WO2005119604A1

WO2005119604A1 - Coin storage arrangement and a method for recording the total number of coins stored in a shop

Info

Publication number: WO2005119604A1
Application number: PCT/SE2005/000831
Authority: WO
Inventors: Patrik Hellqvist
Original assignee: Cashguard Ab
Priority date: 2004-06-02
Filing date: 2005-06-01
Publication date: 2005-12-15
Also published as: SE0401409D0; SE0401409L

Abstract

The present invention relates to storage devices for automatic cash register systems (199); coins are stored in storage devices (5) at least one station, such as a checkout (220), a safe (208), etc., in the shop; the automatic cash register system (199) comprises, in addition, at least one receiving arrangement (210) arranged at the station (220) for receiving the storage device (5) for the storage of coins (c), a counter unit connected to a central computer unit (202) arranged to determine an intermediate value relating to the current stored number of coins c, calculated by moving a coin support device (31) arranged in the storage device (5) when the storage device (5) is inserted into or removed from the receiving arrangement (210).

Description

Coin storage arrangement and a method for recording the total number of coins stored in a shop.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a coin storage arrangement in accordance with the preamble to Claim 1. The invention can be utilized with automatic cash register apparatuses designed for automatic cash register systems in shops, where a customer pays coins into the automatic cash register apparatus and receives back coins fed previously into the apparatus. The invention also relates to a method in accordance with the preamble to the independent Claim 14.

BACKGROUND ART

Automatic cash register apparatuses, that are designed for automatic cash register systems comprising a central computer unit, are currently to be found in shops. The central computer unit is designed for the shop's "back office" function. This function is designed in such a way that the shopkeeper is able to monitor the logistical handling of coins within the shop's physical boundaries by using a computer terminal in, for example, the shop's office. The logistical handling of coins has become increasingly more expensive for the shopkeeper. Coins are currently stored in containers (hoppers) that are arranged in a so- called coin station at a checkout. The coin station receives the customer's coins and automatically pays out coins as change. The coin station is located in association with the checkout, in order to facilitate paying with money, using cards and receiving receipts, etc. Replenishing is carried out from time to time by members of the checkout staff manually refilling the said containers with coins as required. It can accordingly be difficult to know how many coins the cash register apparatuses contain in total and from where the coins come in the shop, which requires a larger amount of work on the part of a shopkeeper. For logistical handling of coins in shops and in order to reduce the queues at checkouts, attempts have been made to provide coin stations with coin input units that can receive more than one coin at a time in order to speed up the flow of customers through the checkout. Coin stations have been provided with coin input units into which the customer can deposit a handful of coins. The problem remains, however, of handling coins logistically at the checkout, as it has been found that customers still have to wait for the automatic cash register system to calculate (which is natural) and provide change at this coin station after a certain period of time. The customer must therefore remain at the checkout next to the coin station and wait for change to be paid out, which leads to the formation of unnecessarily long queues.

Known coin storage arrangements in coin handling apparatuses, that can receive coins and pay out coins as change in automatic cash register apparatuses, also have the disadvantage that they are not arranged in the coin handling apparatus in a way that is ergonomically correct for a customer. At a checkout in a shop, it is important that customers do not have to stretch down for their change. At present, a customer needs to move his hand a long distance from the coin input unit to the coin dispenser, which takes up time and is inconvenient for the customer. Known coin handling apparatuses also have the disadvantage that they do not comprise simple means for determining the precise number of coins stored in the coin storage arrangement. Known coin handling apparatuses can also comprise bulky coin sorting and dispensing arrangements. The sorting devices can be mechanical sorters and electronically controlled sorters. Coin handling apparatuses currently comprise coin storage arrangements which result in the customer having difficulty in finding the coin input unit and the coin dispenser that are located on the apparatus at a distance from each other.

Cash register apparatuses are currently available on the market with coin handling apparatuses that have scales located under each storage device for the storage of coins. US 5 756 977 shows an example of such a coin handling apparatus, in which the scales comprise the means for determining the stored amount.

In addition, a known solution is to connect a cash register to payment handling equipment of the CashGuard type, as described in EP-A-615 643, which equipment is designed to handle, that is receive and evaluate, notes and coins in a secure way and encloses the notes and coins that are stored in it. Each coin is detected when it is input and dispensed by means of item recording devices comprising detectors and electronic circuits. A coin handling apparatus comprising the coin storage arrangement according to the present invention can advantageously be connected to the abovementioned payment handling equipment.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

The object of the present invention is to avoid the above mentioned disadvantages of known designs and/or to develop these further. The object is also to avoid other disadvantages of known arrangements and systems. The object is also to provide a storage device that stores a known precise number of coins. The object is also to improve the logistics for handling coins at checkouts, between checkouts in the shop, between checkouts and a safe and other stations for the storage of coins in the shop, by means of the present invention..

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

These problems are solved by means of the coin storage arrangement for an automatic cash register apparatus described in the introduction, characterized by the characteristics listed in the characterizing part of Claim 1. By this means, coins can be stored in such a way that they take up less space sideways, while at the same time less work is required for the checkout staff in order to determine the number of coins at a checkout, as the height of the stacked coins defines the number of coins. Additional means for determining the number of stored coins are thus eliminated. By this means, the logistical coin handling at a checkout is also improved. The handling of coins within the shop is similarly made more efficient, as the storage devices, with known lengths for the areas of storing coins and storing coins in stacks, are interchangeable between the various stations (checkout, safe, coin changer for customers located in the shop, etc.), while at the same time the automatic cash register system can determine the number of coins stored in the various stations in the shop by means of a central computer unit and the cash register system's coin storage arrangements (which record information about the current number of coins stored in the storage devices of the coin storage arrangement when dispensing coins to customers and when receiving coins from customers).

Alternatively, at least one safe is arranged to receive and store the said storage devices. Alternatively, the central computer unit is arranged to monitor the flow of coins between the various stations by the length of the shop's storage device for the storage of coins being known (whereby the precise number of coins can be determined). Coins are received and paid out at the shop's checkouts. This is recorded by the central computer unit. When replenishing coins at a checkout, at least one storage device (which, for example, can be almost empty) is exchanged for a new storage device that is brought by a member of the checkout staff from, for example, the shop's safe. The physical change in the number of coins at the checkout is recorded by the central computer unit by the height of the storage device (for example the coin tube) being known and by the stack of coins being moved a certain distance to determine the precise number of coins in the new storage device. The difference between the number of coins stored in the storage device that was previously inserted at the checkout and the number of coins stored in the new storage device is calculated and the physical change is recorded by the central computer unit. In this way, the shopkeeper can always know the precise number of coins stored physically at the checkouts and at the various stations.

Alternatively, the content of coins at the various stations is recorded by each storage device being recorded (also by means of the automatic cash register system) at individual level by means of an ID code upon insertion into or removal from a station. In this way, the automatic cash register system can monitor the number of coins that are stored in total in the shop, and can also monitor in which stations in the shop these coins are stored or between which stations they are transported.

Upon insertion of a storage device into a station, and after ID control of the storage device and verification of the insertion of the storage device, the current number of coins in the storage devices stored in the station (for example in the shop's safe) can be calculated on the basis of the number of coins recorded previously in the coin storage arrangement by the automatic cash register system, using a counter unit designed for the automatic cash register system's computer unit. The content of coins in the storage devices that are currently being transported to and from the stations, or in storage devices inserted in coin changers, etc., can similarly be determined on the basis of previous recording of content in storage devices inserted in the coin changer and on the basis of the number of coins input and dispensed by, for example, the coin changer. Storage devices, such as coin tubes, that store coins in stacks, are designed for storage of coins in stacks. Coin tubes of known lengths are used, which coin tubes can be inserted in various stations in an automatic cash register system, where each cash register apparatus is used to record the inputting and dispensing of coins at item level by means of the coin storage arrangement's detector devices (whereby the number of coins in the coin tube is determined). Monitoring and adjustment of the actual number of coins is carried out by moving the coin stack in the coin tube a certain distance within the area of the known coin tube length. The actual number of coins can then be calculated on the basis of this moved distance. When inserting coin tubes in the coin storage arrangement at the checkout, the number of coins replenished at the automatic cash register apparatus can thus be determined automatically without the automatic cash register system needing to be provided with information about the number of replenished coins (which are stored in coin tubes that are brought from, for example, the safe or the coin changer).

Alternatively, the coin storage arrangement is arranged for an automatic cash register apparatus designed for automatic cash register systems in shops, which are provided with data relating to the number of stored coins in a storage device comprised in the coin storage arrangement, which coin storage device is designed to store coins on the basis of size. The coin storage arrangement comprises a sorting device for sorting the coins into the said storage devices, inputting and dispensing devices for inputting coins to and dispensing coins from the said storage devices, each storage device being arranged to receive a first coin in such a way that a subsequent second coin that is to be stored essentially comes to rest with one flat side against the flat side of the first coin. The storage device comprises a first and a second lower end. The first end comprises both a receiving area for receiving coins from the said inputting device and a dispensing area for dispensing coins by means of the said dispensing device. The length of the storage device for storing the coins is known. Each storage device comprises a lower sensor device arranged at the second lower end of the storage device for detecting the presence of a coin support device, that receives and supports coins stored in the storage device. A counter unit is connected to the automatic cash register apparatus, which counter unit calculates the number of stored coins by subtracting the distance that the coin support device has moved from the said known length and adjusts the automatic cash register apparatus's information concerning the current number of coins.

In this way, an operator can replenish coins at a checkout in a simple way and with automatic recording of the enumeration of the number of coins stored at the checkout by means of the counter unit. Great precision is obtained, as the coins are stored in stacks. The automatic cash register system keeps track of the number of coins stored at the various stations. The number of stored coins at each checkout can be determined with great precision when replenishing coins at the checkout. Alternatively, the automatic cash register system comprises a central computer unit connected electronically to at least one automatic cash register apparatus comprising at least one of the said coin storage arrangements comprising receiving arrangements for receiving the said storage devices.

Alternatively, the automatic cash register system comprises a central computer unit connected electronically to at least one automatic cash register apparatus comprising two coin storage arrangements comprising receiving arrangements for receiving the said storage devices.

In this way, two coin storage arrangements can be located at a checkout (for example, the one upstream of the cashier can receive coins and the other one downstream of the cashier can dispense change). By this means, the queues at the checkout are reduced and the shopkeeper can earn more money.

Alternatively, each storage device comprises an elongated support element arranged to receive at least one stack of coins with the flat sides of the coins lying against each other.

In this way, a well-defined storage space has been achieved, which is easy to replenish with a precise number of coins. The respective support elements can, for example, consist of a tube that extends in a direction downwards from the sorting device at a checkout, whereby the storage space can be utilized right down to the floor of the shop.

Alternatively, the elongated support element can comprise a completely or partially transparent part in order to make it easier to carry out a rough visual estimate of the number of coins. Alternatively, the support element can have a longitudinal open slit that exposes the stack of stored coins.

By this means, an operator or member of the checkout staff can determine in a simple way which storage device it is expedient to insert in the cash register apparatus when he fetches a storage device from, for example, a safe in the shop. The safe can be arranged with receiving arrangements, each of which is designed to receive an identifiable storage device. When a storage device is placed in a receiving arrangement, a signal is sent to the automatic cash register system that this has occurred. The automatic cash register system now knows which storage device is stored in the shop's safe and can determine the number of coins stored in the safe on the basis of previous calculation (using a counter unit) and recording, by means of the automatic cash register system, of the number of coins stored in the storage device.

Alternatively, the safe can consist of a coin changer (connected electronically to the automatic cash register system) located in a suitable place in the shop where customers can freely (independent of the checkout) change coins or buy coins to use. In this way, the shopkeeper can provide coins in storage devices without needing to order coins from the bank and at the same time the shop's automatic cash register system keeps track of the current number of coins stored in the shop.

Alternatively, a weighing element, which is connected to the system, is placed under the respective receiving arrangement to make it possible to check the automatic cash register's information concerning the total number of coins stored in the shop. In this way, logistical handling of coins can be monitored, and control of the coins stored in storage devices can be carried out on the basis of the automatic cash register system's information concerning the number of coins stored in the storage devices and on the basis of the location of the respective storage devices in the shop (at the checkout, in the safe, in the coin changer, etc.).

Each storage device preferably comprises a first and a second end. The first end comprises both a receiving area for receiving coins from the said inputting device and a dispensing area for dispensing coins by means of the said dispensing device.

By this means, the coin storage arrangement can advantageously be arranged in a coin handling apparatus designed for an automatic cash register apparatus, as inputting and dispensing of coins can be carried out within an area that is ergonomically advantageous for a customer, that is at a height above the floor of the shop that is such that a person of normal height does not need to raise his arm to an uncomfortable position in order to insert or take coins. In addition, both these actions can be carried out at essentially one and the same level, which is advantageous for a customer. This means that the customer only needs to locate one area instead of two areas for inserting and removing coins from the automatic cash register apparatus, which results in quicker handling of coins. This results in more customers being able to be served, which is cost-effective for a shopkeeper.

Each storage device suitably comprises a coin support device that is arranged to be able to be moved in steps for supporting coins in the said storage device in such a way that the most recently input coin comes to rest with its upper flat side on a level with an imaginary receiving line. In this way, coins can always be received at one and the same level. The most recently received coin is moved a distance corresponding to the thickness of the stored coin, in a direction away from or towards the said sorting device, by means of the coin support device connected to a driving device, which driving device is controlled by a control unit. Similarly, for receiving the first coin that is to be stored in the storage device, the supporting surface of the coin support device constitutes the imaginary receiving line.

Alternatively, each storage device comprises an upper sensor device arranged to detect a received coin. The upper sensor device is associated with a control unit arranged to move the stored coin a distance corresponding to the thickness of the coin by means of control signals sent to a driving device.

By this means, detection of a coin received most recently in the storage device can be used for recording the number of stored coins. The recording is suitably carried out by a recording unit that provides the cash register system of the automatic cash register apparatus with data concerning the number of stored coins.

Each storage device preferably comprises a lower sensor device arranged to detect the presence of a coin support device that receives and supports coins stored in the storage device, at the second lower end of the storage device.

Thus, a zero position can be recorded when the storage device is full, whereby a signal is generated to the cash register system that emptying of coins must take place. This also means that the cash register system knows exactly how many coins are stored, as the physical height of the storage device between the receiving area and the zero position is known and the thickness of the stored coins is known. The control unit has stored exactly how many coins have been received in the storage device. The length of the storage device is known and the thickness of each coin is known. When changing the storage device (replenishing of coins in the coin storage arrangement by inserting a new storage device), the coin support device is caused by the control unit to be moved down to a bottom position, which is confirmed by the lower sensor device. The distance that the coin support device is moved is recorded (by means of a position sensor, number of rotations of a rotating shaft, etc.), whereby the number of coins stored can be calculated and verified. For example, if the distance L is 40 cm between the receiving area and the zero position (the length of the storage device is 40 cm), this corresponds to a possible storage of 200 coins (each coin having a thickness of 2 mm). If the coin support device is moved from its position for supporting coins, so that the upper side of the uppermost coin is in a position for receiving the next coin, down to the zero position by a distance of, for example, 30 cm, this corresponds to a space for 150 coins. By this means, it is confirmed that 50 (=200-150) coins are stored in the storage device. This is recorded in the automatic cash register apparatus by means of a counter unit. The storage device containing these 50 coins is removed and replaced by a new storage device with an unknown number of coins. The coin support device is moved upwards in this "replenishing storage device" until the uppermost coin that is in the device is detected by the upper sensor device in the receiving area. The movement of the coin support device from the second end (lower end) (= lower position at the lower sensor device) until the uppermost stored coin is detected, corresponds in this example to 5 cm (that is 50 mm/2mm = 25 coins). That is, the number of existing coins in the storage device is 175 (200-25). The calculation unit records this number and adjusts the information in the automatic cash register apparatus to the effect that the current number of coins in the coin handling apparatus (175 new coins - 50 coins removed) is now 125 coins stored in the storage device. This information (125 coins) (a so-called intermediate value) is recorded by the central computer unit and the total number of coins stored at the different stations is adjusted on the basis of this intermediate value by means of the central computer unit, whereby the current number of stored coins can be determined logistically for the different stations. The adjusted total number of coins at the stations is determined, for example, by the intermediate value (125 coins) being recorded by the central computer unit and the previous value concerning the number of coins in the storage device at the checkout being subtracted from the number of coins recorded for the newly inserted storage device. The central computer unit is thus provided with data concerning the current exact number of coins at the different stations when the movement of storage devices to and from the different stations has been completed. In this way, the shopkeeper can monitor precisely how many coins are stored at the different stations on, for example, a display screen in the shop's "back office".

The dispensing device suitably comprises a dispensing mechanism, which causes the most recently input coin to be dispensed, at the dispensing area, in essentially the same position as where the input of coins takes place.

By this means, the customer only needs to locate one area instead of two areas for the insertion of coins into the automatic cash register apparatus and removal of coins from the automatic cash register apparatus. A driving device, which is controlled by a control unit, moves the coin or stack of coins a distance corresponding to the thickness of the stored coin in the direction towards the dispensing mechanism. Alternatively, the sorting device comprises a tilted support track with through holes of different widths, whereby coins can fall through the support track on the basis of their size down to the receiving area of the respective storage devices under the influence of gravity.

In this way, coins can be sorted into the respective storage devices in a simple way. The tilted support track means that the coins are tipped down into the respective storage devices and lie with one flat side facing downwards against either the coin support device or the flat side of a previously input coin. A cash register apparatus can thereby be made to take up less space in a vertical direction, while at the same time the area for the insertion and removal of coins can be concentrated in one place at the cash register apparatus.

The storage device is suitably arranged for eight sizes of coin.

In this way, the coin storage arrangement can be used for the Euro currency. In spite of the relatively large number of coins of different sizes, which means that eight storage devices have to be used, a large storage space can be achieved, while at the same time it takes up less space sideways as a result of the coins being stored in stacks.

The present invention also relates to a method according to what is described in the introduction.

The method is characterized by the steps described in the independent Claim In this way, a shopkeeper can see the exact number of coins currently stored at each station in the shop. The abovementioned method simplifies the logistical handling of coins.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

The invention will be explained in the following with reference to the drawings, in which:

Figures la- lb show schematically a coin storage arrangement according to a first embodiment;

Figures 2a-2b show schematically receiving and dispensing of coins;

Figure 3 shows schematically a second embodiment of the invention;

Figure 4 shows schematically the ejector rod in Figure 2d;

Figure 5 shows schematically a third embodiment;

Figure 6 shows schematically a fourth embodiment;

Figure 7 shows schematically a fifth embodiment;

Figures 8a, 8b, 8d and 8e show schematically parts of an automatic cash register system comprising a plurality of storage devices according to the present invention; and Figure 8c shows schematically a display screen on a computer unit comprised in the automatic cash register system.

MODE(S) FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION The invention will now be described in the form of embodiments. For the sake of clarity, components that are not of significance for the description of the invention have been omitted in the drawings.

Figures la- lb show schematically a coin storage arrangement 1 designed for an automatic cash register apparatus 2 (see Figure 2d). The coin storage arrangement 1 comprises, in addition, sorting devices 3 for sorting coins and storage devices 5 for the storage of coins on the basis of size. The storage device 5 consists of storage spaces 5', 5", 5'", each designed for a respective size of coin. The sorting device 3 comprises a tilted support track 6 (guide 7) with through holes (slots 9) of different widths. Under the influence of gravity, coins can fall through the support track 6 down to the receiving area m of the respective storage device 5', 5", 5'", on the basis of size. The sorting device 3 consists of a tilted guide 7 of sheet metal, which has a through slot 9 comprising steps 11', 11", 11 '". The widths of the different steps 11 ', 11", 11'" in the slot 9 are slightly larger than the diameter of the different coins. That is, the widths are arranged in such a way that coins of different sizes fall down into the respective storage device 5 on the basis of size under the influence of gravity. The coins are moved along the guide 7 from a coin channel 13 (where coins are read off by means of a detector (not shown) in the direction of the arrow v along the slot 9 and over the storage spaces 5', 5", 5'" by means of a conveyor belt 15 driven by an electrical motor 17 that is activated when a coin passes the said detector from a coin input unit 19. Each storage area 5', 5", 5'", designed for the respective coin size, is created from an elongated support element 21, such as a tube with an internal diameter that is slightly larger than the diameter of the coin. Each tube can hold a stack of coins with the flat sides of the coins facing each other and is open at the upper end. The angle z shown in Figure 1 is 20-80 degrees, preferably 30-45 degrees. The coin that is to be stored rotates in the direction of the arrow w, as the lower part 8 of the coin rests against the lower edge 10 of the slot. The distance a is made as small as possible so that the coin does not over-rotate.

The coin storage arrangement 1 comprises inputting and dispensing devices 23, 25 (see Figure 2d), such as the coin input unit 19 for inputting coins to the storage device 5 via the sorting device 3, and such as a coin dispenser device

27 for dispensing coins from the storage device to a bowl for change 28. The storage device 5 comprises tubes for each size of coin, which tubes are arranged to receive a first coin in such a way that a subsequent second coin that is to be stored comes to rest essentially with its downward-facing flat side against the upward facing flat side of the first coin. This can be carried out by the tube being essentially vertical with its upper first end 29 close to the steps

11', 11", 11 '" in the slot 9 through which the coin falls. As the coins are stored in stacks and as the most recently stored coin is the first that is dispensed, the inputting and dispensing devices 23, 25 can be located within essentially the same area.

Each tube comprises a coin support device 31, designed as a support plate 33. The support plate 33 can be moved in steps to support coins in the tube, which is shown schematically in Figures 2a-2d. If the tube is empty of coins and a first coin c' is to be received, the support plate 33 is set in position for receiving the coin by means of a control unit 35 after a signal to the detector (not shown) at or in the coin channel 13, so that the upper side of the support plate 33 comes on a level with an imaginary receiving line 37, which lies essentially on a level with the open end of the first end 29 in such a way that the walls of the tube 39 form a support wall for the received coin. As the coin is received at the upper first end 29, the danger is eliminated of the coin becoming wedged further down in the tube. When the received coin is lying on the support plate 33, the stored coin is recorded by means of a sensor 41 and a motor 43 is caused by a control unit 35 to drive the support plate 33 a distance downwards corresponding to the thickness of the received coin by means of a shaft 45. An arm 46 that has a hole 48 in one end with a thread corresponding to the thread (not shown) on the shaft 45 carries the support plate 33 at its other end. By this means, the upper side of the received coin forms a support surface for the next coin to be received at the imaginary receiving line 37. When the next coin has been received, the received coins are moved in a downward direction a distance corresponding to the thickness of the coin by means of the support plate 33. The distance moved is pre-programmed for the respective coin size or is determined by means of a position sensor (not shown). The upper side of the second received coin, that is the most recently input coin, now comes to rest on a level with the imaginary receiving line 37. The movement in steps continues when yet another coin has been received.

Figure 2d shows schematically that the first end comprises both a receiving area m for receiving coins from the inputting device 23 and a dispensing area n for dispensing coins by means of the dispensing device 25. The dispensing device 25 comprising a coin ejecting device 27, comprises an ejector rod 47 and a driving motor 49. The driving motor 49 drives the ejector rod 47 in response to a control signal from the control unit 35 to push out the most recently received coin c" in the direction z, after the control unit 35 has caused the motor 43 to drive the support plate 33 in an upward direction r in such a way that the most recently received coin c", that is now to be dispensed, comes to rest essentially with its downward-facing flat side on a level with the imaginary receiving line 37. That is, the dispensing device 25 comprises a dispensing mechanism 53, which causes the most recently input coin to be dispensed in essentially the same place as where the said input takes place.

Each storage device 5', 5", 5'" comprises an upper sensor device 49, that is the sensor 41, arranged to detect a received coin. The upper sensor device 49 is associated with a control unit 35 that is arranged to move the stored coins a distance corresponding to the thickness of the coin by means of a control signal sent to the driving device, that is the motor 43. Figures 2a-2c show how the support plate 33 is moved downwards a distance corresponding to the thickness of the coin. Figure 2d shows how the support plate 33 is moved upwards a distance corresponding to the thickness of a coin, after a signal for dispensing a coin has been received from the automatic cash register apparatus 2.

Each storage device 5', 5", 5'" comprises a lower sensor device 51 (see Figure la) arranged to detect the presence of the coin support device 31, receiving and supporting stored coins in the storage device 5, at a lower position N in the storage device. That is, a signal can be produced when the storage space 5' is full. As the height of the storage space is known and the thickness of each coin is known, the exact number of coins that are stored in the full storage space 5' can be determined by means of a recording unit (not shown). In this way, an inventory can be made with great precision, which is explained in greater detail below. The lower sensor device is arranged to detect the presence of a coin support device, receiving and supporting coins stored in the storage device, at the second lower end N of the storage device.

Thus a zero position can be recorded when the storage device is full, whereby a signal is generated to the cash register system that emptying of coins is to be carried out. This also means that the cash register system knows exactly how many coins are stored, while the physical height of the storage device, between the receiving area and the zero position, and the thickness of the stored coins are known. The control unit's 35 feed command makes it possible to store data in an item recording device (not shown) in the automatic cash register apparatus 2 concerning exactly how many coins have been received into the storage device. The length L of the storage device 5 is known and similarly the thickness of each coin. During replacement of storage devices (replenishing of coins in the coin storage arrangement by the insertion of a new storage device), the coin support device 31 is caused by the control unit 35 to move down to a bottom position (the lower end N) which is confirmed by the lower sensor device 51. The distance that the coin support device 31 is moved is recorded (using position sensors, number of revolutions of the rotating shaft, pulse transmitter, etc., not shown), whereby the number of stored coins can be calculated and verified. For example, if the length L is 40 cm (the length of the storage device that can physically store coins is 40 cm), this corresponds to 200 coins (each coin having a thickness of 2 mm). If the coin support device 31 is moved down, for example, 30 cm, this corresponds to a space for 150 coins. It is thereby confirmed that 50 (=200-150) coins are stored in the storage device. This is recorded in the automatic cash register apparatus 2 using a counter unit. The storage device 5 containing these 50 coins is removed and replaced by a new storage device 5 with an unknown number of coins. The coin support device 31 is moved upwards in this newly inserted replenishing storage device until the uppermost coin that is already in the device is detected by the upper sensor device 41. The movement of the coin support device 31 from the second end (the lower end N) (= the lower position at the lower sensor device 51) until the uppermost stored coin is detected, corresponds in this example to 5 cm (that is 50 mm/2 mm = 25 coins). That is, the number of existing coins in the storage device is 175 coins (200-25). The counter unit records this number and adjusts the information in the automatic cash register apparatus 2 to the effect that the current number of coins (175 new coins - 50 removed coins) is now 125 coins stored in the storage device 5 that is now being used by the automatic cash register apparatus 2. The distance that the coin support device is moved is recorded using a pulse transmitter connected to the motor 43 that drives the shaft 45. Alternatively, a position sensor can be used.

Figure 2d shows clearly that the bowl for change 28 and the coin input unit 19 are at essentially the same level in relation to the storage device 5, which is mainly located under the bowl for change 28 and the coin input unit 19.

Figure 3 shows schematically a coin storage device from the side. In addition to being titled by an angle z (see Figure lb), the guide 7 is also inclined by the angle α so that the coin rolls along the slot 9 which, instead of steps, has a gradually increasing width for sorting coins of different diameters. According to this embodiment, the final positions of the imaginary receiving lines for the respective storage spaces 5 are at different levels, but constitute a common imaginary receiving line 37. The receiving area m and the dispensing area n are essentially the same for all the storage spaces. The lower position N of the storage device 5 is at one and the same level, that is on the floor 55 of the shop.

Figure 4 shows the ejector rod 47 in Figure 2d in a view from above. A hole 57 in the wall 39 of the coin tube is arranged to facilitate the removal of the coin c" from the storage device 5. The ejector rod 47 has propelled the coin c" halfway and the coin is caused to come to rest in the bowl for change 28.

Figure 5 shows a third embodiment of the invention in which each storage device 5 for the respective size of coin comprises two storage spaces 5', 5". Each storage device 5 is arranged below the sorting device 3 in such a way that it can move. The storage device 5 is moved by means of a driving mechanism (not shown) in the direction of the arrow s, when the storage space 5' is full of coins. The empty storage space 5" then comes into a position for receiving coins. In this way, additional storage space has been created. Eight storage devices are comprised in this embodiment.

Figure 6 shows a fourth embodiment in which coins that are to be sorted and stored are transported in a linear direction over "double" coin tubes 61. A flap 60 that is controlled separately is operated in two positions, A and B, in order to bring about a commencement of the step 11 ' as required. In this way, several coin tubes 61 intended for a value can be used and the storage space is made larger. More than two coin tubes can also be used for one size of coin. Then an additional flap (not shown) is used for guiding the coins. A flap can be used for three positions, etc.

Figure 7 shows a fifth embodiment relating to a variant of the dispensing mechanism for dispensing a coin c. The mechanism comprises a rubber cylinder 100 that is rotated by a driving motor (not shown), both clockwise rl for dispensing (see Figure 7) of the coin c in the position for dispensing in the direction cp, and anticlockwise for returning the cylinder 100 to the passive position (solid line). The cylinder 100 rests on an arm 104 mounted on the coin tube 61. When the cylinder 100 rotates anticlockwise, the coin that is not to be dispensed is urged back to the coin tube 61. The clockwise rotation also drives the arm with the cylinder 100 to the passive position, as the cylinder's rubber surface comes into contact with a convex surface 102. When dispensing is not to be carried out, the driving motor stops in response to a command from the control unit 35 (see Figure 2a). When dispensing is to be carried out, which is confirmed by the control unit connected to a sensor in the coin input unit 19, the driving motor starts and drives the cylinder 100 in a clockwise direction. The rubber surface of the cylinder 100 comes into contact with the convex surface, whereby the arm 104 with the cylinder 100 is driven in the direction R to the position for dispensing where the rubber surface of the cylinder 100 pushes out the coin that is fed forward by the support plate (also as reference 33 in Figure 2d) to the bowl for change.

Figures 8a, 8b and 8d show an automatic cash register system 199 and parts thereof comprising a plurality of storage devices 5 according to the present invention.

The broken line 200 marks schematically the physical boundaries of a shop. In the shop, there is a so-called "back office" 201 (office) comprising a central computer unit 202 that is connected electronically to a coin changer 204, to checkouts comprising automatic cash register apparatuses 206 (also reference 2, see above), to the shop's safe 208 comprising receiving arrangements 210 for receiving storage devices 5, in the form of coin tubes. Each coin tube has an ID agent (not shown) that is read off by the receiving arrangements A, B and D. When a storage device 5 is placed in a receiving arrangement 210, a signal is given to the computer unit 202 that the storage device has been inserted in the safe 208. The automatic cash register system 199 now knows which storage device 5 is stored in the shop's safe 208 and can determine the number of stored coins in the safe 208 on the basis of previous calculations of the number of coins stored in the storage device 5 (that is then if required moved to the safe 208) using a counter unit 212 and recording of previously input and dispensed coins (not shown) concerning the number of coins in the automatic cash register apparatuses 206 coin storage arrangements 214.

A computer terminal 216 is installed in the office (back office) 201 (or alternatively a cash register operator can be provided with a portable terminal), connected to the computer unit 202. The computer terminal 216 comprises a display screen 218, which by means of a bar chart (see Figure 8c) shows the number of coins at the different stations (checkouts 220, coin changer 204, safe 208, coin tubes being transported 222, etc.).

A cash-in-transit (CIT) vehicle 224 has arrived with coins from the bank. Coins are delivered in storage devices 5 and are stored in the shop's safe or inserted directly into the coin storage arrangement 214 (the coin handling apparatus at the checkout 220). The length L of the storage device 5 for the storage of coins is known and essentially each storage device 5 comprises, in addition to the actual coin tube, a lower sensor device 51 (see Figure la) arranged at the second lower end N of the storage device 5 for detecting the presence of a coin support device 31 (see Figure la), receiving and supporting stored coins c in the storage device 5. The counter unit 212 is connected to the automatic cash register apparatus 206 through the computer unit 202, which counter unit 212 calculates the number of stored coins c by subtracting the distance that the coin support device 31 has moved from the said known length L and adjusting the information in the automatic cash register apparatus 2 and in the automatic cash register system 199 concerning the current number of coins. This information is now displayed on the display screen 218 (bar chart 220, checkout) (see Figure 8c). Customers 226 arrive at the shop with coins c in the direction of the arrow p'. At the checkout 220, the customer 226 pays with coins into the coin handling apparatus (the coin storage arrangement 214'). The automatic cash register system enumerates the total number of coins stored in the shop, which is displayed on the display screen 218 at 220. The customer 226 moves along the checkout 220 in the direction of the arrow p", after having completed the transaction (printout of receipt, etc.) and receives change from a second coin storage arrangement 214" placed downstream (viewed in the direction of movement of the checkout queue, the arrow p") of the position where the customer 226 principally carried out the transaction with the cashier (not shown). A customer thus does not need to prevent other customers from reaching the cashier, but instead goes to the location where the goods come to rest and receives his change there from the coin storage arrangement 214". Such a solution makes the flows in and out (the arrows p'" and p"") of customers 226 in the shop more efficient (which results in a greater flow of coins into the shop) and also makes the flow of coins internally at a checkout 220 more efficient. This flow is monitored in a simple way by means of coin tubes (storage devices 5) of known length within the area where coins are stored stacked with their flat sides against each other (stackable area 230, see Figure 8), which coin tubes of length L can be inserted for recording and determining the number in the different stations (coin stations at checkouts, safe, coin changer for customers, etc., located in the shop). They can be inserted in the receiving arrangement 210' in the coin storage arrangement 214 (essentially corresponding to the receiving arrangement in the safe). The receiving arrangement 210' (see Figure 8d) comprises a coin support device 31 comprising ID monitoring equipment (not shown) and the mechanisms that were described above for moving the stack of coins a distance in relation to the length L. The receiving arrangement 210' comprised in the coin storage arrangement 214 (also called a "coin tower" or "coin changer" within the automatic cash register 199 system industry) is connected to the actual coin storage arrangement 214, which in turn is connected to the automatic cash register apparatus 206 at the checkout 220, which in turn is connected to the automatic cash register system 199 and the "back office" 201 comprising the computer terminal 216. Alternatively, the elongated support element can completely or partially comprise a transparent part 239 to facilitate a rough visual estimate of the number of coins. An open slot 240 running along the length of the support element 21 is arranged to expose the stack of stored coins .

By this means, when he fetches storage devices 5 from, for example, a safe 208 in the shop, an operator or member of the checkout staff can determine, in a simple way, which storage device 5 it is expedient to insert in the cash register apparatus 206. The safe 208 is arranged with receiving arrangements 210, each of which is designed to receive an identifiable storage device 5. When a storage device 5 is placed in a receiving arrangement 210, a signal is sent to the automatic cash register system 199 that this has occurred. The automatic cash register system 199 now knows which storage device 5 is stored in the shop's safe 208 and can determine the number of coins stored in the safe 208 on the basis of previous calculation (using a counter unit 212) and recording, by means of the automatic cash register system 199, of the number of coins stored in the storage device 5. Figure 8c shows a display screen 218 on the computer terminal 216 connected to the computer unit 202. The display screen 218 shows the number of stored coins in the four checkouts 220 in the shop. In the same way, an operator can call up a display on the screen 218 in the form of a bar chart showing the number of coins stored in the coin changer 204 and in the safe 208.

Figure 8e shows schematically different variants of how the receiving device 210 can be constructed. The operating means 250' for moving the stack of coins can be arranged in or on the receiving arrangement 210 or alternatively the operating means 250" can be arranged in or on the respective storage device 5. The operating means 250', 250" is driven by a driving device 43 (see Figure 2a) in response to commands from the computer unit 202 and the control unit 35 (see above).

Still with reference to Figure 8a, a method can be described for handling coins logistically within the physical boundaries of a shop.

Method for recording the total number of coins c stored in a shop comprising an automatic cash register system 199; coins are stored in a storage device 5 at at least one station, such as a checkout 220, a safe 208, etc., in the shop; the automatic cash register system 199 comprises, in addition, at least one receiving arrangement 210 arranged at the station 220 for receiving the storage device 5 for the storage of coins c, a counter unit connected to a central computer unit 202 arranged to determine an intermediate value relating to the current number of stored coins c, calculated by moving a coin support device 31 arranged in the storage device when the storage device 5 is inserted into or removed from the receiving arrangement 210; which method is characterized by the steps of:

- recording, by means of the central computer unit 202, of the number of coins c in the storage device 5 that is to be exchanged (the one that is to be removed) after moving the said coin support device 31 ,

- recording, by means of the central computer unit 202, of the number of coins c in the storage device 5' that is to be exchanged (the one that is to be inserted) after moving the said coin support device 31,

- recording, by means of the central computer unit 202, of the difference, relating to the number of coins, between the two recordings according to the abovementioned steps, which difference is called an intermediate value.

In this way, the automatic cash register system can contain information about an "imaginary" value relating to the number of coins stored at the different stations.

The method is characterized, in addition, by the steps of:

- recording, by means of the central computer unit 202, of an adjusted value relating to the actual number of stored coins c, on the basis of the said intermediate value, and

- display of the said adjusted value on a display screen 218 connected to the central computer unit 202.

In this way, a shopkeeper can see the exact number of coins currently stored at each station in the shop. The abovementioned method simplifies the logistical handling of coins. The method will be described in the following in the form of an example. Suppose that 100 coins are recorded at the checkout (which corresponds to the movement of the coin support device) for the coin tube A at the checkout and corresponds to the actual number (previously adjusted). The cash register apparatus sends a signal for replenishing with coins, as the number of coins will shortly drop below a limit value of 100 coins. A member of the checkout staff fetches a coin tube B from the safe. This coin tube B physically contains 1000 coins. The coin tube B is inserted into the cash register apparatus after the coin tube A has been removed. The number of coins in the coin tube B is recorded as being physically 1000 coins after movement of the coin support device. The intermediate value at the checkout is 1000-100 = 900 coins. That is, the number of replenished coins at the checkout is 900 coins, which is recorded by the central computer unit. The coin tube A is inserted in, for example, the safe, or in another station such as a coin changer, other checkout, etc., and the automatic cash register system knows that the physical number of coins here is 100 coins. At the checkout, the actual value is 1000 coins, which value is adjusted on the basis of the intermediate value. The difference of 100 coins (1 kronor coins) corresponds to a 100 kronor note, which information is stored in the central computer unit as defined change (that can physically be transferred to the shop's safe at a later time).

The intermediate value corresponds to the value that is equal to the number of replenished coins.

The adjusted value is the current (actual) value relating to the number of coins that are physically stored in the storage device. The said 100 kronor note is exchanged from the checkout in question at a suitable time. The checkout's automatic cash register apparatus is suitably allocated an ID code so that the changing of money in association with the replenishing of coins can be tracked and its position can be determined.

As the flow of coins between the different stations, see arrows 300, is only carried out within the physical boundaries of the shop, it is not necessary for ID agents to be applied to the respective storage devices 5. The invention is to be primarily regarded as solving the problem of knowing the precise number of coins stored at the different stations in an automatic cash register system in a shop even after, for example, replenishing a checkout with coins.

Of course, ID agents can be applied to storage devices for certain applications within the framework of the invention.

The present invention is not to be regarded as being limited by the embodiments described above, but embodiments can be combined. Other embodiments are also possible within the framework of the invention.

Alternatively, inputting and dispensing devices can be moved over the respective storage spaces, individually or both at the same time. The distance that the coin support device is moved can be recorded using different types of sensor, such as laser measurement, potentiometer, etc. Position sensors can be located along the storage device so that verification can be carried out against the recording unit of the automatic cash register apparatus relating to the current number of coins stored in the storage device. A counter unit (not shown) connected to the automatic cash register apparatus 2 calculates or confirms the number of stored coins, for example by means of these sensors. The storage devices do not need to be in the shape of tubes, but can be spaces created by rods with elongated storage areas, box-shaped cylinders, etc. The dispensing mechanism can comprise various types of arrangements, such as inclining of the storage area for dispensing, expelling by compressed air, etc.

Coin sorting devices can be arranged for transportation of coins standing vertically on edge that are transported along slots with steps. When the coin reaches the appropriate step edge, the coin is caused to tip forwards by the coin's lower edge being "released" last and the transportation movement causes the coin to tip. Other coin sorting devices are also available, but are not described here as the invention relates to a coin storage arrangement. A storage device can be designed for different sizes of coin and each coin is recorded electronically and stored electronically, whereby coins of different thicknesses can be stored in one and same storage space.

Claims

1. Coin storage arrangement designed for an automatic cash register apparatus (2), which coin storage arrangement comprises sorting devices (3) for sorting coins into a storage device (5) for the storage of coins (c) on the basis of size, inputting and dispensing devices (23, 25) for inputting coins (c) to and dispensing coins from the said storage device (5), characterized in that each storage device (5) is arranged to receive a first coin (c') in such a way that a subsequent second coin (c") that is to be stored comes to rest essentially with its flat side against the flat side of the first coin (c').

2. Coin storage arrangement according to Claim 1, characterized in that each storage device (5) comprises an elongated support element (21) arranged to receive at least one stack of coins (c) with the flat sides of the coins against each other.

3. Coin storage arrangement according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each storage device (5) comprises a first (29) and a second end (N), the first end (29) comprises both a receiving area (m) for receiving coins (c) from the said inputting device (23) and a dispensing area (n) for dispensing coins (c) by means of the said dispensing device (25).

4. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of Claims 1-3, designed for an automatic cash register apparatus (2) arranged in an automatic cash register system (199) comprising a central computer unit (202) in a shop, which is provided with data relating to the number of coins stored in a storage device (5) comprised in the coin storage arrangement for the storage of coins (c) on the basis of size, the coin storage arrangement comprises a sorting device (3) for sorting coins for the said storage devices, inputting and dispensing devices (23, 25) for inputting coins (c) to and dispensing coins (c) from the said storage device (5), each storage device (5) is arranged to receive a first coin (c') in such a way that a subsequent second coin (c") that is to be stored comes to rest essentially with its flat side against the flat side of the first coin (c'), the storage device (5) comprises a first (29) and a second lower end (N), the first end (29) comprises both a receiving area (m) for receiving coins (c) from the said inputting device (23) and a dispensing area (n) for dispensing coins (c) by means of the said dispensing device (25), characterized in that the length (L) of the said storage device (5) for the storage of coins is known, each storage device (5) comprises a lower sensor device (51) arranged at the second lower end (N) of the storage device (5) for detecting the presence of a coin support device (31), that receives and supports coins (c) stored in the storage device (5), a counter unit is connected to the automatic cash register apparatus (2), which counter unit calculates the number of stored coins by subtracting the distance that the coin support device (31) has moved from the said known length (L) and adjusts the automatic cash register apparatus's (2) information concerning the current number of coins.

5. Coin storage arrangement according to Claim 4, characterized in that the automatic cash register system (199) comprises a central computer unit (202) connected electronically to at least one automatic cash register apparatus (206) comprising at least one of the said coin storage arrangements (214) comprising receiving arrangements (210) for receiving the said storage devices (5) that the central computer unit is arranged to record.

6. Coin storage arrangement according to Claim 4, characterized in that the automatic cash register system (199) comprises a central computer unit (202) connected electronically to at least one automatic cash register apparatus (206) comprising two coin storage arrangements (214) comprising receiving arrangements (210) for receiving the said storage devices (5).

7. Coin storage arrangement according to Claims 1-3, characterized in that each storage device (5) comprises a coin support device (31) arranged to be able to be moved in steps for supporting coins in the said storage device (5) in such a way that the most recently input coin (c) comes to rest with its upper flat side on a level with an imaginary receiving line (37).

8. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the length (L) of the said storage device (5) for the storage of coins is known.

9. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each storage device (5) comprises an upper sensor device (49) arranged to detect a received coin (c), the said upper sensor device (49) is associated with a control unit (35) arranged to move the stored coins (c) a distance corresponding to the thickness of the coin by means of a control signal sent to a driving device (43).

10. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that each storage device (5) comprises a lower sensor device

(51) arranged at the second lower end (N) of the storage device (5) arranged to detect the presence of a coin support device (31), receiving and supporting stored coins (c) in the storage device (5).

11. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said dispensing device (25) comprises a dispensing mechanism (53), which causes the most recently input coin (c") to be dispensed at the dispensing area (n) in essentially the same place as where the said input of coins (c) takes place.

12. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the said sorting device (3) comprises a tilted support track (6) with through holes (9) of different widths, whereby coins can fall through the support track on the basis of their size down to the receiving area of the respective storage devices under the influence of gravity.

13. Coin storage arrangement according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the storage device (5) is arranged for eight sizes of coin.

14. Method for recording the total number of coins (c) stored in a shop, comprising an automatic cash register system (199); coins are stored in a storage device (5) at at least one station, such as a checkout (220), a safe (208), etc., in the shop; the automatic cash register system (199) comprises, in addition, at least one receiving arrangement (210) arranged at the station (220) for receiving the storage device (5) for the storage of coins (c), a counter unit connected to a central computer unit (202) arranged to determine the current stored number of coins c, calculated by moving a coin support device (31) arranged in the storage device (5) when the storage device (5) is inserted into or removed from the receiving arrangement (210), in which the method is characterized by the steps of: - recording, by means of the central computer unit (202), of the number of coins (c) in the storage device (5) that is to be removed after moving the said coin support device (31),

- recording, by means of the central computer unit (202), of the number of coins (c) in the storage device (5') that is to be inserted after moving the said coin support device (31),

- recording, by means of the central computer unit (202), of the difference, relating to the number of coins, between the two recordings according to the abovementioned steps, which difference is called an intermediate value.

15. Method according to Claim 14, characterized, in addition, by the steps of:

- recording, by means of the central computer unit (202), of an adjusted value relating to the actual number of stored coins (c), on the basis of the said intermediate value, and

- display of the said adjusted value on a display screen (218) connected to the central computer unit (202).