A SYSTEM, A DEVICE, AND A METHOD TO PREVENT DISPENSING OF DAMAGED BANKNOTES

Abstract

An embodiment of the present invention relates a system (100), device (101), and method (300) for preventing the dispensing of damaged banknotes by an ATM (800). The system (100) comprises a camera (102) that captures images of banknotes being dispensed from a dispensing port (800-1) and a device (101) with a processor (101-1) to analyze and compare banknote features with pre-defined banknote criteria. The system (100) approves or rejects banknotes based on feature analysis and prevents the dispensing of damaged notes. Approved notes by the user are transferred to a transparent enclosure (103) for the user’s visual inspection. The user may approve or reject notes via a user interface (104).

Specification

Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present invention relates to the field of automated teller machines (hereinafter "ATMs") More particularly, the present invention relates to a system, a device, and a method to prevent dispensing of damaged banknotes.

BACKGROUND
[0002] The following description of the related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the present invention. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present invention. However, it should be appreciated that this section is used only to enhance the understanding of the reader with respect to the present invention, and not as admissions of the prior art.
[0003] In multiple instances, the cash dispensed by ATMs has been seen to give out currency which are often damaged or are damaged that prevents them from being legal tender. A system must be required to reduce the occurrence of dispensing of damaged notes by allowing user input to choose the notes that are dispensed. Further, the present systems do not check for visual damages on the notes before dispensing them to the user. The damaged notes would not be as useful to the end user and could also reduce the value of the note. The notes being dispensed in the ATMs currently are not checked for damages and are dispensed to the user without any verification or choice by the user.
[0004] ATMs have become widely used for dispensing currency, but the quality and condition of banknotes vary. Dispensing damaged or counterfeit banknotes can lead to customer dissatisfaction and legal issues for financial institutions. Present systems do not adequately assess the condition of banknotes before dispensing, leading to potential risks. There is a need for a system that ensures only non-damaged, authentic banknotes are dispensed, improving user experience and transaction security.
[0005] A prior art reference TWM 658,163 U , titled "A counterfeit banknote-intercepting automatic teller machine", discloses an invention that provides a counterfeit banknote-intercepting automatic teller machine includes a display, a banknote receptacle, and a currency verification device. The display is used to present an operational interface. The banknote receptacle is designed to open in response to operations on the operational interface displayed on the display, accepting at least one banknote. The currency verification device is positioned within the banknote receptacle to verify authenticity of the at least one banknote accepted by the banknote receptacle. If the currency verification device detects at least one counterfeit banknote among the accepted banknotes, the banknote receptacle will shut to confiscate the at least one counterfeit banknote. However, the prior fails to teach the ML mechanism wherein the damaged banknotes can be analysed and prevents to dispense the same through ATM machine.
[0006] Another prior art reference "CN 102,339,492 B", titled "Anti-counterfeit money recorder, ATM (automatic teller machine) and system", discloses invention that provides an anti-counterfeit money recorder, an ATM (automatic teller machine) and a system. The recorder comprises a microprocessor, a memory, a communication module and a first picture-taking device, wherein the first picture-taking device comprises a camera and a flasher with different types of rays. The microprocessor can automatically adjust the different types of rays provided by the flasher in accordance with photometric characteristics of monitored money surfaces and controls the camera to take pictures for monitored money so as to obtain picture information of the money; and the microprocessor can correspondingly control the first picture-taking device to take pictures in accordance with commands which are received by the communication module from external equipment and receives trade information related to the monitored money by the communication module from the external equipment as well as saves the picture information of the money and the trade information in the memory in the form of encrypted record. According to the invention, the trade process of counterfeit money in the ATM can be recorded automatically and effectively, and the true and valid legal ground can be provided for solving related disputes. However, the prior art fails to teach the provision of visual inspection can be done by the user before withdrawing the banknotes from the ATM machine.
[0007] Thus, there is a need in the art to provide a ironing device, a system for ironing fabric, and a method thereof.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0008] Some of the objects of the present invention, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies are as listed herein below.
[0009] It is an object of the present invention to provide a system and a device to prevent the dispensing of damaged banknotes, and a method thereof.
[0010] It is another object of the present invention to provide a device, a system, and a method that allows the user to visually inspect the banknotes without allowing the user to handle banknotes physically in order to reduce the chances of theft.
[0011] It is another object of the present invention to provide a system and a device that enables the automated inspection of banknotes using cameras and machine learning models to ensure the authenticity and condition of the banknotes before dispensing.
[0012] It is another object of the present invention to provide a transparent enclosure for user verification, allowing users to visually inspect the banknotes and approve or reject the withdrawal before completing the transaction.
[0013] It is yet another object of the present invention to reduce fraud and errors in ATM transactions by analyzing various features of the banknotes, such as printed ink patterns, watermarks, serial numbers, holographic elements, and security threads, to match them with predefined banknote criteria.
[0014] It is yet another object of the present invention to automate the process of inspecting and verifying banknotes in real-time, thus improving the efficiency, security, and reliability of ATMs while reducing manual intervention and maintenance costs.
[0015] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a user interface that enables the user to approve or reject transactions associated with the withdrawal request, thereby ensuring customer control and transparency during the transaction process.
[0016] It is yet another object of the present invention to ensure compatibility with various ATM designs by various mechanical components that make the system adaptable to different ATM configurations.

SUMMARY:
[0017] Within the scope of this application, it is expressly envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings, and in particular the individual features thereof, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless such features are incompatible.
[0018] In an aspect, the present invention provides a system for preventing the dispensing of damaged banknotes in an ATM is disclosed. The system comprises an ATM having a camera and a device with a processor coupled to the dispensing port. The camera captures images of the banknotes, which are analyzed by the processor to extract features such as printed ink patterns, watermarks, serial numbers, and security elements. The features are compared with predefined criteria, and the banknote is either approved or rejected based on the comparison. Approved banknotes are transferred to a transparent enclosure for user inspection. The user can approve or reject the banknote via a user interface. Damaged or rejected banknotes are returned to the ATM's dispensing mechanism. The system ensures that only non-damaged, original banknotes are dispensed, reducing fraud and enhancing customer trust.
[0019] In another aspect, the present invention discloses the device which is integrated with the ATM having two-step checks or inspection mechanism to prevent dispensing the damaged notes. Firstly, the device uses a camera to capture the images of the bank notes and inspect it with an ML model, if the ML model inspects it and approves it for withdrawal then the same note will come into the hollow transparent enclosure to hold that particular currency note. At this step, the user will visually inspect that banknote and approve/ reject for withdrawal. If it is approved by the user, the currency will be withdrawn through that enclosure else it will return to the compartment of the ATM from which it was dispensed for inspection.
[0020] In yet another aspect, a method of preventing to dispense of one or more damaged banknotes is disclosed. The method includes a step-wise illustration of how the method is performed by implementing the system having one or more components which performs a two-step inspection mechanism to prevent dispensing the damaged banknotes from the ATM.
[0021] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this invention, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present invention. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention of such drawings includes the invention of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.
[0023] FIGs. 1 (a-b) illustrates an exemplary view of a system to prevent dispensing of damaged banknotes (a), and an exemplary block diagram of the system (b), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0024] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flow chart that illustrates the method of preventing to dispense the one or more damaged banknotes, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary side view of the system that depicts various components of the system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0026] FIGs. 4 (a-b) illustrates an example representation of the system for visual inspection of banknotes before withdrawal, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0027] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address all of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein.
[0028] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth.
[0029] The present invention relates to a system and a device to prevent dispensing of one or more damaged banknotes from the automated teller machine (hereinafter "ATM") and a method thereof.
[0030] Various embodiments of the present invention will be explained in detail with respect to FIGs. 1-4.
[0031] FIGs. 1 illustrates an exemplary representation (150) of a system (100) to prevent dispensing of damaged banknotes (150a), and an exemplary block diagram of the system (150b), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0032] In first embodiment of the present invention, the system (100) for preventing the dispensing of damaged banknotes is implemented to ensure the authenticity and quality of banknotes being withdrawn from an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) (800). The system (100) includes an ATM (800) that allows a user to make a request for withdrawal. Upon receiving such a request, the ATM (800) is configured to dispense a banknote through a dispensing port (800-1). The system (100) utilizes a camera (102) to capture one or more images of the banknote as it is being dispensed from the dispensing port (800-1).
[0033] In an exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, the system (100) further includes a device (101) that is coupled to both the dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800) and the camera (102). The device (101) contains a processor (101-1), which is responsible for analyzing the banknote images captured by the camera (102). The processor (101-1) is configured to obtain the images of the banknote, analyze them, and extract one or more features of the banknote. The features include but are not limited to, printed ink patterns, watermarks, serial numbers, and security elements such as holographic designs or ultraviolet (UV) patterns.
[0034] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, after the features are extracted, the processor (101-1) compares them with pre-defined banknote criteria. These criteria include factors that define the quality and authenticity of the banknote. If the extracted features match the pre-defined criteria, the banknote is approved for withdrawal. If, however, the extracted features do not meet the banknote criteria, the processor (101-1) rejects the banknote, thereby preventing the ATM (800) from dispensing damaged or unauthentic banknotes.
[0035] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, once a banknote has been approved for withdrawal, the processor (101-1) is further configured to transfer the approved banknote into a transparent enclosure (103) (hereinafter terms "enclosure" and "transparent enclosure" used interchangeably). The transparent enclosure (103) is positioned adjacent to the ATM (800) and is locked to ensure the security of the banknote. The user is given the opportunity to visually inspect the banknote through the transparent enclosure (103). Upon inspecting the banknote, the user can approve or reject the banknote via the user interface (104), which is coupled to the device (101). If the user approves the banknote, it is withdrawn. If the user rejects the banknote, it is returned to the dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800), ensuring that only satisfactory banknotes are provided to the user.
[0036] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, the system (100) further includes one or more compartments (105) embedded in the dispensing port (800-1). These compartments (105) are utilized to store one or more banknotes before dispensing them to the user. The compartments (105) work in conjunction with the mechanical components of the dispensing port (800-1), which may include motorized rollers and belts to facilitate the delivery of banknotes. Once a banknote is approved, it is transferred through these mechanical components and delivered to the user.
[0037] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, the system (100) includes a machine learning model integrated with the processor (101-1) to enhance the accuracy of analyzing the banknote features. The machine learning model is capable of identifying various defects in banknotes, including folds, tears, crumples, missing parts, and wear. The model also checks for structural criteria, such as the maximum allowable percentage of a tear, degree of folding, and acceptable wear. The processor (101-1) further examines authentication criteria, such as the matching of a serial number or confirming the presence of security features like watermarks or ultraviolet threads. This ensures that only banknotes of acceptable quality are dispensed to users, thereby maintaining the integrity of ATM operations.
[0038] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, the camera (102) is operatively coupled to the ATM (800) and works in conjunction with the processor (101-1) to provide real-time analysis of banknotes. The device (101) is mechanically coupled to the dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800), ensuring seamless communication between the components of the system (100). One or more banknote criteria used to assess the quality of banknotes are selected from a range of visual and structural criteria. Visual criteria may include color fidelity, the clarity of the serial number, and the visibility of security features such as holograms and watermarks. Structural criteria may include the maximum allowable percentage of a tear, the degree of folding, or acceptable levels of wear and tear.
[0039] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, in the event that a banknote is rejected due to failing the criteria, it is returned to the dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800), ensuring that no damaged banknotes are dispensed. This automated process reduces the possibility of human error and enhances the overall efficiency of the ATM system.
[0040] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, in addition to the automated processes, the user interface (104) enables the user to have a degree of control over the transaction. The user interface (104) allows the user to approve or reject transactions associated with the request for withdrawal, adding a layer of transparency and security to the ATM operation.
[0041] In the exemplary implementation of the first embodiment, a tray (106) is adapted to collect the banknotes for dispensing upon request received from the user. The tray (106) is further adapted to collect the notes that are damaged and the user may reject it for withdrawal.
[0042] To summarise, the system (100) ensures that damaged banknotes are identified and removed from the withdrawal process, providing users with a reliable and secure ATM experience. The system (100) is adaptable to a variety of ATM designs and configurations, utilizing mechanical components such as motorized rollers, belts, and compartments to store and dispense banknotes in an efficient manner.
[0043] In a second embodiment of the present invention, the device (101) is implemented to prevent the dispensing of one or more damaged banknotes from an automated teller machine (ATM) (800). The device (101) is coupled to a dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800) and includes a processor (101-1) that performs various functions to analyze the quality of the banknotes before dispensing them to a user.
[0044] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, the processor (101-1) is configured to obtain one or more captured images of the banknote from the dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800). The images are captured to ensure that a thorough examination of the banknote is conducted. The processor (101-1) is responsible for analyzing the obtained images to extract one or more features of the banknote. These features may include but are not limited to, printed ink patterns, watermarks, serial numbers, holographic elements, paper quality, and other security features embedded in the banknote.
[0045] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, after extracting the relevant features, the processor (101-1) compares the extracted features with one or more banknote criteria that has been predefined. The banknote criteria include a range of factors that determine the authenticity and condition of the banknote. If the extracted features match the predefined banknote criteria, the processor (101-1) approves the banknote for withdrawal, allowing it to be dispensed from the ATM (800). On the other hand, if the extracted features do not match the banknote criteria, the processor (101-1) rejects the banknote for withdrawal, thereby preventing the ATM (800) from dispensing one or more damaged or unauthentic banknotes.
[0046] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, the device (101) includes a camera (102) that is adapted to capture one or more images of the banknote being dispensed. The camera (102) is operatively coupled to the ATM (800) and is positioned in such a way that it can capture clear and precise images of the banknotes as they pass through the dispensing mechanism. The images captured by the camera (102) are transmitted to the processor (101-1) for analysis.
[0047] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, the device (101) is further equipped with a user interface (104) that is coupled to the device (101) to provide the user with a mechanism for interaction. The user interface (104) is adapted to enable the user to approve or reject one or more transactions related to the request for withdrawal. Through the user interface (104), the user can make decisions based on the information displayed, such as whether the banknote meets their expectations in terms of quality or authenticity.
[0048] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, the device (101) includes one or more compartments (105) that are embedded in the dispensing port (800-1). The compartments (105) are designed to store one or more banknotes before they are dispensed to the user. These compartments (105) provide an organized and secure method of handling banknotes within the ATM (800) and help ensure that only approved banknotes are released to the user.
[0049] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, the device (101) operates in conjunction with the ATM (800) to provide a robust system for the secure dispensing of banknotes. By utilizing the camera (102), processor (101-1), user interface (104), and compartments (105), the device (101) ensures that only banknotes that meet predefined criteria are dispensed, reducing the likelihood of distributing damaged or counterfeit banknotes.
[0050] In an exemplary implementation of the second embodiment, the device (101) is implemented in a variety of ATM configurations, ensuring compatibility across different machines and enhancing the reliability of ATM transactions. The integration of automated analysis and user interaction creates a secure and efficient environment for handling banknotes, minimizing errors, and maintaining the integrity of cash transactions at ATMs.
[0051] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary flow chart (300) that illustrates the method (300) of preventing to dispense the one or more damaged banknotes, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0052] In a third embodiment of the present invention, the method (300) of preventing to dispense the one or more banknotes is disclosed.
[0053] In an exemplary implementation of the third embodiment, the method (300) of preventing the dispensing of one or more damaged banknotes by utilizing an automated system incorporated within an automated teller machine (ATM) (800). The method (300) outlines the steps required to ensure that only banknotes that meet pre-established criteria are dispensed during a transaction. The method (300) includes various stages, each involving specific functions performed by components of the ATM (800) and a device (101) operatively coupled to it.
[0054] At block 301, the method (300) includes the ATM (800) being adapted to dispense a banknote upon receiving a withdrawal request from a user. The ATM (800) processes the request, initiating the dispensing mechanism. The dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800) prepares the banknote for withdrawal while ensuring that the banknote passes through a series of quality checks before reaching the user.
[0055] At block 302, a camera (102) is adapted to capture one or more images of the banknote being dispensed. The camera (102) is operatively coupled to the ATM (800) and positioned in such a way that it can capture detailed images of the banknote as it passes through the dispensing port (800-1). The captured images are vital for further analysis in order to evaluate the condition and authenticity of the banknote.
[0056] At block 303, a device (101) is coupled to the dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800) and the camera (102). The device (101) includes a processor (101-1) responsible for analyzing the images captured by the camera (102) and making decisions regarding the dispensing of the banknote. The processor (101-1) is programmed to perform various operations related to image analysis and comparison against predefined banknote criteria.
[0057] At block 304, one or more captured images are captured of the banknote. The captured images provide detailed visual information about the banknote, including its printed ink patterns, security features, and overall physical condition.
[0058] At block 305, one or more obtained images are analysed by the processor (101-1), to extract one or more features of the banknote. The extracted features may include but not limited to, various elements such as watermarks, serial numbers, holographic details, paper quality, and other security elements embedded within the banknote. The analysis is necessary for determining whether the banknote is suitable for dispensing.
[0059] At block 306, the extracted features are compared with one or more predefined banknote criteria by the processor (101-1). These criteria serve as a benchmark for determining the acceptability of the banknote. The criteria may include parameters such as color fidelity, the presence of security elements, the condition of the paper (e.g., folds or tears), and any other relevant characteristics that indicate whether the banknote is authentic and undamaged.
[0060] At block 307, based on the comparison, the processor (101-1) performs one of two actions. If the extracted features of the banknote match the predefined banknote criteria, the processor (101-1) approves (307-1) the banknote for withdrawal, allowing the ATM (800) to dispense the banknote to the user. Conversely, if the extracted features do not match the banknote criteria, the processor (101-1) rejects (307-2) the banknote for withdrawal, preventing the dispensing of one or more damaged banknotes from the ATM (800). The process ensures that only non-damaged, authentic banknotes are provided to the user.
[0061] In the exemplary implementation of the third embodiment, the method (300) further includes the step of- transferring (308) the approved banknote to a transparent enclosure (103) for visual inspection by the user. The transparent enclosure (103) is disposed adjacent to the ATM (800) and is maintained in a locked position to ensure the security of the banknote during the inspection process. The user is provided the opportunity to visually inspect the banknote before finalizing the withdrawal.
[0062] In the exemplary implementation of the third embodiment, after the user inspects the banknote, the method (300) involves either withdrawing (309), by the processor (101-1), the transferred banknote upon approval received from the user, or returning (310), by the processor (101-1), the transferred banknote to the dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800) if the user rejects the banknote. This step allows the user to have direct control over the final approval of the banknote, further enhancing the security and reliability of the transaction.
[0063] To summarise, the method (300) is applicable to a wide range of ATM systems and may be implemented in various configurations. By combining image analysis, user interaction, and automated decision-making, the method (300) provides a robust and reliable solution for preventing the dispensing of damaged or counterfeit banknotes. The integration of the device (101), camera (102), processor (101-1), and transparent enclosure (103) ensures that each banknote is thoroughly inspected before it reaches the user, reducing the possibility of errors and ensuring that only high-quality, authentic banknotes are dispensed.
[0064] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary side view (350) of the system (100) that depicts various components of the system (100), in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0065] In a fourth embodiment of the present invention, the system (100) includes a two-step checking process for the banknotes, the first step is a visual inspection by the system (100) to check for any damages to the notes. In the ATM (800), each of the denominations of notes is stored in a separate space and is accessed as required during the withdrawal. In the system (100), a camera (102) is used to inspect the notes as it is being picked from the stack of notes of each denomination, and each image is passed through a machine-learning algorithm. The machine learning algorithm can detect any damages in the note and if there are any visible damages that note is not picked for dispensing to the user.
[0066] In an exemplary implementation of the fourth embodiment, after passing the initial check of the notes inside the system (100), the notes are then passed to a transparent enclosure (103) which is visible to the user. The notes are dropped into the enclosure (103) slowly to allow the user time to inspect each note and request a replacement if required. The enclosure (103) will remain locked until the user confirms that the notes are satisfactory. If the user requests a replacement, the notes are taken back to the ATM (800) and the damaged note is replaced. After a single replacement, the notes are dropped into the enclosure (103) again and the user can check the notes once again. If the user still requests a replacement, the notes are taken back and a reduced amount is dispensed, such that only the undamaged notes are dispensed. The enclosure (103) has a locked door (103-1) which is only unlocked by the system once the user confirms the transaction and accepts the validity of the notes. Once the door (103-1) is unlocked, the user can remove the notes from the enclosure.
[0067] In an exemplary implementation of the fourth embodiment, using the two-stage checking in the system (100), there is a very low chance of damaged notes being dispensed out to the enclosure (103) after being checked by the machine learning model. If there still exist damaged notes, the notes are checked again by the user, further reducing the chances of a damaged note being dispensed. The enclosure (103) remains locked until the user confirms the transaction. By making use of the system (100), the chances of a damaged note being dispensed are very low while also keeping the notes safe from theft.
[0068] To summarise, the system includes ATM integrated therein. The system uses a two-step checking process in order to check the physical damages on the notes and a user-based verification that can replace any notes which he deems is damaged or not acceptable. This allows the user to get only the notes which are deemed to be valid.
[0069] FIGs. 4 (a-b) illustrates an example representation (450) of the system (100) for visual inspection of banknotes before withdrawal, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.
[0070] Referring to FIGs.4 (a-b), the system (100) illustrates the ATM (800) with an integrated transparent enclosure (103) for visual inspection by the user before withdrawing from the ATM (800).
[0071] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the invention. These and other changes in the preferred embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the invention herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be implemented merely as illustrative of the invention and not as a limitation.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0072] The present invention provides a system, a device, and a method that
prevents the dispensing of damaged or counterfeit banknotes by analyzing captured images using a machine learning model.
[0073] The present invention provides a system that prevents the dispensing of damaged or counterfeit banknotes by analyzing captured images using a machine learning model which ensures that only banknotes meeting predefined criteria are approved for withdrawal, significantly reducing the risk of users receiving defective or counterfeit currency.
[0074] The present invention provides a system, a device, and a method that implements a visual inspection mechanism through a transparent enclosure, the system provides users with an opportunity to verify the banknotes before withdrawal which enhances customer trust and satisfaction in the banking system.
[0075] The present invention provides the use of cameras and processors for real-time banknote inspection automates the process, improving the efficiency and accuracy of ATMs without manual intervention.
[0076] The present invention provides a system, a device, and a method that compares banknote features with predefined banknote criteria, the system reduces instances of fraud or errors associated with damaged or counterfeit notes.
[0077] The present invention provides a device, a system, and a method that ensures a robust process for authenticating banknotes and minimizes the chances of defective notes reaching customers.
[0078] The present invention returns damaged or rejected banknotes to the ATM's dispensing mechanism, reduces the need for frequent maintenance or manual handling of defective currency which enhances the durability and reliability of ATMs in the long run.
, Claims:1. A system (100) to prevent dispensing of one or more damaged banknotes, the system (100) comprising:
an automated teller machine (ATM) (800) to dispense a banknote upon a request for withdrawal received by a user;
a camera (102) adapted to capture one or more images of the banknote being dispensed from a dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800);
a device (101) coupled to the dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800) and the camera (102), the device (101) having a processor (101-1), and the processor (101-1) being configured to:
obtain the one or more captured images of the banknote;
analyse the one or more obtained images to extract one or more features of the banknote;
compare the one or more extracted features of the banknote with one or more banknote criteria; and
approve the banknote for withdrawal if the one or more extracted features matches the one or more banknote criteria; or
reject the banknote for withdrawal if the one or more extracted features do not match the one or more banknote criteria so as to prevent from dispensing one or more damaged banknotes from the ATM (800).
2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the processor (101-1) further configured to:
transfer the approved banknote in a transparent enclosure (103) for a visual inspection by the user, the transparent enclosure (103) is disposed adjacent to the ATM and being in a locked position;
withdraw the transferred banknote upon approval received by the user; or
return the transferred banknote to the dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800).
3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) further comprises:
a user interface (104) coupled to the device (101), the user interface (104) is adapted to enable the user to approve or reject one or more transactions associated with the request for the withdrawal; and
one or more compartments (105) embedded in the dispensing port (800-1) to store the one or more banknotes.
4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the dispensing port (800-1) comprises one or more mechanical components embedded within the ATM (800), adapted to deliver the banknote to the user upon approval, and wherein one or more components comprises one or more motorised rollers, one or more belts, or one or more storage compartments; and
the one or more features of the banknote are analysed by a machine learning model, and wherein the one or more features are selected from any or a combination of printed ink patterns, watermarks, serial numbers, holographic elements, the paper, folds, tears, crumples, missing parts, Security threads, embedded microprints, or ultraviolet (UV) patterns.
5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein:
the camera (102) is operatively coupled to the ATM (800); and
the device (101) is mechanically coupled to the dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800).
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the one or more banknote criteria are one or more pre-defined criteria, and wherein the one or more banknote criteria are selected from any or a combination of one or more visual criteria includes color fidelity, clarity of the serial number, visibility of security features such as holograms, watermarks, one or more structural criteria includes maximum allowable percentage of a tear, degree of folding, or acceptable wear, one or more authentication criteria includes matching a serial number pattern or confirming the presence of security features like a watermark or ultraviolet (UV) thread.
7. A device (101) to prevent dispensing of one or more damaged bank banknotes, wherein the device (101) is coupled to a dispensing port (800-1) of an automated teller machine (ATM) (800), the device (101) comprising:
a processor (101-1) is configured to:
obtain the one or more captured images of the banknote;
analyse the one or more obtained images of the banknote to extract one or more features of the banknote;
compare the one or more extracted features of the banknote with one or more banknote criteria; and
approve the banknote for withdrawal if the one or more extracted features are matched with the one or more banknote criteria; or
reject the banknote for withdrawal if the one or more extracted features not matches with the one or more banknote criteria so as to prevent from dispensing one or more damaged banknotes from the ATM (800).
8. The device (101) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the device (101) further comprises:
a camera (102) adapted to capture one or more images of the banknote being dispensed, wherein the camera (102) is operatively coupled to the ATM (800);
a user interface (104) coupled to the device (101), the user interface (104) is adapted to enable the user to approve or reject one or more transactions; and
one or more compartments (105) embedded in the dispensing port (800-1) to store the one or more banknotes.
9. A method (300) of preventing to dispense of one or more damaged banknotes, the method (300) comprising:
adapting (301) an automated teller machine (ATM) (800) to dispense a banknote upon a request for withdrawal received by a user;
adapting (302) a camera (102) to capture one or more images of the banknote being dispensed, wherein the camera (102) is operatively coupled to the ATM (800);
coupling (303) a device (101) with a dispensing port (800-1) of the ATM (800) and the camera (102), wherein the device (101) having a processor;
obtaining (304), by the processor (101-1), the one or more captured images of the banknote;
analysing (305), by the processor (101-1), the one or more obtained images of the banknote to extract one or more features of the banknote;
comparing (306), by the processor (101-1), the one or more extracted features of the banknote with one or more banknote criteria; and
approving (307-1), by the processor (101-1), the banknote for withdrawal if the one or more compared features are matched with the one or more banknote criteria; or
rejecting (307-2), by the processor (101-1), the banknote for withdrawal if the one or more compared features not matches with the one or more banknote criteria so as to prevent from dispensing one or more damaged banknotes from the ATM (800).
10. The method (300) as claimed in claim 9, wherein the method (300) further comprising:
transferring (308), by the processor (101-1), the approved banknote in a transparent enclosure (103) for a visual inspection by the user, the transparent enclosure (103) is disposed adjacent to the ATM (800) and being in a locked position;
withdrawing (309), by the processor (101-1), the transferred banknote upon approval received by the user; or
returning (310), by the processor (101-1), the transferred banknote to the dispensing mechanism of the ATM (800).

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