CA2178029A1 - Cash settlement machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A cash settlement machine is disclosed comprising a graphics display, operator interface panels, and a controller coupling the operator interface panels to the graphics display. To provide the cash settlement machine with total flexibility in operation, the operator interface panels which provide input signals to the controller include a mechanical keyboard with fixed keys and a touch screen device mounted over the graphics display which shows display keys. The controller includes a graphics generator for displaying the display keys, memory for storing instructions associated with a plurality of operational modes accessed though the display keys, and means for executing those instructions.
Preferably, the plurality of modes includes a basic operating mode, a help mode, a directory mode, a diagnostic mode, a reports mode, a screen format mode, and a set-up mode.

Description

.
C~C~ ~li,T~.FM~ T M~
Fi~ of'- T ~-The present invention relates generally to a cash settlement machine for recording and reconciling monetary P - ~, ' of f ~
Cash settlement machines are used to gather and record data relating to monetary1, .., .~-. ~ i~ ~ ,~ Generally, the operator of the cash settlement machine is a supervisor who is interested in the value of La~a~,liulls performed by ~uhu~di~ interacting with consumers at a transaction station. The cash settlement machine records various financial data such as cash, coins, credit card receipts, coupons and other related data from each station. The data can be input into the cash settlement machine manually or 'Al 1~ y via numerous peripheral machines ~ with the cash settlement machine such as,coin sorters, cash scarmers and counters, and bar code readers. The operator reviews the financial data which the cash settlement machine has recorded and reconciles it with the amount declared by the subordinate.
The cash settlement mæhine also pemlits the operator to manipulate the data For example, daily totals for each station or aU stations can be ~'et'Ahlieh!'~ The total of only coins f~om one station can be displayed. And, numerous other functions similar to these illustrative examples can be executed. Functions directed to the unique 1~ .h.,l~ lt~ of an operator or an industry carl also be utilized.
In existing cash settlement machines, the operator interfacc panel for operator interaction with the cash settlement mæhine is a ~,u~ iullal mechanical keyboard with depressible keys. The keys are used to enter data or to instruct the cash settlement machine to perform a fimction such as data ., .~ lA1 ;- -, . or ~ ;. .., with a peripheral device. A graphics display monitor adjacent the mechanical keyboard displays the status of the cash settlement machine. Considering the numerous industries which rely upon a multitude of monetary 1 .... ,~ each day, versatility of the means in which financial data is input, as well as the manner in which the data is displayed on the monitor is essential.
Many basic cash settlement machines employing a key-limited keyboard and having fewer functions exist on the market. Additionally, several advanced cash settlement c .
devices cxist on the market today. Most of thcse advamccd cash settlement deviccs employ a personal computer dedicated solely to cash settlement software and include an expanded keyboard. As would be expected, these advanced cash settlement deviccs have morecapabilities but are much more expensive in comparison ~vith the basic cash settlement S devices.
One dra vback of the basic cash setdement machine is that tho ~., . r;~ ;. .., of the displayed data on the graphics display is limited and may not suit the unique needs of an operator or an industry. Another major di~al ~r lll~;c of the basic cash settlement machine is that the mcchanica~ keyboard is relatively unfriendly to the operator. The mechanical keyboard provides only a limited flexibility m operation, ~iia~n(~cti~c, and ~ 'L~
The amount of keys are so limited that the keys must have secondary funcfions toaccomplish the objccfives of the machine. However, when secondary key funcfions are imtroduced to a keyboard, operator confusion rncreases. And even with secondary key fimctiorls, the operator still has a limited capability to customize the . l .I, r;- ~ l of cash machine funcfions and data entry f elds due to the res~ricted amount of characters. ~he keyboard could be expanded to include more functions and cbaracters as done with many expensive, advanced cash settlcment machines. But, this altemafive increr1ses the desk space roquired for the keyboard as well as the cost. Another altemafive to enhance the amount of characters available to tbe operator for IJIU~r~ is to display an expanded selecfion of characters on the monitor amd allow the opcrator to use arrow keys to selcct the desired character from the display. However, this process is very time rr~ncllrni especially when mulfiple character .1. ~ are needed.
From the perspective of a . IA . I ~ ~ r~-, . . . r I ~ the operator interface panel is d;~r~ ~u~ because ~ r;~ to the operator mterface panel involve hardware changes. Any updatcs to the machine would likely roquire a .. ~ .. of the producfion line which is costly and time-n~nclmninp Also, the cor~ecfion of a design error requires similar expensive and lengthy ....~ r;. ~ Furthermore, the additional cost to customize the operator interface pamel to meet the unique needs of a potential consumer may drive that consumer away. And, the Illr~ r~Lul~l has a limited ability for diagnostics due to the limited amount of keys.
r. ; ~

2~ 78~2~

.
of t~
In one pa~ticular ., . .~ of the present invention, a cash settlement mac_ine comprises (I) a display monitor, (2) operator interface panels, and (3) a controller coupling the operator interface panels to the display monitor. To provide the cash settlement S machine with totsl flexibility in the operational mode as well as other functional modes, the operator interface panel mcludes a mecharlical keyboard and a touch screen device. The controller causes the grsphics display to display keys and opersbly couples a touch screen mounted over tne display to those displayed keys. Operstor actustion of the touch screen at a position over one of the displayed keys causes the controller to perform the function sssociated with that displayed key. Thus, the controller receives operator inputs from the m-~rh^~ 1 keyboard and the touch screen device.
Preferably, the controller is opersble via the touch screen in a plurality of modes the basic operating mode. These ~ modes include ahelp mode, 8 diagnostic mode, a directory mode, a reports mode, a screen format mode, and a set-up mode. The controller causes the display to display keys associated with these modes during the operstional mode such that an operator may access these modes easily by actuation of the touch screen over those display keys. Thus, the cash settlement machine utilizmg the touch screen enhances the capability of the basic cash settlement ststion without modifying the existing mechanical keyboard In sn alternative ~" ,l.o~l, , ,1, the touch screen locsted over the display monitor is the entire operator interface panel. Thus, the mechanical keyboard is completelyeliminsted in this ~ u l; .. 1 Agam, the controller opersbly couples the touch screen to the displayed keys such that actustion of the touch screen at a position over one of the displayed keys causes the controller to perform a function associated with that displayed key. In this ,~ o.l,~ , the touch screen and display hsve an expanded role over the previous ~., .I~o~ by providing all operator mputs for the cash setdement machine.
This ~, . ,I-o~ can be quite a~ L~ vu~ in workplaces with spacial constraints.
Additionslly, this ~.,.I,oA,".. ,1 works well in an cllvllu~lll,.lL where numerous types of monetsry media are transacted such as in an ;"t~ ",.1;. .~ IAI currency exchange, or a casino. 0 4 ~ ~ 7~D2~
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Brief~ ' of ' - ~
Other objects and advantages ofthe invention will become apparent upon reading the following detailed description and upon reference to the drawings in which:
FIG. I a is a front view of a cash settlement machine with a touch screen device;
FIG. Ib is a profile view of a cash settlement machine with a touch screen device;
FIG. 2 is an illustration of the mecharlical keyboard in a typical cash settlement machine;
FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the touch screen device.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustration of the cash settlement machine with a touch screendevice;
FM. 5 is an illustration ofthe graphics display in the basic operating mode with the . "~1 mode display keys;
FI&S. 6a and 6b illustrate the flow diagram of the E~LP mode;
FIG. 7 is an illustration of the graphics display in the HELP mode directing theoperator to edit the help mode ;nfo~ n or example;
FIG. 8a is an illustration of the grapbics display in the HELP mode wherein lower case alpha characters display keys are activated;
FIG. 8b is an illustration of the graphics display irl the ~LP mode wherein upper case alpha characters display keys are activated;
FIG. 8c is an illustration of the graphics display in the HELP mode wherem symbol characters display keys are activated;
FIGS. 9a and 9b illustrate the flow diagram of the DIRECTORY mode;
FIG. 10 is am illustration of the graphics display in the DIRECTORY mode whereirthe output of a numerical sequence search is shown;
FIG. 11 is an illustration of the graphics display in the DIRECTORY mode whereindetailed register ;"1~ , is shov~n;
FIG. 12 is an illustration of tne graphics display in the DIRECTORY mode whereinthe operator enters a word to be searched in the register;
FIG. 13 is an illustration ofthe graphics display in the DIRECTORY mode wherein tbe output of a word search is shown;
FIGS. 14a and 14b illustrate the flow diagram of the DIAGNOSTICS mode;

2~ 78~29 FIG. 15 is an illustration of the port ~ ' status in the DIAGNOSTICS
mode;
FIGS. I 6a and 1 6b illustrate the flow diagram of the SCI~EN FORMAT mode;
FIG. 17 is an illustration of the graphics display wherein the operator is modifying the character format in the SCREEN FORMAT mode;
FIGS. I 8a and 1 8b illustrate the flow diagram of the REPORTS mode;
FIG. 19 is an illustration of the graphics display wherein the operator is modifying the print fommat in the REPORTS mode;
FIGS. 20a and 20b illustrate the flow diagram of the SET-UP mode;
FIG. 21 is an illustration of the graphics display wherein the operator is initializing a port in the SET-~IP mode; and FIG. 22 is an illustration of the graphics display wherein the touch screen device includes all the display keys from &e mechanical keyboard.
While the invention is susceptible to various ~ ;ri ~ and altemative fomls, 15 certain specific rl I IT IQ~ I; 1 l .. . t~ thereof have been shown by way of example in the drawings and will be described in detaiL It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the invention to the particular fomls described. On the contrary, the intention is to coYer all ,".--i ri ~ , equivalents, and altematives falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.
of ' - Preferred ~
FIGS. Ia and Ib illustrate a typical cash settlement machine (CSM) 10. The CSM
10 includes a monitor pofion 12 and a keyboard pofion 14 which are generaLIy integral at the base ofthe monitorpofion 12. The monitorportion 12 contains a graphics display 16 which is located above and adjacent the keyboard portion 14. The keyboard portion 14 contains a plurality of keys 18 comprising a mechanical keyboard 20. Generally, the monitor pofion 12 and the keyboard portion 14 are encased in a common housing 22except over the mechanical keyboard 20 and the graphics display 16.
Referring specifically to FIG. Ib, the monitor portion 12 contains a system controller 24 which operably couples the mechanical keyboard 20 to the graphics display 16. Generally, the COntrQller 24 is a lllk~lV~ )I. As the operator depresses one of the keys 18, a key base 19 contacts a keypad 26. Typically, the keypad 26 sends a signal to the C ~9=;9 (-~.BD~?II.W~

6 21 78~2~
system controller 24 via a signal path 28 cu.~. r 7 to the depressed key 18.
Depending on which key the operator depresses, the system controller 24 then alters the data displayed on the graphics display 16 orperforins a function associated with the depressedkey 18. Themonitorportion 12alsocontainsaregionforc .~ . .ports 29 to which peripheral deYices are connected for interaction with the controller 24.
Generally, these ports will be RS232 ~ .. ,... . ". -~ ,.~, . ports. In addition to the mechanical keyboard 20, the operator interacts with the system controller 24 through a touch screen I/O
device 30 which includes a touch screen 32 mounted over the graphics display 16 for sending signals to the controller 24.
F~eferring now to FIG. 2, a typical mechanical keyboard 20 is illustrated with five key groupings. A basic functional group 34 includes function keys, such as totalling functions, and monetary media keys, such as the coin key, which most industries utilizing a CSM 10 require. A variable function group 35 is illustrated as keys labeled Fl-F6. The operator has the capability of defining these variable functions such that the keyboard can be c~ tA~mi7~d to suit the specific needs of that operator. A numerical group 36 is also included. A process group 37 allows the operator to start sessions, input data, print data, and verify functions. Finally, a monetary group 38 allows the operator to manually enter the amount of various coins or currency. These key g,roupings represent the mostcommonly used functions and are r~ l AIIY positioned to permit easy interaction with the CSM 10.
Referrirlg now to FIG. 3, the touch screen I/O device 30 is illustrated to show its matrix structure and positioning over the ~,raphics display 16. In one ~, ..l ,. ..l., . .l the display 16 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) with 128 vertical pixels and 256 horizontal pixels that utilizes l~ V~ The display 16 contains a built-in character generator which perrnits the display 16 to display text and numbers having a font and size preAdef~ned by the display I~ ra~1UIC1 Moreover, the controller 24 is ~luv~ d to permit the loading and display of custom fonts and shapes (e.v., key outlines) on the display 16. The display 16 is Cul~ lly available from Stanley Electric Company, Ltd., Equipment Export Section, of Tokyo, Japan.

3 0 In one f ~ 0' ~ , the touch screen 32 is an X-Y matrix touch screen forminv a matrix of touch responsive points. The touch screen 32 includes two closely spæed, but normally separated layers of optical grade polyester film each having a set of parallel c : ~7 ~i 78~2~
.
transparent rr~nril .. trl~ The sets of conductors in the two spaced polyester sheets are oriented at right angles to each othe} so when ~ i they form a grid. Along the outside edge of each polyester layer is a bus which i..~ ,vull..b the conductors supported on that layer. In this manner, electrical signais from the conductors are transmitted to the S controller 24. When pressure from a finger or siylus is applied to the upper polyester layer, the set of conductors mounted to the upper layer is deflected downward into contact with the set of conductors mounted to the lower polyester layer. The contact between these sets of conductors acts as a mechanical closure of a s~itch element to complete an electrical circuit. The controller 24 detects the closure through the respective buses at the edges of the two polyester layers thereby providmg a mearls for detectmg the X and Y coordinates of the switch closure. A matrix touch screen 32 of the above type is ~o.lu~ lly available from Dynapro Thin Fi]m Products, Inc. of ~Iwaukee, Wisconsin. As illustrated m FIG. 3, the touch screen 32 forms a matrK of opticaily transparent switches having X columrls and Y rows. If desired, the controller 24 may be l~ 1 to combine one or more adjacent switch dements mto a single switch, such that activation of any of the combined switch elements activates the function associated with that switch.
Although the touch screen 32 uses an X-Y matrK of optically transparent switchesto detect the location of a touch, alternative types of touch screens may be substituted for the touch screen 32. These alternative touch screens use such ~ell-known techniques as crossed beams of irlfrared light, acoustic surface ~aves, . ~r~ it~nr~ sensing, and resistive " ,. .. ,i-., ,~. ,~ c to detect the location of a touch. The structure and operation of the alternative touchscreensaredescribedandillusirated,forexample, inU.S. PatentNos. 5,317,140;
5,297,030; 5,231,381; 5,198,g76; 5,184,115; 5,105,186; 4,931,782; 4,928,094; 4,851,616;

4,811,004; 4,806,709; and 4,782,328, which are Ull,Vl~JVl_.~d herein by reference.
The controller 24 is l,lv~l~lJ.ll~d to display valious sets of "keys" on the display 16.
A key is preferably displayed on the display 16 in the form of either an asterisk "i"' or key outline. If the key is displayed as an asterisk "*", a key legend defining the function of the key is positioned adjacent the asterisk "~" on the display 16. If the key is displayed as an outline (e.g., rectangle, circle, or other shape), the key legend is positioned either within the key outdine or adjacent the key outline. Each legend designates the fimction of its associated key. The controller 24 links the function of each touch screen switch to the key displayed beneath the respective one of the switches. As a result, pressing the touch screen r ; nr~7 - 2 ~ ~029 .
32 at a location above a displayed key sends a signal to the controller 24 to perform the function associated with the receiYed signal. Hereinafter, references to pressing a "display key" denote that an operator is pressing the touch screen 32 at a location above the displayed key, while references to pressing a "fixed key" denote the operator is pressing a key on the mechanical keyboard 20. Moreover, a title of aparticular display key appears in uppercase letters.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustration of the interaction between elements of the CSM 10. The system controller 24 receives signals from a mechanical keyboard 20 and the touch screen device 30. In response to the signal inputs received from the touch screen device 30 and the mechanical keyboard 20, the controller 24 performs a variety of functions. First, the controller 24 alters the output on the graphics display 16 to be viewed by the operator. Alternatively, the controller 24 instructs one of the peripheral devices to perfor~n a function, or accepts . . . r. ~ . from a peripheral device. Additionally, the controller 24 may record data to or retrieve data from a memory device 50. The memory device 50 contains numerous registers for storing blocks of infnnn~til-n Generally, each register is associated with a cash settlement transaction or a worker and is labeled u~dill~ ly by the operator. The memory device 50 can be external or internal to the CSM
10, but generally it is intemal. The memory device 50 contains the software which the controller 24 runs to perform the desired functiorls associated with the display keys of the touch screen 30 and the fixed keys 18. Once a signal from these keys is received by the controller 24, the software .~..u. tiu~ associated with the received signal are executed and the desired function is performed by the controller 24.
As shown in FIG 4, the peripheral devices include a bar code reader 41, a paper counter 42, a cash counter and scanner 43, a coin sorter 44, a printer 45, a personal computer 46, a coin dispenser 47, and a cu~rency dispenser 48. The bar code reader 41 is useful in scanning various types of monetary media such as coupons or scanning a worker ID card. A Hewlitt-Pækard bar code wand model 8400 is an example of many bar code readers that could be utili7ed. The paper counter 42 is usef~l when counting a multitude of paper cash of the same ~ JETCOUNT models 4050, 4051, 4070, and 4071 3 0 paper counters from Cummins-Allison, Cl~T~ ti~m of Mt. Prospect, Illmois are examples which can be utilized. A JETSCAN model 4061 and 4062 cash scarmer from Cummins-Allison, Corporaùon could be used as the cash counter and scanner 43 which is useful in c ~ ~

2 ~ ~8~29 counting and ~ large qu~mtities of paper currency of multiple ~' -Numerous JETSORT model series from Cummins-Allison, Corporation could be utilized as the coin sorter 4~ which is useful when large amounts of coins are being recorded and reconciled.
Numerous common printers can be used. For example, the printer 45 could be a Citizen printer model 562 or 3530 made by Citizen/CBM America Corp. of Santa Monica, CaliforrJia. Various types of personal computers 46 can be connected to the CSM 10, including computers linked directly into an accounting system. The Technitrol ACD-6 currency dispenser made by Techrlitrol Inc., Phil~ PIrhi~, r~ ~a, could be utilized in addition to the Diebold "Express Delivery" family of products from Diebold, Inc. of Canton, Ohio. The cl3rrency dispenser 48 is useful when llal~.,Lu~ are being recorded which result in the retransfer of money back to the person from whom money was receiYed for recordation. It is also useful when foreign currency is being exchanged. The coin dispenser 47 could be a Telequip model "Trarlsact" from Telequip Corp. of Hollis, New Hampshire, or other types of dispensers. Like the currency dispenser, this peripheral is useful when money is leh~u~f~ L These peripheral devices are only examples of the types of peripheral devices which can be utilrzed. Other peripherals suitable to the needs ûf the speci~ic operator could easily be ;ll~Ul,UUl_'~,d into the overall system design as well.
Due to the touch screen device 30, the operator can access various modes of operation which the operator would be incapable of accessing im a basic cash settlement device. The touch screen device 30 er~ances the versahlity ofthe basic cash settlement device by providing access to these modes in the basic operational mode without exp~mding the mechanical keyboard 20. Each mode includes various functions which provide the operator with numerous options which are accessed by merely depressing a displayed key on hhe touch screen 32. Preferably, the modes always accessible by the operator include a help mode, a diagnostics mode, a directory mode, a reports mode, a screen format mode amd a set-up mode. Each of these modes is described in detail below.
FIG. 5 illustrates the display 16 in normal operation. On the bottom portion of the display 16, six modes are shown as mode display keys which can be accessed by pressing 30 the touch screen 32 ~.I.~ . ;. ,.I,.. cP-I over the graphics display 16. When one of tnese mode display keys is actuated, the graphics display 16 changes into a menu screen associated with tbat mode. Alternatively, the graphics display 16 can simply have only one mode ,. ; ~

~ 10 .
display key which when actuated by the operator causes the graphics display 16 to display al available modes. This a ternatiYe wou d preserve the space avai able on the graphics display 16 in the basic operating mode.
A ~ELP display key 50 a lows the operator to access a help mode when the operator is uncertain as to the mearfing or function of a fixed key 18 on t 1e mechAnical keyboard 20. The help mode not only describes the fimction of the fixed key 18, but a so includes examples uti izing the fixed key 18 of which the operator is uncertein to further teach the operator. Additionally, the help mode includes an editing session which permits .".;,~1,.,..ofthehelpmode ~ ADIAGNOSTCSdisplaykey52a10wsthe operator to access a diagnostics mode which checks the stalus of the touch screen 32 and the ~, ., ." ,. . -l;, ,.. Iinks to the periphera7. devices via the por~s 29. A DIR7 CTORY
display key 54 allows t~e operator to access a directory mode wherein the operator can seArch the headers of a l memory registers. This search c_n be A~ 7;~ l by usingoperator-entered words or numera7s. A REPORTS display key 56 allows the operator to enter a repor~s mode. The operator selects repor~s which are to be sent to a printer periphera device or down7oaded to a persona. computer. The reports mode a7so a lows the operator to select the format of the report. A SCREEN FORMAT display key 58 a710ws the operator to access a screen format mode which is used to va~y the marner in which characters and data are displayed on the graphics display 16. Finally, a SET-7JP display key 60 a lows the operator to access a set-up mode. The operator utilizes the set-up mode to configure the database registers, determine the ports 29 to which the periphera devices : ~ -~ label fxed keys 18 from the variable function group 35 on the mecharlica.keyboard 20, amd enable or disable fixed key 18 or display keys Each of these modes is described in detai in the follcwing paragraphs.
~ 7n response to actuating the 7~ELP display key ~0 on FIG. 5 (step 70), the fiow diagram logic of FIGS. 6a and 6b is then followed. The display 16 then changes to the help mode prompting the operator to select an option using displayed keys (step 72) The operator may simply decide to return to the operating mode (step 74) by selecting the E~T
HELP MODE display key. A7ternatively, the operatcr may decide to receive help (step 76) or to edit the help file (step 78) by selecting the RECE VE HELP or EDIT :~ELP F LE
display keys lC:~yc~ ly.
r ; ~) 2 1 78~29 If the operator chooses to receive help (step 76), the graphics display 16 then prompts the operator to select a fixed key 18 from the mecharlical keyboard 20 on which the operator requires assist~mce or to exit the help mode (step 80). The operator may again select the EXIT HEl:.P MODE display key (step 82) and return to the screen in the basic operating mode tbe operator was previously viewing. However, if the operator selects a fixed key 18 from the mechanical keyboard 20 (step 84), then the graphics display 16 describes the depressed fixed key and indicates how it is used in operating the CSM 10 (step 86). Additionally, the display 16 asks the operator if an example is needed. If the operator selects in the negative to the prompting for an exa~nple (step 88), then the display 16 returns to step 80 to allow the operator to receive assistance on additional fixed keys 18.
If the operator chooses to receive an example (step 90), then the display 16 gives an example which uses the fix~d key l 8 (step 92). If the example is lengthy and requires more tban one screen, the operator can hit a NEXT PA&E or a PREVIOUS PAGE display key to view the entire text of the example. Finally, when the example has been completed, tbe operator depresses a FINISHED EXAMPLE display key (step 94) which returns the - display 16 to step 80 which allows the operator to receive assistance on additional fixed keys 18 or exit the help mode (step 8V.
Instead of OptUlg to receive help (step 76), the operator can choose to edit the help file. After actuating the EDIT HELP FILE display key (step 78), the display 16 would prompt the operator to select a fixed key 18 from the mechanical keyboard 20 v.~hich needs its help ;..fi " ,~ -';.... edited (step 96). At this poirlt, the operator can simply select the EXIT
HELP MODE display key (step 98) and return to the screen of the basic operating mode which was previously being viewed, or depress a fixed key 18 from the mP~ h:lnirz~l keyboard 20 (step 102). If the operator chooses step 102, then the display 16 asks the operator whether editing of the description of the depressed fixed key or the example associated with the depressed fixed key is required (step 104). The operator then chooses whether the description requires editing or the example requires editing.
If the operator chooses the EDIT DESCRIPTION display key (step 106), then a screen similar to FIG. 7 is shown on the display 16 (step 110). The operator moves the cursor across the text to the point where editing is desired via the CURSOR ARROW
display keys (step 112). The operator can then choose to delete the text by using a BACKSPACE display key at the location of the cursor (step 112). Altematively, the 12 ~1 7~2~
operator can write over existing text with the TYPEOVER display key at the location of the cursor (step 112). Lastly, the operator can insert words with the INSERT display key at the location of the cursor (step 112), When the operator chooses to the INSERT or TYPEOVER display keys, the screen switches to a lower case alpha character screen as shown in FIG. 8a (step 114). The operator then uses the displayed alpha keys to enter words into the description illustrated at the top of the screen. If the operator desires upper case letters, then the operator simply depresses the SHIFT display key and the letters become upper case as illustrated in FIG. 8b. Alternatively, the operator can select the SYMBOL display key and a screen appears with symbols as shown in FIG. 8c. The operator can then return to the alpha character screens in FIGS. 8a and 8b by depressing the ALPHA display key shown in FM. 8c. Also, the operator utilizes the nurnerical group 36 on the m~-rl~ 1 keyboard 20 for entering any rlumbers, if nurnbers are needed. Once editing using the display keys is complete, the operator selects the RETURN display key (step 116~ and returns to the previous screen in FM. 7 (step 112). Again, the operator can move the cursor to a location in the newly-edited description where additional editing is needed. Lastly, the operator selects the FINISHED EDrT display key (step 118) to return to step 96 which allows the operator to continue editing, or exit the help mode as shown in step 98 by pressing the EXIT HELP display key.
The operator can likewise edit the exarnple for a given fixed key 18 by selecting the EDIT EXA~LE display key (step 108). The graphics display 16 shows the exarnple for the depressed fixed key 18 and allows the operator to edit the exarnple (step 120) as also depicted by FIG. 7. Again, the operator uses the ARROW display keys to move the cursor to the position which requires editing (step 122). Then, the operator selects the INSERT, TYPEOVEF~, or BACKSPACE display keys to edit the text of the example (step 122).Depressing the INSERT or TYPEOVER display keys causes FIG. 8a to appear on the screen (step 124) wherein the operator can further access the upper case letters in FIG. 8b orthe symbols in FIG. 8c by depressing the SHIFT display key or SYMBOL display key ,ly. Once editmg is complete, the operator selects the RETURN display key (step 126) and returns to the previous screen in FIG. 7 (step 122) Agam, the operator moves the cursor to a location where additional editing is needed or selects the FINISED~) EDIT
display key (step 128) and retums to step 96 wherein the help mode can be exited as shown ,. ~ ~) 13 2~ ?8~2~
in step 98. In addition to ALPHA and SYMBOL display keys, the display keys can also include numeral display keys as well although they are not shown m FMS. 8a-8c.
The help mode can also be utiliæd to teach the operator basic ., . rl " . . . , ;~ ."
concerning operation and ., ~ of the touch screen device 30. Likewise, it can beused to describe functions associated with the display keys of the touch screen 32.
Referring now to FIGS. 9a arld 9b, the flow diagram for the directory mode is iaustrated. The directory mode allov~s the operalor to quickiy search all registers in the memory device 50 of FIG. 4 for desired alpha characters or numerical sequences. This is usefill irl that the operator may want to pull up all registers relating to a specific type of transaction or by a specific operator. Because the operator may not know the location of aa registers contairling the desired ~ the operator enters alpha characters or a numerical sequence which is common throughout all of the desired ~ The search may be useful for searching fora specific employee number, employee rLame, or accourLt number. The controller 24 then searches the memory device 50 for all registers having a header i~ l; r. ~ n . u~ ull~ to the operator-entered alpha characters or numerical sequence and displays these registers and their l,UllC:~,UUlldillg header j~L .l;r~ on the display l6. However, the data witbin each register is not displayed.
The operator then scrolls through the displayed registers containing the desired alpha characters or numerical sequence and selects a register whereby the data within that selected register is then displayed. i~L~nCi~l~rin~ the numerous registers in the memory device 50, it would be quite difficult for an operator to recall which data is in which register and, therefore, this mode can be quite ad~alltLt,~.
The operator working in the basic operating mode actuates the touch screen at a position above the DIRECTORY display key 54 (step 13û) to enter the directory mode.
The display 16 then asks the operator to select the method in which he or she would prefer to search, whether it be a search by words or by numerical sequence (step 132).
Additionally, the operator may choose to exit the directory mode by selectiLng the EXIT
DIRECTORY display key (step 134).
If the operator selects the SEARCH BY NIIMBERS display key (step 136), then the display 16 prompts the user to enter a numerical sequence on which the controaer 24 bases the search of the registers of the memory device 50 (step 138). Alternatively, the operator can select the E~T SEARCH display key (step 140) and return to the main ~ ~ 1'~

14 ;~1 78~12~
director~v mode screen (step 132). The operator enters the desired numerical sequence via the numerical group 36 of FIG. 2 on the mechar,ical keyboard 20 (step 142). The controller 24 then searches all registers for the numerical sequence entered (step 144) and displays the first ten registers with their associated header Iines containing the numerical sequence on S the display 16 as in FIG. 10 (step 146). The numerical sequence "241 " is used in FIGS. 9a, 9b and 10 as an exarnple. The operator then chooses to view the next or previous ten registers having the desired numerical sequence by depressing the NEXT 10 REGISTERS
display key or PREVIOUS 10 REGISTERS display key, respectiYely (step 148).
Additionally, the operator can depress the CURSOR ARROW display keys to move thecursor to a particular register on the display 16 (step 148). After moving the cursor, the operator can select the VIEW REGISTER display key (step 148) to view the entire header and all data contained in the register on which the cursor is positioned as shown in FIG. I l (step 150). The operator can then return to the listing of the registers with the desired numerical sequence by selecting the RETURN TO REGISTER LIST display key (step 152) which returrls the operator to the screen illustrated in FIG. 10 (step 146).
Alternatively, the operator can select the NEW SEARCH OR END SEARCH display key (step 154)andreturntostep 138.
If the operator selects the SEARCH BY WORD(S) display key (step 156), then the display 16 appears as in FIG. 12 and requires the user to enter a word or words on which the controller 24 bases the search of the registers of the memory device 50 (step 158).
Altematively, the operator can select the EXIT SEARCH display key (step 160) and return to the mam directory mode screen (step 132). The operator enters the desired word via the ALPHA display keys on the touch screen (step 162) and the word is printed across the top of the screen as shown in FIG. 12. The controller 24 then searches all registers for the word entered (step 164) and displays the first ten registers with their associated header line containing the word on the display 16 as in FIG. 13 (step 166). The word "teller" is used in FIGS. 9a, 9b, 12 and 13 as an example. The operator then chooses to view the next or previous ten registers having the desr~ed word by depressing the NEXT 10 REGISTERS
display key or PREVIOUS 10 REGISTERS display key, ~ ly (step 168).
Additionally, the operator can depress the CURSOR ARROW display keys to move thecurSor to a particular register on the display 16 (step 168). After moving the cursor, the operator selects the VIEW ENTIRE REGISTER display key (step 168) to view the entire C ; n~

1S 2 1 78~2~
header and all data contained in the register on which the cursor is positioned on the display 16 (step 170) in a manner similar to that shown in ~IG. 11. The operator then returns to the list of registers having the desired word by selecting the RETtlRN TO REGISTER LIST
display key (step 17Z) which returns the operator to the screen shown in FIG. 13 (step 166).
S Alternatively, the operator selects the NEW SEARCH OR END SEARCH display key (step 174) and retums to step 138.
Referring now to FIGS. 14a and 14b, the operator, upon selecting the DIAGNOSTICS display key 52 from the basic operating mode, enters the diagnosticsmode (step 190). The diagnostics mode allows the operator to verify the operability of the touch screen device 30 and the ports 29 (step 192). Once in the diagnostics mode, the operator exits the diagnostics mode by selecting the EX~T DIAGNOSTICS MODE display key (step 194).
If the operator chooses to test the ports by selecting the VERIFY
COMMUNICATION WlTH PORTS display key (step 196), then the display 16 shows the current status of the ports 29 and the peripheral devices to which they are coupled as shown in FIG. 15 (step 198). After viewing the status, the operator may choose to exit the diagnostics mode by selecting the E~nT DIAGNOSTICS MODE display key (step 200).
Alternatively, the ~. " .. , .. '. A1~ .. ~ status of the ports can be Yerified by selecting the TEST
PORT display key (step 202) which causes the display 16 to prompt the operator for the ports 29 which need to be tested (step 204). The operator then selects one of the ports 29 (step 206). The display l 6 then inst ucts the operator to connect a f .. , .. : -: i.. test connector between the selected port 29 and a ~~ JUt~,. s~ adjAAcent port (step 208).
The operator cornects the ., ...... ". A~ test connector between these ports and selects a BEGIN TEST display key (step 210). The controller 24 then performs the test (step 21V
25and displays the results of the c...... ~ test on the display 16 as either "ac~ t~l~,"
or "in error" (step 214). The operator then can select the TEST NEW PORT display key (step 216) and retum to step 204. Alternatively, the operator cAAn select the EXrT
DIAGNOSTICS MODE display key (step 218) and return to the screen in the basic operating mode which the operator WaS viewing prior to entering the diagnostics mode.
Alternatively, a more simplistic test caAI be employed wherein the operator uses a series of test connectors. Each connector is placed between t~vo adjacent ports. The test is run and the operator is informed whether each port has properly responded to the test.
r ~ , 16 2~ 7~2~
If the operator chooses to test the touch screen device 30 (step æo), the display 16 prompts the operator to select any portion of the touch screen 32 (step æ2). The operator then actuates the touch screen 32 at any location (step 224). Upon actuation, the display 16 then shows the display keys capable for that specific touch screen 32 and graphics display 16, and darkens the display key which the controller 24 believes the operator is actuating (step 226). Once the operator stops actuating the touch screen 32, the display 16 returns to the screen described in step 222. The operator then tests another display key, or selects the EXIT DIAGNOSTICS MODE display key and returns to the basic operating mode (step 228).
Referring now to FIGS. 16a and 16b, the operator has the ability to modify the manner in which graphics are displayed on the graphics display 16 in the basic operating mode. In the basic operating mode, the operator depresses the SCF~EEN FORMAT display key 56 ~step 250) and the graphics display 16 prompts the operator whether the screen format is to be changed manually or by copying f~om another register (step 252). The operator can also exit the screen format mode by selecting the EXIT SCREEN FORMAT
MODE display key (step 253).
If the operator selects the COPY FROM ANOTr~ER REGISTER display key (step 254), the display 16 prompts the operator for the ID of the register from which the fomlat is to be copied (step 256). The operator may desire to return to the basic operating mode and select the E~T SCREEN FORMAT mode display key (step 257). To copy a format, the operator enters the ID ofthe register in the memory deYice 50 which has the desirable format (step 258). The controller 24 copies the screen format from that particular register (step 260) and ~ y retur~s to the basic operatmg mode which now illustrates the data on the graphics display 16 with the newly copied fommat. This method of modifying the format allows the operator to display numerous registers in a common fommat without manual, . ~ .... of each register.
If the operator chooses the MANUALLY MODIFY FORMAT display key (step 262), the display 16 shows the screen from the basic operating mode from which the operator entered the screen format mode as shown in FrG. 17 (step 264). If the operator selects the FONT SIZE ALL GROUPS (step 266), then the machine displays a list of fonts sizes available (step 268). The operator selects the display key with the desired font size (step 270) and the controller 24 changes the font of all characters on the screen (step 272) ,.. ( ~

~ 17 21 78~9 and returns to step 264 for additional editing or to exit the mode by selecting the EXiT
SCREEN FORMAT MODE display button (step 274). The operator can move the cursor around the screen by the CURSOR ARROW display keys (step 276). The operator can select a group, whether the group is a data title such as "coins" or "cash", or numerical data by selecting the SELECT/FINISH SELECT GROUP display key which toggles between selecting a group and finishing the selection ofthe group. The selected group then appears in inverse color (dark on light) and the controller 24 locks onto the group (step 278). The operator uses the MOVE GROUP ARROWS to move the highlighted group across the display 16 to a new position (step 280). Upon locating the desrlable new position, the operator again selects the SELECT/FMSH SELECT GROUP display key (step 282) and the controller 24 records the new group position and returns to step 264 (step 284).
~Iternatively, the operator may select the FONT SIZE GROUP display key to change the font size of only the highlighted group (step 286). Agam, the display 16 gives the operator alternative font sizes step 288) from which the operator chooses a new font size (step 290). The machine then changes the font size of the selected group (step 29V
and the operator chooses the SELECT/FINISH SELECT GROUP display key (step 294) wherein the machine records the new font size of the group (step 296) and retutns to step 264 for more editing. Additionally, different fonts could be used m addition to different font sizes for more versatility. This feature would depend on tne ability ofthe graphics display 16 to display alternative type of fonts. Additionally, the screen format mode may allow the operator to modify the color of the graphics display 16, as well as the characters and display keys, if the graphics display 16 has color capability. This is a~ in a algorithm similar to the font changing algorithm.
ReferringnowtoFlGS. 18aand 18b,thefiowdiagramforthereportsmodeis illustrated. After selecting the REPORTS display key in the main menu from the basic operating mode (step 310), the operator may print a report of pardcular registers or the basic operating mode saeen from which the operatorjust exited (step 312). Additionally, the display 16 allows the operator to browæ through the variety of default print formats in the memory device 50 or modify a default format. I,astly, the operator can exit this mode by ælecting the EXIT REPORTS MODE display key (step 314).
If the operator chooses to print the current operating mode screen from which the operator has exited, then the operator selects the PRINT CURRENT OPERATING MODE
c ~ ~

~ ~ 18 21 ~129 SCREENdisplaykey(step316). Instep318,thedisplayl6thenshowstheoperating mode screen as it would be printed and prompts the operator to print the report, change the report format, or return to the maul reports menu by depressing the RETURN TO MAIN
REPORTS MENU display key (step 320).
S If the operator selects to print the report by selecting the PRINT display key (322), then the controller 24 sends data to the printer peripheral device for printing (step 324) and the screen returns to the main reports screen in step 312. If the operator selects the CHANGE FORMAT display key (step 326), then the display 16 lists all available for~nats as display keys from uhich the operator can select a new format for the scroen to be printed (step 328). The operator can then select a new format (step 330) and the controller 24 scroen data into the new format (step 332). The operator then returns to step 318 wherein the new format is displayed and c2n be printed.
If the operator chooses to Yiew or modify the formats by selecting the VIEW OR
MODIFY FORMATS display key (step 334), then the display 16 would show a list of all formats as display keys (step 336). The operator then selects a format to be viewed or modified (step 338). The display 16 then shows the parameters which that palticular format would print and the location on the page of where it would be printed as shown in FIG. 19 (step 340). The line numbers on the page are shown on the far left while the character location llu~ tdlly across the page is show at the top. The operator can tben edit the format by using the display keys (step 342). The operator can move up and down the page by use of the SCROLL UPIDOWN display keys. The operator can add a line or remove a line bet~Yeen vertically adjacent characters by use of the ADD LINE andREMOVE LINE display keys. The operator c2n add or remove spaces bet~Yeen llul~lll~lly adjacent characters by the ADD SPACE and REMOVE SPACE display keys.Most I~ )u~ ly, every title (e.g. "cash") and parameter (e.g. D1-D4) can be printed or deleted from the printed page by actuating the touch screen 32 over the title or parameter.
If the box :.llllUlllld;llg the ti'de or parameter is non-shaded, the title or par2meter will be printed. If the box is shaded, the par2meter or title will not be printed in the report. For example, par2meters "T4", "D4", "N4", "TS", "CT3", "CD3", and "CN3" which correspond to entries in a register of the memory device 50 will not be printed in the print report of FIG. 19. Nor will the title of "Total Cash" be printed either. The operator uses the SCROLL DOWN display key to see the remaining parameters and title that will be printed.
r ~ ~

.
After any editing, the controller 24 ~ y records the edit (step 344). The operator returns to step 340 and carl continue to further edit, or retu~n to the main reports menu of step 312 by actuating the E~T FORMATS display key (step 346). Alternatively, this type of reportformat;.,;l;Al,,A1,..., couldexisturlderaset-upmodeinsteadofunderthereports mode.
If the operator chooses to print selected registers from the main reports menu (step 312) by selecting the PRINT SELECTED REGISTERS display key (step 348), then the display 16 asks the operator to enter the register IDs to be printed (step 350). The operator can select a range of register IDs by the numerical keypad group on the mechanical keyboard and by using the (-) THROUGH and (&) AND display keys (step 352). Thesedisplay keys tell the CSM whetber the reports of two adjacent ID registers should be made (i.e. 942 & 960) or reports of all registers between the selected ID registers should be made ~I.e. 942-960). The display 16 then lists the selected registers and the formats for the print reports (step 354). The operator cAn choose to retum to the main menu by selecting the REIIJRN TO MAIN REPORTS MENU display key (step 356). The operator can also select the PRINT display key (step 358) wherein the controller 24 sends the data to the printer (step 360) and the display 16 returns to the mairl reports menu at step 312.
AlternatiYely, the operator can select the CHANGE FORMAT display key (step 362) wherein the display 16 shows all formats from which the operator mAy choose (step 364).
The operator selects a new format (step 366) mto which the controller 24 ;~ the data to be printed (step 368) and retur.As the operator to step 354 for printing with the ne~v format.
The reports mode may include additional types of basic operational reports whichthe operator would select through the display keys in the report mode. A session report is a summary of the l, A- I~ U~ during that particular operator session. A daily report ,~ ~ . -- - .,- ~ all sessions occurring within a particular day. A ~)IUdLl~,liVily report records the time required for the operator to recor~cile l ,, .- - l ,....~ and determines the operator eff~ciency on the CSM 10. A register report allows the operator to print out all data base registers which the operator has initialiAed and labeled with a header and database ID number. A report of subtotals, totals, and grandtotals which are stored in pre-deternlined registers can be obtAined. A cash-in and cash-out report ~.. lA.,,, . ,~ the net result of l. A--~A- I j, ..,~ wherein money is also disperJsed can be acquired. All of these reports 21 7~29 can be displayed as a list of display keys once the operator enters the report mode, although they have not been included in the flow diagram of FIGS. I 8a and 1 8b.
Additionally, the reports could be formatted to send to a personal computer connected to one of the ports 29. Thus, large amounts of report ;., r. ,., .1-~ l.... can be sent to database of a personal computer and processed for accoumting purposes. The data could be formatted rn ASCI or other related formats and transmitted via an established protocol.
Referring now to FIGS. 20a and 20b, the operator has the ability to enter a set-up mode which allows for the ;. '; ~ and labeling of functions, registers, and ports.
Upon actuating the SET-UP display key 60 in the basic operating mode (step 379), the display 16 prompts the operator to enter the set-up option which the operator desires (step 380). To exit the set-up mode, tne operator selects the EXIT SET-UP MODE display key (step 381).
If tbe operator chooses the ENABLE/DISABLE FllNCTION display key (step 382),thedisplayl6promptstheoperatortoenterafKedkeyl8f~omtbemechanical keyboard 20 which the operator desires to be disabled or enabled (step 384). The operator tben selects the fixed key 18 from the mechanical keyboard 20 (step 386), and the display I6showsthefKedkeyselected,displaysthecurrentstatusofthefKedkey 18,andasksthe operator whether to maintain the current status or change the status (step 388). The operator then selects an ENABLE or DISABLE display key to change the status of that fKed key 18 (step 389). When the operator is finished~ the operator selects a FINISEIED
display key (step 390) and r~ns to step 380. The enable and disable function can also be configured to disable or enable the display keys on the touch screen 32 in a mat~ner similar to that described above for the frxed keys 18.
The operator can also select a PORT SET-UP display key from the main set-up menu (step 392) and the display 16 prompts the operator to enter the port number of the ports 29 to be initialiæd (step 394). The operator then selects the port number from the PORTNUMBER display keys on the touch screen 32 (step 396). The display 16 then shows the status of the port selected with those parameters of the port highlighted with a shaded display key as depicted m FIG. 21 (step 398). The operator can then select different parameters relating to the port function, baud rate, data, and parity (step 400) by selecting other display keys which are then ~ lr recorded by the cor~roller 24 (step 402).The operator then uses the NEXT and PREVIOUS display keys to scroll through the ~- ; ~

21 2 ~ 7%~29 various ports and review their current status, and make changes if necessary. When finished, the operator then chooses the EXIT display key and returns to the main menu of the set-up mode (step 406).
The operator can also label the header of keys from the variable function key group 35 on the r,AprhAnirAAI keyboard 20. Upon selecting the LABEL Ft~tNCTlON KEY
HEADER display key (step 408), the operator is prompted to select a variable furlction key 35 from the mechanical keyboard 20 (step 410). The operator selects a key, such as "F3"
(step 412), and the graphics display 16 shows alpha characters similar to those shovin in FIGS. 8a-8c except the line at the top of the screen reads "Enter Header for F3:" (step 414).
i 0 The operator then selects the characters for the F3 key header (step 416). The operator selects the RETUI?N display key after laheling is complete (step 418) and retur.As to the main menu of the set-up mode in step 380. Although not depicted im the set-up mode flow diagrarn, the operator could also use the set-up mode to label display keys on the graphics display 16. Thus, ~ " ... of the touch screen device 30 cfm be readily obtained.The operator can also configure the datr~base for the registers of the memoq device 50. Upon selecting the D~TABASE CONFIGURATION display key (step 420), the operator is prompted to select a database lD label (step 422). The controller 24 then seArches the memoq device 50 for an available register which will now be labeled with the database ID. The operator selects an ID label, such as " 123 " (step 424), and the graphics display 16 shows alpha characters similar to those shown in FIGS. 8a-8c except the line at the top of the screen reads "Enter Header for ID~ 123" (step 426) The operator then selects the characters for the ID header (step 428). Lastly, the operator selects the RETURN display key when complete (step 430) and returns to the main set-up menu in step 380.
Although only a function related to the labeling of the registers is shown, numerous other functions could be a. ~ .. l.l;~t.. ~I by use of the touch screen 32 after selecting the DATABASE CONFIGURATION display key. For example, the operator can establish the number of Imes of the database ID label that should be displayed in the basic operational mode. An internal clock of the CSM 10 can be set or changed A till fimd value which establishes the initial balance of a parlicular register can be input such that it is offset against a declared balamce when the transætion associated witb that register are later recorded for ~ . ,., Nurnerous additional functions could also be . ~ .t c ~ r~

2 ~ 78029 The set-up mode can be used to provide basic inf~-nn~firm to the CSM 10 concerLung data to be input through peripheral devices via the ports 29. For example, the marmer in which data is to be input, either manually or ~I~t~nnAtj~Ally through peripheral devices, can be established. And more detailed irlfommation on the automated data entry can be ,~,IlU~lClllllll~,d, For example, the number of paper bills which the paper counter 42 v~ill count in one counting increment can be input into the CSM 10 so that the CSM 10 the value of the data trarlsmitted from the paper counter 42~ Numerous other ,. .;1: ,1, ,, I; ~ .~ related to the peripheral devices can also be ~ d easily through the use of the touch screen device 30.
The modes which have been described in detail have included various functions within them. It would be simple to combine all of these functions into fewer "modes."
Alternatively, it would be simple to expand the number of modes by giving each function herein described its owrL "mode." Tbis fact is the essence ofthe touch screen device 30 in that it provides substantial flexibility.
In another cl~o(l;l.l. ~ the CSM 10 uses only the touch screen 32 for the operator interface pand. The mechanical keyboard 20 is completely removed and all mt'~'hAnirAl keys are now displayed as display keys on the graphics display 16. As with the m.~rhAni~AI
keyboard 20, the display keys which are most comrnonly used are ~ .~"" . ": 1ly grouped together on the graphics display 16. rhese grouped keys are arranged about the edges of t~Le graphics display such that the middLe of tbe display 16 can be devoted to display of the financial data, as shown in FIG. æ. Any labeling of the variable function keys (Fl -F6) can now be shown on the display keys and whether the display key is disabled. Also, the monetary group keys cAn be bighlighted by shading the value of the moneta~y data that is to be entered by the operator, which m FIG. æ, is dollars. The display 16 also includes a 2~ FOREIGN CU~RENCY display key which allows the operator to choose a variety of foreign currencies which will be recorded and reconciled. After selecting the ~."~
currency, the monetary group display keys change to . I~ .. Af ;.. ~ and syr Lbols associated with the selected foreign currency and the CSM 10 recoglu~es any inputs to be in the newly selected foreign currency To retum to the basic U.S. currency, the operator again selects the FOREIGN CURRENCY display key and selects a U.S. currency display key. Additionally, the sdection of the foreign currency after ætuating the FOF;EIGN
CURRENCY display key couLd be through the operator touching the touch screerL on a c ; ~7 23 2 1 78~29 country of a world map displayed on the graphics display 16 which is then hiEhliEh~
Also, the exchange rate an~ other financial pararneters could be input t'nrough the attached peripheral devices.
In ~ -, with the touch screen device 30, the controller 24 can create numerous pattems of the display keys on the display 16. The touch sc}een device 30 and controller 24 pemlit a virhJally unlirnited number of display keys to be shown on the display 16. The number of display keys is constrained primarily by the capacity of the memory device 50 in the controller 24 and the touch screen 32 output signal resolution.
Sdection of the display pattem could be achieved within the set-up mode. Such a large number of keys would occupy an inordinate amount of space if fommed as part of amrrh ~ir~l keyboard.
In yet another altemative c, ,.l .o.~., .. l the controller 24 arld touch screen device 30 are used to customize data ent}y fields, edit key legends, display key legends and other texluaI ., . r~ 1. .., in different languages, disable or enable display keys shown on the display 16, and reposition selected display keys displayed on the display 16. In addition, the controller 24 and touch screen device 30 may be employed to modify the complexity of the display patterns on the display 16 to match the level of experience of the operator. For e~ample, a novice may prefer a large number of relatively simple display pattems while a more ~ 7 operator may prefer a small number of relatively complex display pattems.
Wbile the present invention has been described with reference to one or more particular ..l ,o l"., :~ those skilled in the art will recognize that many changes may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Each of these-..,l..3.1,.,....~andobviousvariationsthereofis~~~'- r' ~asfallingwithinthe spirit and scope of the claimed invention, which is set forth in the following claims.

Claims (36)

1. A cash settlement machine for recording and reconciling financial data, comprising:
a graphics display for displaying said data;
operator interface panels including a mechanical keyboard having fixed keys and a touch screen mounted over said graphics display for providing input signals in response to manual actuation of said fixed keys and said touch screen, said input signals including a plurality of mode-entry signals for commanding said cash settlement machine to operate in a plurality of operational modes, each of said plurality of mode-entry signals corresponding to a respective one of said plurality of operational modes; and a controller coupling said operator interface panels to said graphics display, said controller including a graphics generator for generating display keys on said graphics display, each of said display keys positioned on said graphics display at a key display location, each of said input signals from said touch screen corresponding to manual actuation of said touch screen above a respective one of said key display locations, memory for storing instructions for each of said plurality of operational modes, and means for executing said said executing means executing instructions for one of said operational modes upon receipt of said corresponding mode-entry signal, said instructions including display key instructions wherein said executing means instructs said graphics generator to generate said display keys at said display key locations.

2. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, further including ports electronically communicating with said controller, and wherein peripheral devices are electronically connected to said ports.

3. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein said input signals include a plurality of function signals commanding said cash settlement machine to perform a plurality of functions for processing said data, each of said function signals corresponding to a respective one of said plurality of functions, and wherein said instructions include function instructions, said executing means executing said function instructions to perform said functions upon receipt of said corresponding function signal.

4. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a basic operational mode for recording and reconciling said financial data, and wherein said generating means generating display keys corresponding to the other of said plurality of operational modes on said graphics display.

5. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a help mode for displaying operational information concerning said cash settlement machine on said graphics display, said display keys include a help mode key and said mode-entry signals include a help mode-entry signal corresponding to said help mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said help mode upon receipt of said help mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of help mode display keys upon receipt of said help mode-entry signal.

6. The cash settlement machine of claim 5, wherein said set of help mode display keys includes help information display keys for displaying information on said fixed keys of said mechanical keyboard and help example display keys for displaying examples utilizing said fixed keys of said mechanical keyboard.

7. The cash settlement machine of claim 5, wherein said set of help mode display keys includes help editing display keys for editing said operational information, said help editing display keys include alpha and symbol character display keys.

8. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a diagnostic mode for displaying diagnostic information concerning said cash settlement machine on said graphics display, said display keys include a diagnostic mode key and said mode-entry signals include a diagnostic mode-entry signal corresponding to said diagnostic mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said diagnostic mode upon receipt of said diagnostic mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of diagnostic mode display keys upon receipt of said diagnostic mode-entry signal.

9. The cash settlement machine of claim 8, wherein said set of diagnostics mode display keys include touch screen test display keys for verifying the operability of said touch screen.

10. The cash settlement machine of claim 2, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a diagnostic mode for displaying diagnostic information concerning said cash settlement machine on said graphics display, said display keys include a diagnostic mode key and said mode-entry signals include a diagnostic mode-entry signal corresponding to said diagnostic mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said diagnostic mode upon receipt of said diagnostic mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of diagnostic mode display keys upon receipt of said diagnostic mode-entry signal, said set of diagnostic mode display keys including port test display keys for testing the operability of said ports.

11. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a directory mode for searching headings of registers of said memory, said display keys include a directory mode key and said mode-entry signals include a directory mode-entry signal corresponding to said directory mode key, said executing meansexecuting said instructions corresponding to said directory mode upon receipt of said directory mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of directory mode display keys upon receipt of said directory mode-entry signal, said set of directory mode display keys including alpha display keys for selecting alpha characters to be searched.

12. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a directory mode for searching headings of registers of said memory, said display keys include a directory mode key and said mode-entry signals include a directory mode-entry signal corresponding to said directory mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said directory mode upon receipt of said directory mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of directory mode display keys upon receipt of said directory mode-entry signal, said set of directory mode display keys including numerical display keys for selecting numerical characters to be searched.

13. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a screen format mode for modifying the manner in which said data is displayed on said graphics display, said display keys include a screen format mode key and said mode-entry signals include a screen format mode-entry signal corresponding to said screen format mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said screen format mode upon receipt of said screen format mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of screen format mode display keys upon receipt of said screen format mode-entry signal.

14. The cash settlement machine of claim 13, wherein said set of screen format mode display keys includes character moving display keys for moving operator selected data displayed on said graphics display.

15. The cash settlement machine of claim 13, wherein said set of screen format mode display keys includes font display keys for modifying fonts and font sizes of said data displayed on said graphics display.

16. The cash settlement machine of claim 2, wherein one of said peripheral devices is a printer and one of said plurality of operational modes includes a reports mode for printing said data from said cash settlement machine to said printer, said display keys include a reports mode key and said mode-entry signals include a reports mode-entry signal corresponding to said reports mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said reports mode upon receipt of said reports mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of reports mode display keys upon receipt of said reports mode-entry signal.

17. The cash settlement machine of claim 16, wherein said instructions corresponding to said reports mode include pre-defined print formats, said set of reports mode display keys includes format display keys allowing said operator to choose a format of said data being sent to said printer from said pre-defined print formats.

18. The cash settlement machine of claim 17, wherein said set of reports mode display keys includes editing display keys for enabling an operator to edit said pre-defined print formats, said editing display keys including character movement display keys for moving said data in said pre-defined print formats on said graphics display.

19. The cash settlement machine of claim 2, wherein one of said peripheral devices is a personal computer and one of said plurality of operational modes includes a reports mode for downloading said data from said cash settlement machine to said personal computer, said display keys include a reports mode key and said mode-entry signals include a reports mode-entry signal corresponding to said reports mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said reports mode upon receipt of said reports mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of reports mode display keys upon receipt of said reports mode-entry signal.

20. The cash settlement machine of claim 1, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a set-up mode for initializing said cash settlement machine, said display keys include a set-up mode key and said mode-entry signals include a set-up mode-entry signal corresponding to said set-up mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said set-up mode upon receipt of said set-up mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of set-up mode display keys upon receipt of said set-up mode-entry signal.

21. The cash settlement machine of claim 20, wherein said fixed keys of said mechanical keyboard include variable function keys, said set of set-up mode display keys includes labeling display keys for labeling said variable function keys, said labeling display keys including alpha-numeric and symbol display keys.

22. The cash settlement machine of claim 20, wherein said display keys have variable function display keys, said set of set-up mode display keys includes labeling display keys for labeling said variable function display keys, said labeling display keys including alpha-numeric and symbol display keys.

23. The cash settlement machine of claim 20, wherein said memory includes a plurality of registers for storing said data, and wherein said set of set-up mode display keys includes labeling display keys for labeling said registers, said labeling display keys including alpha-numeric and symbol display keys.

24. The cash settlement machine of claim 20, wherein said set of set-up mode display keys includes enable and disable display keys, said enable display key activating said input signal from an operator-selected fixed key, said disable display key deactivating said input signal from an operator-selected fixed key.

25. The cash settlement machine of claim 20, wherein said set of set-up mode display keys includes enable and disable display keys, said enable display key activating said input signal from an operator-selected display key, said disable display key deactivating said input signal from an operator-selected display key.

26. The cash settlement machine of claim 2, wherein one of said plurality of operational modes includes a set-up mode for initializing said cash settlement machine, said display keys include a set-up mode key and said mode-entry signals include a set-up mode-entry signal corresponding to said set-up mode key, said executing means executing said instructions corresponding to said set-up mode upon receipt of said set-up mode-entry signal, said display key instructions instructing said graphics generator to generate a set of set-up mode display keys upon receipt of said set-up mode-entry signal, said set of set-up mode display keys includes port set-up display keys to establish communication links of said peripheral devices to said cash settlement machine.

27. A cash settlement station of claim 2, wherein one of said plurality of peripheral devices is a coin sorting machine.

28. A cash settlement station of claim 2, wherein one of said plurality of peripheral devices is a cash scanning and counting machine.

29. A cash settlement station of claim 2, wherein one of said plurality of peripheral devices dispenses money.

30. A cash settlement machine for recording and reconciling financial data, comprising:
a graphics display for displaying said data;
an operator interface panel including a touch screen mounted over said graphics display for providing input signals in response to manual actuation of said fixed keys and said touch screen, said input signals including a plurality of mode-entry signals for commanding said cash settlement machine to operate in a plurality of operational modes, each of said plurality of mode-entry signals corresponding to a respective one of said plurality of operational modes; and a controller coupling said operator interface panel to said graphics display, said controller including a graphics generator for generating display keys on said graphics display, each of said display keys positioned on said graphics display at a key display location, each of said input signals from said touch screen corresponding to manual actuation of said touch screen above a respective one of said key display locations, memory for storing instructions for each of said plurality of operational modes, and means for executing said instructions, said executing means executing instructions for one of said operational modes upon receipt of said corresponding mode-entry signal, said instructions including display key instructions wherein said executing means instructs said graphics generator to generate said display keys at said display key locations.

31. The cash settlement machine of claim 30, wherein the plurality of modes includes a basic operating mode, a help mode, a diagnostic mode, a directory mode, a set-up mode, a screen format mode, and a reports mode.

32. The cash settlement machine of claim 30, further including ports electronically communicating with said controller, and wherein a plurality of peripheral devices are electronically connected to said ports.

33. The cash settlement machine of claim 30, wherein said display keys includes a foreign currency display key, said input signal from said foreign currency display key instructing said executing means to convert input data from a primary currency to a secondary currency, said input data being modified by a factor corresponding to an established exchange rate.

34. The cash settlement machine of claim 33, wherein said display keys includes a foreign currency display key, said input signal from said foreign currency display key instructing said executing means to convert input data from a primary currency to a secondary currency, said input data being modified by a factor corresponding to an established exchange rate, said exchange rate being downloaded into said cash settlement machine and periodically updated via a peripheral device electronically communicating with said cash settlement machine.

35. A method for operating a cash settlement machine having a graphics display for displaying said data;
an operator interface panel including a touch screen mounted over said graphics display for providing input signals in response to manual actuation of said fixed keys and said touch screen, said input signals including a plurality of mode-entry signals for commanding said cash settlement machine to operate in a plurality of operational modes, each of said plurality of mode-entry signals corresponding to a respective one of said plurality of operational modes; and a controller coupling said operator interface panel to said graphics display, said controller including a graphics generator for generating display keys on said graphics display, each of said display keys positioned on said graphics display at a key display location, each of said input signals from said touch screen corresponding to manual actuation of said touch screen above a respective one of said key display locations, memory for storing instructions for each of said plurality of operational modes, and means for executing said instructions, said executing means executing for one of said operational modes upon receipt of said corresponding mode-entry signal, said instructions including display key instructions wherein said executing means instructs said graphics generator to generate said display keys at said display key locations, the method comprising the steps of:
displaying, under direction of said controller, said display keys on said graphics display associated with one of said plurality of operational modes;
actuating said touch screen at a position above one of said key display locations;
and executing, under direction of the controller, instructions corresponding to saiddisplay key above which said touch screen was actuated.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the plurality of modes include a basic operating mode, a help mode, a diagnostic mode, a directory mode, a set-up mode, a screen format mode, and a reports mode.