JP2004206362A - Reader for checks - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a reader for checks provided with a magnetic characters read means and an image read means, in which enlargement of the reader is suppressed and the read output of magnetic ink characters is stabilized by making a recording medium surely adhere to the magnetic ink character read means. <P>SOLUTION: The reader for checks is provided with the magnetic ink character read means for reading the magnetic ink characters on the recording medium and the image read means for reading images on the recording medium. Upon defining recording medium carrying means in a first read means 9 arranged on an upstream side as first carrying means 8a and 8b and the recording medium carrying means in a second read means 17 arranged on a downstream side as a second carrying means 8c, the first carrying means and the second carrying means are arranged at an interval equal to or shorter than the length in the carrying direction of the recording medium. In the case that the carrying speed of the first carrying means is different from that of the second carrying means, the recording medium is carried with slack in the second carrying means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO&NCIPI

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a check reader that reads magnetic ink characters and images from bills or checks on which magnetic ink characters are printed.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, bills or checks brought into a financial institution such as a bank (hereinafter simply referred to as checks) take images of both sides to prevent loss, and automatically print the printed MICR characters (magnetic ink characters). They were sorted by a reading device, counted, and brought to the clearing house. In recent years, in order to improve the efficiency of the work before bringing in the clearinghouse, a check reader that can read both MICR characters printed on checks and both-side image images has been put to practical use.
[0003]
The image reading part of the device is read by CCD or contact image sensor (CIS) in accordance with the recent digitization of information, and the information is easily managed and operated by computer by digitally processing the image data. I can do it.
[0004]
A conventional check reader 300 will be described with reference to FIG. The check 50 on which the MICR characters are printed is loaded on the hopper 1 and is urged by the urging member (not shown) to the paper feed roller 2 by the pressing plate 3. The check 50 is fed to the feed roller 6 side by the feed roller 2 according to an instruction of the controller unit 70, separated by the separation roller 7 one by one, and then sent out to the sheet conveyance path 71. The magnetization direction of the MICR characters printed on the check 50 is adjusted by the permanent magnet 11 provided on the paper transport path 71. Next, the check 50 is transported to the magnetic head 9 by the transport roller pair 72a, and the MICR characters are read. In addition, a pressing roller 73 for closely attaching the check 50 to the magnetic head 9 is disposed facing the magnetic head 9. The pressing roller is urged toward the magnetic head 9 by urging means (not shown).
[0005]
The check 50 that has passed the magnetic head 9 is conveyed to the image reading sensor 74 by the pair of conveying rollers 72b and 72c, and the image reading sensor 74 reads images on both sides of the check 50. After the image of the check 50 is read, the date on which the image was read by the endorser 19 is printed on the back surface of the check 50, and is discharged to the discharge trays 21a and 21b by the discharge rollers 22. The check 50 from which the MICR character and the image have been read is switched to the paper transport path 71 by the flapper 23 based on the result of reading the MICR character, and is selected and discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in recent years the United States and other countries have provided checks with various colors and designs on the surface of their checks as part of their services to consumers, so that consumers can freely select checks with their favorite patterns. . For this reason, when an image is read by a conventional check reader, the signature or the amount of money drawn by the user of the check overlaps with the picture, causing a problem that identification is difficult. Also, with the spread of the Internet in recent years, some banks have begun to provide a service that allows users to check their own checks on the Internet. For these reasons, there is a demand for a colorized image to be read by a check reader.
[0007]
When reading an image in color, a method of preparing image sensors for reading for three primary colors is conceivable, but the use of three image sensors inevitably increases the cost. Therefore, in order to reduce the cost, a method is used in which three color light sources are prepared for one image sensor, the three color light sources are alternately turned on one by one, and the conveyance speed of the check is reduced to read the image. ing.
[0008]
On the other hand, reading of MICR characters is performed by converting the amount of change in the magnetic field per unit time into a voltage using a magnetic head. For this reason, in the method of reading a color image by slowing the transport speed with the one image sensor described above, the transport speed of the check becomes slow, and the output voltage from the magnetic head at the time of reading MICR characters decreases, thereby reducing the read success rate. There is a problem of lowering.
[0009]
In order to solve this problem, a method of transporting the MICR character reading unit and the image image reading unit at a transport speed suitable for each reading unit can be considered. In this case, if the transport speed changes during reading of the MICR character and the image, the character identification of the MICR character cannot be performed, or the reading magnification of the read image changes in the middle. Therefore, it is necessary to make the interval between the MICR character reading means and the image reading means larger than the length of the recording medium in the transport direction, which causes a problem that the apparatus becomes large.
[0010]
In addition, in order to stabilize the output voltage from the magnetic head, the higher the pressure of the pressing roller provided at the position facing the magnetic head, the more the check adheres to the magnetic head and the more stable it is. They do not normally rotate, and are accompanied by a check. Therefore, if the pressure of the pressing roller is increased in order to stabilize the output of the magnetic head, the conveyed check becomes less likely to enter between the pressing roller and the magnetic head, causing the check to be skewed or causing a paper jam. Therefore, it is difficult to increase the pressure of the pressing roller. In order to solve this problem, a method is considered in which the pressing roller is driven so that the check can be easily conveyed even at a high pressure.In this case, when the check does not pass between the magnetic head and the pressing roller, the pressing is performed. A new problem arises in that the pressing roller vibrates due to the sliding friction between the roller and the magnetic head to generate noise and that the pressing roller and the surface of the magnetic head are worn.
[0011]
Accordingly, the present invention provides a check reader having a magnetic ink character reading means and an image reading means, which suppresses the size of the reading apparatus from becoming larger due to the colorization of the image reading means, and also provides a recording medium for the magnetic ink character reading means. It is an object of the present invention to provide a check reader which stably reads magnetic ink characters and stabilizes the reading output.
[0012]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above problems, a typical configuration of a check reader according to the present invention includes a magnetic ink character reading unit that reads magnetic ink characters on a recording medium, and an image reading unit that reads an image on a recording medium. A check reading device having a first reading device, a reading device disposed on the upstream side of the magnetic ink character reading device and the image reading device, and a second reading device disposed on the downstream side. The recording medium transporting means in the first reading means is a first transporting means, the recording medium transporting means in the second reading means is a second transporting means, and the first transporting means and the second transporting means are a recording medium. Are arranged at the same or shorter interval as the length in the conveyance direction, and when the conveyance speeds of the first conveyance means and the second conveyance means are different, the recording medium is conveyed with slack in the second conveyance means. It is characterized in.
[0013]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
[First embodiment]
A first embodiment of a check reader according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the entire configuration of a check reader, FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a pressing roller mechanism, and FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a pressing roller.
[0014]
(Explanation of device configuration)
The check reader 100 according to the present invention reads a bill or a check (hereinafter referred to as a check 50 as a representative). Since the check reader 100 reads the MICR characters printed on the check 50 and the image on both sides, the check reader 100 conveys the check 50 in the character string direction of the MICR characters and reads it here. The read MICR character data and the image data of both sides are transmitted to the illustrated computer.
[0015]
The check reader 100 includes a hopper 1 for loading checks 50 and sending the checks 50 into the apparatus. The paper feed roller 2 for feeding the check 50 into the apparatus, the pressing plate 3 for urging the check 50 to the paper feed roller 2, and the check 50 are loaded on the hopper 1. A load detection sensor 4 for detecting the load is provided.
[0016]
The check 50 fed by the paper feed roller 2 is sent out to the paper transport path 5 by the feed roller 6 and separated by the separation roller 7 one by one, and then by the transport roller pairs 8a and 8b (first transport means). The position of a magnetic head 9 (first reading unit) as a magnetic ink character reading unit for reading MICR characters is transported. The portion of the check 50 on which the MICR characters are printed is brought into close contact with the magnetic head 9 by the pressing roller mechanism 10. A permanent magnet 11 for aligning the magnetization direction of the MICR characters printed on the check 50 and a paper edge detection sensor 12 for taking a timing to read the MICR characters are arranged on the upstream side of the magnetic head 9 of the paper transport path 5. ing. A downstream end detection sensor 13 is provided downstream of the magnetic head 9 in the paper transport path 5.
[0017]
The check 50 that has passed the magnetic head 9 passes through the pair of conveying rollers 8d, and is conveyed by the pair of conveying rollers 8c (second conveying unit) to the position of the image reading sensor 17 (second reading unit) as an image reading unit. . The image reading sensor 17 includes an LED, which is a light emitting element of three colors, a condenser lens, and a light receiving element, and can read both sides of the image of the check 50 in both color and black and white. The transport roller 8c is provided with an electromagnetic clutch 14 for controlling its rotation. On the upstream side of the transport roller 8c, a movable guide 16 which constitutes a part of the paper transport path 5 and is rotatably provided.
[0018]
A registration sensor 18 is provided upstream of the image reading sensor 17 in the paper transport path 5 to take timing of image reading. On the downstream side of the image reading sensor 17 of the paper transport path 5, an endorser 19 for printing the date and the name of the financial institution of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought in on the check 50 from which the image was read, and a check, A rear end detection sensor 20 for detecting that the rear end of the 50 has passed through the endorser 19 is disposed.
[0019]
The check 50 that has been read is discharged by the discharge rollers 22 to the discharge trays 21a and 21b. A flapper 23 is provided downstream of the paper discharge roller 22 for switching the paper transport path to distribute checks 50 discharged from the MICR character data read by the magnetic head 9 to the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b. ing.
[0020]
Also, the check reader 100 includes a drive motor 24 for driving the transport roller group, a controller unit 25 for controlling the entire check reader 100 including these components and communicating with a computer, and an operator. An operation switch panel 26 is provided for selecting an image reading resolution of the check 50 and sending an instruction to start reading the check 50 to the controller unit 25. Note that the paper transport path distance between the transport roller pairs 8b and 8c is set to an interval shorter than the length of the transported check 50 in the transport direction.
[0021]
As shown in FIG. 2, the pressing roller mechanism 10 of the magnetic head 9 has a pressing roller 30 rotatably supported by a support arm 31 and is rotatably mounted around a rotation shaft 32. It is urged in the direction of the head 9. Further, the pressing roller 30 is configured to rotate in the direction of arrow A by a drive transmission mechanism (not shown).
[0022]
As shown in FIG. 3, the pressing roller 30 has a structure in which an elastic layer 30b is formed around a rotation axis 30a, and a surface layer 30c is formed on the outer periphery of the elastic layer 30b. The elastic layer 30 b has sufficient hardness to securely adhere the check 50 to the surface of the convex magnetic head 9 and to restore the deformed roller shape when the check 50 is closely adhered to the magnetic head 9. have. The surface layer 30c is a film made of a material having a low friction coefficient such as a polyimide resin and having excellent wear resistance, and is formed integrally with the elastic layer 30b.
[0023]
Regarding the color and the resolution of the read image, in the case of the check reader 100 according to the present embodiment, the following four modes can be selected, and the resolution is a three-color LED arranged in the image reading sensor 17. Is changed by changing the lighting speed of the check and the transport speed of the check 50.
[0024]
Monochrome high resolution: LEDs of three colors arranged in the image reading sensor 17 are simultaneously turned on and conveyed.
[0025]
Monochrome low resolution: The three color LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 are turned on at the same time, and the paper is conveyed at twice the speed of black and white high resolution.
[0026]
Color high resolution: LEDs of three colors arranged in the image reading sensor 17 are alternately turned on, and the paper is conveyed at a speed of 1/3 of the monochrome high resolution.
[0027]
Color low resolution: LEDs of three colors arranged in the image reading sensor 17 are alternately turned on, and are conveyed at a speed of 1/3 of the monochrome low resolution.
[0028]
From the above settings, the relationship between each image reading resolution and the check transport speed is as follows: color high resolution <color low resolution <black and white high resolution <black and white low resolution.
[0029]
Further, when reading the MICR character, the amount of change in the magnetic field per unit time of the MICR character printed on the check 50 passing through the magnetic head 9 is converted into a voltage by the magnetic head 9 and output. Is faster, the output voltage is higher, the S / N ratio is better, and the reading success rate is improved. In the case of the present invention, the transport speed of the MICR character reading unit is set to the same speed as in the monochrome high-resolution mode. As described above, in the present invention, the check 50 read by the MICR character reading unit and the image image reading unit is transported at different transport speeds according to the resolution of the read image.
[0030]
(Operation explanation)
Next, the operation will be described.
[0031]
First, when the check 50 is loaded on the hopper 1, the check 50 is pressed against the paper feed roller 2 by the pressing plate 3. Then, the loading detection sensor 4 recognizes the check 50, and the check 50 can be fed by the reading start signal from the operation switch panel 26. When the operator selects the required image reading resolution from the operation switch panel 26 and then presses the reading start switch on the operation switch panel 26, the paper feed roller 2 rotates to feed the check 50 and put the check 50 in the apparatus. Feed paper. The fed check 50 is transported by the feed roller 6 to the paper transport path 5 in the apparatus. At this time, when a plurality of checks 50 are fed by the feed roller 2, the checks 50 are separated and transported by the separation roller 7 disposed opposite the feed roller 6. In the transported check 50, the magnetization direction of the MICR character printed by the permanent magnet 11 is aligned. In the present invention, the permanent magnet 11 is used for alignment of the magnetization, but another magnetization alignment means such as an electromagnet may be used.
[0032]
Next, the check 50 is conveyed to the magnetic head 9 by the conveying roller pair 8a, and is pressed and conveyed by the pressing roller mechanism 10 so that the portion of the check 50 on which the MICR characters are printed is brought into close contact with the magnetic head 9. At this time, the leading end of the check 50 is detected by the paper edge detection sensor 12, the timing of reading the MICR character is set, and the sampling of the output from the magnetic head 9 is started.
[0033]
The check 50 from which the MICR characters have been read is sent to the image reading sensor 17 side by the pair of conveying rollers 8b. As described above, the check 50 is conveyed in a different procedure depending on the image reading resolution selected by the operator. You. This is described separately below.
[0034]
場合 For black and white high resolution｝
In the case of monochrome high resolution, as described above, the transport speed of the MICR character reading unit and the image image unit are the same.
[0035]
The check 50 in which the MICR character is read by the magnetic head 9 is conveyed to the conveying roller pair 8d by the conveying roller pair 8b. The electromagnetic clutch 14 is in the ON state and transmits the driving force to the conveying roller pair 8c. ing. The check 50 is transported by the transport roller pair 8d, makes a U-turn along the movable guide 16, and reaches the transport roller pair 8c. At this time, since the movable guide 16 is urged in the direction of the paper transport path 5 by urging means (not shown), the movable guide 16 does not rotate even if the tip of the check 50 pushes the movable guide 16. The check 50 that has passed the pair of conveying rollers 8c is guided to the image reading sensor 17 after passing through the registration sensor 18. The LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 are simultaneously turned on in three colors. The controller unit 25 reads image data from the image reading sensor 17 at a timing based on a signal from the registration sensor 18.
[0036]
Next, the endorser 19 prints endorsement on the check 50 such as the date and the name of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought. The controller unit 25 issues an instruction to the mechanism for driving the flapper 23 (not shown) based on the MICR character data read earlier, and operates the flapper 23 in advance to switch the paper transport path in accordance with the passage timing of the check 50. In advance, the paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b by the paper discharge roller 22.
[0037]
場合 For black and white low resolution｝
When the resolution is other than monochrome and low resolution, as described above, the transport speed of the image image reading unit is higher than that of the MICR character reading unit.
[0038]
The check 50 that has passed the paper edge detection sensor 12 and has read the MICR characters with the magnetic head 9 is conveyed to the conveying roller pair 8d by the conveying roller pair 8b. The check 50 is transported by the transport roller pair 8d, makes a U-turn along the movable guide 16, and reaches the transport roller pair 8c. At this time, the electromagnetic clutch 14 is off, and the check 50 stops with the tip biting into the nip of the transport roller pair 8c. However, the conveying roller pair 8d keeps feeding the trailing end of the check 50 to the conveying roller pair 8c side, so that the check 50 slackens, forms a loop and stays, and further urges the movable guide 16 in the direction of the paper conveying path 5. This is pushed up to the state of 16a shown by the two-dot chain line against the urging means (not shown) to substantially widen the transport path 5 and secure a space for the check 50 to stay. When the trailing end of the check 50 passes through the trailing edge detection sensor 13 and the trailing edge is detected, the rotation speed of the drive motor 24 driving the transport roller group of the present apparatus is set to a transport speed suitable for the reading resolution. Then, the electromagnetic clutch 14 is turned ON, and the transport roller pair 8c starts rotating at a transport speed suitable for the set resolution, and starts transporting the check 50.
[0039]
The check 50 that has passed the pair of conveying rollers 8c is guided to the image reading sensor 17 after passing through the registration sensor 18. When reading an image in black and white, the LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 light up simultaneously in three colors. The controller unit 25 reads image data from the image reading sensor 17 at a timing based on a signal from the registration sensor 18. Next, the endorser 19 prints the date on the check 50 and the name of the financial institution of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought, and the like. The controller unit 25 issues an instruction to the mechanism for driving the flapper 23 (not shown) based on the MICR character data read earlier, and operates the flapper 23 in advance to switch the paper transport path in accordance with the passage timing of the check 50. In advance, the paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b by the paper discharge roller 22.
[0040]
｛For color image reading｝
In the case of reading a color image, as described above, the transport speed of the image image reading unit is lower than that of the MICR character reading unit.
[0041]
The check 50 that has passed the paper edge detection sensor 12 and has read the MICR characters with the magnetic head 9 is conveyed to the conveying roller pair 8d by the conveying roller pair 8b. The check 50 is transported by the transport roller pair 8d, makes a U-turn along the movable guide 16, and reaches the transport roller pair 8c. At this time, the electromagnetic clutch 14 is off, and the check 50 stops with the tip biting into the nip of the transport roller pair 8c. However, the conveying roller pair 8d keeps sending the trailing end of the check 50 toward the conveying roller pair 8c, so that the check 50 slackens, forms a loop, and stays there. The conveying path 5 is substantially widened by being pushed up to the position 16a against the urging means (not shown) to secure a space where the check 50 stays. When the trailing end of the check 50 passes through the trailing edge detection sensor 13 and the trailing edge is detected, the rotation speed of the drive motor 24 driving the transport roller group of the present apparatus is set to a transport speed suitable for the reading resolution. Then, the electromagnetic clutch 14 is turned ON, and the transport roller pair 8c starts rotating at a transport speed suitable for the set resolution, and starts transporting the check 50.
[0042]
The check 50 that has passed the pair of conveying rollers 8c is guided to the image reading sensor 17 after passing through the registration sensor 18. When reading an image in color, the LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 alternately light in three colors. The controller unit 25 reads image data from the image reading sensor 17 at a timing based on a signal from the registration sensor 18. Next, the endorser 19 prints the date on the check 50 and the name of the financial institution of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought, and the like. The controller unit 25 issues an instruction to the mechanism for driving the flapper 23 (not shown) based on the MICR character data read earlier, and operates the flapper 23 in advance to switch the paper transport path in accordance with the passage timing of the check 50. In advance, the paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b by the paper discharge roller 22.
[0043]
When the trailing edge detection sensor 20 detects the trailing edge of the check 50 during the paper ejection, the drive motor 24 returns the rotation speed to the original, and the check 50 is securely ejected to one of the ejection trays 21a and 21b. The discharge roller 22 is driven at a high speed in such a manner.
[0044]
When all the checks 50 loaded on the hopper 1 are fed, the loading detection sensor 4 detects that there is no paper, and the check reader 100 automatically stops.
[0045]
In this embodiment, after the check 50 detects that the check 50 has passed the MICR character reading means by the trailing edge detection sensor 13 provided downstream of the magnetic head 9 in the paper transport direction, the transport by the transport roller pair 8c is started. are doing. However, even when the trailing end of the conveyed check 50 is passing through the magnetic head 9, when the trailing end of the MICR character string is detected, it is determined that the check 50 has passed the MICR character reading means, and the conveying roller pair 8 c May be started.
[0046]
With the above configuration, even if the transport speed of the recording medium differs between the MICR reading unit and the image reading unit, the distance between the magnetic ink character reading unit and the image reading unit is set to be longer than the length of the recording medium in the transport direction. This eliminates the need to increase the size of the apparatus itself, and eliminates the need to adjust the transport speed of the recording medium in the magnetic ink character reading unit to the reading resolution in the image reading unit. It is possible to provide a small-sized check reading device in which a read image is colored and has a high resolution.
[0047]
Further, a pressing roller for bringing the recording medium into close contact with a magnetic head for reading the MICR characters printed on the recording medium is driven to rotate in the recording medium transport direction. The low friction member layer and the two-layer structure on the surface that comes in contact with the head ensure that even when the recording medium is not being conveyed between the pressing roller and the magnetic head, unnecessary vibration and abrasion do not occur. Thus, a recording medium can be brought into close contact with a magnetic head, and a check reader that stabilizes the magnetic head output during MICR character reading can be provided.
[0048]
[Second embodiment]
A second embodiment of the check reader according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the entire configuration of a check reader according to the present embodiment, FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a pressing roller mechanism, and FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. The same reference numerals are given to the same parts in the description, and the description is omitted.
[0049]
(Device configuration)
In the present embodiment, the check reading apparatus 200 is such that the rear end detection sensor 13 provided in the first embodiment is eliminated, and the pressing roller mechanism 10 is changed to a pressing roller mechanism 40. The transport roller pairs 8a, 8b and 8d are independently driven by a drive motor 27, and the transport roller pair 8c and the discharge roller 22 are independently driven by a drive motor 28. Other configurations of the device are the same as those of the first embodiment.
[0050]
As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the pressing roller mechanism 40 has a pressing roller 34 rotatably supported by the support arm 31 and is mounted to be rotatable about a rotation shaft 32. It is urged in nine directions. The pressing roller 34 is formed integrally with the pressing roller shaft 34a, and a driving transmission gear 35a fixed to the pressing roller shaft 34a, a driving transmission gear 35b rotatably disposed on the support arm 31, and a driving transmission (not shown). It is configured to rotate in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 5 by a mechanism.
[0051]
The magnetic head supporting member 61 is rotatably supported by the magnetic head supporting member 61 outside the paper transport path 5 without the check 50 between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9, and is supported by the pressing roller shaft 34 a. An abutting bearing 62 is mounted. The magnetic head 9 is arranged such that a gap smaller than the thickness of the conveyed check 50 is secured between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9 in a state where the pressing roller shaft 34a is in contact with the bearing 62. It is positioned and fixed on the support member 61. In this state, even if the pressing roller 34 is driven and rotated, the pressing roller 34 is not in contact with the magnetic head 9, so that vibration due to friction does not occur and no problem of wear occurs. Since the gap between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9 is smaller than the thickness of the check 50 to be conveyed, the check 50 is reliably pressed by the pressing roller mechanism 40 when the check 50 passes between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9. The magnetic head 9 is in close contact with the head 9 and the output of the magnetic head 9 is stabilized.
[0052]
(Operation explanation)
Next, the operation will be described.
[0053]
The operation of transporting the check 50 loaded on the hopper 1 to the magnetic head 9 is the same as that of the first embodiment except that the pressing roller mechanism 10 is changed to the pressing roller mechanism 40.
[0054]
The check 50 from which the MICR characters have been read is sent to the image reading sensor 17 side by the pair of conveying rollers 8b. As described above, the check 50 is conveyed in a different procedure depending on the image reading resolution selected by the operator. You. This is described separately below.
[0055]
場合 For black and white high resolution｝
In the case of monochrome high resolution, as described above, the transport speed of the MICR character reading unit and the image image unit are the same.
[0056]
The check 50 in which the MICR character is read by the magnetic head 9 is conveyed to the conveying roller pair 8d by the conveying roller pair 8b. The electromagnetic clutch 14 is in the ON state, and transmits the driving force to the conveying roller pair 8c. ing. The check 50 is transported by the transport roller pair 8d, makes a U-turn along the movable guide 16, and reaches the transport roller pair 8c. At this time, since the movable guide 16 is urged in the direction of the paper transport path 5 by urging means (not shown), the movable guide 16 does not rotate even if the tip of the check 50 pushes the movable guide 16. The check 50 that has passed the pair of conveying rollers 8c passes through the registration sensor 18 and is guided to the image reading sensor 17. The LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 are simultaneously turned on in three colors. The controller unit 25 reads image data from the image reading sensor 17 at a timing based on a signal from the registration sensor 18. Next, the endorser 19 prints endorsement on the check 50, such as the date and the name of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought. The controller unit 25 issues an instruction to the mechanism for driving the flapper 23 (not shown) based on the MICR character data read earlier, and operates the flapper 23 in advance to switch the paper transport path in accordance with the passage timing of the check 50. In advance, the paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b by the paper discharge roller 22.
[0057]
場合 For black and white low resolution｝
In the case other than the monochrome low resolution, as described above, the transport speed of the image reading unit is higher than that of the MICR character reading unit. The operation at this time will be described below. The check 50 which has passed the paper edge detection sensor 12 and has read the MICR characters with the magnetic head 9 is conveyed by the conveying roller pair 8b to the conveying roller pair 8d. The transport roller pair 8d is driven by a drive motor 27. The check 50 is transported by the transport roller pair 8d, makes a U-turn along the movable guide 16, and reaches the transport roller pair 8c. At this time, the electromagnetic clutch 14 is OFF, the drive of the drive motor 28 is not transmitted to the transport roller pair 8c, and the check 50 is stopped with the tip of the check 50 engaged in the nip of the transport roller pair 8c. However, the transport roller pair 8d is driven by the drive motor 27, and keeps sending the trailing end of the check 50 to the transport roller pair 8c side. As a result, the check 50 forms a flexing loop, pushes up the movable guide 16 in the direction of 16a against the urging means (not shown) which urges the movable guide 16 in the direction of the paper conveying path 5, and substantially widens the conveying path 5, Secure space for 50 to stay.
[0058]
Further, the time since the paper edge detection sensor 12 detects the leading end of the check 50, the moving distance of the check 50 determined from the transport speed, and the paper transport of the transport roller pair 8b and the transport roller pair 8c which are known in advance. The loop amount of the check 50 is detected from the road distance. The detected loop amount is determined by the time required for the trailing end of the check 50 to be transported by the transport roller pair 8b and passing through the magnetic head 9, and the transport of the check 50 to be started by the transport roller pair 8c. When the time until the loop is eliminated due to the difference in the transport speed between the unit and the MICR character reading unit is at least the same or longer, the electromagnetic clutch 14 is turned on and the drive of the drive motor 28 is transported. The conveyance to the roller pair 8c is resumed, and the conveyance of the check 50 is restarted at a conveyance speed suitable for the set reading resolution. Then, when the trailing end of the MICR character string is detected, the rotation speed of the drive motor 27 is increased, the conveying roller pairs 8b and 8d are rotated at the same conveying speed as the conveying roller pair 8c and the discharge roller 22, and the check 50 is moved. Transport.
[0059]
The check 50 that has passed the pair of conveying rollers 8c is guided to the image reading sensor 17 after passing through the registration sensor 18. When reading an image in black and white, the LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 light up simultaneously in three colors. The controller unit 25 reads image data from the image reading sensor 17 at a timing based on a signal from the registration sensor 18. Next, the endorser 19 prints the date on the check 50 and the name of the financial institution of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought, and the like. The controller unit 25 issues an instruction to the mechanism for driving the flapper 23 (not shown) based on the MICR character data read earlier, and operates the flapper 23 in advance to switch the paper transport path in accordance with the passage timing of the check 50. In advance, the paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b by the paper discharge roller 22.
[0060]
｛For color image reading｝
In the case of reading a color image, as described above, the transport speed of the image image reading unit is lower than that of the MICR character reading unit.
[0061]
The check 50 which has passed the paper edge detection sensor 12 and has read the MICR characters with the magnetic head 9 is conveyed by the conveying roller pair 8b to the conveying roller pair 8d. The check 50 is transported by the transport roller pair 8d, makes a U-turn along the movable guide 16, and reaches the transport roller pair 8c. The electromagnetic clutch 14 is ON, and the transport roller pair 8c is rotating at a lower transport speed than the transport roller pair 8d. Due to the difference in the conveying speed, the check 50 slackens and forms a loop before the pair of conveying rollers 8c, stays there, and further faces a biasing means (not shown) that biases the movable guide 16 toward the paper transport path 5. The transport path 5 is substantially widened by being pushed up to the state of the movable guide 16a to secure a space where the check 50 stays.
[0062]
The check 50 that has passed the pair of conveying rollers 8c is guided to the image reading sensor 17 after passing through the registration sensor 18. When reading an image in color, the LEDs arranged in the image reading sensor 17 alternately light in three colors. The controller unit 25 reads image data from the image reading sensor 17 at a timing based on a signal from the registration sensor 18. Next, the endorser 19 prints the date on the check 50 and the name of the financial institution of the financial institution to which the check 50 was brought, and the like. The controller unit 25 issues an instruction to the mechanism for driving the flapper 23 (not shown) based on the MICR character data read earlier, and operates the flapper 23 in advance to switch the paper transport path in accordance with the passage timing of the check 50. In advance, the paper is discharged to one of the paper discharge trays 21a and 21b by the paper discharge roller 22.
[0063]
When the trailing edge detection sensor 20 detects the trailing edge of the check 50 during the paper ejection, the drive motor 28 increases the rotation speed so that the check 50 is reliably ejected to one of the paper ejection trays 21a and 21b. The paper discharge roller 22 is driven at a high speed.
[0064]
When all the checks 50 loaded on the hopper 1 are fed, the loading detection sensor 4 detects that there is no paper, and the check reader 200 automatically stops.
[0065]
In the present embodiment, the loop amount of the check 50 formed before the pair of conveying rollers 8c is determined from the time from when the paper edge detection sensor 12 detects the leading end of the check 50 and the conveying speed. It is detected from the moving distance of the check 50 and the distance of the paper transport path between the transport roller pair 8b and the transport roller pair 8c which is known in advance. However, the detection of the loop amount is not limited to this, and may be performed by detecting the displacement amount of the movable guide provided between the MICR character reading unit and the image reading unit.
[0066]
As described above, the pressing roller that brings the recording medium into close contact with the magnetic head that reads the MICR characters printed on the recording medium is rotationally driven in the recording medium conveying direction, and the recording medium is further conveyed between the pressing roller and the magnetic head. The recording medium is conveyed between the pressing roller and the magnetic head by providing a means for securing a gap smaller than the thickness of the recording medium being conveyed between the pressing roller and the magnetic head when the recording medium is not in the state. Even when the check is not performed, the recording medium can be securely brought into close contact with the magnetic head without causing unnecessary vibration and wear, and a check reader that stabilizes the output of the magnetic head when reading MICR characters can be provided.
[0067]
[Third embodiment]
A third embodiment of the check reader according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 7 is a view for explaining a pressing roller mechanism of the check reader according to the present embodiment, and FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line CC of FIG. 7. The description is omitted by attaching the reference numerals.
[0068]
As shown in a detailed view of FIG. 7, the pressing roller mechanism 41 has a pressing roller 34 rotatably supported by the support arm 31 and is rotatably mounted around a rotation shaft 32. It is biased in 60 directions. The pressing roller 34 is formed integrally with the pressing roller shaft 34a, and a driving transmission gear 35a fixed to the pressing roller shaft 34a, a driving transmission gear 35b rotatably disposed on the support arm 31, and a driving transmission (not shown). It is configured to rotate in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 7 by a mechanism. A bearing 64 that abuts against the magnetic head support member 63 is rotatably mounted on the pressing roller shaft 34a with no check 50 between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 60. In a state where the bearing 64 is in contact with the magnetic head support member 63, the magnetic head 60 is magnetically secured so that a gap smaller than the thickness of the conveyed check 50 is secured between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 60. It is positioned and fixed on the head support member 63. In this state, even if the pressing roller 34 is driven and rotated, the pressing roller 34 is not in contact with the magnetic head 60, so that vibration due to friction does not occur and a problem of wear does not occur. Since the gap between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 60 is smaller than the thickness of the check 50 to be conveyed, the check 50 is reliably pressed by the pressing roller mechanism 40 when the check 50 passes between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 60. The magnetic head 60 is in close contact with the head 60, and the output of the magnetic head 60 is stabilized.
[0069]
In this embodiment, the gap between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9 is ensured by bringing the bearing 64 provided on the pressing roller shaft 34a into contact with the magnetic head supporting member 63. However, the method for securing the gap between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9 is not limited to this, and the support arm 31 supporting the pressing roller 34 may be brought into contact with the magnetic head supporting member 63. Further, a gap adjusting mechanism (not shown) may be provided to secure a certain amount of gap between the pressing roller 34 and the magnetic head 9.
[0070]
[Embodiment 1]
Magnetic ink character reading means for reading magnetic ink characters on a recording medium,
A check reader having image reading means for reading an image on a recording medium,
Of the magnetic ink character reading means and the image reading means, the reading means arranged on the upstream side is the first reading means, the reading means arranged on the downstream side is the second reading means,
The recording medium transport unit in the first reading unit is a first transport unit, the recording medium transport unit in the second reading unit is a second transport unit,
The first transport means and the second transport means are arranged at the same or shorter interval as the length of the recording medium in the transport direction,
When the transport speed of the first transport unit and the second transport unit are different,
A check reading device, wherein the second transport means conveys the recording medium with slack.
[0071]
[Embodiment 2]
Having a guide member in a transport path between the first transport means and the second transport means,
The check according to claim 1, wherein the guide member is movable, and changes the width of the transport path in accordance with a slack generated by a transport speed difference between the first transport unit and the second transport unit. Class reader.
[0072]
[Embodiment 3]
A recording medium stopping means for stopping the conveyance of the recording medium on the upstream side of the second conveying means,
When the transport speed of the first transport unit and the second transport unit are different,
The recording medium stopping means stops the leading end of the recording medium,
After the recording medium is conveyed by the first conveying means in a state where the leading end of the recording medium is stopped and the recording medium has a predetermined amount of slack,
The check reading device according to claim 1, wherein the stop by the recording medium stopping unit is released, and the conveyance is performed by the second conveyance unit.
[0073]
[Embodiment 4]
A detection unit for detecting a recording medium on the downstream side of the first conveyance unit,
When the transport speed of the first transport unit and the second transport unit are different,
Stopping the leading end of the recording medium by the recording medium stopping means,
With the recording medium leading edge stopped, the recording medium is conveyed by the first conveying means to have slack,
After detecting that the rear end of the recording medium has passed the first reading unit,
The check reading device according to claim 3, wherein the stop by the recording medium stopping unit is released, and the conveyance is performed by the second conveyance unit.
[0074]
[Embodiment 5]
The check reading device according to claim 4, wherein the detection means is a first reading means, and the detection is performed based on a read output from the first reading means.
[0075]
[Embodiment 6]
A slack amount detecting unit that detects an amount of slack formed by the recording medium stopping unit;
After the sag amount detecting means detects a predetermined amount of sag,
The check reading device according to claim 3, wherein the stop by the recording medium stopping unit is released, and the conveyance is performed by the second conveyance unit.
[0076]
[Embodiment 7]
The sag amount detecting means includes:
The check reader according to claim 6, wherein the check reader is a unit that measures a transport time of the recording medium or a unit that measures a transport distance of the recording medium.
[0077]
[Embodiment 8]
The sag amount detecting means includes:
The check reader according to claim 6, wherein the check reader is a displacement amount detecting unit that detects a displacement of the guide member.
[0078]
[Embodiment 9]
The magnetic ink character reading unit includes a magnetic head that magnetically reads magnetic ink characters, and a pressing unit that presses a recording medium against the magnetic head,
The pressing unit includes a rotatable pressing roller, a support member that supports the pressing roller, and a pressing unit that presses the pressing roller against the magnetic head.
The check according to the first embodiment, wherein the pressing roller is driven to rotate in the recording medium conveyance direction, and has a two-layer structure including an inner elastic layer and a low friction member layer on the surface. Class reader.
[0079]
[Embodiment 10]
The ninth embodiment is characterized in that the magnetic ink character reading means forms a gap smaller than the thickness of the recording medium between the recording head and the pressing roller when the recording medium is not transported. Check reader according to the description.
[0080]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, in the check reader according to the present invention, even if the magnetic ink character reading means and the image reading means have different conveying speeds of the recording medium, the distance between the magnetic ink character reading means and the image reading means is increased. Since it is not necessary to make the length longer than the length of the recording medium in the transport direction, it is possible to provide a check reader in which the entire apparatus is downsized. Further, since it is not necessary to adjust the transport speed of the recording medium in the magnetic ink character reading means to the reading resolution in the image reading means, the success rate of reading MICR characters is high, and the read image is colorized and the resolution is reduced. A check reader can be provided.
[0081]
In addition, since a gap smaller than the thickness of the recording medium is secured between the pressure roller and the magnetic head for bringing the recording medium into close contact with the magnetic ink character reading means in a state where the recording medium is not being conveyed, the pressure is reduced. Check reader that stabilizes the output of the magnetic head when reading MICR characters by enabling the recording medium to be securely adhered to the magnetic head without causing unnecessary vibration or wear due to sliding of the roller and the magnetic head. Can be provided.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of the entire configuration of a check reader according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a pressing roller mechanism.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a pressing roller.
FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram of the entire configuration of a check reader according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a pressing roller mechanism.
FIG. 6 is a sectional view taken along line BB of FIG. 5;
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a pressing roller mechanism of the check reader according to the embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along line CC of FIG. 7;
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a conventional check reader.
[Explanation of symbols]
1… hopper
2 ... paper feed roller
3 ... Pressing plate
4. Loading detection sensor
5 ... paper transport path
6… Feed roller
7 ... separation roller
8a-d ... transport roller pair
9 ... magnetic head
10… Pressing roller mechanism
11 ... permanent magnet
12… Paper edge detection sensor
13… Rear end detection sensor
14… Electromagnetic clutch
16… Movable guide
17… Image reading sensor
18… Registration sensor
19… Endorser
20… Rear end detection sensor
21a, 21b ... discharge tray
22… Discharge roller
23 ... Flapper
24… drive motor
25… Controller unit
26… Operation switch panel
27, 28… drive motor
30… Press roller
30a… Rotary axis
30b ... elastic layer
30c… Surface layer
31… Support arm
32… Rotary axis
33… Pressure spring
34… Press roller
34a… Pressing roller shaft
35a, 35b ... drive transmission gear
40, 41… Pressing roller mechanism
50… Check
60… magnetic head
61, 63… magnetic head support members
62, 64 ... bearing
70… Controller unit
71… Paper transport path
72a-72c… Transport roller pair
73… Pressing roller
74… Image reading sensor
100-300… Check reader

Claims (1)

Magnetic ink character reading means for reading magnetic ink characters on a recording medium,
A check reader having image reading means for reading an image on a recording medium,
Of the magnetic ink character reading means and the image reading means, the reading means arranged on the upstream side is the first reading means, the reading means arranged on the downstream side is the second reading means,
The recording medium transport unit in the first reading unit is a first transport unit, the recording medium transport unit in the second reading unit is a second transport unit,
The first transport means and the second transport means are arranged at the same or shorter interval as the length of the recording medium in the transport direction,
When the transport speed of the first transport unit and the second transport unit are different,
A check reading device, wherein the second transport means conveys the recording medium with slack.

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