TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] This invention relates to automated banking machines. Specifically, this invention
relates to currency dispensers for automated banking machines and the securement of
dispenser modules in such machines.
BACKGROUND ART
[0002] Automated banking machines are known in the prior art. One type of automated banking
machine, known as an automated teller machine (ATM), allows a consumer to conduct
banking transactions without the necessity of a banking employee directly taking part.
Such transactions might include making deposits to accounts, checking balances, transferring
funds, obtaining a cash withdrawal, or obtaining other items. As used herein, the
phrase automated banking machine is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure,
but may include any type of device that enables automating transactions involving
transfers representative of value.
[0003] Other types of automated banking machines may be used to dispense currency to a customer,
bank teller, cashier or other service provider. Automated banking machines may be
used to dispense various types of items to users. Some types of automated banking
machines may dispense items such as tickets, coupons, vouchers, or other items of
value. Automated banking machines generally store a multitude of such items in a fashion
enabling the machine to quickly deliver one or more items without error. Some automated
banking machines may accept deposits in the form of envelopes, checks, cash, or other
items. Some automated banking machines may be used for providing credit, making bill
payments, or to debit or deposit funds in various accounts.
[0004] The devices enabling storage and delivery of the sheet items may at times require
replenishing, maintenance, or repair. In automated banking machines such as those
made by Diebold, Incorporated, the assignee of the present invention, sheet items
that are dispensed are generally held in cassettes. The cassettes are enabled to be
replaced by authorized personnel who have gained access to a secure chest portion
of the machine which houses the cassettes. This enables authorized personnel to quickly
replenish items to be dispensed. This can be done by replacing the cassettes or by
removing the cassettes, adding sheets thereto and reinstalling the cassettes.
[0005] While replenishing sheet items may readily be accomplished, it is sometimes necessary
to conduct more extensive maintenance or repair activities. In the event repair or
replacement of certain components of the machine are necessary, the sheet dispenser
assembly may need to be removed from the housing. The weight and delicate nature of
some components of the sheet dispenser assembly can make removal and reinstallation
of the dispenser mechanism difficult. The dispenser mechanism may also include a number
of stacked dispenser modules for storing and selectively dispensing documents stored
in the cassettes. The stacked dispenser modules may also need to be disassembled.
Very accurate positioning and alignment of dispenser mechanism components are often
required for proper operation of the machine, which necessitates care during reinstallation.
The proper alignment and securement of stacked dispenser modules are also required.
All of these requirements add to the difficulty in servicing the dispenser mechanism.
[0006] It may also be useful in some situations to add dispenser modules to an automated
banking machine. Adding dispenser modules enables additional types of items or more
of a particular type of item to be dispensed in transactions carried out through operation
of the machine.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0007] Thus there exists a need for an apparatus and method for more easily removing, disassembling,
and reinstalling a sheet dispenser assembly of an automated banking machine to facilitate
servicing of components of the machine. There further exists a need for more easily
adding a sheet dispenser mechanism to an automated banking machine.
[0008] It is an object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a dispenser
module for an automated banking machine.
[0009] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
stackable dispenser module for an automated banking machine.
[0010] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
stackable multimedia dispenser module for an automated banking machine.
[0011] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
dispenser module which can be locked to another dispenser module in stacked relation.
[0012] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
dispenser module which can be locked to another dispenser module in aligned relation.
[0013] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
dispenser module which can be locked to another dispenser module in stacked and aligned
relation.
[0014] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
multimedia dispenser module which can be locked to another dispenser module in stacked
and aligned relation for use in an automated banking machine.
[0015] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide an
apparatus which enables a sheet dispenser of an automated banking machine to be more
readily serviced.
[0016] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
method of servicing an automated banking machine.
[0017] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
method of assembling dispenser modules into locked and stacked relation for a sheet
dispenser arrangement of an automated banking machine.
[0018] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
method of disassembling dispenser modules from a locked and stacked relation.
[0019] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
method of servicing a sheet dispenser of an automated banking machine that reduces
the time and cost of removing and reinstalling dispenser modules.
[0020] It is a further object of an exemplary form of the present invention to provide a
method of adding a sheet dispenser to an automated banking machine.
[0021] Further objects of exemplary forms of the present invention will be made apparent
in the following Best Modes for Carrying Out Invention and the appended claims.
[0022] The foregoing objects are accomplished in an exemplary embodiment of the invention
which involves servicing an automated banking machine. The machine includes dispenser
modules which can be selectively operated to dispense valuable documents or sheets
(e.g., items). The items may include for example, currency, coupons, tickets, scrip,
vouchers, and phone cards. The dispenser modules include structure which permits their
securement to each other in stacked and aligned relation. Each module includes a pair
of side walls. Each module includes a projection plate and a biasing latch arm on
each side wall. The projection plates can be attached to the side walls. The latches
can be cut out from the sidewalls. Each projection plate includes a pin in supporting
connection therewith. Each side wall includes a slot adapted to receive a pin.
[0023] Biasing tabs can also be cut out from the sidewalls. The tabs are operative to guide
and retain the projection plates during the secured stacking of the modules.
[0024] During a stacking assembly the projection plates are operative to compress the latches.
The latches are arranged to snap outward once a plate has slid beyond latch compression
and toward alignment of the module. Once a latch has snapped outward the plate is
no longer enabled to move in the opposite direction unless a servicer deliberately
moves the latch inward against the biasing force thereof.
[0025] Adjacent modules can be locked so as to be secured to each other due to latches preventing
the movement of pins from slots. That is, the projection plates are prevented from
movement in a first direction, by engagement of the pins with the side walls, and
from movement in a second opposite direction, by engagement of the projection plates
with the latches. The tabs can also be used to retain the pins in the slots.
[0026] Modules can be unlocked and separated by compressing the latches, such as with a
tool, to allow movement of the modules relative to each other.
[0027] Having easier ability to securely align and stack dispenser modules can facilitate
repairs and/or replacement of dispenser mechanism components and/or automated banking
machine components by service personnel. Sometimes it is desirable or necessary to
entirely remove one or more dispenser mechanisms from the machine for service or replacement.
The present invention provides a method of disassembling and/or assembling stacked
dispenser modules to facilitate repair or replacement. The exemplary method also facilitates
installation of new or refilled dispenser modules in the machine. Existing dispenser
mechanisms for automated banking machines may also be retrofit with dispenser modules
of an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0028]
Figure 1 is an isometric view of an automated banking machine used in connection with
an exemplary embodiment of the invention.
Figure 2 is an isometric view of a secure chest portion with an access door open and
a dispenser mechanism having locked dispenser modules extended through the opening.
Figure 3 shows a partial view of two removably connected dispenser modules.
Figure 4 shows a step in an exemplary process of connecting dispenser modules.
Figure 5 also shows a step in the process of connecting dispenser modules.
Figure 6 shows a partial end view of adjacent side walls of connected dispenser modules.
Figure 7 shows an end view of an alternative form of side walls of connected dispenser
modules.
Figure 8 shows a dispenser module with a plurality of releasable locking arrangements.
Figure 9 shows a partial view of removably connected alternative dispenser modules.
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION
[0029] Referring now to the drawings and particularly to Figure 1 there is shown therein
an automated banking machine, generally indicated by numeral 10, used in connection
with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The automated banking machine
10 can be an automated teller machine (ATM). The automated banking machine 10 includes
a customer interface portion and a document delivery portion.
[0030] The customer interface portion is supported on an upper housing 11. The interface
portion can include a display 12, such as a CRT screen or other output devices for
providing outputs such as visual messages and prompts to a customer or user. The interface
can also include input devices, such as a keypad 13, function buttons 14, and a card
reader 15. The customer interface portion can also include a receipt outlet 16 and
may include other or different transaction function devices.
[0031] A document delivery portion of the machine 10 can be contained within a secure chest
20. An opening 21 is provided for delivery of sheets, such as currency, or other items
to a user of the machine.
[0032] Other embodiments of automated banking machines used in connection with the invention
may have a different type of user interface portion. For example, other embodiments
may not include an interface portion on or adjacent to the chest portion. Such alternative
machines may be operated as a document delivery device only. Such embodiments may
be used to deliver sheets or documents to a cashier, bank teller, or other service
provider. Such alternative embodiments may include a remotely positioned operator
interface which selectively causes documents to be delivered through the opening 21.
[0033] In Figure 2, the chest portion 20 of the banking machine is shown in more detail.
The chest encloses a secure area 22. Chest 20 includes an upper wall 23 which can
support the upper housing 11 and the customer interface portion of the banking machine
in the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure 1. Chest 20 also has a service opening
24, and a door 25 which can selectively close the opening 24. When the banking machine
is in use, the area 22 is closed by the door 25 and is secured and locked through
use of a locking device 26. Any of a number of devices may be used as a locking device
26 to secure the door in a closed position.
[0034] The secure area 22 of the chest 20 can be used to house numerous components of the
banking machine. One of these components can be a sheet dispenser, generally indicated
by numeral 27. The dispenser 27 includes removable cassettes 28, 29, 30, and 31. The
cassettes can hold valuable documents or other sheet materials or media, such as currency,
travelers checks, coupons, scrip, vouchers, wagering slips, stamps, tickets, and phone
cards. Thus, a dispenser may be a multimedia dispenser. Each cassette has an associated
picker which is selectively operative to remove items, such as currency sheets, from
the cassette. The construction of the exemplary embodiment shown is such that a cassette
is removably mounted in supporting connection with a dispenser module 33. However,
a dispenser module may have more or fewer cassettes. The dispenser 27 is shown as
having four dispenser modules 33. However, a dispenser may have more or fewer dispenser
modules. Any number of dispenser modules may be included in a banking machine used
in connection with the invention. Of course the number of dispenser modules may be
limited by the physical size of the chest 20 or other enclosure. Although an exemplary
embodiment of the invention has one cassette and document picker per dispenser module,
other embodiments of the invention may have other numbers or arrangements of dispenser
modules, cassettes, and pickers.
[0035] Dispenser modules 33 may be secured together in stacked relation. A document presenter
35 can be attached to the top of a stack of dispenser modules. Exemplary dispenser
modules are shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,293,540, the disclosure of which is incorporated
herein by reference. Exemplary cassette and picker structures are shown in U.S. Patent
Nos. 6,629,694, 5,099,423 and 5,141,127, the disclosures of which are incorporated
herein by reference. The stacked relation allows documents from the cassettes to be
picked from the cassettes and delivered to the presenter 35. Documents may be selectively
moved by the presenter through the opening 21 to a user of the machine.
[0036] In an exemplary embodiment each of the cassettes 28, 29, 30, 31 inside the dispenser
27 can be independently removable therefrom. Each cassette holding location in the
dispenser 27 can include a document picker mechanism and belt feed which can operate
to deliver documents to the presenter 35. The dispenser of the exemplary embodiment
can include a plurality of feed rolls, belts, and other movable members for selectively
engaging and moving documents. Motors and other drive devices can operate to move
these movable members. The drive devices can operate in response to signals from a
terminal controller, which can include one or more computers, which can control the
dispensing of documents from the machine.
[0037] The dispenser 27, which includes the document presenter (or feeder) 35 and the dispenser
modules 33, can be releasably engaged to a pair of slides 40. The slides can be mounted
in supporting connection with the inside of the chest 20. This construction enables
the slides and thus the dispenser 27 to be extended and retracted through the opening
24 into and out of the chest 20. In the operative position of the banking machine
the dispenser 27 is supported by the slides 40. In an exemplary embodiment the dispenser
27 is releasably engaged with the slides and is removable therefrom when the dispenser
is extended on the slides outside of the chest. In an exemplary embodiment the dispenser
27 is disengageable from the slides by moving the dispenser upward relative to the
slides. Of course other approaches may be used for supportably mounting a dispenser
in the machine.
[0038] When the banking machine is in use, the door 25 is closed. The slides 40 can be retracted
resulting in the document presenter 35 and the dispenser modules 33 being generally
positioned within the secure chest 20. The door 25 can be secured in a closed position
with the lock device 26. Documents or other items can be dispensed responsive to signals
from the terminal controller and delivered by the presenter 35 through the opening
21 which extends through the door 25. An exemplary form of a control system for use
in connection with an automated banking machine is shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,539,361
the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0039] It may be easily understood that the multitude of cooperating drives, feeders, movable
members, and devices used in the dispenser to deliver documents from the machine,
could malfunction. Periodic replacement or maintenance of certain components within
the dispenser is also desirable to assure reliable operation. It may also be desirable
in some circumstances to change the number of cassettes and picker mechanisms to accommodate
different denominations of currency, coupons, stamps, or other documents. It may also
be desirable to replace or upgrade a dispenser. It may also be desirable to add or
to remove a dispenser from the machine. All of these activities can require procedures
to be performed on the machine dispenser. Alternatively, it may be desirable to gain
access to components in the chest of the banking machine which are rendered difficult
to access by the presence of the dispenser and/or one or more components thereof.
[0040] The slides 40 of an exemplary embodiment enable service personnel to extend the dispenser
27 through the opening 24 once the door 25 has been opened. Extending the dispenser
outward provides enhanced access to components of the dispenser for servicing. However,
in some instances access to certain components of the dispenser or components in the
chest cannot be easily obtained even with the dispenser extended through the opening
24. In these cases, it would be desirable to disengage the dispenser 27 from the slides
40 and move the dispenser in order for work to be performed, or even to possibly replace
the dispenser. In other cases, the dispenser may need to be disassembled, including
the unstacking of dispenser modules. The dispenser may then need to be reassembled,
including the stacking of dispenser modules. In other embodiments the dispenser components
may need to be disassembled and reassembled within the housing of the machine.
[0041] An exemplary embodiment provides for the aligning, stacking, and securing together
of dispenser modules, yet also permits the dispenser modules to be easily separated.
In some embodiments the dispenser modules can be assembled in stacked relation and
disassembled quickly therefrom without the use of tools. Dispenser modules can be
assembled in a stacked relation either initially (e.g., new dispenser module, new
dispenser, etc.) or during a reassembling or reconfiguration process. As described
hereinafter in further detail, a releasable locking arrangement can be used to position,
align, and secure stacked dispenser modules together. A similar locking arrangement
may also be used to secure the uppermost dispenser module to the document presenter.
Figure 2 shows an exemplary releasable locking arrangement, generally indicated by
numeral 48, for adjacent dispenser modules 33.
[0042] Figure 3 shows two exemplary dispenser modules 50, 51 secured together in a stacked
relation or arrangement. Each dispenser module 50, 51 of the embodiment of Figure
3 includes at least one projection 52, latch 54, and tab 56. The dispenser modules
can be identical or they can differ, such as in dimensions (e.g., height). In other
embodiments a designated top dispenser module may be without a projection. Likewise,
in further embodiments a designated lowermost dispenser module may be without a latch
and/or a guide. For ease of description, only one side wall 55 of a module need be
described. The opposite side wall of a module can be symmetrical with the described
side wall.
[0043] Dispenser module 50 can have a body, or a portion thereof, of material structurally
sufficient to support the media cassette contained therein. For example, a module
body may be comprised of metal, plastic, polymer, fiberglass, resin, wood, or glass,
or combinations thereof. A module body may also have a clear material that permits
viewing therethrough.
[0044] A dispenser module 50 can include a cutout portion, opening, recess, passage, or
slot 58 in connection with a wall thereof. In the exemplary embodiment shown in Figure
3 the slot 58 has the shape of an inverted L. Alternatively, a slot may have other
shapes.
[0045] A projection member 52 can comprise a member or portion, such as a plate, which functions
to extend from a module. A projection member 52 permits a first module 51 to be removably
latched or locked to an adjacent module 50 when the modules are in properly stacked
alignment. A projection member 52 can be attached to a module or be integrally formed
with the module. Attaching or fastening may include known techniques, such as welding,
screwing, bolting, use of nuts, etc.
[0046] As shown in more detail in Figures 7 and 8, a projection member can project or extend
from a module relatively flush with the module side wall. The projection may be biased
toward remaining flush with the module side wall. Alternatively, a projection may
extend outward away from a module side wall at a predetermined angle. For example,
a projection may have an outwardly bias. In such case a tab can act to hold, pull,
or retain a projection member adjacent a side wall. A projection member may also be
tapered at the top thereof to assist in slidingly engaging an adjacent module.
[0047] The exemplary projection member 52 includes an inwardly projecting pin portion 60
which is referred to herein as a pin. The projecting pin 60 can comprise a dowel pin,
bolt, shaft or other member. The pin 60 is of a length enabling its extension through
an opening in a side wall 55 of an adjacent module. The pin 60 can be flanged at one
or both ends. In an exemplary embodiment the pin has an enlarged, flanged end 62 in
fixed connection with the projection member 52. Alternatively the pin 60 may be freely
movable relative to the projection plate member 52. The pin 60 is adapted to extend
both vertically and horizontally in the slot 58 of a module 50, 51. A flanged inner
end 64 of the pin 60 is adapted to engage the side wall bounding slot 58 of an adjacent
module.
[0048] A latch, retainer or arm 54 can be cut out from a wall bounding module body 50, 51.
A guide or tab 56 can also be cut out from a wall of the module body. Alternatively,
a latch and/or a guide can be separately fastened to a module body. Both latch 54
and guide 56 can serve as biasing members. For example, both a latch 54 and a tab
56 can serve as springs (e.g., latch spring and tab spring) in a manner similar to
leaf springs. Both a latch 54 and a guide 56 can have an unbiased undeformed position,
such as the position shown in the lower module 50 of Figure 3. As discussed in more
detail herein, a latch 54 can be used to latch or lock a dispenser module projection
member 52 in stacked position, and thus lock the adjacent modules in stacked relation.
A tab 56 can be used to guide or align a dispenser module projection member, and thus
the modules, during stacking securement. A tab 56 can also be used to retain a projection
52 from (outward) movement away from its side wall.
[0049] An exemplary operation of assembling secured stacked dispenser modules will now be
described. In the exemplary operation the engagement and movement of securing components
can (symmetrically) simultaneously occur on each side of the modules.
[0050] A first dispenser module 51 can be placed relatively into supporting connection with
a second dispenser module 50, as shown in Figure 4. In this step a latch arm 54 of
the first dispenser module 51 is biased or compressed so as to be deformed inwardly
relative to the module into the side wall 55 of the first dispenser module 51. This
biased position may be achieved by the first module being lowered onto the second
module at the position shown. Alternatively, the first module 51 may be placed relatively
into supporting connection with the second module 50 upstream of the shown position
(i.e., the projection 52 being further away from the tab 56) and then slid toward
the shown position. The initial starting position may also vary based on how far a
projection 52 is angled away from its side wall. For example, a projection 52 attached
flush with its side wall may have to start in a position (further upstream) so that
the projection 52 avoids abutting immovable engagement with an outwardly biased latch
arm 54. That is, a module may have to be lowered (or raised) at a location that permits
its lowering, i.e., the projection 52 is clear of contact with a latch arm 54. Alternatively,
a module may be placed relatively into supporting connection with another module without
any lowering, e.g., the modules can be horizontally slid relative to each other.
[0051] In a next step, as shown in Figure 5, the first module 51 can be slid further toward
an aligned stacked relation with the second module 50. In this position the projections
52 of the second dispenser module 50 have respectively entered the gap that extends
between the tabs 56 and the side walls 55 of the first module 51. Similarly, the pins
60 have entered into engaged relation with the slots 58. The tabs 56 can be used to
guide, align, or biasingly retain a projection 52 during the stacking operation to
secure the modules together. For example, the tabs 56 can be used to bias the projections
52 inward toward a flush arrangement with the side walls 55. Also, arrangements in
other embodiments may be configured so the pins enter the slots before or after the
projections enter behind the tabs. Of course these approaches are exemplary.
[0052] In a final step, as shown in Figure 3, the first module 51 is slid further into aligned
stacked relation with the second module 50. In this position the projections 52 of
the second dispenser module 50 remain behind the tabs 56 of the first module 51. Furthermore,
the pins 60 have slid (horizontally) to be engaged in the slots 58 and their inner
flanged ends 64 are in retaining engagement with the side walls of the first module
51 bounding slots 58. Additionally, the projections 52 have slid past the latch arms
54. Thus, the latch arms 54 (which are no longer compressed by being biased inward)
have again moved outwardly. That is, the latch arms 54 have snapped outwardly to prevent
the projections 52 from disengaging by movement in the direction toward the latch
arms. Thus, in this position the latch arms prevent the movement of the pins from
the slots 58. It follows that the pin/slot arrangements and the latch/projection arrangements
serve as interengaging projections and recesses that securely lock the adjacent modules
50, 51 in aligned and stacked relation.
[0053] In an exemplary embodiment of module stacking, a second dispenser module is placed
on and locked to a first dispenser module to create a dispenser module stack portion.
Thereafter, a third dispenser module may be placed on and secured to the already created
dispenser module stack portion. The process can be repeated until the desired secured
and aligned module stack containing a desired number of picking mechanisms is complete.
[0054] An exemplary operation of disassembling secured stacked dispenser modules will now
be described. After the latch arms 54 are biased inwardly (i.e., compressed) then
the projections 52 can again be moved outside of or into a position overlapping the
compressed latch arms 54. The exemplary latch arms may be compressed by hand. In other
embodiments use of a tool may be more convenient or necessary to compress the latch
arms. The dispenser modules can then be moved parallel (e.g., horizontally) relative
to each other until the pins 60 are aligned in a position for (e.g., vertical) removal
from the slot 58 (e.g., the position shown in Figure 5). Thereafter, the dispenser
modules can be moved (e.g., vertically) relative to (away from) each other to disengage
the modules. The pins can be removed by passing vertically through a lower portion
of the slot, which portion extends (horizontally) inwardly.
[0055] Alternatively, the exemplary stacked modules may be disassembled by reversing the
previously discussed assembly steps. For example, the latch 54 can be compressed far
enough to permit the plate 52 (and the pin 60 therewith) to slide past.
[0056] Figure 6 shows a partial end view of adjacent exemplary side walls 70, 72 of connected
dispenser modules. A relationship of a projection member 74, an inner flanged pin
end 76, a tab 78, and adjacent side walls 70, 72 is also shown.
[0057] Figure 7 shows a partial end view of alternative side walls 80, 82 of alternative
connected dispenser modules. A projection plate 84 is shown fastened to a side wall
80 via a screw 86. The projection plate 84 is also shown having a tapered end 88 and
an extended pin 89.
[0058] Figure 8 shows a portion of an exemplary dispenser module 90 including a plurality
of releasable locking arrangements. Each of the arrangements includes a projection
92, latch arm 94, slot 96, tab 98, and pin 99.
[0059] Figure 9 shows a portion of removably connected alternative dispenser modules 100,
102. The modules are similar to those of Figure 3, except tabs are absent and (correspondingly)
the projections 104, 106 are of smaller size. It should be understood that the sizes
and locations of the projections, latches, tabs, pins, and slots may vary for different
modules. For example, a stack of modules may have vertically alternating (relatively)
small and large sized projections. That is, the lowermost module may have small sized
projections and the next level module may have large sized projections. The other
module structure (e.g., latches, slots, etc.) may also be sized to correspond to the
sized projections of the adjacent modules.
[0060] Furthermore, in some embodiments the locking arrangements of the modules in a stack
may vary so that the stack may only be assembled one way. That is, the order of the
modules in a stack can be determined by their predetermined locking arrangements.
Thus, service personnel can be prevented from incorrectly stacking modules.
[0061] The exemplary embodiments may also facilitate the addition of additional dispenser
modules to a dispenser. In situations where an ATM is desired to be configured to
dispense additional types of documents, additional dispenser modules may be added.
Additional dispenser modules may also be added in situations where it is desired to
add additional document dispensing capacity for a type of document already dispensed
by the machine. Of course, as can be appreciated the exemplary embodiments also enable
removing dispenser modules to eliminate document types or to reduce capacity.
[0062] While in an exemplary embodiment the dispenser modules are used as a supporting structure
for sheet dispensers, in other embodiments the module structure can be used for housing
structures associated with sheet acceptors and/or sheet recycling mechanisms. Such
mechanisms may be of the type shown in U.S. Patent No. 6,331,000 the disclosure of
which is incorporated herein by reference.
[0063] An exemplary embodiment provides for the capability of using removably lockable multimedia
dispenser modules to facilitate the servicing of automated banking machine dispenser
mechanisms. The exemplary embodiment can permit easier, faster, and less expensive
access to dispenser mechanism components to facilitate repairs and/or replacement
thereof by service personnel. The present invention can also provide a method of separating
and removing stacked modules of a dispenser assembly to facilitate repair or replacement.
An exemplary method of the present invention also facilitates aligning and releasably
locking together the modules of a dispenser mechanism in an automated banking machine,
such as an ATM.
[0064] While the exemplary embodiments include particular structures to achieve the desirable
results, those having skill in the art may devise numerous other embodiments with
other structures which employ the same inventive principles described herein and which
are encompassed by the subject matter as claimed. For example and without limitation,
other embodiments may include other types and shapes of modules, projections, pins,
latches, slots, tabs, fasteners, material, or other structures. Further, the structures
described herein are not intended to limit the method of the invention to the particular
structures described herein.
[0065] Thus the exemplary embodiments of the present invention achieve one or more of the
above stated objectives, eliminate difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices
and methods, solves problems, and attain the desired results described herein.
[0066] In the foregoing description certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and
understanding, however, no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom because
such terms are intended for descriptive purposes only and are intended to be broadly
construed. Moreover, the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples
and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown and described.
[0067] Particular aspects and embodiments are set out in the following numbered clauses:
1. Apparatus comprising:
a stackable automated banking machine dispenser module,
wherein the module is operative to store sheet items dispensable by the machine,
wherein the module includes a pair of side walls, wherein each side wall includes
a face,
at least one projection member portion, wherein a projection member portion extends
away from a side wall face in a direction generally parallel to the face, wherein
the projection member portion is positioned adjacent a first end of the side wall,
at least one biasing member portion, wherein a biasing member portion in an undeformed
condition extends away from the side wall face in a direction generally perpendicular
to the face, wherein the biasing member portion is adjacent an end of the side wall
opposite of the first end,
wherein the biasing member portion is operative to engage a projection member portion
of an adjacent module to releasibly secure adjacent dispenser modules in stacked relation.
2. The apparatus according to clause 1 wherein the projection member portion is operative
to deform a biasing member portion of an adjacent dispenser module as such modules
are positioned in stacked engagement.
3. The apparatus according to clause 2 wherein the projection member portion is in
operative connection with a pin portion extending generally perpendicular to the face.
4. The apparatus according to clause 3 wherein the pin portion is in operative connection
with a flanged end portion.
5. The apparatus according to clause 4 wherein the side wall includes a slot therein,
wherein the slot includes a first a slot portion and a second slot portion, wherein
the first slot portion is sized to enable the flanged end portion to pass therethrough,
and wherein the second slot portion is sized to enable the pin portion to extend therein
but to prevent the flanged end portion from passing therethrough.
6. The apparatus according to clause 5 wherein the second slot portion extends generally
perpendicular relative to the first slot portion.
7. The apparatus according to clause 6 wherein a biasing member portion of a first
module is operative to engage a projection member portion of a second module to prevent
first directional movement of the second module relative to the first module, wherein
the pin portion of the second module is operative to engage a side wall of the first
module to prevent second directional movement of a second module relative to a first
module, wherein the flanged end portion of the second module is operative to engage
a side wall of the first module to prevent third directional movement of a second
module relative to a first module, and wherein the biasing member portion and projection
member portion relationship, the pin portion and side wall relationship, and the flanged
end portion and side wall relationship are together operative to lock the first and
second modules in stacked and aligned relation.
8. The apparatus according to clause 1 wherein the projection member portion comprises
a plate, wherein the plate is fastened to the side wall adjacent an edge thereof.
9. The apparatus according to clause 1 wherein the biasing member portion is integral
with the side wall.
10. The apparatus according to clause 1 wherein the biasing member portion is one
piece with the side wall.
11. The apparatus according to clause 10 wherein the biasing member portion is formed
from a cutout of the side wall.
12. The apparatus according to clause 11 wherein the biasing member portion is operatively
attached to the side wall at two disposed locations on the biasing member portion.
13. The apparatus according to clause 12 wherein the biasing member portion includes
a first elongated length portion and a second elongated length portion, wherein the
first elongated length portion is generally perpendicular to the second elongated
length portion, and wherein each of the first elongated length portion and second
elongated length portion are attached to the side wall.
14. The apparatus according to clause 5 wherein the biasing member portion is formed
from a cutout of the side wall.
15. The apparatus according to clause 14 wherein the slot is a part of the cutout.
16. The apparatus according to clause 1 wherein the at least one side wall includes
a biasing tab portion, wherein the biasing tab portion is adapted to retain a projection
member portion positioned intermediate of the tab and the face.
17. The apparatus according to clause 16 wherein the biasing tab portion is formed
from a cutout in the side wall.
18. The apparatus according to clause 17 wherein the biasing member portion is operatively
attached to the side wall along a first elongated length, wherein the biasing tab
portion is attached to the side wall along a second elongated length, wherein the
first elongated length is generally parallel to the second elongated length.
19. The apparatus according to clause 18 wherein the second elongated length is generally
intermediate the first elongated length and the projection member portion.
20. The apparatus according to clause 19 wherein the projection member portion is
generally intermediate the biasing member portion and the tab portion.
21. A method comprising:
(a) placing a first dispenser module adjacent a second dispenser module, wherein the
modules are operative to store sheet items dispensable by an automated banking machine;
(b) deforming at least one biasing member portion operatively connected to the first
module by engagement with at least one projection member portion operatively connected
to the second module;
(c) subsequent to (b), moving the first module relative to the second module with
the at least one biasing member portion biasingly deformed, wherein the first module
is moved in an alignment direction toward an operative aligned position with the second
module;
(d) further moving the first module relative to the second module in the alignment
direction until the at least one deformed biasing member portion moves responsive
to biasing force, wherein the at least one moved biasing member portion operatively
prevents movement of the first module relative to the second module in a direction
opposite the alignment direction.
22. The method according to clause 21 wherein the modules each include at least one
side wall having at least one face, and
wherein (a) includes positioning at least one projection member portion operatively
connected to the second module adjacent and outwardly disposed relative to at least
one side wall face of the first module, and
wherein (b) includes deforming at least one biasing member operatively connected
to the first module inwardly relative to the at least one side wall of the first module.
23. The method according to clause 22 wherein the at least one projection member portion
includes a pin portion extending generally perpendicular to the side wall face, wherein
the side wall face of the first module includes a recess in operative connection therewith,
and step (c) includes:
moving the pin portion in the recess.
24. The method according to clause 23 wherein the pin portion includes an enlarged
portion, wherein the enlarged portion is unable to pass through an engaging portion
of the recess, and wherein (d) includes:
moving the pin portion in the recess so that the enlarged portion of the pin portion
is unable to pass through the engaging portion of the recess.
25. The method according to clause 24 wherein (d) includes releasibly locking the
first and second modules in the operative aligned relation.
26. The method according to clause 23 wherein a side wall face of the first module
is operatively connected to a biasing tab portion, and wherein (c) includes:
relatively moving the projection member portion intermediate of the tab portion and
the side wall face of the first module.
27. The method according to clause 26 wherein (d) includes:
retaining the projection member portion operatively connected to the second module,
intermediate of the tab portion and the side wall face of the first module.
28. The method according to clause 21 and further comprising subsequent to step (d):
(e) biasingly deforming the biasing member portion to enable movement of the first
module relative to the second module in a direction opposite the alignment direction.
29. The method according to clause 21 wherein(d) includes
locking the first and second modules in stacked operatively aligned position, and
subsequent to(d) further comprising:
deforming the biasing member portion to unlock the modules from each other.
[0068] In the following claims, any feature described as a means for performing a function
shall be construed as encompassing any means known to those skilled in the art to
be capable of performing the recited function and shall not be deemed limited to the
particular structure shown herein or equivalents thereof.
[0069] Having described the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner
in which it is constructed and operated, and the advantages and useful results attained;
the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations,
systems, operations, methods and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.
1. Apparatus comprising:
an automated banking machine including a plurality of sheet handling modules, wherein
at least two of the sheet handling modules are adapted to be releasibly engaged in
stacked aligned relation by moving the modules in engaged relation relative to one
another such that interengaging projections and recesses in supporting connection
with the modules hold the modules in engaged relation.
2. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein the sheet handling modules are adapted
to at least one of dispense and store currency sheets.
3. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the sheet handling modules are adapted
to receive therein sheet holding cassettes.
4. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein the interengaging projections and recesses
include a projection operatively attached to a first module that is accepted in a
recess operatively attached to a second module, and responsive to movement of the
projection relative to the recess to a holding position, the modules are held together
in an engaged operative position by action of biased latching member.
5. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein during movement of the projection relative
to the recess, the latching member is deformed by a projecting member portion operatively
attached to the first module.
6. The apparatus according to claim 5 wherein the second module comprises a wall, wherein
the recess comprises at least one slot extending in the wall.
7. The apparatus according to claim 6 wherein the latching member is integrally formed
with the wall.
8. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein the latching member is formed through a
cut out in the wall.
9. The apparatus according to claim 4 wherein the modules are held together in engaged
operative position by movement of the modules generally horizontally relative to one
another.
10. The apparatus according to claim 9 wherein the second module is operatively attached
to a projecting member portion, and wherein placing the first and second modules in
adjacent relation prior to engagement is operative to cause the projecting member
portion to operatively cause the latching member to biasingly deform, and wherein
horizontal movement thereafter causes the latching member to move to hold the first
and second modules releasibly engaged in the operative position.
11. The apparatus according to claim 10 wherein the recess comprises an L shaped slot
in attached connection with the second module.
12. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein the latching member comprises an outwardly
biased wall portion in attached connection with the second module.
13. The apparatus according to claim 12 where the projection comprises a pin portion operatively
attached to the first module, wherein the pin portion includes an enlarged portion.
14. The apparatus according to claim 13 and further comprising a tab portion operatively
attached to the second module, wherein in the engaged operative position of the first
and second modules the tab portion extends in overlying relation of the projecting
member portion.
15. A method comprising:
in a sheet dispensing automated banking machine comprising at least one first module
operative to at least one of dispense currency sheets from and receive currency sheets
in the module,
(a) moving at least one second module in adjacent relation to the at least one first
module;
(b) moving the at least one second module relative to the at least one first module
to engage a plurality of projections and recesses each operatively attached to at
least one of the at least one first module and at least one second module, and to
lock the at least one first module and at least one second module in an aligned and
operative position through deformable biasing movement of at least one biasing member
portion.
16. The method according to claim 15 wherein (a) includes moving the at least one first
module and at least one second module into generally vertically aligned relation.
17. The method according to claim 16 wherein (b) includes moving the at least one first
module and at least one second module generally horizontally relative to one another.
18. The method according to claim 17 wherein in (a) the at least one deformable biasing
member portion is deformed by the at least one first module and at least one second
module being moved in generally vertically aligned relation, and in (b) the at least
one deformable biasing member portion moves responsive to horizontal movement of the
at least one first module relative to the at least one second module to hold the modules
in the aligned and operative position.
19. The method according to claim 18 and subsequent to (b):
(c) moving the at least one deformable biasing member;
(d) subsequent to (c) moving the at least one first module generally horizontally
relative to the at least one second module whereby the at least one first module and
at least one second module are enabled to be separated.
20. The method according to claim 15 and prior to (a) unlocking a door of a chest portion,
wherein unlocking the door enables accessing the at least one first module.
21. The method according to claim 15 and further comprising:
(c) disconnecting the at least one first module from a sheet presenter mechanism of
the machine.
22. The method according to claim 21 wherein (c) includes
(I) moving at least one biasing member portion operatively connected to at least one
of the at least one first module and presenter mechanism,
(ii) moving the at least one first module relative to the presenter mechanism to disengage
a plurality of interengaging projections and recesses each operatively attached to
at least one of the at least one first module and at least one presenter mechanism.
23. The method according to claim 18 and further comprising:
(c) dispensing currency sheets from the at least one second module.
24. The method according to claim 18 and further comprising:
(c) receiving currency sheets into the at least one second module.
25. The method according to claim 23 and prior to (c) positioning at least one sheet holding
cassette in the at least one second module, wherein in (c) the currency sheets are
dispensed form the at least one cassette.
26. The method according to claim 24 and prior to (c) positioning at least one cassette
in the at least one second module, wherein in (c) the currency sheets are received
within the at least one cassette.