EP1577846A2 - Autonomous device and method for administering, depositing and dispensing money - Google Patents

Abstract

Autonomous device (1) for the receipt and supply of coins and banknotes and for the sorting and counting thereof. The device is coupled to a computer system (3) and has means for receipt and sorting of coins and means for receipt and sorting of notes. The receipt and sorting means then connect to storage means for the storage of sorted notes and coins. At least a part of the stored notes and coins are available for redistribution.

Description

The present invention relates to a controller and a management method currency, recipe, or cash register, usable in particular for automate this management, especially in the case of scattered users geographically and each managing their own box.

In the field of automated coin management, is known devices using a coin sorter for counting parts, and cash dispensing hoppers, a preprogrammed composition in a micro controller built into the PLC. Such devices are described in whole or in part by US Pat. 054, US 6 196 913, and FR 2 784 772. These devices make it possible to improve productivity for some coin management tasks, mainly in stores of some importance. Their However, their capabilities do not allow them to automate cash registers including banknotes, and they furthermore a geometry adapted to a single type of cash drawer. Moreover the limits of their programming possibilities do not always allow them to perform enough different tasks to allow use sufficiently versatile or functionally sufficient autonomous.

Patent Application FR 0105624 teaches a bottom dispenser cashier that can be managed and programmed more flexibly by a computer of a standard type, to distribute specific quantities of coins of different types as well as two types of banknotes. Because of of its flexibility and the distribution of banknotes, such an automaton allows to increase the productivity of the services of a central fund in a medium or large distribution store, but it still requires to be filled on a regular basis, and offers only a limited number operations.

To manage the receipts and funds of small units like small businesses or services in which each stakeholder manages his own fund independently, as receiver drivers public transportation or bar or restoration, it may be useful to automate more numerous and diverse without occupying staff use.

For example, it may be useful to allow such an intervenor to get rid of its recipe and make it count and record so regular to avoid, especially to limit losses in case of theft. he It may also be useful to allow such an operator to obtain or buy, currency at any time. Such tasks are in particularly difficult to automate when different stakeholders are not not grouped in the same place, and / or circulate in little or bad places secure.

An object of the invention is then to propose an automaton and a method currency management, recipe, or cash desk management or programming is sufficiently flexible and the capacities sufficiently important to allow more autonomous operation.

An object of the invention is also to propose an automaton and a method management of money, recipe, or bottom of cash, requiring to be followed, emptied or fed less frequently.

Another object of the invention is also to propose an automaton and a method of managing money, recipe, or cash register, which can be fed or emptied by interventions that do not interfere with the management funds contained in the device, and therefore by less specialized or less skilled.

Another object of the invention is also to propose an automaton and a method of managing money, recipe, or cash register, allowing its users to perform operations at frequencies and in more flexible quantities, allowing them more management more flexible and more secure

These goals are achieved by an automated money management or recipe or cash register, in the form of coins and notes, usable by a user to perform one or more operations including the depositing, sorting, or counting coins or banknotes, this automaton comprising means for storing parts, means banknote storage and coin dispensing means currency and means of distribution of banknotes able to distribute a determined composition of different types or values of parts or tickets, characterized in that it is coupled to a computer system and includes means for receiving and sorting coins and means for receiving and sorting banknotes, these receiving means and sorting in the storage means the coins and notes received at least part of which is capable of being distributed by the means of distribution.

According to a particular feature, the automaton comprises means of memorization of information representing the coins and notes received by the means of reception or distributed by the distribution means during a operation, this information being stored in association with a identification of a PLC user for this operation.

According to a particularity, the distribution means are ordered by control means driven by the computer system for distribute, for each type or value of coin or ticket, a quantity determined stored or calculated by the computer system based requested type of operation, an identification of the user of the machine, or a quantity or value of coins or notes received by the receiving and sorting means, or a combination thereof.

According to one particular feature, the means for storing currency comprise a plurality of hoppers with unitary ejection of coins and counting means of the ejected coins, and fed each with the same type or value of parts, these parts can be brought automatically from the means receiving and sorting coins.

According to one particular feature, the parts ejected from the hoppers are conveyed by a plurality of chutes whose outlets are arranged according to a specific geometry to distribute distributed parts in different compartments of a container or cash drawer determined, at least one of these compartments receiving coins same type or value.

According to a feature, at least two chutes are combined into one distribution block determining a geometry of distribution of parts adapted to a type of container or cash drawer, this distribution block being positioned at the outlet of the hoppers by positioning means allowing the use of several different interchangeable blocks adapted to different types of containers.

According to a particularity, the automaton comprises at least two blocks of interchangeable distribution whose exchange is achieved by means operated by the computer system or the user.

According to a particularity, the storage means of banknotes include at least two storage cassettes provided with means of distribution and counting, each of these cassettes containing banknotes of the same type or value, and at least one cassette receiving tickets of several different types, at least one of these cassettes that can automatically receive tickets from means for receiving and sorting notes.

According to a particular feature, the automaton comprises means of communication with a computerized portable object comprising means storing, and storing at least one identification data of a PLC user.

According to a particularity, the storage means are enclosed in a closed device, called a distributor, so as to make it inaccessible to the user the coins and notes stored, this distributor including means for external transfer of coins or bills, these transfer means comprising at least one container supplying the storage means of the distributor or receiving coins or notes from within the distributor, these transfer means may supply the dispenser or be supplied by the distributor and able to be transported from the distributor by a transfer operator, without said operator having access to the parts or tickets contained in the dispenser or in the transfer means.

According to one particular feature, the means for receiving the pieces are located in the upper part of the dispenser, the coins passing means reception and sorting towards the storage means under the effect of the gravity, the dispenser comprising a receptacle located at a height determined lower than that of the receiving and sorting means, this receptacle able to receive pieces to sort deposited by the user to a height substantially lower than that of the receiving means and sorting, then be moved by means of elevation to said means receipt to pay for the coins it contains.

According to a particularity, the computer system comprises a internal computer located inside the dispenser and memorizing parameters allowing the autonomous operation of the PLC for a plurality of operations.

According to one particular feature, the internal computer is able to communicate with a keyboard external to the distributor and constituting means of seizure for this computer, through a temporary electrical connection wireless means of communication, without the need to open the distributor.

According to a particularity, the computer is able to communicate with the less a computer system external to the PLC, via a computer network or a permanent computer link or this communication allowing the reading or the parameterization, to distance, available operations, or databases used during of these operations.

According to a particularity, the computer system comprises a computer using an operating system running on a interactive graphical interface to implement the management or setting up available operations or used databases during these operations.

• la figure 1a représente l'automate selon l'invention et sa connexion avec un système informatique distant,
• la figure 1b représente l'automate dans un mode de réalisation où le système informatique est un ordinateur interne intégré à l'intérieur du distributeur, et communique avec un clavier externe sans fil
• la figure 2a, représente schématiquement, en vue de face, l'intérieur de la partie réception et distribution de pièces du distributeur de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 2b représente, en vue de côté, l'agencement des dispositifs de dépôt, d'élévation, de réception et tri, et de distribution d'un distributeur de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 3 représente un premier type de tiroir-caisse,
• les figures 4a, 4b, et 4c représentent respectivement en perspective, en vue de dessus et en vue de face, le bloc de distribution adapté au premier type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 5 représente un deuxième type de tiroir-caisse,
• les figures 6a, 6b, et 6c représentent respectivement en perspective, en vue de dessus et en vue de face, le bloc de distribution adapté au deuxième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 7 représente un troisième type de tiroir-caisse,
• les figures 8a, 8b, et 8c représentent respectivement en perspective, en vue de dessus et en vue de face, le bloc de distribution adapté au troisième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 9 représente un quatrième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 10 représente en perspective le bloc de distribution adapté au quatrième type de tiroir-caisse,
• la figure 11a représente un écran principal de choix parmi les opérations principales disponibles,
• la figure 11b représente un écran principal de gestion et paramétrage de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 12 représente un écran de paramétrage général de l'automate selon l'invention,
• la figure 13 représente un écran de paramétrage des types de fonds de caisse mémorisés par l'automate,
• la figure 14 représente un écran de paramétrage de la liste des utilisateurs mémorisés par l'automate,
• la figure 15 représente un écran de paramétrage des opérations autorisées à un utilisateur et mémorisées par l'automate,
• la figure 16 représente un organigramme comprenant les étapes exécutées lors du retrait de fond de caisse à l'aide de l'automate selon l'invention.

The invention, with its features and advantages, will emerge more clearly on reading the description given with reference to the appended drawings in which:
The invention, with its features and advantages, will emerge more clearly on reading the description given with reference to the appended drawings in which:

• FIG. 1a represents the automaton according to the invention and its connection with a remote computer system,
• FIG. 1b shows the automaton in an embodiment where the computer system is an internal computer integrated inside the dispenser, and communicates with a wireless external keyboard
• FIG. 2a shows schematically, in front view, the inside of the part receiving and dispensing parts of the distributor of the automaton according to the invention,
• FIG. 2b shows, in side view, the arrangement of the deposition, elevation, reception and sorting and dispensing devices of a distributor of the automaton according to the invention,
• FIG. 3 represents a first type of cash drawer,
• FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c respectively show in perspective, in plan view and in front view, the distribution block adapted to the first type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 5 represents a second type of cash drawer,
• FIGS. 6a, 6b and 6c respectively show in perspective, in plan view and in front view, the distribution block adapted to the second type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 7 represents a third type of cash drawer,
• FIGS. 8a, 8b and 8c respectively show in perspective, in plan view and in front view, the distribution block adapted to the third type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 9 represents a fourth type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the distribution block adapted to the fourth type of cash drawer,
• FIG. 11a represents a main screen of choice among the main operations available,
• FIG. 11b represents a main screen for managing and parameterizing the automaton according to the invention,
• FIG. 12 represents a general parameter setting screen of the automaton according to the invention,
• FIG. 13 represents a screen for setting up the types of funds of funds stored by the automaton,
• FIG. 14 represents a screen for setting up the list of users stored by the PLC,
• FIG. 15 represents a screen for setting the operations authorized to a user and memorized by the automaton,
• FIG. 16 represents a flowchart comprising the steps performed during the withdrawal of the cash register using the automaton according to the invention.

Before addressing the description of the invention, it is necessary to specify the following concepts.

The automaton according to the invention consists of a distributor (1) coupled to a computer system (3). The dispenser (1) according to the invention, represented in FIGS. 1a, 1b and 2b, in the form of a parallelepipedal block constituted by mainly of two parts (10, 11). A first part (10) is intended for the reception and distribution of coins while a Part II (11) is intended for the receipt and distribution of bank.

The first part (10), larger than the second part (11), including, from the outside, a hood (100), a keyboard (101) of capture associated with a screen (102, 107), both recessed in the hood (100) and a housing (103) for positioning a cash drawer (2) for receiving coins. This accommodation (103) is consisting of a hole drilled in the bottom of a panel (104) lateral more large surface of the cover (100), over its entire length, this hole being of a large enough to fit any type of cash drawer (2). The housing (103) will also include a cash drawer support surface in receiving position of the coins. The hood (100) may be opened to fill the coin dispenser, banknotes, to maintain or repair. The keyboard (101) will serve among other things, to type a confidential code displayed on the screen (102, 107) or to choose the type of operation desired by the user. This aspect of the invention will be described later.

Inside the first part (10) distributing pieces of currency, shown schematically in Figure 2a, we find a a plurality of hoppers (4) ("hopper" in English) adjacent and aligned. A hopper (4) is associated with a category of parts. For example, in France or in Europe, for a currency like the Euro, there could be a hopper (4) for one-cent coins, one hopper (4) for coins of two cents, a hopper (4) for five-cent coins, a hopper (4) for coins of ten centimes, a hopper (4) for coins of twenty cents, a hopper (4) for coins of fifty cents, a hopper (4) for one euro coins. The hoppers (4) are all identical and do not do not have a particular structure depending on the category of pieces they receive. In contrast, depending on the size of the category of parts received, the hoppers (4) will be able to store more or less parts.

These hoppers (4) comprise an inlet for introducing the parts and an outlet (40) of the pieces. The pieces are ejected one by one by a ejector (not shown). According to the invention, the outlet (40) of each hopper is placed opposite the entrance of a coin distribution chute. The outlet of the distribution chute is placed opposite a compartment a cash drawer (2). Figures 2a and 2b are representations schematic of the interior of the first portion (10) of the dispenser (1). In In reality, the hoppers (4) have a more complicated structure integrating in particular an ejector of a known type. The distribution of the pieces will be managed entirely by the management software. In particular, according to the invention, each hopper will have near its exit a counter of the number ejected parts. This counter will, for example, consist of a cell photoelectric detector detecting the passage of each ejected piece. The counting performed will be taken into account immediately by the software that will be automatically what was actually distributed.

The chutes together form a single distribution block (5) which is removable from the dispenser (1). The layout and shape of the chutes in the distribution block depend on the location of compartments in the cash drawer (2) to which the dispenser (1) is supposed to dispense coins change. According to the invention, the first part (10) of the distributor (1) can therefore receive, by a system of attachment (105) and positioning, different distribution blocks (5) depending on the configuration of the cash drawer (2) to feed. This attachment system (105) is constituted by example, two pins (59) positioned on the sides of the block of distribution (5) and intended to slide in ramps formed inside from the first portion (10) to blocking the dispensing block (5).

In a variant not shown here, several distribution blocks different geometries are available in the dispenser, and can be interchanged by exchange means such as a carousel, operated by the user or controlled by the computer system in function of the operation to be carried out or a type of corresponding cash drawer to an identified user, and stored as a parameter by the system computer science.

The cash drawer (2) is intended to be inserted into the housing (103) provided in the first part (10) of the distributor (1) for the reception of rooms. According to the invention, in each distribution block (5), the chutes (50) will have an arrangement adapted to the configuration of the cash drawer (2). In each distribution block (5), the chutes (50) have a piece conveying surface oriented towards the vertical median plane of the distribution block (5). Chutes (50) have a bottom section outlet at the inlet section of the chute communicating with the outlet (40) of minus one hopper (4).

For example, a first type of cash drawer (2a), represented in Figure 3, consists of a row of six compartments (20a) identical. According to the invention, the distribution block (5a), represented in FIGS. 4a, 4b and 4c, adapted to this cash drawer (2a) will comprise six chutes (50a, 51a) having inputs (500a, 510a) adjacent and aligned with respect to the outputs (40) hoppers (4) and outlets (501a, 511a) adjacent and aligned, each outlet (501a, 511a) being placed over a different compartment (20a) cash drawer (2a). This cash drawer (2a) comprises only six compartments (20a) for seven hoppers (4). Two hoppers (4) therefore distribute a compartment of the cash drawer (2a) via a distribution chute (51a) whose entry (510a) is widened with respect to the inputs (500a) of the other chutes (50a). A compartment (20a) of the cash drawer (2a) will receive then pieces from both hoppers.

A second type of cash drawer (2b) is presented in FIG. cash drawer (2b) will comprise, for example, a cover (21b) resealable to key (22b). It also comprises two rows (r1, r2) of compartments (20b). A first row (r1) comprises four compartments and a second row (r2) comprises six compartments (20b). The first one row will include, for example, two central compartments (20b) taken between two compartments (23b) of larger size for store, for example, banknotes. The six compartments (20b) of the second row (r2) and the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) are intended to receive coins from hoppers (4). The distribution chutes will, according to the invention, be arranged for supplying these compartments (20b) of the cash drawer (2b). The block of distribution (5b), shown in FIGS. 6a, 6b and 6c, will comprise a chute (51b) for feeding the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) and six chutes (50b) for feeding the compartments (20b) of the second row (r2). Inlets (500b, 510b) of chutes (50b, 51b) are adjacent, aligned and placed each opposite the exit (40) a hopper (4). The trough (51b) feeding the two compartments (20b) the first row (r1) is central. The exit (511b) of this chute (51b) is offset from the other outputs (501b) of the chutes to be able to feed the compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) of the cash drawer (2b). The second row (r2) of the cash drawer (2b) for example, the first introduced into the housing (103) provided for the positioning of the cash drawer (2b). The outlet (511b) of the chute (51b) the central unit is shifted outwards when the distribution block (5b) is hooked by the attachment system (105) in the first part (10) of the distributor. This chute (51b) central will, because it feeds the two compartments (20b) of the first row (r1) of the cash drawer (2b), an output (511b) of larger section than the other outputs (501b) chutes (50b) each giving only one compartment (20b) cash drawer (2b).

A third type of cash drawer (2c), represented in FIG. 7, also comprises two rows (r1, r2) of compartments. Both rows include a large common compartment (22c). A first row (r1) comprises in addition to this common compartment (22c), three other compartments aligned. Of these three compartments, two (24c) are identical and one last (23c) is larger than the two other. The second row (r2) includes, in addition to the compartment common, five compartments (20c) adjacent identical. These are these five last compartments (20c) which are fed by the hoppers (4) of the distributor (1) via the chutes arranged in a block. according to the invention, the corresponding distribution block (5c), represented in FIGS. 8a, 8b, and 8c, will include four adjacent inputs (500c, 510c). according to the invention, the distribution block (5c) will comprise three inputs (500c) of chutes (50c) of identical sections, two of these inputs being at a end and the other of these inputs being at the other end of the block of distribution (5c). This group of two chutes placed at one end and this chute at the other end are separated by the last chute (51c) having an inlet (510c) of larger section to collect coins coin from several hoppers (4) of the dispenser (1), by example from four hoppers (4) of the distributor. The outputs (501c, 511c) of these chutes (50c, 51c) are also adjacent and aligned and There are five of them, each placed above a compartment (20c) of the cash drawer (2c) to be fed. The outlet (511) of the chute (51c) to enlarged inlet according to the invention is separated into two separate outputs for supply two compartments (20c) separate from the cash drawer (2c). These two compartments of the cash drawer may each include, for example, two categories of coins from two hoppers (4) of the distributor (1). The dispenser (1) may also have several hoppers (4) including the same category of parts.

Another type of cash drawer (2d), shown in FIG. 9, will include mainly two rows (r1, r2) of compartments. A first row (r1) comprises compartments (21d) of significant size for store bank notes and other credit card receipts. A second row (r2), for storing the coins, includes, as shown in FIG. 9, seven identical compartments (20d) adjacent and aligned. According to the invention the distribution block (5d) for supplying the compartments of the cash drawer will comprise seven chutes, as shown in FIG. 10. The chutes (50d) will, according to the invention, arranged to feed these seven compartments (20d). The distributor (1) will include, as described above, for example seven hoppers (4), as shown in Figure 2a. A hopper (4), comprising a category of coins, will feed a compartment (20d) of the cash drawer (2) via a chute (50d) of the distribution block (5d). According to the invention, the chutes will have adjacent entrances (500d) aligned, each vis-à-vis the outlet (40) of a hopper (4) and outlets (501d), also adjacent and aligned, each giving compartment (20d) different from the cash drawer (2d).

According to the invention, all these distribution blocks (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) are of the same dimensions to be able to be hooked in the dispenser (1) under all the hoppers (4). The distribution block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) is removable from the dispenser (1) and interchangeable according to the type of cash drawer (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) to feed. The distribution block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) will be positioned by the attachment system (105) in the dispenser (1) without affecting the internal or external structure of the dispenser (1). according to the invention, it will therefore be possible to adapt the dispenser to the supply of any type of cash drawer by changing only the block of distribution. Different types of cash drawer and distribution blocks presented above are in no way limiting, other cash drawers may be considered in combination with other distribution blocks adapted.

According to the invention, the second part (11) of the distributor (1) include a distribution module (12) using one or more cassettes, for example two cassettes (121, 122) each containing one only ticket category. The second part (11) of the distributor will include then means of sampling in a cassette and routing of tickets, for example consisting of rolls for transporting tickets outwards. These ticket dispensing means (12), as for the coins, may include a counting cell for the number of banknotes actually distributed, this value being reported in the system computer science (3). The computer system (3) will store in its database (db1) the number of tickets that the distributor (1) must issue for each category of tickets. Tickets will be treated as coins and how the computer system (3) works will be similar to used for the distribution of parts. The distributor will therefore issue the number of tickets memorized for each category of tickets. The distributor For example, banknotes can store up to 4000 banknotes. During each operation with a distribution, it will be possible to assign to each user, the value in tickets that we wish to distribute.

In a variant (not shown), the storage hoppers of coins and banknote storage cassettes include closing means as well as locking or sealing means electrically or mechanically controlled when opening the distributor (1), or controlled by the computer system (3). One or several hoppers or cassettes are then fixed in the dispenser by reversible fixing means, so as to allow the extraction of one or several of them, together or separately. During an operation emptying or feeding the PLC, it is then possible for an operator to replace one or more hoppers present in the distributor by other hoppers of a determined content, and to put back the automaton in service with the new hoppers, without having access itself to the contents of the hoppers. For this, the cassettes or hoppers are closed when opening the hood, or before, and are only extractable once locked or sealed. These cassettes or hoppers are then replaced by other closed and locked or sealed cassettes that can not be unlocked or unsealed and opened only after fixation in the dispenser or after closing the dispenser cover.

In the upper part of the first part (10) of the distributor (1), a money receiving device (13) is disposed above the hoppers storage, as shown schematically in Figures 2a and 2b. In the case of an operation involving a deposit of coins by a user, this coin receiving device receives the bulk parts, the recognize and sort by type or value, the counts for each type or value, then feeds them by gravity into the hoppers (4) of storage assigned to each of the types or coin values. Rooms received and recognized, when they correspond to the types or values stored, can be redistributed during an operation involving a distribution of coins, later or at the same time surgery. An additional hopper (41) will receive the non recognized, or recognized parts but not corresponding to a type or a value assigned to a storage hopper (4), or parts thereof overcapacity compared to the storage capacities of the other hoppers (4) of storage.

Typically, this device (13) for receiving coins from coin comprises a receiving tray (134) receiving the coins to be sorted, in which a hollow loading disk (135) rotates which takes the pieces one after another in the tray, until the last, to bring them up a ramp (137) inclined current over chutes (138) leading to the different hoppers (4, 41). At the entrance of this ramp (137) inclined is a device (136) for recognizing a known type recognizing the type, or the value, as well as the authenticity of the parts fed by the loading disc (135). Depends on recognition performed by the recognition device (136), different actuators (139) arranged along the ramp and controlled by the computer system (3) or by means of dependent commands of the recognition device (136), eject each piece towards the chute leading to the hopper of the recognized type or value. At the entrance of each chute and ramp is a counting device of a known type (not shown), for example by optical cell, which takes into account the number of coins entered into each hopper. Device information of recognition and those of the different counting cells are transmitted to the computer system, which corroborates them with each other and the uses to calculate and memorize the value and composition of the set user-deposited parts. At the end of the ramp (137) the unrecognized coins fall and are received in an eighth hopper (41), where they can be stored or returned to the user.

In the lower part of its facade, the first part of the distributor (1) has a hatch (131) which can be unlocked, for example on control of the computer system, and where the user can dump the pieces he wants to drop. These pieces then fall to a receptacle (132) mobile, for example with a capacity of about 1000 pieces, which is moved upwards by means (133) of actuation, in a time about 4 seconds. This mobile receptacle then constitutes an elevator which will bring the spilled parts to the tank located at the entrance of the device (13) receiving parts. This elevator makes it possible to arrange the device receiving parts over the hoppers, while allowing the user to easily pour the coins into a sufficiently hatch low to limit the efforts and movements required. Such a provision thus makes it possible to obtain a compact-shaped dispenser and reduced size and a satisfactory ergonomics.

In its second part (11), the dispenser (1) comprises a bank note receiving device (14). In the case of an operation including a deposit of bank notes by a user, this receipt receives the tickets one by one, recognizes them and sorts them by type or by value, the counts for each type or value, then the routes to storage cassettes (121, 122) allocated to each of the types or values of notes. Tickets received and recognized, when they correspond to the types or values stored, can thus be redistributed in an operation involving a distribution of bank, later or during the same operation. A third (123) will receive the unrecognized notes, or the recognized notes but not corresponding to a type or value assigned to a cassette (121, 122), or the excess banknotes in relation to the capacities of storage of other storage cassettes.

Typically, this bill receiving device (14) comprises a ticket insertion opening in the front of the dispenser (1). The user introduces one by one the notes he wants to deposit, and these are driven by successive rubber rollers along a path routing. On this way is arranged a device of a known type of recognition of banknotes, for example by optical reading under several lighting using lights of different spectra. Depending on the type or the recognized value for each ticket introduced by the user, said The ticket is then routed to the corresponding cassette (121, 122, 123). In a variant not shown, the automaton comprises a device for deliassage in which the user deposits the notes to be recognized under form of piles or loose bundles. This déliassage device extracts a the notes of the bundle introduced, and sends them to the device of recognition described above. At the entrance of each cassette (121, 122, 123) and the bill receiving device (14) is a device for counting, for example by optical cell, which takes into account the number of tickets entered in each cassette. The information of the device of recognition and those of the different counting cells are transmitted to the computer system, which corroborates them with each other and the uses to calculate and memorize the value, and possibly the composition, of all the tickets introduced by the user.

Because some transactions include the filing by a user of coins or banknotes, at least part of which may be reused to perform a distribution operation, the automaton according to the invention can operate according to an autonomy which is less limited by the capabilities of its storage means.

According to the invention, the dispenser (1) is controlled by a system computer system (3), as illustrated in FIGS. 1a and 1b, executing software management of operations achievable by the PLC at the request of a user of this controller. This software includes a management part and setting to memorize settings adapted to the mode of the use of the PLC, and the users of this PLC. This software also includes an exploitation part, which provides the interface between the PLC and the user, to choose and order the operations to carry out.

The management and configuration part is mainly accessible to using a keyboard (32) communicating with the computer system (3), or is accessible from another computer system (36) by communication computing via a computer network (34), for example via the Internet, or a telephone link (35) using a modem (33).

The exploitation part is directly used by the user of the automaton to perform an operation, and communicates with it through a display screen and input means accessible to the user. These input means may be for example a reduced keyboard (101) arranged in front of the dispenser or a screen (107) displaying different choices in different areas of the screen and keys (106) external to the screen arranged opposite these different areas, or a touch screen detecting finger contact on the screen at one of these areas.

According to one variant, this computer system (3) can manage several distributors of the type of the invention at the same time.

This software will manage the different operations that can to realize the automaton, in particular the deposit of recipe or the withdrawal of funds, the simple coin counting, the purchase of currency, the direct distribution of petty cash and restocking, or the deposit of a cash register for counting and reconstitution of a reassured bottom.

In the part of the software that manages and parameterizes the automaton, a main management screen (220), represented in FIG. 11b, provides access to the various features of the software. For this, this screen (220) will comprise a strip (221) of software-type controls control button, which can be selected individually. This selection can be made, for example, by a mouse click on the desired button, and will cause the display, in a specific part of the window, a new screen window with information or software controls in connection with this button. This headband (221) will include, for example, a button, called, for example, "Parameterization" (223) for parameterizing, for example, the distribution coins or banknotes, or the list of authorized users and transactions authorized to them, of the identification of the accounts are assigned, or identification codes of these users. By clicking on this button, it will be possible to configure the software.

• L'automate comportera une pluralité de trémies (4) de stockage devant distribuer des pièces de monnaie, par exemple sept trémies. Dans chaque trémie (4), on stockera une seule catégorie de pièces, c'est à dire un seul type de pièce, ou plusieurs types d'une même valeur. Un paramètre à saisir (242) sera donc la valeur unitaire des pièces introduites dans chaque trémie. Cette saisie (242) sera effectuée sur la fenêtre d'écran (240) de paramétrage général. Par exemple, dans cette fenêtre (240) nous choisirons que dans une première trémie, seront introduites des pièces ayant une valeur de 1,00 euro, dans une deuxième trémie, des pièces de 0,50 euro, dans une troisième trémie, des pièces de 0,20 euro, dans une quatrième trémie, des pièces de 0,10 euro, dans une cinquième trémie, des pièces de 0,05 euro, dans une sixième trémie, des pièces de 0,02 euro, et dans la septième trémie, des pièces de 0,01 euro.
• L'automate comportera une pluralité de cassettes (121, 122, 123) de stockage de billets de banque, par exemple trois cassettes. Dans chacune des deux cassettes (121, 122) devant distribuer des billets, on stockera une seule catégorie de billets, c'est à dire un seul type de billet, ou plusieurs types d'une même valeur. Un paramètre à saisir (241) sera donc la valeur unitaire des billets introduits dans chaque cassette. Cette saisie (241) sera effectuée sur la fenêtre d'écran (240) de paramétrage général. Par exemple, dans cette fenêtre (240) nous choisirons que dans une première cassette, seront introduits des billets ayant une valeur de 10,00 euros, dans une deuxième cassette, des billets de 5,00 euros, et dans la troisième cassette (123), aucun billet ne sera introduit.
• Un autre paramètre à saisir sera le nombre minimal de billets en stock dans chaque cassette, en dessous de laquelle devra être affiché un message d'alerte. Ce message précisera, par exemple, qu'il faut réapprovisionner l'automate en billets.
• De même, pour toutes les trémies de pièces, le nombre minimal de pièces (244) de stock dans chacune des trémies est saisi. En dessous de cette valeur, un message d'alerte sera affiché. Ce message précisera qu'il faut réapprovisionner la trémie pour laquelle l'alerte est activée.
• deux autres paramètres à saisir seront, par exemple, un code (245) et un mot de passe (246), nécessaires pour effectuer la vidange de l'automate. La saisie de ce code à l'aide du clavier (32) externe, ou à l'aide du clavier (101) sur l'automate est suivie d'une sélection de retrait de fond de caisse pour provoquer la vidange complète de l'automate.
• Enfin, les derniers paramètres à saisir sont une heure de début (247) et une heure de fin (248). La durée entre ces deux heures définit la tranche horaire pendant laquelle les utilisateurs sont autorisés à retirer des fonds de caisse ou des réassorts.

First, a general configuration of the controller can be performed in a general configuration screen window shown schematically in Figure 12, for example during startup or during a control or inventory. This screen window (240) will include several parameter input fields to be stored in a database.

• The automaton will comprise a plurality of hoppers (4) storage to distribute coins, for example seven hoppers. In each hopper (4), we will store a single category of parts, ie a single type of part, or several types of the same value. A parameter to be entered (242) will therefore be the unit value of the coins introduced into each hopper. This entry (242) will be made on the general setting screen window (240). For example, in this window (240) we will choose that in a first hopper, will be introduced coins having a value of 1.00 euro, in a second hopper, coins of 0.50 euro, in a third hopper, coins from 0.20 euro, in a fourth hopper, coins of 0.10 euro, in a fifth hopper, coins of 0.05 euro, in a sixth hopper, coins of 0.02 euro, and in the seventh hopper , coins of 0.01 euro.
• The automaton will comprise a plurality of banknote storage cassettes (121, 122, 123), for example three cassettes. In each of the two cassettes (121, 122) to distribute tickets, one will store a single category of tickets, ie a single type of ticket, or several types of the same value. A parameter to be entered (241) will therefore be the unit value of the bills introduced into each cassette. This entry (241) will be made on the general setting screen window (240). For example, in this window (240) we will choose that in a first cassette, will be introduced notes having a value of 10.00 euros, in a second cassette, notes of 5.00 euros, and in the third cassette (123 ), no ticket will be introduced.
• Another parameter to enter will be the minimum number of tickets in stock in each cassette, below which an alert message will be displayed. This message will specify, for example, that it is necessary to replenish the ticket machine.
• Similarly, for all coin hoppers, the minimum number of pieces (244) of stock in each hopper is entered. Below this value, an alert message will be displayed. This message will specify that the hopper for which the alert is activated must be replenished.
• two other parameters to be entered will be, for example, a code (245) and a password (246), necessary to perform the emptying of the PLC. Entering this code using the external keypad (32), or using the keypad (101) on the PLC, is followed by a bottom-out selection to cause complete emptying of the keypad. PLC.
• Finally, the last parameters to enter are a start time (247) and an end time (248). The time between these two hours defines the time period during which users are allowed to withdraw cash or restocking.

The validation of these parameters will, for example, be carried out in clicking on an icon (249) named, for example "OK". The selection to using the mouse of another icon (250) will cancel this setting and keep the previous setting.

The setting of the PLC in the management software includes the setting up and memorizing, in a database (db2) of data stored in the system memory means (M) (3) computer, a list of different authorized users for the PLC. In this database, in relation to each of these users are also stored parameters defining the operations that they are authorized and the mode of realization of these different operations.

This list can be viewed and modified in a screen window (280) shown in Figure 14. In this window, an identification code (281) different is entered to identify each user. To this code identification number (281) is associated with the name (282) of the user. Each user has a password (283) that will be stored in the database of data (db2). This password (283) corresponds to a code that the user will have to enter on the keyboard (101) of the distributor (1) to perform one of the operations that are available to him. This password (283) may be modified by the user from the keyboard (101) of the dispenser (1), in one operation accessible from the "User Options" choice of the operation choice window (210) described later. It will be possible to delete a user from the list by clicking on a specific icon of a banner (290) of icons.

For each user in this list, the database (db2) of data memorize information (284) called "type of user", which is displayed and can be changed in this window. This information (284) from type of user for example in the form of a graphical interactive control "drop-down" type offering different values proposed for the software for this information (284). The user type is a classification category of authorized users. From a parameterization of the software itself, not detailed here, this information of type of user can be used by the software to propose values predetermined for certain parameters associated with the user corresponding, or to propose a choice of operations of the automaton or setting submenus of the PLC depending on this type User. For example, a user type can represent a host or a cashier of a supermarket, who will use the automaton exclusively to withdraw one or more funds of cash and / or restocking of cash fund. This type of user can also be a driver of bus running on a line whose terminus is close to the distributor, and will use the automaton to deposit his recipe and replenish his cash box. This type of user can also be a trader external to the organization managing the PLC, which can use the PLC exclusively to carry out neutral-balance operations, such as counting or sorting of currency, or positive balance as a deposit of recipe at the end of the day.

For each user in this list, the database (db2) of data can memorize information (285) called "account number", which is displayed and can be changed in this window. This issue of account identifies a data stored in the storage means (M) and representing a financial value held by the user with the organization managing the automaton and the money it contains. For each operation performed by the user at the PLC, the system computer stores in debit or credit this account the value of the currency deposited or withdrawn, or the difference of these values. As example, the balance of an operation as a recipe deposit with redistribution of a cash register will be credited to the account attributed to the user, and may be refunded or revalorized in another form at the end of the period or by direct transfer from the organization managing the automaton to a bank account belonging to that user or to his employer.

For each user in this list, the database (db2) of data may store information (286) called "account status", which is displayed and can be changed in this window. This account status represents a type of operation authorized or programmed for the account of this user, and may for example include the limitation to only transactions that credit the account, or identify that account as representing only a statement of cash funds or restocking withdrawn by a host or a cashier.

For each user in this list, the database (db2) of data can memorize information (287) called "maximum differential", which is displayed and can be changed in this window. This differential maximum represents the maximum financial value corresponding to the balance total of operations that may be authorized to that user during a given period of time, for example a day. This information can constitute a useful security to limit the risks, especially in case of fraud by an individual posing as an authorized user.

For each user in this list, the database (db2) of data can memorize information (288) called "authorized hours", which is displayed and can be changed in this window. This information represents the hours, in the day or in a week, when this user can use the controller.

For each user belonging to this list of users, the base (db2) stores other parameters defining certain limits or characteristics of each type of operation authorized audit user. These additional parameters can be viewed and modified in a screen window (270) entitled "User Parameters", represented in figure 15. This window can be obtained from the window (280) displaying the list of users, by a mouse click on the line of a user followed by a click on a specific icon, displayed in the banner (290) icons.

This window (270) of user parameters resumes the display (271) of the information line corresponding to the user within the user list, and also allows modification. For this user, this window displays and allows the modification of a list (279) of authorized operations, and a certain amount of information parameters (272) specific to these types of operations and to this user, for example limits or modes of operation.

For one or more operations including a distribution of coins, a parameter (272) next to each operation can indicate the code of a block (5) of distribution whose geometry corresponds to that of the cash drawer used by this user.

For a repository operation, a parameter (273) may indicate a maximum number of allowed repositories for a given period, for example per day.

For a cash dispensing or restocking operation, a parameter (274) can indicate the code of a background composition of checkout to use for this user. This composition can be entered and stored as described below.

For a counting or counting operation with sorting, a parameter (275) can indicate the number of count operations allowed to this user for a given period, for example per day.

For a currency purchase transaction, a parameter (276) can indicate the code of one or more coin compositions and / or notes corresponding to one or more amounts determined in be converted into money, from a deposit, or charged to a account or by purchase using a credit card or credit card. payment. Although they can be used in different conditions, these compositions can be captured and stored as crate as described below.

A setting of the types of funds available will consist of to enter the parameters related to the list of funds to store them in a database (db1) stored on the computer system (3). In a specific screen window (260), shown in FIG. will be possible to enter and store the setting of one or more types bottom of the box. The setting of a cash register consists in choosing the number of tickets and the number of coins in each category that one wish to distribute for this fund. Several different users may have different cash funds, ie compositions different. New cash will be added to the list in clicking on a specific icon displayed within a banner (261) icons. A first parameter to be entered is the code (262) allowing to identify the bottom of the box. Then, enter the number (263) of tickets of each type that one wishes to assign to this fund. Then, it will be necessary to affect the number of pieces (264) that one wishes distribute in each category of coins. The total amount (265) of the merits checkout will be calculated automatically. It will also be possible to delete an existing cash register by selecting the corresponding line at the bottom of the box that you want to delete and clicking on an icon specific suppression of the banner (261) of icons.

According to a variant of the invention, it will also be possible in a screen window (not shown) to set the serial port of the system computer on which the distribution automaton is connected. He will be possible in this window to specify for each coin value the number of the hopper that is assigned to this value. A same category of parts can be distributed on several hoppers. On the other hand, a hopper may not include coins of different values.

The validation of all these parameters is, for example, carried out in clicking on a named icon, for example, "OK".

In the operating part of the software, the computer system (3) asks the user to identify himself, and offers him the different operations it is authorized to carry out, in particular according to parameters specific to this user, parameters specific to the PLC, and quantities of money remaining inside the storage facilities of the the PLC.

The identification of the user can be done by known means and in various ways according to the embodiments, certain modes of realization that can use several modes of identification. According to users or types of users or types of operations authorized to them, a method of identification may be requested by rather than another, depending on the degree of security offered by each of these modes. A choice of identification modes can be memorized as a parameter specific to the user or a category of users.

These means of identification may include entering the code (281) user followed by entering the stored password word (283) for that user. These means of identification may also include the communication of the PLC with a portable object held by the user and containing digital data, for example a magnetic badge or a transponder, or comprising a microprocessor and executing a identification algorithm, for example a smart card, specific or Multiapplication.

Once the user is identified with the PLC, or before this identification, according to the embodiments, the software offers him to choose the operation or operations he wishes to perform. The main operations are grouped as displayed choices (230) on the screen (107) of the dispenser (1), as illustrated in FIG. 11a. The selection of these choices can to be done by entering on the keyboard (101) a number corresponding to the choice desired, or by pressing one of the external keys (106) located on the side of the screen and in front of which are displayed the different choices.

If the identification is made before the choice of operation, the software may not propose that the operations available to that user at that time. If the identification is made after the choice of operations, the software can propose all available operations at that time, then request identify and restrict the choice, or block the operation if the user had chosen an operation that is not allowed to him.

To carry out a withdrawal operation of a cash register or a restocking, the user, for example a hostess or a cashier, must choose the transaction "Cash In Withdrawal" (216) or Withdrawal Restore " (217) in the operation selection screen (210).

The operation then proceeds in the following manner, one of which flowchart is shown in Figure 16. The dispenser is closed and connected to the computer system (3) which controls it. Each hopper (4) is filled with coins of a certain category of coins. The distribution block (5a, 5b, 5c, 5d) installed in the distributor (1) is the adapted to the type of cash drawer (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) to be fed. In some embodiments, the software or the user can control a change of distribution block, if several different blocks are available, so as to use the block adapted to the cash drawer used. If he is controlled by the computer system, this block change of distribution is made by selecting the block adapted to the identified user, by reading in the corresponding database (db1) of a code (272) identifying this cash drawer or the distribution block that is adapted to it.

The hostess or the cashier will start in a first step (300) by positioning its cash drawer (2a, 2b, 2c, 2d) in the housing (103) provided in the distributor (1), as shown in Figures 1a, 1b and 1c. The hostess or the cashier takes it in a second step (301), using the keyboard (101), its identification code on the screen (102, 107) of the distributor and his password. The computer system (3) identifies the cashier or the cashier by checking (302) the code ID and the associated password in the database (db2) including in particular the list of hostesses or cashiers and the bottom cashier associated with them. In case the identification code of the hostess or cashier's host, her password or both, are fake, an error (303) is generated and an error message is displayed on the screen (102, 107) of the dispenser (1). This message may propose, for example, repeat the entry. On the other hand, if the identification code and the word associated pass are found in the database (db2), the system (3) controls the display (304) of a menu on the screen (102, 107) of the distributor (1). This menu may include, for example, three options. A first option will be, for example, the withdrawal of the cash register. A second option will be, for example, the restocking withdrawal and a third option will consist of changing (305) the password.

In the case where the hostess or the cashier chooses the first or the second option (306), the computer system (3) consults the different databases (db1, db2). The computer system (3) must first check if the hostess or cashier is in the time slot (307) set to be able to make one of these withdrawals. if it's not the case, no withdrawal (308) will be possible. If so, the system computer (3) will have to consult the database (db2) of the list hostesses or cashiers and watch if the hostess or the cashier is authorized to remove his punt or restock (309). If the hostess or the cashier is not allowed, so no withdrawal (308) will be possible, the computer system (3) will then block the removal process. Yes the hostess or the cashier is authorized, the system will check if the hostess or the cashier has not already withdrawn his or her Authorized reassortment per day (310). If so, the computer system (3) will block the withdrawal process (308). If this is not the case the system computing (3) has two possibilities depending on whether the cashier or the host cashier wants to remove a bottom of the box or get restocking. In the first case, the computer system (3) reads from the database the code the cash register (311) associated with the identifier of the hostess or host of checkout. The computer system (3) then searches the database (db1) this cash register code. Once he found this code in the database (db1), the system reads the values defining this background of checkout. These values will be the number of tickets for each category of ticket to be distributed for this cash register and the number of coins to be distributed in each category of parts. The computer system then controls the distributor for the distribution of banknotes and coins (312). In the second case (313), ie in the case where the hostess or the guest of cash wish to remove restocking, the computer system (3) will have to read in the database (db2) if the host or cashier has not already withdrawn maximum authorized reassortment value (313). If so, no withdrawal (308) will not be possible. However, if this is not the case, the hostess or the host cashier will be able to enter the amount of restocking (314) he wishes to withdraw, this must not exceed the maximum allowed value.

To carry out a fund deposit operation, for example the recipe a day or half-day, the user identifies himself with the automaton and chose the "Deposit" operation. The software then controls actuating means, for example electromagnets or cylinders electrical devices, which open a panel masking the input of the device (14) of receipt of tickets, and unlocks or opens the trap (131) for receiving rooms.

The user introduces the notes he wants to deposit into the device (14) receipt of tickets, and pays all the documents he wants to deposit in this hatch (141) of reception. The tickets introduced are then recognized, counted, and conveyed in cassettes (121, 122, 123) of distributor storage. The number of tickets recognized in each category is transmitted to the computer system (3) which calculates the amount they represent, and memorizes this amount. Unrecognized notes can be returned to the user by the PLC at the input of the receiving device or by the ticket distribution means of the module (12) distributor. Tickets recognized as belonging to a category in which a specific storage cassette (121, 122) is assigned will be then routed to the same cassette, where they can be redistributed during any transaction involving a distribution of notes. The recognized tickets but of a category not having a cassette will be stored in the third cassette (123), from where they will be able to be extracted during a next dump or reload operation.

The poured pieces fall into the receptacle (142), which is moved by actuating means, for example by a chain or a drive belt along a guide rail. This mobile receptacle is moved to the top of the dispenser where it pours its contained in the tray (134) for receiving the device (13) for receiving rooms. The number of recognized coins in each category is transmitted the computer system (3) which calculates the amount, and stores this amount. Pieces recognized as belonging to a category to which a hopper (4) specific storage is assigned will then be routed to this same hopper, from where they can be redistributed during a any operation involving a coin distribution. Rooms recognized but of a category not having a specific hopper will be stored in the eighth hopper (41), from where they can be extracted during a next dump or reload operation.

After counting and valuation of notes and coins deposited by the user, the computer system collates the amounts thus paid and updates in its storage means the data representing the account attributed to the user, adding the value of the currency deposited.

When the user chooses a recipe deposit operation and reconstitution of the cash register, the automaton successively performs a deposit operation, followed by a distribution of a new cash corresponding to the stored cash register code for this user. The value of the cash fund distributed is then deducted from the amount deposited, and this is the balance of this transaction that is charged to the account of the user.

The user can also choose a counting operation, followed by or not of a sorting by category. He will then deposit a quantity of money that he wants to count, in the form of coins and / or notes. The automaton is going then perform a count and valuation, then redistribute the parts and tickets received, or others of the same number in the same categories. This operation may in particular be proposed as a service of counting to users with whom the management body of the automaton does not have a sufficiently direct or confident relationship for their allocate an account, the amounts paid being then fully redistributed. If the user chooses a count and sort operation, and if the controller has a distribution block compatible with a cash drawer of the user, the redistribution of the deposited currency will be done with this block. It is thus possible to propose to such users a sorting service of currency from quantities supplied in bulk.

For users who do not have an account, or for a partial replenishment, it is possible to carry out a currency purchase operation, that is, distribution of money in the form of coins and / or banknotes available categories, in a specific composition, and in exchange for a deposit of money representing the same value. This currency purchase can be done in many ways.

en billets de 10 , le logiciel peut proposer de distribuer des pièces 1 ou des pièces de 0,50 , ou une répartition égale en valeur de pièces de 1 et de pièces de 0,50 .One way is to deposit, as described above, a sum chosen by the user. The software then displays a screen (not shown) proposing one or more categories of coins or bills to be the main component of the currency distributed in exchange for the deposit. For example, for a deposit of 100

in notes of 10 , the software can offer to distribute parts 1 or coins of 0.50 , or an equal distribution in value of pieces of 1 and coins of 0.50 .

A second way is for the user to choose a composition of a composition choice, similar to a background of cashier types, offered by the software. The value of the chosen composition will then be displayed and will need to be filed by the user as described more up, or will be charged to the user's account. These compositions can be entered and stored in the parameterization software, of the same way that cash, and the codes (276) of some of these compositions can be stored as parameters associated with a user or group of users.

In a variant, it is also possible to make a purchase of using a credit card in a known manner, for example by means of the smart card reader (108) used for the identification of the user. For a user with an account stored by the computer system, such a currency purchase can also be debited on said account.

The automaton can also propose a simple background withdrawal, without particular constraint on the composition of the currency constituting these funds, in the same way as a conventional ATM machine Automatic Bank or Automatic Bank Distributor, using the smart card reader ID to communicate with a card credit.

According to the invention, the main parameter setting or management screen includes a button, for example called "Daily" (222), which when is enabled, allows viewing of operations that have been performed by the users of the PLC for some time, for example, in the day.

According to the invention, the automaton will also include a printer communicating with the computer system (3) and printing sheets or tickets, of which at least one copy is recoverable by the user to the outside of the dispenser. These tickets will indicate a report of each operation, and may include the precise composition of the currency distributed or currency paid.

Likewise, the computer system (3) will memorize a report of each operation, in its means of memorization, for the purposes of archiving, auditing, or financial compensation between operations made to the PLC and the users' bank accounts and of the controller management body.

In a particularly compact embodiment represented in Figure 1b, all or part of the computer system (3) is enclosed inside of the dispenser (1), for example in the form of a microcomputer (31) of a current model. In this variant, the screen incorporated in the distributor has sufficient graphical display characteristics to be able to display all the management menus used by the system computer and described above. The screen used can be for example a TFT type active matrix display (107). These screens include particular graphic windows using menus, icons, and controls graphics and issues from an interactive graphical interface such as Windows (trademark) of Microsoft, MacOS of Apple, or X-Windows from Sun (registered trademarks). Some of these screens can display choices to be made by the user as benchmarks Graphics on the edge of the screen, next to buttons (106) externals on the edge of the screen. These external buttons can serve the user to make a quick selection among choices provided by a display generated by the software, for example a type of operation or one of several to withdraw.

In addition to the external buttons (106) and the keyboard (101) integrated in the distributor (1), this variant of the automaton according to the invention comprises a independent external keyboard (32) for entering all data or information necessary for the operation of the microcomputer (31). This independent keyboard is of a common type for the used microcomputer, by example a standard 89-key computer keyboard or a keyboard standard computer with 103 or 104 keys. This independent keyboard is in communication with the microcomputer (31) enclosed within the distributor (1) by a wireless connection of the radio or infra-red type, or by a traditional connection by a wire that can be unplugged and reconnected easily without opening the dispenser (1). Thus, a person in charge can approach the dispenser (1) with this external keyboard (32) and perform a any parameter setting operation or system interrogation computer (3) without having to open the dispenser (1).

The computer (31) located inside the dispenser (1) is designed to ability to communicate with at least one external computer system distributor (1), managing for example the accounting of a chain of stores equipped with this type of distributor or belonging to a organization operating this automaton. This communication can be done by a permanent or temporary connection, for example by a network computer or via a telephone link and a modem, or a link radio-telephone, or any other digital link.

The distributor (1), or the external keyboard (32), can also have a terminal capable of communicating with a portable object computerized system comprising an electronic circuit, or a microprocessor, or storing computer information, for example a reader (108) of Smartcard. This reader then makes it possible to carry out operations authentication or encryption when using the controller, directly on the distributor (1) or during operations ordered by means of external keyboard (32).

It must be obvious to those versed in the art that the present invention allows embodiments under many other specific forms without distancing it from the scope of the invention as claimed.

Claims (10)

Money or recipe or cash register automation, in the form of coins and notes, enabling a user to perform one or more transactions including depositing, sorting, or counting coins or notes bank, this automaton comprising means (13) for receiving, sorting, storing and dispensing coins, and means (14) for receiving, sorting, storing and dispensing bills, the automaton being coupled to a computer system (3), said automaton being characterized in that the computer system (3) comprises parameterization means making it possible, by means of an interface, to parameterize the coin distribution and the distribution of the bills, interface being provided to take into account an identification of a user, said parameterization means comprising: means for controlling the coin distribution means, arranged to trigger ejectors respectively disposed at an outlet (40) of a storage location (4) of parts so as to initiate the movement of a fixed number of pieces to the coin distribution means; and means for controlling the bill dispensing means (12) arranged to trigger bill taking means so as to initiate the movement of a fixed number of bills to the bill dispensing means (12); said computer system (3) also comprising means for calculating an amount corresponding to the coins and notes received and recognized and storage means for storing data representing this amount and associating them with data identifying a user. Controller according to claim 1, characterized in that the respective dispensing means are controlled by control means controlled by the computer system (3) for dispensing, for each type or value of coin or bill, a determined quantity stored or calculated by the computer system according to a type of operation requested, an identification of the user of the automaton, or a quantity or value of coins or bills received by the receiving means (13, 14) and sorting, or a combination of these elements. Controller according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the coin storage means comprise a plurality of hoppers (4) having unitary ejection means of parts and counting means ejected parts, and each powered by the same type or the same value of parts, these parts can be brought automatically from the means (13) for receiving and sorting coins. Controller according to claim 3, characterized in that the parts ejected from the hoppers (4) are conveyed by a plurality of chutes (50) whose outputs are arranged in a specific geometry to distribute distributed parts in different compartments (20 to 24 ) a container or a cash drawer (2) of a given shape, at least one of these compartments receiving coins of the same type or value. Controller according to claim 4, characterized in that at least two chutes are combined in a distribution block (5) determining a part distribution geometry adapted to a type of container or cash drawer (2), this distribution block being positioned at the exit of the hoppers (4) by positioning means (59) allowing the use of several different interchangeable blocks adapted to different types of containers (2). Controller according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the banknote storage means comprise at least two storage cassettes (121, 122) provided with dispensing and counting means, each of these cassettes containing banknotes the same type or value, and at least one cassette (123) receiving tickets of several different types, at least one of these cassettes can automatically receive tickets from the means (14) for receiving and ticket sorting. Controller according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that it comprises means (108) for communicating with a portable computerized object comprising storage means, and storing at least one identification data of a user of the PLC. Controller according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the means (4, 41, 121, 122, 123) of storage are enclosed in a closed apparatus, said distributor (1), so as to make it inaccessible to the the user the coins and notes stored, this dispenser comprising means for external transfer of coins or bills, these transfer means comprising at least one container supplying the storage means of the dispenser or receiving coins or bills from the inside of the distributor, these transfer means being able to supply the dispenser or to be fed by the dispenser and which can be transported out of the dispenser by a transfer operator, without said operator having access to the coins or bills contained in the dispenser or in the means transfer. Controller according to Claim 8, characterized in that the means for receiving the parts are situated in the upper part of the distributor (1), and comprise a receiving tray (134) receiving parts to be sorted, a loading disk (135). recessed taking each piece one after the other in the tray to bring them in front of a detector (136) and then at the top of a ramp (137) inclined current above the storage means, so that the parts pass means ( 13) for receiving and sorting to the storage means (4, 41) under the effect of gravity, the dispenser (1) comprising a receptacle (132) located at a determined height lower than that of the means (13). receiving and sorting, this receptacle (132) can receive pieces to be sorted deposited by the user at a height substantially lower than that of the means (13) for receiving and sorting, and then be moved by means (133) elevation to said means (13) receipt to pay for the coins it contains. Controller according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the computer system (3) comprises a computer (31) using an operating system operating according to an interactive graphical interface to implement the management or parameter setting of the operations or data bases (db1, db2) used in these operations, the interactive graphical interface being of the type for displaying windows on a screen, said windows being: a main management window allowing access to the other windows, and also to leave the session launched by the user; a window relating to the operations available to be selected, said operations being performed by the system; a main parameter window comprising several parameters input fields used during start-up or during a control or during an inventory, the validation of the parameters can be performed by clicking on an icon; a window comprising the list of the different users that can access the operations proposed by the system, said list including user identification parameters, and a window relating to the user parameters, displayed for a user and corresponding to the operations that he is authorized to access, and the embodiment of these operations.

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