Banknote loader

Abstract

A method of loading banknotes to a banknote validator and dispenser system replaces the existing validator with a combination loader and validator. A stack of banknotes has been preloaded in the loader and are not accessible to the service technician. The loader is inserted into the system in place of the removed validator and forms an electrical connection with the system. Banknotes are fed from the loader and directed by the system to the appropriate accumulator and stored therein for later dispensing. The validator of the loader can be of high speed to reduce the loading time. Access to the stack of banknotes and access to banknotes stored in the accumulators is restricted and secure.

The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows:  
     
         1 . A method of loading a banknote accumulator associated with a banknote accepting and dispensing device having a banknote validator, said method comprising removing the banknote validator, inserting a banknote loader into said banknote validator and forming an electrical connection therewith, said banknote loader having a stack of banknotes to be loaded and an associated banknote validator, operating said banknote loader to feed banknotes from said stack through said associated banknote validator, transporting said received banknotes in a serial manner to said banknote accumulator and receiving said banknotes in said banknote accumulator.  
     
     
         2 . A method as claimed in  claim 1  wherein said banknote accepting and dispensing device includes at least two banknote accumulators with each banknote accumulator selectively connected to a banknote transport path of said banknote accepting and dispensing device by a switching device, said method including moving said switching device to selectively connect at least one of said banknote accumulators with the banknote transport path to thereby receive banknotes in said accumulator.  
     
     
         3 . A method as claimed in  claim 2  wherein said associated validator determines denominations of said banknotes as the banknotes pass therethrough and said validator controls said switching device to direct said banknotes to said accumulators in accordance with said determined denominations.