise processed while the check is stored in the area. of bond. If it is determined that the check cannot be accepted, one or more transports are operative to move the check out of the banking machine so that the check can be returned to the consumer.

Alternatively, if the check is found to be suitable for acceptance, the check is moved from the collateral area beyond one or more stamp printers. The stamp printer is operative to apply ink marks to one or more surfaces of the check to indicate that the check has been canceled or otherwise processed. In an exemplary embodiment the check is therefore moved in a vertically extending conveyor. As the check enters the vertical carriage, printing is conducted on the check by operating an inkjet printer or other suitable printer. Proper printing is applied to the check to indicate that the check has been canceled or otherwise processed as the check moves past the inkjet printer. Of course, printing from various markup areas can be applied when other types of documents are processed.

In the exemplary embodiment, the

Inkjet aligned on an opposite side of the transport from this, an ink receiving mechanism. The ink receiving mechanism of the exemplary embodiment includes a movable head. The movable head includes an aperture therein so that the aperture may be aligned with the ink-spray nozzles on the inkjet printer head to receive ink thereon which is not deposited on the check or other document. The exemplary embodiment of the movable head also includes a wiper. The head is moved by operating a motor or other mobile device at appropriate times so that the wiper engages with the inkjet printer head to minimize ink and contaminant buildup therein. This facilitates accurate printing and helps minimize the risk of potential damage to checks by accumulating excess ink inside the machine.

Checks or other documents that move beyond the printer in portrait transport are moved down, as an example, into a storage area. Since the documents have moved adjacent to a lower surface of the storage area, a transversely movable plunger mechanism is operative to engage the check and move it out of vertical transport. In an exemplary fashion, the piston mechanism is operative to be movable, so that the check can be moved to a storage location on each transverse side of the vertical transport. Once the check is moved out of the carriage through the plunger mechanism, the check or other document may be held in intermediate relationship between a pair of wall surfaces and a spring oriented support plate. As a result, checks or other documents may be selectively moved through the plunger mechanism for storage at one of the selected locations in the storage area.

Several approaches can be taken when operating ATMs to store documents that are received by the document acceptance mechanism. For example, in some modalities the mechanism may accept checks only. In such embodiments, the machine may operate according to its schedule to separate checks which are withdrawn at the particular institution which owns the bank-receiving machine from checks which are withdrawn at other institutions. Alternatively, the banking machine may be programmed to store valid checks in one compartment and suspect checks in another compartment. Alternatively, in some other embodiments, the document acceptance mechanism may store multiple types of documents. For example, on a banking machine that accepts notes and checks through the mechanism, notes can be stored in one compartment while checks are stored in another. Several approaches can be taken based on the programming of the particular bank self-service machine. In an alternative embodiment, the bank self-service machine includes a leaf access area that is operative to accept a stack that includes a plurality of sheets from a machine user. The leaf access area is delimited by a first leaf drive member on a second opposite leaf drive member. At least one dividing plate extends vertically intermediate the first and second leaf drive members. At least one dividing plate and the second leaf drive member are relatively movable relative to the first leaf drive member. At least one divider plate is operative to separate a first side from a second side of the sheet access area. In the exemplary embodiment, the first side of the sheet access area is operative for receiving a stack of sheets from the machine user. The first side is operatively connected with a sheet separator 5 which separates each sheet individually from the stack. The separator distributes each individual sheet for transport in the sheet processing device which is alternatively referred to herein as a deposit acceptance device. The sheet processing device is operative in conjunction with the machine to determine whether each sheet is acceptable, and in this case the acceptable sheets are accepted and stored in the machine. If not, the sheets are moved back toward the sheet access area. In the exemplary embodiment, a diverter moves and / or directs the sheets to be dispensed out of the machine from at least one sheet processing device to the second side of the divider plate. In the exemplary embodiment, the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member are operative to act through at least one opening in at least one dividing plate to move the leaves on both the first side and the second side of the plate. divider. The sheets to be returned to the ATM user are moved by the first and second 25 leaf trigger members out of the leaf slot for distribution to the user.

In still other embodiments, radiation-type sheet detectors are used in conjunction with at least one divider plate to detect sheets on the first side and second side. An additional radiation type leaf detector is used to detect leaves that may be present on the first side or second side.

This is accomplished in an exemplary embodiment by using an angularly reflective part in operably supported connection with at least one divider plate. The angularly reflective part is operative to reflect radiation. Radiation in the exemplary embodiment is received and reflected at an acute angle to the dividing plate. This allows a sensor including a sender and receiver combination to be transversely positioned away from the divider plate. This allows to successfully determine if the sheets are present on a particular side 15 of the dividing plate.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment at least one divider plate includes at least one aperture. At least one sensor includes a radiation emitter on a first side of the aperture and a radiation receiver on a second side of the aperture. The signals from this sensor are used by at least one processor in the machine to determine if sheets are present in the sheet access area, first side or second side of the divider plate. As can be appreciated, in this embodiment at least one processor is operative to determine the presence of sheets and where they are in the sheet access area. This is possible because the sensor that picks up the radiation through the aperture is operative to determine if any sheets are present in the sheet access area regardless of whether they are on the first side or second side of the divider plate. In addition, the radiation sensor is operative to capture the reflected radiation from the radiation reflective part 5. Signals that match the magnitude of the radiation captured are used by at least one processor in the machine to determine if the leaves are present on the side associated with the radiation reflective piece. As a result, this exemplary arrangement allows to determine if the sheets are present and where they are situated. Moreover, in other exemplary truths, the reflective part may be used in connection with the leaf engaging parts on each first side and second side. In addition, additional sensors can be used of reflective or direct type 15 to determine sheet position in alternative embodiments.

In still other exemplary embodiments, a sheet storage and retrieval device such as a belt recycle device may be used. The sheet storage and retrieval device may be used to store sheets being held in determination if they are suitable for storage in the machine, or must be returned to the consumer. The first sheet storage and retrieval device 25 may be used to selectively distribute sheets to the sheet access area for return to the consumer or for distribution to a sheet storage area. In other exemplary embodiments, a second sheet storage and retrieval device is positioned operatively in relation to the first sheet storage and retrieval device 5 and the sheet access area. In some exemplary embodiments, sheets stored as collateral in the first sheet storage and retrieval device are moved in a sheet path toward the sheet access area. A divider in operative connection to the sheet path is operative to divert sheets that are determined to have at least one property indicating that they should be stored on the machine for storage on the second sheet storage and retrieval device. Those sheets that will be returned to the consumer are moved along the sheet path and are directed by the diverter to the second storage area to return to the consumer. The sheets to be retained on the machine stored in the second sheet storage and retrieval device can then be moved from it to the appropriate storage area on the machine. In some embodiments, this may include, for example, check storage areas or banknote storage areas. In some modalities

For example, the first sheet storage and recovery device and the second sheet storage and recovery device may comprise a belt recycling device. Of course, in other embodiments, other operating devices for storing and distributing sheets may be used. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the note storage areas on the machine may be operatively connected with the recycling devices which are operative to selectively distribute the notes stored therein. Such recycling devices may be part of the cash dispensing device in the self-service banking machine.

In still other exemplary embodiments, the sheet processing device in the machine may include, in combination with a device for aligning the sheets with the sheet path, at least one transversely movable magnetic read head. In the exemplary embodiment, the device includes a relatively fixed magnetic read head and a magnetic read head 15 which is selectively movable. The sheet processing device further includes at least one sensor that is operative to capture the width of each check that is received at the machine. At least one sensor is operative to capture the width after the check has been positioned and aligned with respect to the direction of the sheet path. In the exemplary embodiment, check alignment on the sheet path is operative to position the check, so that if the check is in a first physical orientation, the magnetic characters on the MICR line will pass 25 adjacent to the fixed magnetic read head. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, based on the captured width of the check, the movable magnetic read head is positioned by operating a positioning device to move transversely on the sheet path to a selected transverse position on the sheet path. If the check is in a second orientation marking area included in the check's MICR line, it will pass adjacent to the second magnetic read head. As a result, in the exemplary embodiment, the magnetic read heads are positioned for each check, regardless of the check facing position, so that at least one of the magnetic read heads is positioned to capture the signals corresponding to the marking areas. MICR line on the check. In other exemplary embodiments, both magnetic reading heads may be selectively movable to ensure reading of the marking areas. Numerous types of new systems and methods are taught by their description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is an isometric view of an exemplary deposit acceptance apparatus shown in an open condition for service.

Figure 2 is an opposite isometric view of the

deposit acceptance apparatus shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is a schematic view of the devices included in the deposit acceptance apparatus.

Figure 4 is a top isometric view of a portion of an upper press including members of a first carriage that moves documents in a first longitudinal direction on the deposit acceptor and second transports that move documents in a transverse direction to The first direction.

Figure 5 is a side view of the press and the first and second actuators shown in Figure 4.

Figure 6 is a bottom view corresponding to the

Figures 4 and 5 showing the roller press of the first and second conveyors extending between them.

Figure 7 is a top plan view of an upper press and a lower press of a locking mechanism.

transport of the deposit-taking apparatus

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Figure 8 is a top view showing the positions of the first and second transports that correspond to Figure 7.

Figure 9 is a view similar to Figure 7, with the

transports that operate to move a document in a first direction.

Figure 10 is a front view of the first and second transports corresponding to Figure 9.

Figure 11 is a view similar to Figure 9, with the

document moved additionally to the deposit acceptance apparatus.

Figure 12 is a front plan view showing the positions of the first and second transports.

Figure 13 is a view similar to Figure 11, which shows

shows the document moved in a second transverse direction to the first direction. Figure 14 is a front plan view showing the relative positions of the first and second transports when a document is moved in a transverse direction.

Figure 15 is a view similar to Figure 13 showing a document edge aligned with non-contact sensors.

Figure 16 corresponds to Figure 15 and shows the positions of the first and second transports.

Figure 17 is a view similar to Figure 15, however, showing an alternate document including a "GTCTC dofo" "cidei.

Figure 18 is a front view of the first and second transports corresponding to Figure IV.

Figure 19 is an isometric view showing the movable assembly of the exemplary magnetic read head of the embodiment.

Figure 20 is a partially sectioned view corresponding to Figure 19 further showing the movable assembly for the magnetic read head.

Figure 21 is a cross-sectional side view of the

mounting for the magnetic read head as shown in Figure 19.

Figure 22 is an isometric view showing an ink receiving mechanism of an exemplary embodiment.

Figure 23 is a partially exploded view showing the movable head disposed from the ink receiver body. Figure 24 is an exploded isometric view showing the body of the ink receiver of Figure 22.

Figure 25 is a partially exploded view of an exemplary form of the stamp printer used in the exemplary embodiment.

Figure 26 is another exploded view of the exemplary stamp printer.

Figure 27 is a side view showing the eccentric profile of the exemplary embodiment of the stamp printer's printing roll.

Figure 28 is an isometric view of the storage compartment of the alternative depot acceptance mechanism shown with the storage compartment having its access door in an open position.

Figure 29 is an isometric view of the transport guide extending vertically into the storage area.

Figure 30 is a side view of the transport extending vertically into the storage area of the exemplary depot acceptance apparatus.

Figure 31 is an isometric view of the apparatus shown, which accepts a vertically extending transport document.

Figures 32 to 35 show sequential motion.

of an exemplary piston member as it operates to move a vertically extending transport-held document to a storage location positioned on the left side of the storage mechanism as shown.

Figure 36 is an isometric view similar to Figure 31 showing vertical transport of acceptance of a document therein.

Figures 37 to 40 show the sequential movement of the exemplary piston member to move a document in vertical transport to a storage location on the right side of vertical transport as shown.

Figure 41. The eagle has seen. The Excitement. cjug rnostirci urfici bank self-service machine with an alternative exemplary deposit acceptance device.

Figure 42 is a schematic view of an exemplary deposit acceptor of the type shown on the bank self-service machine of Figure 41.

Figure 43 is a plan view of an exemplary press in a document alignment area of the alternate deposit acceptor.

Figure 44 is a view similar to Figure 43, but including portions of a check therein showing the location of the marking areas included on the MICR line in the four possible orientations of a check in the document alignment area.

Figure 45 is an isometric view showing an exemplary microliter reading head. Figures 46 and 47 are schematic views of an exemplary sheet access area in a position prior to accepting a sheet stack.

Figures 48 and 49 are views of the sheet access area receiving the sheet stack.

Figures 50 and 51 show the sheet access area as it moves the sheet stack toward a separator.

Figures 52 and 53 show the sheet access area after the sheet stack is accepted therein and a

door and ceiling mechanism

Figures 54 and 55 show the document stack as the stack moves adjacent to the separator.

Figures 56 and 57 show the leaf access area with the top leaf drive member disposed away from the stack.

Figures 58 and 59 show the sheet access area receiving a discarded sheet while still maintaining some sheets of the original input stack.

Figures 60 and 61 show the leaf drive members operating to move the sheets out of the sheet access area in which the sheets are positioned on either side of the divider plate.

Figures 62 and 63 show the sheets on each side of the divider plate that have been presented to the consumer in a position that is returned to the machine, which may be made, for example, in response to the user not removing the sheets from the machine.

Figures 64 and 65 show the retracted sheets which are captured for storage in the machine by separator operation.

Figures 66 and 67 show the sheet access area that operates to distribute a stack of sheets to a user, such as a stack of discarded checks.

Figure 68 shows an exemplary sheet access area sensor arrangement.

Figure 69 is a plan view of an exemplary divider plate.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

U.S. Patent No. 6,474,548, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, describes an exemplary deposit-taking device of a card-activated cash withdrawal bank self-service machine. For the purposes of this description, a deposit acceptor 20 should be constructed to encompass any apparatus that captures marking areas on documents posted on a bank self-service machine.

A depot acceptance device 420 of an exemplary embodiment and having the features described below is shown in Figure I. The depot acceptance device is shown with the mechanism open to more readily describe its components. . The deposit acceptance mechanism may be opened as shown in Figures 1 and 2 only when the device is not in operation. Preferably, the device may be placed in the open condition for service activities such as releasing jams, cleaning, adjusting or replacing components. This may be readily accomplished, in this exemplary embodiment, by a service provider as described later. The deposit acceptance device includes a document entry opening 422. In the exemplary embodiment, during operation the entry opening is in communication with the outside of the housing of the bank self-service machine. Documents received through the input slot travel along a transport path in the device. The transport path in the device further includes a document alignment area 424, in which documents are aligned to facilitate their processing. The exemplary form of the unit further includes a document analysis area 426. The exemplary document analysis area includes scan sensors and magnetic sensors for reading purposes of document marking areas.

The exemplary form of the device further includes a collateral area 428 along the transport path 25. In the escrow area, documents that have been received are stored depending on whether you want to accept the documents or return them to the user. The exemplary deposit acceptor includes a storage area 430 that operates to store documents that have been accepted for deposit in the deposit acceptor. Of course, it should be understood that this structure exemplifies the arrangements that may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment, documents are received through the aperture and the presence of a document is captured by at least one sensor 432.

Capturing a document on opening at an appropriate time during an ATM operation (such as a period when a user indicates via a machine input device that he wants to post a document) fax with at least one processor operating to control a door 434. The processor operates by capturing the document to cause the door to move from the closed to the open position. This is accomplished in the exemplary embodiment by an actuator, such as an electric or solenoid motor, which moves an actuator member 436 as shown in Figure I. Actuator member 436 includes a cam slot 438 that induces corresponding movement of door 434 through the desired position. In some embodiments, at least one sensor 432 or other sensor in the device is operative to capture properties that may indicate whether the document is inserted is a double or other multiple document. At least one processor on the bank machine may operate according to its schedule to not accept multiple documents and cause the bank machine to provide at least one output to guide the user to insert a single document.

In response to document capture and other conditions as determined by at least one processor, a first transport 440 operates to move the document into the document alignment area. In the exemplary embodiment, the document is moved relative to engagement between a belt section 442 and rollers 444. As best shown in Figures 1 and 4, rollers 444 extend into openings 446 in an upper press 448 to engage or at least move very close to belt section 4 4 2. As shown in Figure 4, rollers 444 are mounted on a movable cartridge 450. Cartridge 450 is rotationally movable about an axis 452. Cartridge movement 450 permits selective positioning of rollers 444 which will be positioned close to the surface of belt section 442 or arranged away from each other for reasons which will be discussed later. After the document is captured as it moves inside the device, the processor operates to cause the door to close. Alternatively, if a user has provided entries through machine input devices indicating that more documents will be deposited on the machine, the door may remain open until the last document is deposited.

As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the press 448 in the operative position is adjacent to a conductor in the guide 454. The guide portion 454 and the press 448 include corresponding contoured edges 456, 458. The contoured edges of the exemplary embodiment have a toothed contoured configuration. This setting is used in the exemplary embodiment to reduce the risk of documents becoming caught at the adjacent edges of the press and guide. The toothed contoured configuration of adjacent surfaces helps minimize the risk of documents being caught, folded, or damaged as they pass adjacent surfaces. Of course, it should be understood that this approach is exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment, the document alignment area includes transverse conveyor rollers 460 and 462. The transverse conveyor rollers extend through the openings in the press 464 supporting the belt section 442. The exemplary embodiment transverse conveyor rollers are configured. to have axially tapered surfaces extending in each longitudinal direction from the radially outermost extending portion of the roll to minimize the risk of documents being caught by a surface thereof. In alternative embodiments, the transverse conveyor rollers may have single or composite curved surfaces to minimize the risk of capturing transverse moving documents, the configurations of which should also be referred to as tapered for the purposes of this disclosure. In the exemplary embodiment, the upper surface of the transverse conveyor rollers is generally about the same level as the upper surface of the belt section 442. In addition, each of the transverse conveyor rollers is operatively connected to a drive device. The drive device of the exemplary embodiment allows the transverse conveyor rollers to move independently for the purposes of aligning the documents as discussed later.

In the support connection with the press 448 is

a pair of transverse follower rollers 6 6 and 468. The transverse follower rollers extend into a corresponding opening in the press 448. The transverse follower roll 466 generally corresponds to the position of the transverse conveyor roller 460. Also, the transverse follower roller 468 corresponds to as shown in Figure 4, rollers 466 and 468 are supported on a movable cartridge 470. Cartridge 470 is pivotally movable about axis 452. A drive 472 20 is selectively operative at responding to the operation of one or more processors in the banking machine to cause movement of cartridge 470 and cartridge 450. The driver may be a suitable motion-checking device such as a motor or a solenoid. As a result, driver 472 of the exemplary embodiment is selectively operative for arranging rollers 444 adjacent to belt section 442 or arranging cylinders therebetween. Likewise, driver 472 is selectively operative for placing transverse follower rollers 466 and 468 relative to transverse conveyor rollers 460 and 462. These features are useful for document alignment purposes, as will be discussed later. Of course, this approach to transverse document transport is exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

Document alignment area 424 further includes a plurality of alignment sensors 10,474. In the exemplary embodiment, non-contact sensors are used, which can capture the document being having any portion of the sensor contacting the document. The exemplary alignment area includes three alignment sensors which are disposed with each other along conveyor direction 15 of belt section 442. In the exemplary embodiment, a sensor is transversely aligned with each of rollers 460 and 462, and a third is positioned intermediate to the other two sensors. Alignment sensors of the exemplary embodiment are radiation type and include a sender and a receiver. The sensors pick up documents that move adjacent to them, detecting the radiation level of the emitter reaching the receiver. It is to be understood that while three alignment sensors are used in the exemplary embodiment, other embodiments may include more or less numbers of such sensors. Furthermore, while the alignment sensors are aligned along the direction of the document transport path, in the exemplary embodiment, in other embodiments, other sensor arrangements may be used as a sensor array, a plurality of transversely arranged sensors, or another arrangement. proper.

5 The operation of the document alignment area

will now be described with reference to Figures 8 to 18. In the exemplary embodiment, when a document is captured entering the device, the cartridge 450 which is controlled via the driver 472 is positioned so that the 10 rollers 444 are positioned relative to the belt section 442. This position is shown no. Figure b. In this document, receiving position cartridge 470 is moved such that the transverse follower rollers 466 and 468 are disposed away from the transverse conveyor rollers 460 and 15622. In response to the capture of a document 476 which is positioned in the 422 and other suitable conditions, at least one processor is operative to cause the first conveyor 440 to move belt section 442. If a double or other multiple document is captured on the first conveyor, it may not execute or execute, and then return the document to the user as previously discussed. Movement of the belt section 442 inwardly causes the first document to be moved and engaged with the conveyor in a sandwiched position between the rollers 444 and the belt section, as shown in Figure 9. In this position, the transverse transport and the rollers transverse followers are disposed away from each other so that document 476 can move in engagement with the first carriage into the document alignment area. The tapered surfaces of the transverse conveyor rollers 460, 462 make it easier for the document to move beyond the non-bulging rollers. Also, it should be noted that the 5 projections on the press surface 464 operate to help move the document, minimizing the risk of the document bumping into various component features. In addition, protrusions on the press help minimize surface tension effects that may otherwise resist document movement and / or damage the document. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and other embodiments may employ other approaches.

Position sensors for documents are included in the document alignment area and such sensors are operative for capturing when the document moves sufficiently into the document alignment area so that the document can be aligned. Such sensors may be of the radiation type or other suitable types. When document 476 moves sufficiently inwardly, the first transport is stopped. In the transport stop position, driver 472 operates to move cartridge 470 as shown in Figure 12. This causes transverse transport and follower rollers to move adjacent document 476 positioned therebetween in order to engage the document.

Thereafter, as shown in Figures 13 and 14, driver 472 is operative to move cartridge 450. This causes rollers 444 to be disposed from belt section 442 which disengages this transport from the document. Thereafter, one or more drives that are operative to move the transverse conveyor rollers operate in response to at least one processor in order to move document 476 in a transverse direction to the direction of previous movement through belt section 442. as well as to detangle the document. As shown in Figure 15, document 476 is moved laterally until a longitudinal edge 478 is aligned with the alignment sensors 474. In the exemplary embodiment, the alignment sensors 474 provide a virtual wall against them that aligns the longitudinal edge of the document. . Document capture via document edge alignment sensors 474 allows precise positioning of the document and aligns it to a desired position for easy reading of marking areas. In an exemplary embodiment where documents are checks, precise alignment of the longitudinal edge allows the document and its MICR line to be positioned in order to be readable by a read head, as discussed later. Certainly in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In some exemplary embodiments, alignment sensors are operatively connected to one or more processors so that transports are controlled in response to sensors that pick up a degree of radiation reduction at a receiver from the associated transmitter of a sensor as the document moves toward a lock position relative to the sensor. The exemplary embodiment may be configured such that a driver operating the transverse conveyor roller 5 may cease to further move the sheet transversely when the alignment sensor that is transversely aligned with the conveyor roller captures a certain reduction in the amount. radiation that hits the sensor from the emitter. Thereafter, the other driver operating the other transverse conveyor roller may continue

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This conveyor roller captures a similar degree of reduction. In this way, the processor operating the independently controlled transverse conveyor rollers causes the longitudinal edge of the document to align with the virtual wall produced using the sensors.

In alternate embodiments, the apparatus may operate according to its schedule to cause the respective transverse transport rollers to move the document transversely, so that a reduction in radiation from the respective emitter is captured reaching the corresponding receiver until no corresponding additional reduction occurs. This corresponds to a condition where the document completely covers the corresponding receiver. Thereafter, the respective drive for the transverse conveyor roller may be reversed to a desired level, such as, for example, fifty percent of the total reduction which may indicate that the transverse edge is positioned to cover approximately fifty percent of the receiver. Thus, this alternative embodiment may be able to align documents that have relatively high radiation transmission or transmission that is variable depending on the area of the document that is captured by the sensor. Alternatively, a linear transverse array of sensors such as CCDs may be used to determine the transverse position of a particular portion of the sheet edge. Alternatively, a plurality of transversely extending sensor arrays may be used to capture the positions of one or more portions of one or more edges of the sheet. A plurality of spaced arrangements may be used to capture the position of the sheet. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

Once the document has been aligned and moved to the position shown in Figure 15, driver 472 operates to move cartridge 450 so that rollers 444 are again moved adjacent belt section 442. 20 Later, the driver moves the cartridge 470 to arrange transverse follower rollers 466 and 468 away from transverse conveyor rollers. This position is shown in Figure 8. Subsequently, the now aligned document can be further moved along the transport path by moving the first transport out of the device document alignment area to the document analysis area. Figures 17 and 18 describe the operational feature of the exemplary embodiment, wherein a document 480 has a folded edge. In this exemplary situation, the folded edge is configured such that the alignment sensor 474 corresponding to the transverse conveyor roll 462 cannot grasp a longitudinal edge of the document until the document is excessively tilted. However, in this situation, the intermediate alignment sensor will be operative to pick up the intermediate portion of the longitudinal edge as the alignment sensor that corresponds to the transverse conveyor roll 460 before the sensor 474 picks up the edge of the document. In the exemplary embodiment, at least one processor controlling the operation of the drivers for the transverse conveyor rollers is operative to control the movement of the document transversely when the intermediate alignment sensor picks up the edge of the document even through one of the end sensors. This is true even for a folded document or a document that has been torn. At least one processor controls each cross roller to move the document transversely until two of the three sensors detect the edge of the document in the desired aligned position. Thus, even such irregular document is generally precisely aligned in the longitudinal direction from the transport.

It should be understood that the exemplary embodiment uses radiation sensors for the purposes of aligning the document in the alignment section. In other embodiments, other types of sensors, such as sonic sensors, inductance sensors, air pressure sensors, or other suitable sensors or combinations thereof, may be used.

5 Once the document has been aligned in the document area

transport path document alignment, the deposit acceptor operates in response to programming associated with one or more processors to cause the document to be moved along the transport path through the first transport into the transport area. document analysis. In the exemplary embodiment, the document analysis area includes at least one magnetic pickup device comprising the magnetic reading head 482. The magnetic reading head 48215 is in supportive connection with the press 448 and, in the exemplary embodiment, is mobile relative to it. Document alignment in the document alignment area is operative in the exemplary embodiment for placing the MICR line in the check, in the corresponding relationship with the magnetic read head 20. In this way, the document is moved by the first transport into the document analysis area, the MICR line data can be read by the magnetic read head. Of course, in some alternative embodiments of MICR or other magnetic marking areas they may be read through other magnetic pickup elements, such as the type discussed later or, optically, as shown in US Patent Number 6,474,548, for example. . Figures 19 to 21 show an exemplary form of the movable mounting for the magnetic read head 482. In the exemplary embodiment, the magnetic read head is positioned on a retainer 484. Retainer 484 includes a first protrusion 486 that extends and is movable in an opening 488. Retainer 484 also includes a protrusion 490 which is movable in an opening 492. A tension spring 494 extending through a concave area 496 of housing 484. The concave area includes two 10 protrusions that accept the spring 494 between them. This exemplary magnetic read head assembly allows the head to float so that it can maintain engagement with documents that are moved adjacent to it. However, the movable character of the assembly that provides both angular and vertical movement of the read head reduces the risk of holding documents as documents move beyond the read head. In addition, the spring oriented assembly is readily disengaged and allows for prompt replacement of the magnetic read head where required. Of course, this approach is exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

The exemplary document analysis area includes, in addition to the read head, a magnetic pickup element 498. The magnetic pickup element in some exemplary embodiments may read the magnetic resources throughout the document as the document is moved in the document analysis area. In some embodiments, the magnetic reading device may be operative to read numerous magnetic lines or features in order to facilitate the magnetic profile of the document as discussed herein. In some embodiments, the magnetic pickup element may capture the document areas in separate elements that provide a relatively complete magnetic profile of the document or portions thereof. In some embodiments, magnetic pickup capacities may be sufficient, so that a separate dedicated read head to read the MICR line of checks is certainly not true. These approaches are exemplary and may vary depending on the type of documents being reviewed through the system.

The exemplary document analysis area additionally includes a first scan sensor 500 and a second scan sensor 502. The scan sensors are operative for capturing optical marking areas on opposite sides of the document. Scan sensors, in combination with at least one processor, are operative to produce data that corresponds to a visual image on each side of the document. This allows the analysis of visual marking areas in documents by operating at least one processor at the ATM. In the case of checks and other instruments, scan sensors also allow data capture to produce data that corresponds to the image of a check that can be used to process an image as a substitute check and / or other. , data that corresponds to document images can be used by the ATM to provide output to a user. For example, an image of a check can be produced through an ATM display screen so that a user can be assured that the ATM has captured the image data. In some cases, at least one ATM processor may apply digital watermarks or other features to the data to minimize the risk of tampering. In some embodiments, at least one processor may opt from the default with its pyro dropped action to indicate, through visual outputs, to a user with the image, that security features have been applied to the image data. This may include output in the form of words and / or symbols indicating that a security feature has been applied. This helps to assure a user that the ATM operates safely in processing the accepted check. Certainly, this approach exemplifies what can be accomplished in some modalities.

In alternative embodiments, programming one or more processors associated with the ATM may allow scan sensors, magnetic sensors, and other pickup elements to gather data that is useful for analyzing other types of documents. Other types of pickup elements may include, for example, UV, IR, RFID, fluorescence, RF, and other sensors that are capable of capturing the properties associated with the document. Documents may include, for example, receipts, certificates, cash, vouchers, game materials, travelers checks, tickets or other types of documents. Data gathered from sensors in the analysis area 5 may be processed to determine the legitimacy of such items and / or the type and character of them. Of course, the nature of the sensors included in the analysis area may vary depending on the type of documents to be processed by the device. Some embodiments may also operate such that if a MICR line or other magnetic discs in the document do not align with the magnetic read head, the document may, however, be analyzed and processed using data from other sensors. Also, it should be noted that documents are moved in the document analysis area by engaging with a plurality of drive rollers 504. Drive rollers 504 operate in response to one or more actuators which are controlled in response to operation. one or more processors in the ATM. The triggers are operative to move documents in proximity to and beyond the sensors to make it easier to read marking areas on them. The document can be moved in one or more directions for easy reading and analysis.

Once a document has been moved through the document analysis area, the document passes along the transport path into the collateral area 428. The collateral area 428 includes a third transport 506. The transport 506 includes a section of upper belt 508. The plurality of cooperating rollers 510 supported through press 449 are positioned adjacent the belt section 508 in operative position. Documents entering the collateral area are moved in engagement with the 5-belt section 508 and intermediate the belt section and cylinders.

In the exemplary embodiment, documents that have been passed through the document analysis area are moved in the collateral area, where documents may be stopped for a period of time during which decisions are passed. This can include, for example, making a determination through the operation of the ATM or other connected systems that refers to the acceptance of an incoming check. If it is determined that the check should not be accepted, the direction of transportation is reversed and the check is moved from the escrow area through the document review area, document alignment area and out of the ATM to the user. if a decision is made to accept the document at the ATM, the document is moved in a manner later discussed from the escrow area to the storage area. In some exemplary embodiments, the collateral area may be large enough to hold several checks or other documents therein. Thus, a user who is conducting a transaction involving numerous checks may have all of these checks accepted on the machine, but machine scheduling may allow the prompt return of all these checks if the user decides to do so or if any or all of the checks are accepted. documents is determined to be unacceptable to the machine. Alternatively, or in addition, storage devices such as belt storage mechanisms, conveyors or other collateral devices may be incorporated into the transport path of a deposit acceptance device, so that more numbers of documents may be stored therein and returned to the user in the event that a transaction is not authorized 3 proceed '. However, these approaches are exemplary.

It should be noted that the exemplary deposit area includes a lower press with a plurality of longitudinal projections extending therein. Longitudinal projections facilitate document movement and reduce surface tension to reduce the risk of document damage.

In the exemplary embodiment, the collateral area additionally includes a stamp printer 512. In the exemplary embodiment, the stamp printer is supported by press 449 and includes an ink roller printer which is described in more detail in Figures 25 to 27. The collateral area additionally includes a support roll 514 which operates to ensure that documents move close to the stamp printer so that the marking areas can be printed on it. The exemplary shape of the stamp printer is shown in greater detail in Figures 25 to 27. The exemplary printer includes an eccentric ink support roll 518, shown in Figure 27. Eccentric shape 5 of the cross-section ink support roll includes a flattened area 520 which is arranged radially closer to a rectangular opening 522 extending in the roll, than a printing area 524 which is angularly disposed and in opposite relation thereto. The flattened area 10 is generally positioned adjacent to the documents when documents are moved through the collateral area and printing will not be conducted therein through the stamp printer. In the exemplary embodiment, the ink roller 518 is encapsulated in plastic and bounded by a plastic covering or covering around its circumference. The openings are cut through them in the desired design that will be printed on the documents. As can be appreciated, the openings that are cut in the plastic encapsulating the outer surface of the ink roller 20 allow ink to be transferred from the ink retaining roller material underlying the plastic coating to the size documents. of the openings. For example, in the embodiment shown, a pair of angular lines are printed on documents through the stamp printer. Of course, this approach is exemplary and, in other embodiments, other types of paint mechanisms and / or designs may be used. In the exemplary embodiment, the ink roller 518 is supported on a first spindle portion 526 and a second spindle portion 528. The spindle portions include rectangular protrusions which are generally rectangular in profile 523, which extends into aperture 522 of the spindle roller. ink. The shaft portions include flanged portions 530 and 532 which are arranged from the radial edges of the roll. Shaft portions 526 and 528 include an interlocking protrusion 525 and access 527, as well as a tab 529 and recess that engages and serves as a tongue, which are operative for engaging and holding together, so as to suppose. That's the roll. Δ. Axis 526 includes an annular protrusion 534. Annular protrusion 534 is adapted to engage a recess which, alternatively, is referred to as a slot (not shown separately) that generally extends vertically into a recess. tilt flap 536 as shown in Figure 25. Tilt flap 536 is operative to accept the nested boss and is operative to provide an axial guiding force against shaft portion 526 when the first shaft portion is positioned in the same. This arrangement allows the shaft portion to be retained in engagement with the tilt flap. However, when changing the stamp printer and / or ink roller, the tilt flap can be moved so that the annular protrusion can be removed from the interlock slot by moving the protrusion 534 upwardly in the recess, to facilitate removal of the printer and ink roller. The tilt flap is supported on a support 538 that is in support connection with the press covering the deposit area. The second shaft portion 528 includes an annular protrusion 540. The protrusion 540 includes, on the periphery thereof, a radially outwardly extending protrusion 542. The protrusion 542 has a particular contour that is angled so that the transverse width of the protrusion increases with proximity to flange portion 542. This configuration is useful for providing a secure method for moving the ink roller, but also facilitates changing the ink roller and stamp printer when desired.

In the exemplary embodiment, the ink roller 518 is housed within a housing 544. The housing 544 is opened on the underside thereof so that the printing area 524 can extend therebetween to engage a document from the area. of bond. The housing 544 also includes two pairs of outwardly extending extensions 546. The extensions 546 include openings therein, which accept housing positioning protrusions 545 on the associated mounting surface of the device and are operative to more accurately position the housing and housing. ink roller on the support press and to facilitate proper positioning when a new ink roller assembly is installed. The housing 544 also includes openings 543 through which the shaft portions extend. A flange portion is positioned adjacent each opening. In the exemplary embodiment, the spindle portion 528 is driven by a clutch mechanism 548. The clutch mechanism 548 of the exemplary embodiment is a coiled spring clutch mechanism that is selectively operable by electrical signals. The coupling is driven from a drive by a gear 550. Clutch 548 produces rotational motion through a coupling 552. Coupling 552 includes the annular recess corresponding to the protrusion 540 and a radial recess corresponding in shape to the protrusion 542. Thus, in the exemplary embodiment, the force of the tilt flap allows the coupling 552 to engage solidly 10 with the shaft portion 528. During the conscious operating gear 550 an actuator provides a mechanical input to the shaft. gear 548. However, the paint roller does not usually spin. The conveyor 506 is operative for moving a document in the conveyance within the security area in response to signals from a processor. Sensors, such as radiation sensors in the collateral area, are operative to indicate one or more document positions to the processor. When the document is marked with the stamp printer, it is positioned adjacent to the ink roller 20 by operating a processor that controls transport in the collateral area. A signal is sent in response from the processor to gear 548. This signal is operative to engage coupling 552 that causes shaft portions 528 and 526 to rotate ink roller 518. As the ink roller rotates, print area 524 engages the document surface causing ink markings to be placed on it. The ink roller rotates in coordination with the movement of the document. The clutch is operative to cause the coupling to rotate so that after the document has been marked, the print area is rearranged upward within the housing. The flat portion 520 of the ink roller is again disposed in its initial position facing the document. Thus, documents are allowed to pass through the stamp printer 512 without having any unwanted markings on it or without being bumped on their surfaces.

It should be understood that when it is desired to change the stamp printer ink roller, - because ink is depleted or, alternatively, because a different type of marking is desired, this can be readily accomplished. A service provider accomplishes this by deforming or otherwise moving the tilt tab 5.36 and moving the shaft portion 526 upward so that the annular protrusion 534 no longer extends into the slot in the tilt tab. This also allows the protrusion 534 to be moved up and out of a stationary slot 554 in bracket 538. As annular protrusion 534 is moved in this manner, annular protrusion 540 and radial protrusion 542 are allowed to be removed. corresponding recesses in coupling 552. This allows the casing 544 to be moved so that the extensions 546 in the casing can be separated from the positioning projections which help to ensure proper positioning of the ink roller when the casing is in the operative position. Subsequently, a new housing shaft and paint roller assembly can be installed. This can be accomplished by re-engaging protrusions 540 and 542 in coupling 552 and engaging protrusion 534 in the slit tab slot 536. During such positioning, the protrusion protrusions are also extended into the housing extensions 546 to locate the housing and position safely the ink roller.

It is further to be understood that while only the ink roller is shown in the exemplary embodiment, alternative embodiments may include multiple ink rolls or multiple stamp printers operating to print marking areas on checks. Such arrangements may be used for the purpose of printing various types of information on various types of documents. For example, in some situations it may be desirable to return a document that has been processed through device operation to the user. In such circumstances, the stamp printer may print appropriate marking areas on the document, such as an "empty" stamp or other appropriate marking. Of course, the type of printing that is conducted may vary as it is appropriate for the purposes of the particular type of document being processed. In other embodiments alternative approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment, a document that will be moved from the collateral area may be more permanently stored on the machine by moving the document to a storage area 430. Documents are moved from the collateral area towards the collateral area. storage by moving the document in engagement with belt section 508 so that the document engages a curved deflector 554. The baffle 554 causes the document to engage a vertical conveyor 556 extending into storage area 430. As best shown in Figure 30, the vertical conveyor 556 includes two continuous belts that are driven by a trigger 558. The conveyor 556 includes a pair of arranged belts, each having a belt section 560. Each belt section 560 extends generally opposite a corresponding rail 562 of a vertical guide 564. As shown in Figure 29, guide 564 of the exemplary embodiment is constructed so that the rails 562 are oriented towards the belt sections 15 through resilient material. This helps to ensure that the document can be moved between the belt sections and the rails in sandwiched relationship. Such document 568 is shown moving between the rails and belt sections in Figure 30. Alternatively, in some embodiments, a single belt section, rollers or other leaf members may be used.

Also, it should be noted that in the exemplary embodiment the driver 558 includes a spring guiding mechanism 568. The guiding mechanism acts on the lower 25 rollers 570 to ensure that proper tension is maintained at belt sections 560. In addition, in the mode For example, the conveyor belts are housed within a housing that includes a pair of spaced back walls 572. As discussed later, back walls 572 serve as support surfaces for stacks of documents that may be stored in a first section or location of the housing. device storage area 5. Similarly, guide 564 includes a pair of transversely arranged wall surfaces 574. Wall surfaces 574 provide support for a stack of documents arranged in a second section or location of the storage area. Also, as shown in Figure 30, the vertical conveyor 556 moves the documents adjacent a lower surface 576 which delimits the interior of the storage area. Document pickup devices are provided along the vertical transport path so that driver 558 can be stopped by operating at least one processor once the document has reached the bottom surface. This helps ensure that documents are not damaged by movement in the driver. Of course, these approaches are exemplary 20 and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

In the exemplary embodiment, when at least some documents are moved from the collateral area to vertical transport, the device operates to print the marking areas therein. These marking areas may be of various types as described herein as appropriate for the types of documents being processed. In the exemplary embodiment, printing on documents is performed by operating an inkjet printer 578. The inkjet printer includes a removably mounted printhead that is adjacent to documents as they are moved in the vertical transport portion of the sheet path. The inkjet printer includes nozzles that are operative to selectively expel ink from them toward the sheet path and release ink onto the adjacent surface of the document. The inkjet printer nozzles operate according to choir Hg. Programming a processor is operative to drive the inkjet printer to selectively expel ink from them to produce various character shapes in documents as may be desired.

For example, in an exemplary embodiment, the printer may be operative to print marking areas on checks to indicate transaction information and / or the cancellation of such checks. In the exemplary embodiment 20, the printhead is releasably mounted by movable members allowing for prompt installation and removal.

The exemplary embodiment further includes an ink capture mechanism 580 which is referred to herein alternatively as an ink receiver. In the exemplary embodiment, the ink capture mechanism is operative for capturing ink that can be discharged from the print head at times when no document is present. This can happen, for example, if a document is misaligned in transport or the machine malfunctions so that it tries to print when no document is present 5. Alternatively, the inkjet printer may be operated in response to at least one processor at times when documents are not present to conduct head cleaning and other appropriate activities to ensure reliability. of the inkjet printer. In addition, the exemplary embodiment of the ink receiving mechanism is operative to make the printhead operate by cleaning the nozzles to further facilitate safe operation. Of course, it should be understood that the exemplary ink receiver shown and described is just one of many ink receiver configurations that can be used. An exemplary form of the ink capture mechanism is shown in Figures 22 to 24. The ink capture mechanism includes an ink retention body 582 with an ink retention area thereon. The body 582 has an annular projection portion 584. The projection portion 584 has an aperture 586 therein. The opening 586 of the projection portion is in fluid communication with the interior ink retention area of the main body portion 25. Of course, this body configuration is merely exemplary.

A head portion 588 is comprised of a body portion configured to extend relative to the projection portion 84. The head portion 588 of the exemplary embodiment comprises a generally annular body member including a flattened area 590 having an opening 592 in it. The head portion 588 also has a support connection therewith, a resilient wiper member 594 extending radially outwardly in an angularly disposed area away from aperture 592.

As shown in Figure 24, the exemplary embodiment of body 582 generally has a clamshell construction and includes a lower portion 596 and an upper portion 598. The upper and lower portions fit together as shown to form the body. , which includes the annular projection portion. An ink absorbing member 600 is also housed within the exemplary embodiment of the body. The ink absorbing member is operative to absorb ink passing into the body through aperture 586. The body is releasably mounted on the machine through a mounting portion 601 that accepts fasteners or other retaining devices.

In the operative condition, the head portion 588 extends in the generally underlying surrounding relation to the projection portion 584. The head portion is selectively rotated by operation of a driver 602 operatively connected thereto. A disk member 604 and sensor 606 are operative for capturing at least one rotational position of the head portion 588. In operating the exemplary form of the device as shown in Figure 22, the head portion 588 generally is positioned with the opening 592 of the head portion in relation to the opening 586 in the projecting portion of the body. The projection portion extends into an interior area of the swivel head portion. In this position ink expelled from the print head of the non-striking inkjet printer passes into the body through the aligned openings 10. Thus, for example, if machine programming requires the machine to periodically conduct a head cleaning operation in which the nozzles of the inkjet printer's printhead are dispensed, ink may be transmitted through the sheet path. in the transport area where documents are usually present and into the body of the ink receiving mechanism. Subsequently or periodically, according to machine programming, a processor in operative connection with the drive is operative to cause drive 20 drive 602 to rotate head portion 588. Rotation of head portion is operative to cause The flexible wiper member 594 engages the print head and wipes over the openings of the inkjet printer nozzles. This prevents ink buildup that can prevent efficient operation of the inkjet printer. Once the wiper has moved along the nozzles and the head has returned to position, the excess ink is accepted into the body. This is accomplished in the exemplary embodiment wherein the head portion rotates in a first rotational direction about one complete rotation. Thus, the head portion rotates from the position where the openings 5 in the head portion and the projecting portion are aligned with the print head. The head portion is rotated so that the openings are no longer aligned and the flexible cleaning member engages the print head cleaning all nozzles thereon. The head portion continues to rotate until the apertures are again aligned.

In the exemplary embodiment, the driver operates in response at least one processor to rotate the head portion in the first rotational direction about 360 degrees and then to stop. In other embodiments, the driver may reverse direction and / or operate the head portion for multiple rotations. In other embodiments, the movable member may include multiple openings and wiper members and may move with appropriate basis in their configuration. In other embodiments, the movable member 20 may include multiple openings and wiper members, and may move with appropriate basis in their configuration.

In some embodiments at least one processor may operate the print head periodically to clean or test the print head, and may operate the ink receiver to clean the nozzles only after cleaning or testing. In some alternative embodiments, cleaning actions may be performed after each print head operation or after an adjusted number of documents have been printed by such operation. Various approaches can be taken in various modalities.

In exemplary embodiments, suitable detectors are used to determine when the printhead needs to be replaced. At least one processor in operative connection to the print head can operate to provide an indication when the print cartridge should be replaced. Such indication may be given remotely in some embodiments by the machine sending at least one message to a remote computer. In the exemplary embodiment, a service provider may readily remove an existing print cartridge by moving one or more latches, tabs, staples or other members. A replacement cartridge can then be installed and secured to the machine by engaging it with suitable members. In the exemplary embodiment, the electrical printhead contacts are positioned such that when the cartridge is in the operative position, the electrical connections required to operate the printhead are made. The new cartridge is installed with the print head positioned in line with the opening in the head portion of the ink receiver so that ink from the print head passes into and remains in the ink receiver if not There is a document in the sheet path between the print head and the ink receiver when ink is expelled from it. In the exemplary embodiment, after a new ink cartridge has been installed, a service provider may test the printer's operation. This is by providing appropriate inputs to the machine. A service provider moves a sheet along the sheet path. In some cases this may be done manually and in other cases by providing and moving a sheet in the sheet path through one or more conveyors. One or more service provider inputs for machine input devices cause the processor to operate the printer to expel 10 ink from the print head toward the sheet path. .If the sheet is present, the ink collides with the sheet to print it. In some cases, the processor operates the printhead to print a suitable pattern such as one that tests the operation of all nozzles. In other embodiments, other marking areas may be printed. Of course, if there is no sheet present in the sheet path, ink from the printhead passes into the ink receiver body through the opening in the printhead portion. Of course, this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches and processes may be used. In some embodiments, after printing is conducted, the machine can operate to clean the print head nozzles. This can be done in response to processor-associated programming and / or in response to input from a service provider. In such a situation, the driver operates to rotate the head portion 588 about the projection portion 584 so that the flexible wiper member engages the print head. In the exemplary embodiment, the cleaning member cleans the entire print head as the ink receiver head portion rotates about its initial position. The head portion rotates in response to the actuator until the head portion again perceives the opening of the aperture with the print head. This is captured by sensor 606 which picks up the rotational position of disk member 604. In response to the pickup where a head portion is in position to capture ink from the print head, the processor is operative to cause cause the trigger to cease operation. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, when the ink capture mechanism becomes ink loaded, it is possible to replace the body by disengaging one or more fasteners holding it in position and installing a new one in the operative position. Alternatively, in some embodiments the body may be opened and the ink absorbing member 600 removed and replaced with a new member.

In the exemplary embodiment, the body is

disengaged from the machine by disengaging one or more fasteners or other devices holding the mounting portion 601 in the adjacent housing structure of the document acceptance device. Once this is done, the body 580 is moved 25 so that the projecting portion 584 no longer extends into the interior area of the moving head portion 588. Once this, the body can be discarded. Alternatively, the body may be opened, the ink-absorbing member 600 removed, a new ink-absorbing member installed and the body again closed. A new body, or one with a new ink-absorbing member is installed by extending the protrusion portion 584 thereof into the interior area of the head portion 588. The body is then fixed in place through the mounting portion. In response to appropriate inputs to a device from a service provider's machine, the processor operates to cause driver 602 to rotate head portion 588. The processor may operate, as programmed, to rotate portion of 588, only when necessary, to align aperture 592 with the print head. Alternatively, the processor may operate the driver to perform one or more rotations before stopping rotation of the head portion. In some embodiments, the processor may operate the printer to test its operation as previously discussed, and may then rotate the head portion to clean the nozzles of the print head. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

Thus, as can be appreciated, the exemplary embodiment of the ink capture mechanism provides an effective way for the printer to be operated to prevent excess ink deposition within the ATM as well as to allow the print nozzles. are maintained in proper operating condition so that printing can be conducted safely. In the exemplary embodiment, documents, such as checks, are moved into storage area 430 via vertical carriage 556. Such documents are initially held between guide rails 562 and 5 vertical conveyor belt sections 560. In the exemplary embodiment, such documents may be selectively stored in one of two available sections (alternatively referred to herein as locations) of the storage area. This includes a first storage location 608 positioned on a first side of the vertical transport and a second storage location 610 positioned on an opposite transverse side of the vertical transport.

Seletrable positioning of documents at the storage location is accomplished by use of a movable piston member 612 operating in response to one or more processors to disengage the vertical transport documents and move the documents at the first storage location or at the Second storage location 20 storage area.

Figures 31 to 35 show the operation of the exemplary plunger member moving document 614 at storage location 608. As shown in Figure 32, when document 614 moves downward into storage area 25, plunger 612 is positioned at right of the document as shown in storage location 610. In the exemplary embodiment, movement of the piston member is accomplished by use of a suitable actuator and movement mechanism such as a rack drive, gear motor, drive tape drive or proper motion device. Such a driver is schematically represented by driver 616 in Figure 5 3. Once the document moves in the proper position and vertical transport is stopped, the piston 612 moves from the position shown in Figure 32 to the left to engage the document. Such engagement with the document deforms the outline of the document as shown and begins to pull the document transversely outward from the engagement with the belt sections and guide trays or other document movement structures. A spring oriented support plate 618 which may have additional documents in connection with the support with it is moved by the action of the plunger as shown in Figures 33 and 34. The support plate 618 is oriented by a spring or other device. so that documents in a support connection with the support plate are generally trapped between the support plate and the guide wall surfaces 574.

As shown in Figures 34 and 35, the

As the plunger 612 additionally moves toward the storage location 608, the document disengages from the rails and straps so that it is eventually maintained with respect to the support plate 618 by the plunger. Once document 614 has reached this position as shown in Figure 35, the plunger can be moved right again as shown so that document 614 is integrated with the document stack resting on the support plate 618. In addition, As plunger 612 returns toward its original position, documents resting on the support plate are held between the surfaces of the guide wall 574 and the support plate. Therefore, document 614 that has been moved in the storage area has been selectively moved by operating the plunger in storage location 608.

Figures 36 to 40 show the operation of the plunger member for storing a document at the storage location 610. As shown in Figure 37, a document 620 is moved in vertical transport, and because this document must be stored at storage location 610, plunger member 612 is positioned in response to processor operation from the document as shown. As shown in Figures 38 and 39, movement of the piston member 612 towards the right as shown disengages the shipping document and places it in support connection with respect to a spring loaded support plate 622. Support plate 622 is oriented by a spring or other suitable left-hand orientation mechanism as shown in Figures 39 and 40.

Movement of the plunger 612 to the point shown in Figure 40 causes document 620 to be supported in a stack on the support plate 622. In this position, the plunger can be moved left again so that the documents in the stack in place 610 are held between the rear walls 572 of the vertical transport and the support plate.

As can be appreciated in the exemplary embodiment, documents can be selectively stored in a device storage location by positioning and moving the plunger so that the document is stored in the storage location as required. This allows documents to be separated into various document types. For example, in some cases the ATM may be operated such that checks, which are owned by the particular institution operating the machine, are stored in a storage area of storage area 430, while others which are not owned by the institution ie stored in the other storage location. Alternatively, in some arrangements where the mechanism is used to accept checks and cash, notes that have been validated may be stored in a storage location, while notes that have been determined to be counterfeit or suspicious may be stored in another section. . In yet other alternative embodiments wherein the device is operated to accept checks and notes, notes may be stored in one storage location while checks are stored in another. Of course, this approach is exemplary.

In alternative embodiments, additional arrangements may be made. For example, in some embodiments, one or more aligned vertical transports may be capable of transporting documents across several vertically aligned storage areas. In these situations, a document can be moved vertically associated with a storage area that is appropriate for document storage. Once at this level, a piston may be moved transversely for the purpose of placing the document in the appropriate storage location on either side of the vertical transport. In this way, various types of documents can be accepted and separated within the '10 ATM.

In still other alternative embodiments, the storage mechanism may be integrated with a document separator mechanism, such as shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,331,000, the disclosure thereof being incorporated herein by reference. Therefore, documents that have been stored, such as notes, can subsequently be automatically removed by the operation of the separator mechanism and dispensed to ATM users. Various approaches can be adopted using the 20 principles of the described modalities.

As shown in Figure 2, exemplary storage area 440 is generally kept in a closed position such that items stored therein are not accessible even by a service provider having access to the inside of the box. electronic. This is accomplished by the use of a sliding door 624 which, in the exemplary embodiment, is constructed by folding sections. The door is allowed to be moved so that access to documents stored in the storage area can be accessed as shown in Figure 28. In an exemplary embodiment, the ability to open door 624 is controlled by a lock 626. In exemplary embodiment 5, lock 626 comprises a key so that authorized persons can gain access to the interior of the storage area if they have an appropriate key.

In some exemplary embodiments, the deposit acceptance device may be mounted on the movable support connection adjacent to the structures within the housing of the banking machine. This may be accomplished in the manner shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,010,065, the disclosure thereof being incorporated herein by reference. In some exemplary embodiments, a service provider may access the inside of the banking machine casing by opening one or more external doors. These doors may require opening one or more latches before the interior of the housing can be accessed. Once this door is open, the service provider may move the deposit acceptor 420 while supported by the housing, such that the storage area of the device extends outside the housing. This may facilitate, in some embodiments, the removal of documents from the storage area.

In the exemplary embodiment, persons authorized to remove documents from the storage area may open the lock and move door 624 to an open position for access to the interior of the storage area. Documents that have been positioned in the storage locations can be removed by moving the carrier plates 622 and 618 against the spring guiding force 5 of the respective springs or other guiding mechanisms 617, 619, which hold the stacks of stored documents in place. Sandwich ratio. Manually engageable tabs 628 and 630 are provided in the exemplary embodiment for the purpose of facilitating the service provider's ability to move the carrier plate against its orienting force. With its support plate moved horizontally away from the vertical transport, the document stack between the support plate and the vertical transport can be removed. Each support plate 15 may be moved for the purpose of removing the document stacks on each horizontal side of the vertical transport. Once stored documents are removed, the backing plates can automatically return to the proper position for the purpose of accepting more documents 20 due to the guiding force. Similarly, door 624 can be closed and the lock returned to the locked position. If the tank acceptor is movably mounted so that the storage area is outside the machine, it can be moved back into the housing. The housing can then be locked by closing the doors and locks on it. This configuration of the exemplary embodiment not only facilitates the removal of checks, notes or other documents, but is also useful in releasing any jams that may occur within vertical transport.

The exemplary embodiment also provides advantages in terms of releasing jams in the areas of document alignment, analysis and / or filing. For example, as shown in Figures 1 and 2, the device may be opened such that the entire transport path for the documents to the vertical transport point can be readily accessed. As a result, in the event that a document becomes jammed, a service provider may disengage a lock that holds a press in position, such as, for example, the lock 632 shown in Figure 1 and rotatably move the press 4 4 8 and the components supported thereon to the position shown, 15 for the purpose of exposing the document alignment area and the document analysis area. As can be appreciated, the press 448 is mounted through hinges that allow the press to rotate about a geometry axis through the hinges for ease of opening. Likewise, portions of press 449 supporting mechanisms overlapping the check deposit area may be opened as shown to expose the area of the document transport path for ease of access to documents. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, press 449 is rotatable about a geometry axis generally extending perpendicular to the geometry axis around which press 448 is rotatable. Further, in the exemplary embodiment, presses 448 and 449 are configured such that press 448 must be moved to the open position before press 449 can be opened. Likewise, the press 449 must be closed before the press 448

5 close. This exemplary construction allows the use of a single lock to hold the presses in operative positions, and to disengage the single lock so that the presses can be moved to expose the areas of document alignment, document analysis and - 10 deposit for checks of the document transport path on the device. Of course, this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In service, the exemplary embodiment of the deposit acceptor 420 which, for purposes of this service, the description will be described with respect to checks, a service provider generally initiates by opening a door or other access mechanism such as a board or panel that allows access to an internal area of the ATM housing. In an exemplary embodiment, check acceptor 420 is supported on sliding members, and after disengaging a mechanism that normally holds the device in operative position, the device may be moved while supported by the housing to extend out of the cash machine. Of course, in some situations and depending on the type of service to be performed, it may not be necessary to extend the device out of the ATM housing. Alternatively, in some situations, a service provider may extend the device out of the housing and then completely remove the device from the support connection next to the ATM housing.

This can be done, for example, when the entire device needs to be replaced with a different device.

The service provider may disengage lock 632 and rotate press 448 about the geometry of its hinges. This exposes the areas of the transport path through the device in the document alignment area 424 and the document analysis area 426. It should be noted that when the press 448 is moved to the open position, the toothed contour edges 456 and 458 shown in Figure 4 15 are moved separately.

With the 448 press moved to expose document alignment and document analysis areas, any checks that have been stuck or jammed can be removed by the service provider. The service provider may also conduct other activities such as cleaning the scan sensors or magnetic read head. Such cleaning may be performed using suitable solvents, scouring pads or other materials. The service provider may also clean, align, repair or replace other items in the exposed areas of the transport path.

With press 448 in the open position, a service provider may also move press 449 from the closed position to the open position shown in Figures 2 and 3. By rotating press 449 about the axis of its holders to the open position, exposes the check deposit area 428 of the transport path. A service provider may then release any jammed documents from the escrow area for checks. The service provider may also clean, align, repair or replace other components that are exposed or otherwise accessible in the check deposit area.

'10 Upon completion of service, press 449 is

rotated to the closed position. Thereafter, the press 448 is rotated to the closed position. This places the contoured edges 456 and 458 back in adjacent alignment. With the press 448 in the closed position, the lock 632 is locked so as to keep both presses in the closed positions, the check accepting device can then be moved back to the operating position and secured therein. When the service provider has completed the service, the service provider will then close the door or other device for the purpose of closing the inside of the ATM housing. Of course, these approaches are

exemplifying.

By closing the housing, the ATM can be back in operation. This may include passing a test document through the transport path through the deposit acceptor 420 and / or reading marking areas of various types from one or more test documents. This may also include operating the machine to image the jammed document on the device for the purpose of capturing the data from it, so that the transaction that caused the ATM 5 malfunction can be solved by the system. Of course, it should be understood that these approaches are exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

Figure 41 shows an alternative exemplary embodiment of a 640 bank self-service machine. 10 The 640 banking machine includes a housing 642. The housing 642 of the machine includes a casing portion 644 and a housing portion upper 64 6. The safe portion 64 4 provides a secure storage area within an inner portion thereof. The inside of the vault portion may be used, for example, to store valuable papers, such as notes, travelers checks, receipts, checks, tickets or other valuable papers that are received by and / or to be dispensed from. machine. The safe portion includes a suitable safe door and lock that serves to provide authorized access thereto. Upper housing portion 646 of the exemplary embodiment also includes suitable access doors or other mechanisms that serve to allow authorized persons to gain access to the items contained therein. Examples of safe portions are shown in U.S. Patent No. 7,000,830 and U.S. Application No. 60 / 519,079, the descriptions thereof being incorporated herein by reference. The exemplary 640 self-service banking machine includes output devices that include a 648 screen. Other output devices may include, for example, speakers, touch areas, touch screens, or other items that may provide outputs. receivable by users. Outputs may include outputs of various types, including, for example, instructions related to machine operation. The exemplary self-service banking machine further includes 10 input devices. These may include, for example, a 650 card reader. The card reader may be operative to read marking areas included in the cards that are associated with a user and / or a user's account. Card readers can be operative for reading 15 marking areas, for example marking areas encoded on a magnetic strip, data stored in an electronic memory on the card, radiation transmitted from an item on the card, such as a chip. radio frequency identification (RFID) or other suitable marking areas. User cards represent one of a plurality of media record types that may be used in connection with enabling exemplary machine operation. In other embodiments, other types of media records may be used, such as cards, tokens, labels, sheets or other types of devices that include data that is readable from them. In exemplary embodiments, data is read from a card by the operation of a card reader. The card reader may include features such as those described in U.S. Patent No. 7,118,031, the disclosure thereof being incorporated herein by reference. The exemplary bank self-service machine is operative in response to at least one processor in the machine for the purpose of utilizing data read from the card in order to enable or allow machine operation by '10 authorized users with the purpose and allow these users to perform at least one transaction. For example, the machine may operate in such a way that data read from the card and / or decrypted data from the card and other inputs or machine data is compared to the data corresponding to authorized users. This can be accomplished, for example, by comparing data including data read from the card to data stored or decrypted from data stored in at least one data store on the machine. Alternatively, or furthermore, the bank self-service machine may operate to send one or more messages including data read from the card or data deciphered from it to a remote computer. The remote computer may operate to cause data received from the machine to be compared to data corresponding to authorized users based on data stored in relation to one or more remote computers. In response to the positive determination that the cardholder is an authorized user, one or more messages may be sent from the remote computer to the bank self-service machine for the purpose of allowing its features to operate. This may be accomplished, in some exemplary embodiments, by means of resources such as those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,284,695 and / or 7,266,526, the descriptions thereof being incorporated herein by reference. Of course, these approaches are exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

The self-service banking machine

The exemplary embodiment further includes a numeric keypad 652. The numeric keypad 652 provides a user input device that includes a plurality of keys selectively operated by a user. The numeric keypad 652 may be used in exemplary embodiments to enable a user to provide a personal identification number (PIN). PIN data can be used to identify authorized users of the machine against data read from cards to ensure that machine operation is only performed by authorized users. Of course, the input devices discussed herein are exemplifiers of various types of input devices that can be used with respect to automated banking machines.

The self-service banking machine

The example also includes other transaction function devices. These may include, for example, a 654 printer. In exemplary embodiment 654, it is operative in printing receipts for transactions conducted by users of the machine. Other embodiments of automated banking machines may include other types of printing devices, such as those suitable for printing statements, tickets or other types of documents. The exemplary bank self-service machine further includes a plurality of other devices. These may include, for example, a sheet dispensing device 656. Such a device may be operative to serve as part of a money dispensing device that selectively dispenses sheets, such as banknotes from storage. It should be understood that for purposes of this disclosure, a cash dispensing device consists of one or more devices that can cause notes stored in the machine to be dispensed from the machine. Other devices may include a recycling device 658. The recycling device may be operative for receiving sheets at a storage location and then selectively dispensing sheets therefrom. The recycling device may be of any type shown in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,302,393 and 6,131,809, the descriptions thereof being incorporated herein by reference. It should be understood that a recycling device may operate to recycle banknotes and, in some embodiments, a cash dispenser may include the recycling device. In addition, the exemplary embodiment may include sheet storage devices 660 of the type previously described herein that are operative for selectively storing sheets in the compartments.

50 The exemplary ATM 640 includes a

deposit acceptance device 662 which is described in more detail hereinafter. The deposit acceptor of an exemplary embodiment is operative in receiving and analyzing the '10 sheets received from a machine user. The exemplary deposit acceptor is also operative in distributing sheets from the machine to machine users. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments, additional or different deposit acceptance devices 15 may be used. Further, for purposes of this disclosure, a deposit acceptance device may alternatively be referred to as a sheet processing device.

The exemplary bank self-service machine 640 further includes at least one schematically indicated processor 664. The at least one processor is in operational connection with at least one schematically indicated data store 666. Data are operative in 25 executing instructions that control and induce the operation of bank self-service machine. It is to be understood that while the processor and data storage are shown, embodiments of bank self-service machines may include a plurality of processors and data stores that operate to control and induce operation of machine devices.

At least one processor 664 is shown in operative connection to the various schematically indicated transaction operating devices 668. Transaction operating devices include devices in the machine wherein the at least one processor is operative in inducing operation. These may include devices of the type previously discussed, such as the card reader, the printer, the numeric keypad, the deposit acceptor, the sheet dispenser, the recycler and other devices that are part of the machine.

There is an exemplary embodiment, at least one

The processor is also in operational connection with at least one 670 communication device. The at least one communication device is operative in allowing the bank self-service machine to communicate with one or more remote 672 and 674 servers via 6. It should be understood that the at least one communication device 670 may include various types of network interfaces suitable for communication across one or more types of public and / or private networks for the purpose of enabling allow the bank self-service machine to communicate with a server and allow ATM users to perform transactions. Of course, it should be understood that this self-service banking machine is exemplary and that automated banking machines may have various other types of configurations and capabilities.

Figure 42 shows in more detail the exemplary deposit acceptor 662. The exemplary deposit acceptor is operatively connected to a sheet opening 678 extending through the machine housing. In the exemplary embodiment, sheet opening is -10 configured to allow users to insert sheets into the machine as well as distribute sheets from the machine to users. Access through the leaf opening is controlled in the exemplary embodiment via a movable passageway 680. The passageway 680 is selectively moved between open and closed positions via a drive 682. Drive 682 selectively opens and closes the door. passage in response to the operation of at least one processor 664. Therefore, in the operation of the exemplary bank self-service machine 20, the passage is moved to the open position at appropriate times during transactions, such as when sheets need to be inserted into the users and when sheets need to be distributed from the machine to users.

The exemplifying device further includes a

generically indicated sheet access area 684. The exemplary sheet access area is in an area in which sheets are received as well as distributed from the machine. The exemplary leaf access area includes a first leaf drive member 686. The exemplary leaf drive member 686 includes the belt section of a continuous belt that is selectively driven by a drive (not shown separately). The trigger operates in response to the operation of at least one processor. The leaf access area is further joined up by a leaf drive member 688 which, in the exemplary embodiment, also comprises a belt section of a continuous belt. In the exemplary embodiment, the lower belt section comprising the leaf drive member 688 is vertically movable with respect to the upper belt section comprising a leaf drive member 686, such that a distance between them may be selectively varied. . It should be understood, however, that while the exemplary embodiment uses belt sections as leaf drive members, in other embodiments, rollers, trajectories, compressed air jets or other suitable devices may be used to engage and move the sheets. . In the exemplary embodiment, a single upper belt section and lower belt section are used to move the sheets in the sheet access area. However, it should be understood that in other embodiments, other leaf drive member numbers and configurations may be used.

The exemplary sheet access area includes a divider plate 690. The exemplary divider plate comprises a pair of divider plate portions with an opening therebetween. The opening extends parallel to the belt sections and allows the belt sections to engage the sheets through it. Of course, this approach is exemplary. The exemplary divider plate divides the sheet access area into a first side 692 which is below the plate in the exemplary embodiment, and a second side 694 which is above the divider plate. It will be appreciated that although in the exemplary embodiment only one divider plate is used, in other embodiments, a plurality of divider plates may be used for the purpose of dividing an area into multiple sub-compartments.

In the exemplary embodiment, the divider plate 690 and the upper leaf drive member 688 are selectively and relatively vertically movable relative to the lower leaf drive member 686. This is performed in the manner explained below for the purpose of allowing selectively, the leaf drive members engage and move the leaves either on the first side or on the second side. This is accomplished by operating the schematically indicated actuators 696. Such actuators may include suitable motors, levers, solenoids, lead screws and other suitable structures to impart motion described herein. Triggers operate in response to instructions executed by at least one processor. It should also be noted that although in the exemplary embodiment, the lower leaf drive member is generally upright in relation to the housing, in other embodiments, the lower leaf drive member may be movable and other components may be moveable. fixed.

5 In the exemplary modality, the area of access to

The sheets further includes a movable stop 698. The stop is operative to extend at appropriate times to limit a user's insertion into documents in the sheet access area. The stopper 10 generally generally positively positions the inserted sheets that will be received and processed by the deposit acceptance device. The stop is selectively movable via at least one drive (not shown separately) which moves the stop in response to operation of at least one processor. The inner ends of the leaf drive members 686 and 688 join an opening 699 through which the sheets may move in or out of the deposit acceptor 662.

The exemplary sheet access area is operatively connected to a separator 700. The separator is operative for separating individual sheets from a stack in the sheet access area. In the exemplary embodiment, the separator may operate in a manner similar to that described in U.S. Pat. 6,634,636; 6,874,682 and / or 7,261,236 with descriptions thereof incorporated herein by reference. The separator generally operates to separate each sheet from the inserted sheet stack. At least one sensor 702 operates in the exemplary embodiment to capture thickness and allow at least one processor to determine if the separator failed to properly separate each individual sheet. In response to picking up a double sheet or another multiple sheet in the area beyond the separator, at least one processor operates according to its schedule to reverse the sorting function for the purpose of returning the captured multiple sheets to the stack. Subsequently, the separator may attempt to separate a single sheet and may retry until a single sheet is successfully separated. As explained below, in the exemplary embodiment, the separator is operative to separate sheets that may be located on the first side 692 or second side 694 of the divider plate in the sheet access area.

In the exemplary embodiment, the separator 700 is operative for distributing individual sheets that have been separated from the stack on an indicated sheet path 704. The sheets are moved on the sheet path 20 by operating a conveyor 706 which engages the sheets. It should be understood that although a single conveyor of one belt type is shown, in other embodiments, other conveyor numbers and types may be employed to move the sheets.

In the exemplary modality, the area of

Sheet path includes a document alignment area that can operate similarly to that described above or, in other suitable ways, to align sheets with the direction in which sheets are moved along the transport path. For example, in the exemplary embodiment, the transverse conveyor includes transverse conveyor rollers 710 which operate in a manner similar to that previously discussed for the purpose of engaging a sheet and moving it in alignment with the transport path by capturing an edge of the sheet. a plurality of spaced sensors that form a "virtual wall". The transverse movement of the sheet through transverse transport is operative in aligning the sheet with respect to the movement of the leaves along the sheet path in the device. As discussed in more detail below, in this exemplary embodiment, the alignment area includes operative devices for aligning the sheet as well as determining a width dimension associated with the sheet for the purpose of facilitating analysis of magnetic marking areas therein.

In some embodiments, it may be desirable to use sheet carriers that move the sheets in sandwich relationship between a drive member, such as a cylinder or belt section, and a follower member extending on an opposite side of the sheet from the drive member. The follower member may be operative in securing the engagement of the sheet to the drive member for the purpose of ensuring movement of the sheet therewith. In some embodiments, the rollers or movable belts may operate as suitable follower members. However, in some embodiments, it may be desirable to use stationary resilient members as guiding members. It may include, for example, a resilient member with a low frictional leaf engaging surface to facilitate movement of the leaf thereon. For example, such a suitable member may comprise a resilient compressible foam body with a low friction plastic coating. This foam member may be used to provide a guiding force that serves to achieve leaf engagement by a drive member. In still other embodiments, the foam body may be operatively supported on another resilient member, such as a spring bundle which may provide additional steering force. Such a structure for a follower member may be useful in leaf conveyors 15 providing a more uniform force distribution on moving leaves to minimize the risk of leaf damage, and this leaf follower structure may be useful in providing the follower function for one or more moving conveyors. the leaves in multiple directions, at least some of which are transverse to each other in a particular leaf carrying area.As a result, these follower structures can be used in the area in which the leaves are aligned.This approach is, of course, exemplary.

In the exemplary embodiment, the transport 706 is

operative to move the sheets to engage another schematically indicated conveyor 712. The conveyance is also received to move the passed sheets in magnetic marking area reading devices 714 and 716 which are alternatively referred to herein as magnetic reading heads. The exemplary embodiment further includes analysis devices 5 for analyzing documents. These include, for example, an image maker 718. The image maker 718 may be of the type previously discussed which is operative to generate data corresponding to the visual images on either side of the sheet. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, an analysis device includes a banknote validator 720 which is used to analyze banknote properties. For example, in some embodiments, note validators employing the principles described in US Patent No. 5,923,413, which is incorporated herein by reference, 15 may be used for purposes of determining whether sheets have one or more sheets. properties associated, as appropriate, with valid notes. The at least one processor may be operative to determine if the notes received are likely to be valid, invalid and / or suspect suspiciously. Other devices that capture other properties or data that can be used to parse sheets for properties that are associated with authenticity can be included. Based on determining whether the sheets have at least one property, the exemplary bank self-service machine is operative for storing, returning or otherwise processing notes in the manner described below. Of course, it should be understood that such principles may be used by at least one processor for the purpose of making a determination whether at least one property associated with checks analyzed through the devices in the machine has one or more properties which suggest that the checks are checks. valid or invalid. Similarly, analysis devices on a machine can be used to assess the validity of other types of sheets.

In the exemplary embodiment, the deposit acceptance device includes a sheet return and storage device 722. In the exemplary embodiment, the sheet return and storage device includes a belt recycler. The belt recycler may be of the type shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,270,010, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The sheet return and storage device is selectively operative for storing sheets that are directed to it from conveyor 712 via a diverter 724. The diverter is selectively operated in response to a trigger that moves in response to instructions from at least one processor so that the sheets are directed to storage in the sheet storage and return device 722.

In the exemplary embodiment, the sheet acceptance device further includes a sheet storage and return device 726. The sheet storage and return device 726 of the exemplary embodiment may be similar to the 722 device. storing and returning sheets 726 from conveyor 712 by selectively operating a diverter 728. It should be understood that while in the exemplary embodiment the 5 sheet storing and returning devices include belt recycler, other forms of conveyor may be used. devices that are operative to accept and distribute sheets.

In exemplary embodiments, the ‘10 712 and 706 transports are selectively operated in response to the respective drives. Triggers operate in response to the operation of at least one processor for the purpose of moving the sheets therein. Exemplary transports are operative to move the leaves both away from and toward the leaf access area. Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, a diverter 730 is positioned adjacent to the leaf access area. The diverter 730 operates as described below to direct the sheets moving toward the sheet access area on the second side of the diverter plate. Of course, this approach is exemplary.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, the bank self-service machine includes a plurality of transports as shown, which allow sheets 25 to be selectively moved to and from storage area 660 of sheet dispensing device 656, device 658 and other devices or areas to or from which sheets may be distributed and / or received. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, passages, diverters and / or other suitable devices may be positioned adjacent to the conveyors for the purpose of selectively controlling the movement of the sheets as needed within the machine. It should be understood that the embodiment shown is exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches may be used.

Figure 43 shows an alternative exemplary embodiment '10 of a document alignment area 708. The document alignment area includes a press 732. The press includes a plurality of document alignment sensors 734. Document alignment sensors 734 are similar to the alignment sensors 474 discussed above. In accordance with the above embodiment, three document alignment sensors extend in spaced relationship along the direction of sheet movement in the transport path. A plurality of rollers 736 operate similarly to rollers 444 and are operative to move the sheet towards the transport path. A transverse conveyor, which is operative to move sheets in a direction generally perpendicular to the transport path, includes transverse follower rollers 738. According to the above described embodiment, the transverse conveyor includes transverse rollers on an opposite side of the conveyor from According to the previously described embodiment, the rollers 736 generally engage a sheet between the rollers and other drive members, such as a belt. For the purpose of aligning the sheet, rollers 736 move away from the sheet and transverse follower rollers 738 that were previously disposed away from the sheet 5 move toward the sheet for the purpose of engaging the sheet in a sandwich relationship. between the transverse transport cylinder and a corresponding follower cylinder. The sheet is moved transversely until it is aligned with the direction of movement of the sheets in the transport path ■ 10 based on document alignment sensors 734. This is performed in the manner described above. The transverse conveyor rollers are then moved to disengage the sheet while the rollers 736 move to engage the sheet so that it can now be moved in its aligned condition on the conveyor path. Of course, other types of leaf movement members can be used instead of rollers.

The exemplary deposit acceptor includes magnetic readheads 714 and 20 716. Magnetic readheads 714 may be mounted similarly to that described above. In the exemplary embodiment, the magnetic readhead 714 is in a fixed transverse position relative to the sheet path. Generally, the magnetic readhead 714 is positioned in exemplary embodiment with respect to the sheet path so that a check that has been aligned in the document alignment area generally has the MICR line marking areas in the document path. check adjacent to the magnetic read head 714. This is true for two of the four possible face positions of a check as it passes through the device. This is represented by the exemplary check segments 740 and 742 shown in Figure 44.

The magnetic readhead 716 is mounted in a connection operably supported by a bracket 744. The bracket 744 is transversely movable to the sheet path as shown by arrow M in Figure 45. The position of the transverse roof head 716 relative to the sheet path is variable by operating a positioning device 746. The positioning device may include any number of motion devices, such as a motor, solenoid, cylinder, shape memory alloying element or other suitable operative element for selectively position the read head 716 relative to the sheet path.

As can be appreciated from Figure 44, the readhead 716 may be selectively transversely positioned such that a check is in the two orientations where the MICR line data would not pass adjacent the readhead 714, these MICR line marking areas would pass adjacent to the read head 716. This is represented by the exemplary check segments 748 and 750 in Figure 44.

In the exemplary embodiment, the document alignment area includes a width sensor 752. The width sensor 752 may in some embodiments include a plurality of aligned sensors, linearly arranged coupled device (CCD) sensors, or other sensors. or sensor groups that are operative to capture at least one dimension or property that corresponds to a width associated with a check. In the exemplary embodiment, this is done once the check has been aligned with the transport path and document alignment sensors 734. This ability to determine the use of signals from sensor 752, the width of the aligned document allows at least one processor in the machine causes the positioning device 746 to move the read head 716 to the appropriate transverse position for reading the MICR line marking areas on the check if the check is in either of two positions. that the MICR line marking areas are arranged on the opposite side of the check from the read head 714.

At least one processor has an associated schedule 20 in at least one stored data that allows determining the appropriate position for the readhead 716, because check print patterns specify the location of the MICR line marking areas in relation to each other. to a longitudinal edge of the check. As a result 25 for a given check that has been aligned in the document alignment area, the at least one processor is operative in determining a check-associated width in response to signals from sensor 752. Thereafter, the width signals allow the processor to make the read head 716 be positioned in an appropriate transverse position for reading micr data if the check is in two of the four possible check orientations 5.

It should be noted that as shown in Figure 44, the read heads are operative to read the micr marking areas regardless of whether the marking areas are on the check immediately adjacent to the reading head '10 or on an opposite side of the check to From the read head This occurs because magnetic characters that comprise the micr marking areas can be picked up through the paper. In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, the magnetic readheads are positioned in a curved area of the transport path. This generally helps to ensure in the exemplary embodiment that the check is in contact or at least very close to the read head. In addition, the exemplary embodiment of holder 744 includes a plurality of blades 754. The blades 754 are curved and operative to assist in guiding the sheet through the area of the magnetic readheads without difficulty. In an exemplary embodiment, the blades 754 are operative to reduce surface tension to facilitate leaf movement therein. Of course, it must be understood that these structures are

examples, and in other embodiments, other approaches may be used. In an exemplary embodiment, at least one bank self-service machine processor has associated programming that allows decoding of MICR line data regardless of the face position of the check 5 as it passes through the magnetic read heads. As can be appreciated, depending on the face position of the check, the micr data can move in either forward or backward direction and face up or face down as it passes in proximity to an adjoining genetic reading head. Signals are generated by the magnetic readhead in response to the magnetic marking areas that make up the MICR line data. Programming at least one processor is operative in receiving and recording such signals, and determining the MICR line characters that correspond thereto. In the exemplary embodiment, this includes comparing the data for at least some of the characters corresponding to the MICR line to the data corresponding to one or more 20 MICR line characters, such that the orientation in which the MICR line data can be determined. have been read. The at least one processor may operate according to its schedule to conduct matching patterns of the captured signals to the corresponding signals in order to know the 25 micron characters for the purpose of determining the probable micr characters to which the signals correspond. This can be done for one or multiple characters to determine the likely orientation of the check data. This probable orientation can then be verified by comparing the data read from the magnetic read head to the other data corresponding to the orientation initially determined by the micr data. If orientation 5 matches an appropriate MICR line character, then it is likely that orientation has been appropriately determined. If, however, the data captured does not properly match the characters in the initially determined orientation, then it is likely that the determined orientation is incorrect. In some embodiments, the at least one processor may operate to compare signals corresponding to magnetic marking areas read from the check to data corresponding to MICR line characters in multiple possible orientations. The results can then be compared for the purpose of determining the number of unidentifiable characters in each of the orientations. In general, in at least one orientation that corresponds to the actual orientation of the check, the at least one processor 20 will determine that all characters correspond to identifiable MICR line characters.

In still other embodiments, character recognition analysis software routines may be operative in identifying MICR line characters in each of the possible orientations with a degree of confidence. Hopefully, this degree of confidence would be much higher for a particular orientation that would then indicate the face position of the check, as well as the MICR line characters to which the data would correspond. In still other alternative embodiments, other approaches may be used to determine the face position of the check. These may include, for example, analyzing the optical characteristics for the purpose of determining that the check is in a particular orientation. Information about a face position, as determined from the optical characteristics, can then be used to analyze or, as a factor in the analysis, the magnetic marking areas 10 on the check as performed by at least one product. r's the one,

Of course, it should be understood that while the discussion of the exemplary embodiment has included a discussion of MICR line data associated with a check, in other embodiments, other types of magnetic marking areas may be analyzed and utilized. Checks and other items that include magnetic marking areas serve as encrypted records where magnetic data is encrypted. Alternative approaches in other embodiments may also be used to refer to the magnetic marking areas recorded in these records, and the magnetic reading heads described in accordance with this particular embodiment are exemplary. In addition, it should be understood that although check-coded records have MICR line data deviated from the center line of the record and generally at a defined location relative to one or more document edges, other modalities may operate to have magnetic marking areas elsewhere. In addition, some exemplary embodiments may also include provisions for capturing magnetic marking areas in the records at various locations and determining the nature of that marking area at various locations based on signals produced from record capture. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

"10 The operation of an exemplary modality shall be

now, explained with reference to Figures 46 to 67. The exemplary bank self-service machine is operated by an individual aiming to perform at least one transaction involving the acceptance of sheets. This may include, for example, a user providing information to identify him or her on his account, as well as indicating a transaction he wishes to conduct through the operation of the machine. This can be done in response to instructions produced through the screen. The user indicates that he wants to conduct a sheet acceptance transaction. The sheet acceptance transaction may include, in some embodiments, the acceptance of checks, and in other embodiments, the sheets to be accepted may include notes. In still other embodiments, the sheets to be accepted may include notes and checks. In still other embodiments, other types of sheets or items may be accepted depending on the capabilities of the machine.

Referring to Figure 46, in conducting an exemplary transaction, the sheet access area 684 initially has an external access thereto blocked by passage 680. The user prepares a stack 756 comprising a plurality of sheets to be received by the user. It should be noted that in the initial position, the divider plate 690 and the belt section 688 are arranged downwards and are generally in a support connection to the belt section 686. Naturally, it should be appreciated that, as shown in Figures 46 to 67, the structures in the "10-leaf acceptance area" are shown in a sectional view taken through the inner edge of the foil for 1 hour.

In response to at least one processor in the machine operating for the purpose of causing the machine to perform a sheet acceptance transaction, the at least one processor is operative to cause passage 680 to open, as shown in Figure 48. The at least one processor is also operative in causing the stop 698 to move to an elevated portion. The processor is also operative in causing the divider plate and upper conveyor 20, which includes the leaf drive upper member, to be arranged further away from belt section 686. This allows the user to insert battery 756 to in the area between the belt section 768 and the divider plate 690 until the stack is in relation adjacent to the stop. As shown in Figures 50 and 51, the at least one processor is subsequently operative in retracting the stop 698 and causing the belt section 688 and the divider plate 690 to be lowered. This allows the stack 756 to be between belt section 686, belt section 688 and divider plate 690. It should be remembered that the exemplary divider plate includes a pair of horizontally arranged plate portions that includes the centrally extending opening. in parallel to each belt section. This allows the belt sections to be operatively engaged with the sheets in the stack. The divider plate is also movably mounted relative to the housing such that each portion of the divider plate can be moved vertically in response to at least one actuator and can also move angularly. , in order to keep the coupling to the leaves. In the exemplary embodiment, each portion of the dividing plate is allowed to generically articulate around a horizontal geometric axis extending near the central transverse portion thereof. In the exemplary embodiment, the extent to which each portion of the divider plate is allowed to articulate is generally limited at a relatively small angle. This ability of the dividing plate to pivot as well as to move vertically in the area of the qeometric axis around which the portion can pivot facilitates the exemplary embodiment's ability to distribute and receive sheets from users as well as to distribute and receive sheets to and from the opening of the deposit acceptor.

The at least one processor causes at least one driver to move the belt sections such that the stack 756 moves inwardly from the sheet access area, so that the ends of the sheet move inwardly beyond the 680. As shown in Figures 54 and 53, sensors 758 are positioned to engage the stack in the sheet access area. In response to the inwardly moving end of the stack between the belt sections, the at least one processor is operative in causing the passageway 680 to close, as shown in Figures 52 and 53. Closing the passageway prevents people who deposited a stack of sheets have additional access to these sheets after they have moved in the machine =

As shown in Figures 54 and 55, the sheets are moved inwardly through the opening of the belt sections such that the sheets move into the opening 699 beyond the inner end of the divider plate and in contact with the separator 700.

As shown in Figures 56 and 57, the processor then operates to cause the upper belt section 688 to move up and away from the lower belt section 686. The divider plate 690 remains arranged above and in contact with each other. 756. In this position, the front edge of the stack extends into the machine beyond the inner end of the divider plate and the stack moves adjacent separator 700. Then separator 25 generally operates in the manner of the descriptions. incorporated to pick up the sheets at a time to separate them from the stack. In the exemplary embodiment, the divider plate acts to hold the stack positioned against drive member 686 and adjacent a portion of registration plate 687 in order to facilitate separation of sheets 5 by the separator. During separation, a striking member 764 also acts on the bottom sheet in the stack for purpose and causing the bottom sheet to move toward the separator. The striking member 764 pivots in response to a driver and also provides upward and inward force on the bottom sheet. The downward force applied to the top of the stack by the divider plate increases the effective force applied by the striking member causing the sheet at the bottom of the stack to move toward the separator Naturally, this approach is exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In operation of the exemplary embodiment, the deposit acceptor operates according to the schedule of at least one processor to move the 20 sheets in the document alignment area 708. Each separate sheet is aligned as discussed, and moved in the path. sheets other than analysis devices such as magnetic readheads 714 and 716; the image maker 718; the banknote validator 720; and / or 25 other sheet analysis devices. Of course, it should be understood that in some embodiments, other or different leaf analysis devices may be present. For example, on a check-only device, a banknote validator and associated sensors may not be present. Similarly, depending on the nature of the sheets to be accepted, other or additional analysis devices may be included.

5 In the exemplary embodiment, the sheets that were

moved beyond the analysis devices are moved in the conveyor 712 and directed through the operation of the diverter 724 to the storage in the sheet return and storage device 722. In the exemplary embodiment, the at least one processor is operative in response to the referring signals. each sheet from the analysis devices for the purpose of analyzing each sheet according to at least one feature or property. These may include image properties, magnetic properties, color properties, patterns, watermarks, data or other characteristics that are useful in identifying a sheet as an acceptable sheet for machine acceptance.

In some embodiments, for example, the at least one machine processor may operate in response to data received from the analysis devices for the purpose of determining that the sheets inserted into the machine include valid notes of a particular denomination or type. The at least one processor may operate in response to the determination that these valid notes have been inserted in order to cause the bank self-service machine to operate to induce an account associated with the user whose card was read by a machine. be credited in an amount corresponding to these valid notes. This can be accomplished by at least one processor causing the bank self-service machine to communicate with one or more remote computers that have data stores that include data corresponding to a user's checking account and funds allocated to it. In still other embodiments, the at least one processor may operate if the received documents are checks, for the purpose of determining whether such checks appear to be valid and whether a user is allowed to have credit for such checks. This is to include, for example, the checks in accordance with the incorporated description of U.S. Patent No. 7,284,695, for example. The bank self-service machine can operate using data read from checks, such as MICR line data, image data and / or other data, in order to make the self-service machine bank determines that the machine user is able to provide the amount for one or more checks received by the machine. Of course, the at least one processor may operate, in other embodiments, to analyze the data read by the analysis devices from other types of items that have been received by the machine and make determinations as to whether these items are acceptable and / or whether a User has credit for such.

Also, in some embodiments, it should be understood that at least one processor may also operate to identify certain items as unacceptable to the machine. These may include, for example, items that cannot be identified as valid notes, checks, or other items that the machine is programmed to accept. The at least one processor in the machine may operate according to its programming and / or data received by communicating with remote computers for the purpose of determining that the items the user has entered cannot be accepted by the machine. Of course, these approaches are exemplary.

Ί0 In an exemplary embodiment, after the

sheets have been received at the machine, the at least one processor is then operative to cause the sheet storage and return device 722 to distribute the sheets one by one to the conveyor 712. The conveyor operates to move each of the sheets toward the sheet access area. The diverter 724 is operative in directing the sheets as appropriate toward the sheet access area. Since each sheet moves in conveyor 712, diverter 728 is operative in selectively directing sheets that have been determined to include at least one property associated with acceptable sheets, the sheet storage and return device. 726. Device 726 is operative in storing acceptable sheets while unacceptable sheets continue 25 in the sheet path toward the sheet access area. In conveyor 706, the sheets are engaged by the diverter 730 and directed through the opening 699 on the second side 794 of the sheet access area. Rejected sheets that are positioned on the next side of the divider plate 690 may be distributed to the machine user in a form which will be discussed later.

In operation of the exemplary embodiment, the at least one processor is then operative in causing the sheet return and storage device 726 to distribute acceptable sheets therefrom. The conveyor 712 is operative in moving each sheet to an appropriate storage area on the machine. For example, sheets consisting of checks can be stored in the 660 storage device. Sheets consisting of banknotes can be stored next to the 658 sheet recycler or other suitable sheet storage area. It should be understood that a plurality of different types of sheet storage areas may be included in the machine for storing one or more sheet types.

Although in the exemplary embodiment, the sheets received on the machine are aligned with the sheet trajectory before being analyzed and stored in the sheet storing and returning device 722, there is a risk that the sheets may become misaligned as you attempt to move them. them out of the machine and through opening 699 to the user. The exemplary embodiment includes operative features in minimizing the risk that the sheets will become jammed or otherwise rendering the deposit acceptor inoperable due to such misalignment. The exemplary embodiment includes sheet sensors 735 and 737 as shown schematically in Fiqura 43. Sheet sensors 735 and 737 are arranged in a first inwardly directed direction with respect to opening 699 through which sheets pass into and out of the machine. Each of the sensors 735 and 737 is arranged transversely to the area where the leaves normally move in the leaf path. Each of these sensors is also operationally connected to at least one processor via appropriate interfaces.

If during machine operation, when the sheets are 11 and r and it are not. If the sheet is accessed by one of the sensors, a sheet is captured by one of the sensors, an indication will be given by the at least one processor that a sheet is substantially out of alignment with aperture 699; may present a problem if it continues to move toward the sheet access area. In the exemplary embodiment, in response to the pickup of the sheet by sensor 735 or 737, the at least one processor is operative in causing the transport to interrupt the movement of the sheet in the outwardly directed opening direction. The at least one processor then operates to cause the transport to move the sheet in the sheet alignment area. This is accomplished by moving the sheet into the machine from the sensor area 735 or 737 that picked up the sheet. Then at least one processor causes devices in the sheet alignment area to engage the sheet and align it with the transport path. This is accomplished in a similar manner to that described above by moving the sheet transversely such that one edge of the sheet is aligned with the virtual wall formed by the sensors 734. Once the sheet is aligned then the at least one processor makes causing the sheet to be again engaged with the carrier attempting to move the sheet out through the opening 699 and into the sheet access area. In the exemplary embodiment, the fact that the sheet has been aligned and is in an appropriate orientation is determined to be responsive to the fact that the sheet was not picked up by sensors 735 or 737. Of course, it should be understood that this approach is example, and in other embodiments, other approaches may be used. This may include, for example, having a plurality of transversely spaced or other sensors on the sheet path that can be used to determine the location and / or orientation of the document.

Furthermore, in the exemplary embodiment, if an attempt is made to align a sheet with the sheet path for the purpose it may be returned through the aperture, and if despite this attempt the sheet is again captured as out of alignment, At least one processor will operate according to its schedule so as to make another attempt to align the sheet with the sheet path. This second attempt in the exemplary embodiment again involves engaging the sheet to transverse transports and aligning it with the sheet trajectory. If after this second attempt when the machine attempts to return the sheet to the sheet access area and an indication that the sheet is misaligned is again picked up, the at least one processor will subsequently operate according to its mode schedule. causing at least one message 5 to be sent from the bank self-service machine to a remote computer to indicate that a deposit acceptance device is likely to malfunction and malfunction. Alternatively, or moreover, in some embodiments, the at least one processor may operate to take other corrective actions. These may include, for example, trying to realign the sheet other times. Alternatively, or in addition, the at least one processor may operate on accepting the sheet back into a storage device on the machine, or at least one processor may cause the sheet to move the sheet in transport to a location on the machine. for each sheet that cannot be processed. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

The rejected sheets that have been moved to the

second side of the divider plate are returned to the banking machine user in the manner shown in Figures 66 and 67. Rejected sheets 760 are kept in a stack on the upper side of the divider plate. The at least one processor is operative in causing the belt section 688 and the divider plate 690 to move downward so that the discarded sheets are between the belt section 688 and the belt section 686. At least one processor is then operative in opening passageway 680. The processor operates to cause at least one driver to move the belts in order to extend the sheets in stack 670 out through the opening in the machine housing.

It should be understood that in exemplary embodiments, rejected sheets may be returned to the user while accepted sheets are being moved to other storage locations on the machine. Alternatively, Ί0 in some modes, the banking machine may give the user the option to take back all the banknotes he has deposited. This can be accomplished in the exemplary embodiment through the sheets in the sheet storing and returning device 726 which are moved 15 through the sheet path to the leaf access area. Alternatively, or in some embodiments, the user may be offered the opportunity to repeat unacceptable sheets. In still other embodiments, the machine may operate to store unacceptable sheets 20 that at least one processor has determined to be associated with the user's attempt to commit fraud. Of course, these approaches are exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In still other alternative modalities, the

sheets can be determined as unacceptable relatively quickly, and can be identified as sheets that should be returned to a user before all sheets in the stack inserted by the user into the sheet access area have been separated. Alternatively, or in addition, a user may provide one or more entries indicating that he wishes to abort a transaction before all sheets in the inserted stack are separated. These situations may be associated with the exemplary deposit acceptor configurations shown in Figures 58 and 59. For example, a discarded sheet 762 may be returned to the sheet access area before all sheets in the stack have been separated. This may be the result of the discarded sheet 762 that has been analyzed and found to be unacceptable. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the rejected sheet may be the result of a user's indication that he wishes to abort the transaction. As shown in Figures 58 and 59, that discarded sheet is deflected by operating the diverter 730 on the second side 694 such that the sheet is supported on the upper side of the divider plate 690.

Returning sheets to the user of the banking machine is depicted in Figures 60 and 61. At least one processor is operative in causing the divider plate 690 and belt section 688 to move down such that the sheets on either side of the divider plate lie between the belt sections 686 25 and 688. At least one processor is operative in opening the passageway 680 and moving the belt sections as shown, such that the sheets in each side of the divider plate are moved outward through opening 678 in the housing. The user can then remove the sheets from the machine.

Figures 62 to 65 represent an exemplary operation that can be performed by the machine if the user does not pick up the checks or other sheets presented to the user by the machine. As shown in Figure 62, the sheets that are positioned on either side of the diverter plate 690 are moved by operating the belt sections toward the separator. By • 10 reaching the sheet stacks to the separator, the passage 680 is closed- The separator 700 is then operated to separate the sheets. The sheets are separated from the area 692 below the diverter plate and then from the side 694 above the diverter plate. This is achieved because in the area adjacent to the separator, the 15 sheets regardless of whether they are above or below the diverter plate generally form a continuous stack of sheets that allows all sheets to be separated regardless of whether they are above or below the sheet. dividing board.

In the exemplary embodiment, the at least one

The processor is operative in causing the retracted sheets to be stored in a suitable area of the machine. The machine is also operative in recording the fact that the user did not remove the presented sheets. This allows sheets 25 to be eventually tracked and / or returned to the particular user. Of course, this approach is exemplary and, in other embodiments, other approaches to machine operation may be used. It should be understood, however, that in this exemplary embodiment, the machine operates to clear the sheet access area, so that transactions can be conducted by users of the banking machine even if a user does not remove their sheets. presented.

Another aspect of the exemplary embodiment is the use of a striking member 764 to separate the sheets from the stack. In the exemplary embodiment, the striking member 764 consists of a rotating member which includes an elevated area. It is aligned with the opening in the divider plate. The raised area is operative in displacing the sheet and causing the sheet to lock the bottom end of the stack in order to move in engagement with the separator 700. Robust movement of the stack It is operative to assist in breaking the forces associated with surface tension and to help separate the sheet below the stack. As discussed earlier, when the dividing plate acts on top of a sheet stack, or a drive member acts on top of a sheet stack, the force applied by the striking member to the sheets is increased. Of course, this approach is exemplary and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In another aspect of an exemplary embodiment, sensors are provided to determine sheet positions in this leaf access area. As can be appreciated in the exemplary embodiment, a pair of belt sections are operative in operably engaging and moving the sheets both above and below the dividing plate. During operation of the exemplary banking machine, the at least one processor is operative in determining the location of the sheets, and specifically whether the sheets are present on the first side 5 692 below the divider plate 690 or on the second side 694. above the dividing plate.

This is accomplished in an exemplary embodiment by an arrangement shown in Figures 68 and 69. Figure 69 shows a plan view of a portion 10 corresponding to half of the divider plate 690. In the exemplary embodiment, divider plate 690 includes parts. reflective 766 and 768 about it. In the exemplary embodiment, reflective pieces 766 and 768 comprise a piece of tape operative to reflect radiation 15 therethrough. In one exemplary embodiment, the tape may be an adhesive backing tape, although in other embodiments other materials and parts may be used. In addition, the exemplary embodiment of the divider plate portion 690 includes apertures 770 and 772.

In addition, in the exemplary modality, the

Reflective parts consist of angular reflective parts. They include, in the exemplary embodiment, a material with angular reflective properties, so that radiation striking the reflective part at an acute angle is reflected from the reflective part back at or near the same acute angle. . This is performed in an exemplary embodiment due to the orientation of the reflective elements within the reflective part. Therefore, for example, as shown in Figure 68, a sensor 774, including a radiation emitter and a radiation receiver, is allowed to capture whether the reflective part 766 is coated with at least one adjacent sheet. In addition, the sensor 774 is allowed to sense that the reflective part 766 is coated or uncoated from a position that is laterally disposed from the side 694 where the sheets may be positioned. Similarly, a similar sensor 776 is operative to grasp whether a sheet is coating the reflective part '768 in a laterally arranged position from the divider plate. As can be appreciated, these sensors allow for pickup if leaves are present, as well as their position on the second side 694 above the divider plate 690.

Likewise, in this exemplary embodiment, sensor 778 includes a transmitter 780 and a receiver 782. The emitter 780 and the receiver 782 are disposed and aligned with aperture 770. As a result, the ability of the receiver 782 to pick up radiation from emitter 780 indicates that sheets are not present on first side 20 692 or second side 694 in aperture area 770. Similarly, a sensor 784 including a emitter 786 and receiver 788 is operative in determining whether the sheets are present on first side 692 or second side 694 in aperture area 772.

In addition, in an exemplary embodiment, a

sheet support plate 790 is positioned in a generally parallel relationship to belt section 686 and extends laterally on each transverse side thereof. A reflective part 792 supported therein operates in conjunction with sensor 794. Sensor 794 is of a type similar to sensor 774 and includes an adjacent transmitter and receiver. Similarly, a 796 reflective part operates in conjunction with a 798 sensor. These reflective parts and sensors can be used to independently capture the presence and / or location of sheets on the first side 692. In addition, as can be assessed , the backing plate 790 includes openings 800 and 802 which are aligned with sensors 788 and 784 respectivamente0 respectively. In addition, in other embodiments, a bearing plate may be positioned adjacent the belt section 688. Such bearing plate may also include openings and / or reflective elements positioned thereon. This backing plate may be of the type previously described or may have a different construction. In addition, this backing plate may include angled reflective pieces for the purpose of allowing pickup of the sheets adjacent to a sensor that is positioned transversely of the area in which the sheets may be positioned. As can be appreciated, this ability to pick up sheets may include positioning the transverse sensors from sheet retention areas and positions as may be convenient, and where space is available within a given machine frame structure. self-service banking.

This exemplary sensor arrangement allows the at least one processor to determine the presence and position of the sheets on both the first and second sides of the divider plate 690. The exemplary embodiment's ability to grasp in these areas through the use of laterally disposed sensors away from the area where the sheets should pass provides benefits in terms of being able to position the sensors in ways that do not interfere with the movement of the device components. It should be understood, however, that such approaches are exemplary and, in other embodiments, different types of sensors for detecting -10 sheets may be used.

It should be understood that in the modality

For example, the deposit-taking device may also operate as part of the machine's cash dispenser. This can be accomplished, for example, by operating the processor which causes the notes to be separated from the sheet dispensing device 656 and / or the sheet recycling device 758 for distribution to an ATM user. These sheets can be moved across various transports and distributed to the sheet access area 20. These sheets can be presented to the user by opening the ATM housing in the manner previously discussed. Of course, while the exemplary embodiment allows the deposit acceptor to operate as part of the 25 note dispenser, in other embodiments, a separate device may be used for dispensing notes while the deposit acceptor is operative only in accepting and storing. sheets. Of course, these approaches are exemplary, and in other embodiments other approaches may be used.

In addition, it should be understood that although in the particular exemplary embodiment, the structures are described with respect to the sheet moving devices, the divider plate and other sheet handling mechanisms, in other embodiments, other structures may be used. . These may include, for example, additional numbers of dividing plates and sheet-handling devices. Alternatively, or in addition, instead of using a divider plate having two portions, as in the exemplary embodiment, other embodiments may include slotted divider plates that may accept rollers, spheres or other types of sheet-moving devices. In addition, while the exemplary embodiment is described in line with sheet handling devices that move the belts and the divider plate in a relatively vertical direction to each other, and where the vertical position of the lower belt 20 is fixed, other embodiments may include different provisions. Such arrangements may include transports and dividing plates that move horizontally or angularly relative to one another for the purpose of achieving sheet distribution and acceptance from a user. In addition, additional devices and structures may be combined or used instead of structures and devices described with respect to exemplary embodiments of the present document. Thus, exemplary embodiments achieve at least some of the objectives stated above, eliminate the difficulties encountered in using prior devices and systems, and achieve the useful results 5 described herein.

In the foregoing description, certain terms have been described as exemplary embodiments for the sake of brevity, clarity, and understanding. However, no unnecessary limitation should be hidden, because these terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be. comprehensively built. Besides that. The descriptions and illustrations of this document are by way of example and the invention is not limited to the features shown or described.

In addition, in the following claims, any

A feature described as a means of performing a function shall be constructed to encompass any means known to those skilled in the art to be capable of performing the cited function, and should not be construed as limiting the particular means shown or described for performing the cited function. in the foregoing description, or mere equivalents thereof.

By describing the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated, any useful advantages and results obtained; New and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (116)

An apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: an operating card reader for reading identification information from the user data carrier cards; a self-service banking machine including: a housing; at least one input device in operable connection supported with the housing, with at least one input device operable to receive input from the machine users, with at least one input device including the card reader. Entries that include identifying information are useful for identifying at least one between a respective user and a user's financial account; at least one output device in operable connection supported with the housing, at least one output device is operative to provide outputs including instructions relating to the use of the machine; at least one deposit acceptor in operative connection supported with the housing, with at least one deposit acceptor operative to read marking areas on sheets received from machine users; at least one processor in the housing, wherein at least one processor is operatively connected to at least one input device, at least one output device and at least one deposit acceptance device; wherein at least one deposit acceptance device includes: in the first leaf drive member; on the second leaf drive member; wherein the first and following leaf drive members are movably mounted in operably supported connection with the housing, so that a distance between the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member is selectively variable in response to the operation of the housing. at least one processor; at least one dividing plate positioned intermediate the first leaf driving member and the second leaf driving member, at least one dividing board is movably mounted relative to the housing; at least one actuator, with at least one actuator being operatively connected to at least one processor, and at least one processor operative to cause at least one actuator to be selectively positioned relative to the first leaf actuating member at the same time. second leaf drive member and at least one divider plate; wherein at least one deposit acceptor is operative to cause the sheets to move from a first side of at least one divider plate to a second side of at least one divider plate; wherein the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member are operative to move the sheets positioned on the first side of at least one divider plate and on the second side of at least one divider plate. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the housing includes a sheet opening, wherein the sheet opening is configured to receive and distribute sheets therethrough, the sheets received in the machine through the Sheet openings are received at one between the first side and the second side, and the sheets distributed from the machine are distributed to at least one between the first side and the second side. Apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that the sheets received in the machine through the leaf opening are operatively engaged with both the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member. Apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that the sheets distributed from the machine through the leaf opening are operatively engaged with both the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member. Apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that at least one driver is operative to move at least one dividing plate relative to both the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member. Apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that it further includes at least one opening in at least one dividing plate, the first leaf drive member being operative to contact the leaves on the second side through of at least one opening. Apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that the second leaf drive member is operative to contact the leaves on the first side through at least one opening. Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that at least one deposit acceptor includes a note validator. Apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that at least one deposit-taking device includes a check imaging device. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that at least one deposit acceptor includes a check image and a bill validator. Apparatus according to claim 9, characterized in that the first leaf drive member includes a first belt section and the second leaf drive member includes a second belt section and at least one The opening in at least one dividing plate includes an elongated opening extending parallel to both the first and second belt sections. Apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one deposit acceptor includes a separator, the separator being operative for separating each sheet from a first stack of sheets into at least one of the two. first side and the second side. Apparatus according to claim 12, characterized in that the separator is operative to separate each sheet from a first stack including sheets on both the first side and the second side of at least one divider plate. Apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one divider plate comprises a pair of horizontally spaced divider plate portions, and the elongate opening extending horizontally between the divider plate portions of the pair. Apparatus according to claim 14, characterized in that at least one actuator is operable to selectively position the divider plate pair portions, the first sheet drive member and the second feed member. leaf. Apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that each of the dividing plate portions of the pair is vertically and rotatably movable. Apparatus according to claim 15, characterized in that at least one deposit-taking device includes a separator, wherein the separator is operative to separate each sheet from a sheet stack, the stack being of leaves extends at least one between the first side, the second side and both the first side and the second side. Apparatus according to claim 17, characterized in that it further comprises a first conveyor, wherein the first conveyor is operative to move the intermediate sheets of the separator and check imaging device and further comprising a first diverter. wherein the first diverter is operative to divert the sheets moving in the first conveyor toward the separator to the second side. Apparatus according to claim 18, characterized in that at least one deposit-taking device includes a first sheet storage and retrieval device, the sheets moved beyond the check imaging device being stored in the first sheet storage and retrieval device. Apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that the first sheet storage and retrieval device includes a first belt recycler. Apparatus according to claim 19, characterized in that at least one processor is operative to cause the deposit acceptance device to selectively cause the sheets in the first sheet storage and retrieval device to be moved to the second side and to a first storage area on the machine. 22. Method for operating a bank transaction system in response to a media record, characterized in that it comprises: (a) reading data from a card presented by a user by the operation of a reader card in a bank self-service machine; (b) operate the bank self-service machine to determine that the data read in (a) corresponds to the stored data associated with an authorized machine user; (c) receiving a stack comprising a plurality of documents through a sheet opening in a machine housing, the stack being received intermediate to a first sheet driving member and a second sheet driving member, and the The stack is received on a first side of at least one divider plate, with at least one divider plate being positioned intermediate the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member. (d) subsequent to (c), which relatively moves at least one dividing plate, the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member, so that the first leaf drive member operatively engages a first side the second leaf drive member operably engages a second side of the stack opposite the first side of the stack, the second leaf drive member operably engaging the second side of the stack through an opening in at least one dividing plate; (e) subsequent to (d), which moves the stack into the machine in operative engagement with the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member. Method according to claim 22, characterized in that in (e) the stack is moved into the machine with respect to the sheet opening in operative engagement with a separator; and further comprising: (f) subsequent to (e) moving each sheet separately from the stack by separator operation. The method of claim 23 further comprising: (g) analyzing each sheet separately from the stack by operating a sheet processing device in the machine. Method according to claim 24, characterized in that in (g) the sheet processing device includes at least one between a check imaging device and a note validator. A method according to claim 24, further comprising: (h) storing each analyzed sheet in (g) in at least one storage and retrieval device in the machine. Method according to claim 26, characterized in that in (h) at least one storage and retrieval device comprises a belt recycler. A method according to claim 26, further comprising: (i) subsequent to (f), which relatively moves the first leaf drive member, the second leaf drive member and the at least one divider plate, wherein the leaf drive member member is arranged from at least one divider plate on a second side of the divider plate, the second side being opposite the first side; (j) subsequent to (i), which moves at least one sheet stored in at least one storage and retrieval device in (h), to the second side of at least one divider member. A method according to claim 28, further comprising: (k) subsequent to (j), which moves the first leaf drive member, the second leaf drive member and at least one relative portion. so that at least one sheet on the second side is operatively engaged with both the first sheet driving member and the second sheet driving member, with the first leaf driving member operably engaging at least one sheet on the sheet. second side extending through the opening in at least one divider plate; (1) subsequent to (M moving at least one leaf on the second side in engagement with the first and second leaf drive members. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that in (1) at least one sheet on the second side is moved towards the sheet opening in the housing. Method according to claim 29, characterized in that in (1) at least one sheet on the second side is moved in operative engagement with the separator. A method according to claim 31, further comprising: (m) subsequent to (1) separating at least one sheet on the second side from other sheets on the second side by the operation of the separator. A method according to claim 32, characterized in that it further comprises: (n) storing at least one sheet separated by the separator at (m) in at least one storage location on the bank self-service machine. Method according to claim 33, characterized in that at least one divider plate comprises a pair of divider plate portions separated by an elongate opening, and the first leaf drive member comprising a first belt section. and the second leaf drive member comprises a second belt section, and wherein (d) the second belt section extends into the elongate opening to engage the stack, and wherein (k) the first belt section extends into the elongated opening to engage at least one sheet. A method according to claim 34, characterized in that a path extends between the separator, the sheet processing device and at least one sheet storage and retrieval device, wherein for at least a portion of both. (f) as (g), the leaves move in a first direction in the path. A method according to claim 35, characterized in that during at least a portion of (j), at least one sheet moves in a second direction opposite to the first direction in the path, and (j) includes additionally the engagement of at least one leaf and a diverter in the path, the diverter directing at least one leaf to the lateral sequin. A method according to claim 36, characterized in that in (j) the diverter meets at least one sheet before at least one sheet reaches the separator when moving in the second direction in the path. The method of claim 37 further comprising: (o) granting the authorized user a credit corresponding to at least one sheet received by the machine in (c) in response to machine operation. A method according to claim 22, characterized in that at least one divider plate comprises a pair of plate portions arranged separated by an elongate opening, and wherein (d) the second leaf drive member engages a operatively the battery extending into the elongate opening. A method according to claim 39, characterized in that the second leaf drive member comprises a belt section, and wherein (d) the belt section extends into the elongate opening. Method according to claim 22, characterized in that in (d) the vertical positions relative to the at least one dividing plate, the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member are changed. 42. An apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: an operating card reader for reading data transport records comprising user cards; a self-service banking machine including: a housing; at least one input device in operable connection supported with the housing, where at least one input device is operative to receive input from users of the machine, with at least one input device including the card reader, the Entries are useful for identifying at least one between a respective user and a respective user financial account, and the machine is operative in response to card information 1 through card reader operation; at least one output device in operable connection supported with the housing, at least one output device and operative for receiving outputs including instructions relating to the use of the machine; at least one cash dispensing device in operable connection supported with the housing, at least one cash dispensing device is operative to cause cash to be distributed from the machine; at least one deposit acceptor in operative connection supported with the housing, the deposit acceptor being operative to read marking areas on sheets received from machine users; at least one processor in the housing, wherein at least one processor is operatively in connection with at least one input device, at least one output device, at least one cash dispensing device and at least one deposit accepting device; wherein at least one depositing acceptor includes: in the first leaf drive member; on the second leaf drive member; wherein the first and second leaf drive members are movably mounted in operably supported connection with the housing, so that a distance between the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member is selectively variable in response to the operation of the housing. at least one processor; at least one dividing plate positioned midway to the first leaf driving member and the second leaf driving member, with at least one dividing board movably mounted to the housing; at least one sensor; at least one trigger, wherein at least one trigger is operatively connected to at least one processor, and at least one processor causes the trigger operation to selectively position the first leaf drive member, the second drive member of sheet and at least one dividing plate; wherein at least one deposit acceptor is operative to cause the sheets to move from a first side of at least one divider plate to a second side of at least one divider plate; wherein the first leaf drive member and the second leaf drive member are operative to move the sheets positioned on the first side of at least one divider plate and on the second side of at least one divider plate; wherein at least one sensor is operatively connected to at least one processor, and at least one sensor is operative to pick up the sheets positioned at least one between the first side and the second side, Apparatus according to claim 42, characterized in that at least one divider plate includes at least one first reflective part facing one between the first side and the second side, and at least one sensor comprising at least one first radiation sensor arranged from at least one divider plate, and at least one first radiation sensor is operative to detect the leaves on the first side or second side of at least one divider plate. Apparatus according to claim 43, characterized in that at least one divider plate further includes at least one aperture, and at least one sensor comprising at least one radiation sensor sequence, at least one second of which is provided. Radiation sensor is operative to detect the leaves between at least the first side and the second side of at least one dividing plate. Apparatus according to claim 44, characterized in that at least one first reflective part comprises a first angularly reflective part, and at least one first radiation sensor comprises a first radiation emitter and a first radiation receiver. both transversely arranged in at least one dividing plate. Apparatus according to claim 45, characterized in that at least one first angular reflective piece comprises a tape. Apparatus according to claim 45, characterized in that at least one second radiation sensor comprises a second emitter and a second receiver, the second emitter and the second receiver being arranged on opposite sides of at least one of the two. minus a dividing plate. Apparatus according to claim 47, characterized in that the first angular reflective part faces the second side, and further comprises a second leaf engaging plate, wherein the second leaf engaging plate extends generally parallel to at least one divider plate, the second leaf engaging plate comprising at least one second angular reflective part, with at least one second angular reflective part facing the first side, and at least a third at least one third radiation sensor is operative to capture reflected radiation from at least one second angular reflective part, and at least one first radiation sensor is operative to detect leaves only on the second side of at least a divider plate and at least a third radiation sensor is operative to detect the leaves only on the first side of at least one pl A divisive. Apparatus according to claim 48, characterized in that the second leaf engaging plate includes an opening therein, and the opening in the second leaf engaging plate is aligned with the opening in at least one dividing plate. and at least one divider plate and second leaf engaging plate are positioned intermediate the second emitter and second receiver. Apparatus according to claim 49, characterized in that at least one deposit acceptor includes at least one width sensor, and at least one width sensor is operative to capture a width of a sheet in the housing. and further including at least a first magnetic reading head movably mounted with respect to the housing, and further including a positioning actuator operatively connected to the first magnetic reading head, the positioning actuator being operative to selectively position at least one first magnetic read head in response to the captured sheet width. Apparatus according to claim 50, characterized in that at least one deposit acceptor includes a reading area, whereby magnetic characters are read on sheets moving along a sheet direction in the area. at least one first magnetic read head is transversely movable relative to the sheet direction, and at least one deposit acceptor further comprising at least one second magnetic read head, at least one of which The second magnetic reading head is in a fixed transverse position relative to the sheet direction in the reading area. Apparatus according to claim 51, characterized in that it further comprises at least a second conveyor, wherein at least a second conveyor is operative to move the sheets along a leaf path beyond at least one first conveyor. magnetic read head and at least a second magnetic read head, and further comprises a plurality of alignment sensors arranged and at least one operative transverse conveyor for moving the generally transverse sheets of the sheet trajectory, wherein at least one transverse conveyor is provided. It is operative to move the sheets transversely and align the sheets relative to the sheet path and to at least one second magnetic read head in response to the plurality of alignment sensors. Apparatus according to claim 52, characterized in that at least one processor is operative to determine the character data corresponding to the characters on each sheet in response to signals from at least one first magnetic read head and at least least a second magnetic read head. Apparatus according to claim 53, characterized in that at least one processor is operative to cause the sheets to be selectively moved to the second side in response to the character data. Apparatus according to claim 53, characterized in that at least one deposit acceptor includes a first sheet storage and retrieval device and a second sheet storage and retrieval device, at least a processor is selectively operative in response to character data to cause sheets to be moved from the first sheet storage and retrieval device to the second sheet storage and retrieval device and to the second side of at least one plate divider. Apparatus according to claim 55, characterized in that at least the first sheet storage and return device or the second sheet storage and return device includes a belt recycler. Apparatus according to claim 55, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative to move the sheets from the second sheet storage and return device to at least a first storage area. in the machine. Apparatus according to claim 57, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative in causing the sheets, not determined to have at least one property, in response to the operation of the at least one acceptor device. are moved to the second side of the at least one divider plate and out of the machine through the machine opening, and the at least one processor is operative in causing the sheets, determined to have at least one property, to be moved to at least one first storage area. Apparatus according to claim 58, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative in causing sheets having at least one property and sheets not having at least one property. , are stored on the first sheet return and storage device, and the at least one processor is operative to cause sheets having at least one property stored on the first sheet return and storage device to be moved and stored on the second sheet storage and return device, and the at least one processor is operative to cause sheets having at least one property that were stored on the second sheet storage and return device to be thereafter. moved to at least one first storage area on the machine. Apparatus according to claim 59, characterized in that at least one cash dispensing device is operatively connected to at least one deposit-taking device, the money from the at least one dispensing device Money is distributed to at least one first side or to the second side of at least one dividing plate. 61. A method of capturing encoded records, characterized in that it comprises: (a) receiving a stack of sheets comprising a plurality of at least banknotes or checks in an access sheet area within an ATM, wherein: the leaf access area extends between a first leaf engaging member and a second leaf engaging member; (b) subsequent to step (a), removing sheets one at a time from the stack from the sheet access area by operating a separator on the machine; (c) determining by machine operation whether at least one sheet is present in the sheet access area using at least one radiation sensor, wherein the at least one radiation sensor is arranged transversely and outside the access area. to the leaves, and is operative to receive reflected radiation from an angled reflective piece operably fixed to the first leaf engaging member or second leaf engaging member; (d) analyze the data included in the sheets by operating at least one sheet processing device of the machine. Method according to claim 61, characterized in that in step (c) the at least one radiation sensor includes a radiation emitter and a radiation receiver, and the angular reflective part comprises a flat part, and Radiation is received from the flat part from the emitter at an acute angle and reflected from the flat part to the receiver at the acute angle. A method according to claim 62, characterized in that in step (c) the flat piece comprises a reflective adhesive tape. A method according to claim 62, further comprising: (c) following step (d), moving at least one analyzed sheet (d) to another sheet access area, the other being the leaf access area extends between the second leaf engaging member and a third leaf engaging member; (f) determining by machine operation whether at least one sheet is present in the other sheet access area using at least one other radiation sensor, wherein the at least one other radiation sensor is arranged transversely and outside the other area. and receives the reflected radiation from another angularly reflective piece operably fixed to the second leaf engaging member or third leaf engaging member. A method according to claim 64, characterized in that in step (f) the at least one other radiation sensor includes another radiation emitter and another radiation receiver, and the other angular reflective part comprises another flat part, and radiation is received by the other flat piece from the other radiation emitter at another acute angle and reflected from the other flat piece to the other radiation receiver at the other acute angle. 66. The method of claim 65 wherein in step (f) the other flat piece comprises a reflective adhesive tape. A method according to claim 66, characterized in that step (c) further includes capturing radiation that passes directly from an additional radiation emitter to an additional radiation receiver through at least one. opening extending at least in the first leaf engaging member or the second leaf engaging member. A method according to claim 61, characterized in that step (c) further includes capturing radiation that passes directly from an additional radiation emitter to an additional radiation receiver through at least one. opening extending at least in the first leaf engaging member or the second leaf engaging member. The method of claim 67, wherein step (f) further includes capturing radiation passing directly from the additional radiation emitter to the additional radiation receiver through at least one aperture. extending at least to the second leaf engaging member or the third leaf engaging member. 70. The method of claim 69 further comprising: (g) prior to step (d) for each sheet, moving each sheet through machine operation for the purpose of aligning the sheet in a path. of transport on the machine. 71. The method of claim 70 further comprising: (h) prior to step (d) for each sheet, determining a sheet width through machine operation, and moving a magnetic pickup device. through machine operation in response to the determined sheet width. Method according to claim 71, characterized in that step (d) includes at least determining, by operating the machine, at least an authenticity of at least one note or an acceptability of at least one check. by the machine. 73. The method of claim 72 further comprising: (i) storing a plurality of sheets analyzed in step (d) in at least one return and storage device in the machine. A method according to claim 73, characterized in that step (e) includes moving at least one sheet through machine operation from at least one return and storage device to another access area. the leaves. 75. The method of claim 74 further comprising: (j) reading data from a user card by operating a card reader on the machine; (k) determine in response to machine operation that the data read in step (j) corresponds to an authorized machine user. 76. The method of claim 75 further comprising: (1) crediting in response to the operation of the machine to the authorized user a value associated with at least one sheet analyzed in step (d). A method according to claim 76, further comprising: (m) prior to step (a), moving the second leaf engaging member in a relatively upright position away from the first leaf engaging member and a first belt section in connection operably supported with the first leaf engaging member to provide the first leaf access area. A method according to claim 77, further comprising: (n) following step (b) and prior to step (e), moving the second leaf engaging member in a relatively upright position away from the the third leaf engaging member and a second belt section in operably supported connection with the third leaf engaging member for the purpose of providing the second leaf access area, Method according to claim 78, characterized in that it further comprises: (o) prior to step (b) vertically placing the first and second belt sections together and operably engaging the stack; and moving the first and second belt sections to move the stack to operably engage the stack and separator. 80. The method of claim 79 further comprising: (p) dispensing banknotes from the machine by operating a machine cash dispenser. 81. An apparatus, characterized in that it comprises: a card reader operative to read data from a user card containing data; a bank self-service machine adapted to allow a user to operate it to carry out at least one transaction in response to a computer by a determined comparison of data read from a user's card by the card reader and identifying information corresponding to at least one authorized user; a carcass; at least one input device in operably supported connection with the housing, the at least one input device being operative in receiving input from machine users, the at least one input device including the card reader, and the Entries are useful in identifying at least one respective user and one user's financial account; at least one output device in operably supported connection with the housing, wherein the at least one output device is operative in providing outputs including instructions relating to the use of the machine; at least one cash dispensing device operably supported with the housing, the at least one cash dispensing device operative in causing money to be dispensed from the machine; at least one deposit acceptor in operably supported connection with the housing, wherein the at least one deposit acceptor is operative in reading the marking areas on the sheets received from the machine users; at least one processor in the housing, wherein the at least one processor is in operational connection with at least one input device, at least one output device, at least one money dispensing device, and at least a deposit acceptance device; wherein the at least one deposit acceptance device includes: a leaf path, the leaves moving along the leaf path; one. first operating magnetic readhead to read magnetic marking areas on checks in sheet path; a second magnetic reading head operative to read the magnetic marking areas on the checks in the sheet path; an assembly, the assembly being operably connected to at least the first magnetic read head or second magnetic read head, the assembly movably mounted transversely of the sheet path; a positioning device in operative connection with the assembly; at least one sheet path sensor, with at least one processor operative in response to at least one sheet sensor that picks up a sheet path check to make the positioning device move at least the first magnetic read head or second magnetic read head, with at least one first magnetic read head and second magnetic read head operative to read the magnetic marking areas on checks. Apparatus according to claim 81, characterized in that the positioning device is operative in causing the first magnetic read head and the second magnetic read head to be in positions to read the magnetic marking areas in the regardless of the orientation of the check in the sheet path, and the at least one processor is operative in causing the machine to interpret magnetic marking areas that are read in any front, rear, face up or face orientation. face down. Apparatus according to claim 82, characterized in that the at least one sensor includes a sheet width sensor, wherein the positioning device moves at least a first magnetic read head or a second read head in response to the width of the check captured by the operation of the sheet width sensor. Apparatus according to claim 83, characterized in that the at least one deposit acceptor includes at least one transverse transport operative to move the check transversely to the sheet path, and the at least one sensor. includes a plurality of alignment sensors for capturing at least one edge of the check, and the sheet width sensor, wherein the at least one transverse conveyor is operative to position the check transversely of the conveyance path in response to the plurality of alignment sensors, wherein the positioning device is operative to position at least the first magnetic read head or second magnetic read head in response to the sheet width sensor that captures at least one side of the check after it is transversely positioned in the leaf path in response to the operation of at least one transv transport ersal. Apparatus according to claim 84, characterized in that the first magnetic read head is positioned in the fixed transverse position relative to the sheet path and the second magnetic read head is movably mounted transversely. in relation to the leaf trajectory. Apparatus according to claim 85, characterized in that it further comprises at least one image maker adjacent the sheet path, the at least one image maker being operative in producing data corresponding to a visual image of the sheet. At least one side of the check. Apparatus according to claim 86, characterized in that it further comprises a first sheet return and storage device in operational connection with the sheet path, the check being stored in the first sheet return and storage device. sheets. Apparatus according to claim 87, characterized in that the at least one deposit acceptor includes a sheet access area, wherein the at least one deposit acceptor is operative to receive the check. from a user machine, and the check is received in the sheet access area. Apparatus according to claim 88, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative in response to data received from at least one first magnetic read head, second magnetic read head or at least one image maker for the purpose of determining whether the check has at least one property corresponding to a valid check. Apparatus according to claim 89, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative in response to the check which does not have at least one property of a valid check for the purpose of causing the check to move. from the first sheet storage and return device to the sheet access area, through which the check can be taken from the machine by the user machine from the sheet access area. Apparatus according to claim 90, characterized in that the machine includes a check storage area, wherein the at least one processor is operative in response to the check having at least one property of a valid check. to have the check moved from the first sheet storage and return device to the check storage area. Apparatus according to claim 91, characterized in that it further comprises at least one divider plate in the sheet access area, wherein the at least one divider plate separates a first side and a second side from the access area. the sheets, wherein the check is received at the machine on the first side, and the check is moved from the first sheet storage and return device to a second side of the at least one divider plate. Apparatus according to claim 92, characterized in that it further comprises the separator, wherein the separator is in operative connection with at least the first side or the second side, and the separator is operative in separating. each sheet is included in a stack comprising a plurality of sheets at least on the first or second side, the stack including the check. Apparatus according to claim 93, characterized in that it further comprises a second sheet storage and return device in operative connection with the sheet path, wherein the at least one processor is operative in causing each plurality of sheets is evaluated for at least one property, and cause sheets having at least one property to be moved and stored in a second sheet storing and returning device, and causing sheets not displaying at least one property is moved to the second side of at least one divider plate. Apparatus according to claim 94, characterized in that the first sheet storage and return device comprises a first belt recycler, and the second sheet storage and return device comprises a second belt recycler. 96. Apparatus according to claim 95, characterized in that the stack includes both banknotes and checks, further comprising a banknote validator in operative connection with the sheet path. Apparatus according to claim 96, characterized in that the machine further includes at least one banknote storage area, wherein the at least one processor is operative to move banknotes from there. from the second sheet storage and return device to at least one banknote storage area. Apparatus according to claim 97, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative in causing a plurality of checks to be moved from the second sheet return and storage device to the storage area. Checks. Apparatus according to claim 97, characterized in that it further comprises at least one banknote recycler, the at least one banknote recycler being in operational connection with the at least one banknote storage area. wherein the at least one cash dispenser device includes the at least one banknote recycler. Apparatus according to claim 81, characterized in that the at least one processor is operative in causing an authorized user to present the check until the machine is credited with an amount corresponding to the check. 101. A method of capturing magnetic marking areas in coded records that include financial checks, which comprises: (a) receiving a check at a bank self-service machine, the check including magnetic marking areas coded in a MICR line; (b) capturing by operating at least one sensor on the machine a width associated with the check, wherein the at least one sensor is in operational connection with at least one processor on the machine; (c) move in response to at least one width between the two magnetic read heads in the machine, wherein the at least one magnetic read head is moved in response to the operation of at least one processor, and at least one head magnetic reading is moved such that the MICR line in the check is aligned to one of the heads regardless of a check face position; (d) moving the check that has passed the two magnetic read heads on the machine in response to the operation of at least one processor; (e) pick up MICR line data on the check with one of two magnetic read heads. 102. The method of claim 101, wherein step (a) comprises receiving a plurality of checks at the machine, the plurality of checks being received in a stack in a machine access area. further comprising: (f) prior to step (b) separating the check from the stack by the operation of a separator. A method according to claim 102, further comprising: (g) prior to step (b) aligning the check with a transport path in which the check moves in the machine in response to the operation of the hair least one processor. Method according to claim 103, characterized in that step (g) includes operably engaging the check with at least one transverse transport, wherein the at least one transverse transport moves the generally transverse check. the leaf path. 105. A method according to claim 104, characterized in that a first magnetic read head is mounted in a fixed position relative to the sheet path, and in step (g) at least one transverse transport is operative in relation to one another. Align the MICR line on the check on the first magnetic read head in two of four possible face positions of the check. 106. The method of claim 105, wherein a second magnetic read head is movably mounted transversely of the sheet path, and in step (c) the second magnetic read head is moved to align with the MICR line on the check when it is in two of the four possible face positions. 107. The method of claim 106 further comprising: (h) subsequent to step (e) interpreting the MICR line data in the check by operating at least one processor, wherein at least A processor is operative in interpreting MICR line data read by the first or second magnetic read head in either front, rear, face up, or face down orientation. 108. The method of claim 107, further comprising: (i) following step (a), repeating steps (b) to (h) for each plurality of checks in the stack. 109. The method of claim 108, wherein the sheet access area includes a divider plate, and in step (a) the stack is received on a first side of the divider plate. 110. The method of claim 109 further comprising: (i) following step (h) returning at least one check to the sheet access area, the sheet being returned on a second side of the dividing plate opposite the first side. 111. The method of claim 110 further comprising: (j) following step (i) separating at least one check on the second side of the divider plate by the operation of the separator. 112. A method according to claim 109, characterized in that it further comprises: (i) prior to step (b) reading the data from a user card by operating a card reader on the machine; (j) determine in response to machine operation that the data read in step in (i) corresponds to an authorized user; (k) performing at least one of steps (b) to (h) in response to a determination in step (j). 113. The method of claim 112, further comprising: (1) determining a value associated with at least one check received in step (a); (m) credit the authorized user with a value responsive to machine operation. 114. The method of claim 113, further comprising: (n) dispensing money from the machine to the authorized user. 115. The method of claim 112, further comprising (o) prior to step (i) storing a plurality of checks at the machine in a first sheet storing and returning device; wherein step (i) includes moving at least one sheet from the first sheet storage and return device to the sheet access area. 116. The method of claim 115, wherein the machine includes a second sheet return and storage device, and further comprises: moving at least one sheet from the sheet return and storage device to the second sheet storage and return device.