JP6572122B2 - Coin identification storage device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a coin identification and storage device, and in particular, for example, a coin identification and storage for identifying the type of coins inserted for purchase of goods, transporting the identified coins, and storing them in different storages for each type. Relates to the device.

Conventionally, six types of coins such as 1 yen and 10 yen have been used in Japan, and vending machines and the like identify the type of coins inserted based on weight and size.
In addition, a camera is provided for photographing a specific position through which the inserted coin passes, the image data of the coin at the position is photographed, the image data is compared with a pre-stored image, and the coin is A coin identifying device for identifying has also been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2).
Furthermore, after identifying the type of coin, the identified coin is stored in a storage provided for each type.
In order to store the coins by type in this way, a passage sensor (for example, infrared rays) is detected on the transport path of the coins at the position of the transport path immediately before each storage. Infrared sensors (infrared sensors each composed of a light emitting section that emits light and a light receiving section that receives the infrared rays) are arranged by the number of storages.
For example, when the type of coin is identified as 100 yen and the passage of the coin is detected by a passage sensor arranged immediately before the storage for 100 yen, the 100-yen coin that has been conveyed is 100 Stored in a yen storage.

JP-A-9-167270 JP 2014-2630 A

However, in the conventional coin identification device, it is possible to take an image of a coin with a camera, but in order to detect the position of a coin being conveyed separately from the camera, the number corresponding to the number of coin storages It is necessary to provide an infrared sensor.
In addition, since the camera and the plurality of infrared sensors are generally connected to a control unit composed of a CPU or the like, wiring for connecting the camera and the control unit, or wiring for connecting the plurality of infrared sensors and the control unit, Must be routed into the device.
Therefore, it is necessary to secure a position and wiring space for providing a plurality of infrared sensors, so it is difficult to reduce the size of the apparatus, and it is necessary to provide a large number of infrared sensors and wirings. It is difficult to lower and the manufacturing process becomes complicated.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and it is possible to reduce the size of the coin identification transport device that identifies the inserted coins and stores them in a specific storage, and suppresses the product price. It is an object to simplify the manufacturing process.

  The present invention provides a coin transport unit that guides an inserted coin to a predetermined transport path and moves the transported coin on the transport path, and is arranged at a different position on the transport path for each of a plurality of coin types, and corresponds beforehand to the coin type A plurality of attached storages, a photographing unit for photographing a conveyance path including the position of the storage, and a coin conveyed to a predetermined position on the conveyance path using image data of the photographed conveyance path A coin identifying unit that identifies the type of the coin, a coin position detecting unit that detects a current position of the coin that has been identified using the image data of the captured transport path, and a current position of the detected coin Based on the position, when it is confirmed that the inserted coin has moved to the position of the storage associated with the identified coin type, the inserted coin is changed to the type of the coin. Stored in a storage box associated with There is provided a coin identifying storage apparatus characterized by comprising a storage control unit for.

In addition, a storage unit that stores in advance a reference image of a plurality of coins to be identified for each type of coin, and the coin identification unit, from the imaged image data of the transport path, a predetermined position of the transport path The image of the coins conveyed to the storage unit is acquired, and the coin type corresponding to the reference image that can match the acquired image of the coins among the reference images of the coins stored in advance in the storage unit is transferred. It is characterized in that it is determined as a type of coin.
In addition, an openable / closable storage lid is provided on the storage, and the storage control unit transfers the coin identified by the coin identification unit to the first storage associated with the type. When storing, a storage lid provided on the first storage is opened.

In addition, a plurality of storage allocation positions for determining arrival of coins of a type associated with each storage are provided at a position on the transport path and upstream of the position of each storage. When the coin position detection unit detects that the current position of the conveyed coin is in any of the storage distribution positions, the type of the transferred coin corresponds to the detected storage distribution position. When it corresponds with the kind of 1st storage, the said storage control part opens the storage lid provided on the said 1st storage, It is characterized by the above-mentioned.
Moreover, when the discharge path is provided in the transport path and the coin identifying unit cannot identify the type of the inserted coin, the storage control unit removes the coin whose type cannot be identified from the discharge port. It is characterized by discharging to the outside.
Moreover, the said imaging | photography part consists of one camera, and is arrange | positioned in the position which can image | photograph the conveyance path containing the predetermined position which identifies the kind of said coin, and the position of these storages. It is characterized by.

  According to this invention, using the image data of the transport path photographed by the photographing unit, the type of the inserted coin is identified and the current position of the coin whose type is identified is detected. There is no need to provide a position detection sensor for detecting the current position of the coin being conveyed, and the apparatus can be downsized, the apparatus can be reduced in price, and the manufacturing process can be simplified.

It is a block diagram of the configuration of an embodiment of the coin identification transport device of the present invention. It is explanatory drawing of one Example of the information memorize | stored in the memory | storage part of this invention. It is a schematic explanatory drawing of one Example of the identification and conveyance process of the coin of this invention. It is a schematic explanatory drawing of one Example of the image data which image | photographed the conveyance state of a coin. It is explanatory drawing of the image data which image | photographed the conveyance state of the coin when one coin is thrown in. It is explanatory drawing of one Example of the identification and conveyance process of a coin when one coin is thrown in. It is explanatory drawing of the image data which image | photographed the conveyance state of the coin when a several coin is thrown in continuously. It is explanatory drawing of one Example of the identification and conveyance process of a coin when a several coin is thrown in continuously. It is a flowchart of one Example of the conveyance of a coin in the coin identification conveyance apparatus of this invention, identification, and a distribution process. It is a flowchart of one Example of the coin identification process of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Example of the coin distribution process of this invention. It is a flowchart of one Example of the storage process of the identified coin of this invention.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, this invention is not limited by description of the following examples.
The coin identifying and conveying apparatus according to the present invention guides the inserted coins to a predetermined conveyance path, identifies the type of coins when the inserted coins are moving on the conveyance path, and identifies each of the plurality of coin types. Of the plurality of storages arranged at different positions with a predetermined interval, the inserted coins are stored in storages associated in advance with the identified types of coins.
In the following embodiments of the present invention, an object to be identified and stored will be described as a coin. However, as will be described later, banknotes may be identified and stored.
Further, in the following embodiments, description will be made mainly on the basis of identifying six types of Japanese coins distributed in Japan. However, it is not restricted to this, For example, it is good also considering the coin currently utilized only in the coin of another country, and a specific store.

<Configuration of coin identifying and conveying apparatus of the present invention>
FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of an embodiment of a coin identifying and conveying apparatus (hereinafter also simply referred to as a coin identifying apparatus) according to the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 1, the coin identifying and conveying apparatus of the present invention mainly includes a control unit 11, a photographing unit 12, an image recognizing unit 13, a coin identifying unit 14, a coin position detecting unit 15, a coin arrival determining unit 16, and a coin conveying. Unit 17, coin insertion detection unit 18, storage control unit 19, coin insertion slot 21, storage lid 22, storage 23, and storage unit 30.

  The control unit 11 is a part for executing various functions of the coin identification device of the present invention, and is mainly realized by a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, an I / O controller, a timer, etc., and stored in the ROM or the like. Based on the program, the CPU organically operates various types of hardware to execute the coin identification function, the coin transfer function, the coin distribution function, and the like of the present invention. In addition, the above-mentioned image recognition part 13, the coin identification part 14, the coin position detection part 15, the coin arrival determination part 16, and the storage control part 19 are function blocks which mainly perform a specific function in software.

The photographing unit 12 is a camera that mainly photographs the conveyance path including the position of the storage. Further, as will be described later, the position for identifying the type of coins inserted (coin identification position), the position for distributing the identified coins (storage allocation position), and the position of each storage lid that covers each storage from above. An area including the image (hereinafter referred to as an imaging area) is imaged with one camera.
Although a plurality of cameras may be provided, in the present invention, from the viewpoint of downsizing of the apparatus and suppression of the product price and the like, it is assumed that the above-described shooting area is shot with one camera. The camera 12 is disposed at a position where the conveyance path including a predetermined position for identifying the type of coin and the positions of a plurality of storages can be photographed. As will be described later, the type of coin and the detection of the current position of the coin being conveyed are collectively performed using image data taken by one camera.

Further, since one part of the conveyance path is photographed with a single camera from a portion relatively close to the camera (for example, a coin identification position) to a portion relatively distant from the camera (for example, a storage sorting position), it is in focus as much as possible It is preferable to use a camera having a wide-angle lens with a wide range (deep depth of field).
Further, as the camera 12, it is preferable to use a still image shooting camera capable of continuous shooting at a predetermined time interval (for example, 100 milliseconds) or a video camera capable of shooting a moving image.
An image photographed by the camera 12 is mainly digitized by a solid-state photographing element, stored in the storage unit 30, and recognized by the image recognition unit 13.

For example, the camera 12 is disposed at a position as shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a schematic explanatory view of an embodiment of coin identification and conveyance processing, and is a view of a coin conveyance path 52 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as a conveyance path) that is long in the left-right direction on the paper surface as viewed from the side.
In FIG. 3, the conveyance direction 53 of the coin 51 is assumed to be from the right direction to the left direction on the paper surface, and in the illustrated coin conveyance path 52, the coin identification position 32, the discharge port distribution position 54b, and the discharge port 54, the 1-yen distribution position 31a and the 1-yen storage 23a are arranged, and the 500-yen distribution position 31f and the 500-yen storage 23f are arranged at the farthest downstream position.
A plurality of storage allocation positions 31 such as a 1-yen allocation position are positions for determining the arrival of the type of coins associated with each storage 23, and are located on the transport path and the position of each storage 23. It is provided at a position on the upstream side.

A storage lid 22 that can be automatically opened and closed based on a predetermined opening / closing signal given by the storage control unit 19 is attached to each storage 23.
The camera 12 is arranged so that an area from the rightmost coin identification position 32 shown in FIG. 3 to the leftmost 500 yen storage 23f can be photographed.
In FIG. 3, the camera 12 is located on the right side of the coin identification position 32 and higher than the coin conveyance path 52, and images the imaging region from above the lick.
If the coin conveyance path 52 is a straight route as shown in FIG. 3, the distance from the coin identification position 32 to the 500-yen storage 23f is, for example, about 30 cm.

Coins inserted from an insertion port (not shown) are transported on the coin transport path by the transport belt, and first pass through the coin identification position 32, and then pass through the distribution position of each coin and the storage.
4, 5, and 7, which will be described later, are schematic explanatory diagrams of an embodiment of image data captured by the camera 12.
For example, FIG. 4A shows image data in a state where a 100-yen coin has been conveyed to the coin identification position 32.
It is assumed that the coin identification position 32 is a preset fixed position. When the image recognition unit 13 recognizes that a coin has arrived at the coin identification position 32, the image data at this position 32 (hereinafter referred to as an identification image) is cut out from the captured image data, and the identification image is obtained. The type of the coin existing at the coin identification position 32 is identified by the coin identifying unit 14.

FIG. 5A shows image data in a state where the identified 100-yen coin has been conveyed to the 100-yen distribution position 31e.
When the image recognition unit 13 recognizes that the 100 yen coin has arrived at the 100 yen allocation position 31e from the image data of FIG. 5A, the 100 yen storage lid 22e is opened, and FIG. As shown, the 100-yen coin that has been transported is stored in the storage 23e. Detailed processing such as coin conveyance, identification, and distribution will be described later.

The image recognizing unit 13 is a part that recognizes an image captured by the camera 12, and specifically, a part that cuts out an image of a coin included in the captured image data.
When coins are not being transported, only the transport path and moving transport belt are taken in the captured image data. However, if the inserted coins are circular, an image is displayed during the transport of coins. It is recognized that there is an elliptical object in the data.
An image (identification image) of a partial region recognized as the presence of this elliptical object is cut out.
For example, when a coin arrives at the coin identification position 32 on the conveyance path, an identification image of the coin identification position 32 is cut out.

The coin identifying unit 14 is a part that identifies the type of coins conveyed to a predetermined position on the conveyance path using image data of the conveyance path photographed by the camera 12. In particular, as described above, the type of coin included in the identification image is identified from the identification image of the coin identification position 32 cut out by the image recognition unit 13.
For example, the image of the coin conveyed to the coin identification position 32 is acquired from the image data of the captured conveyance path, and acquired from the plurality of coin reference images (coin determination information 33) stored in advance in the storage unit 30. When there is a coin that matches the acquired coin image, the coin type corresponding to the reference image that can be matched with the acquired coin image is determined as the coin type conveyed to the coin identification position 32.

The coin position detection unit 15 is a part that detects the current position of the coin whose type has been identified by the coin identification unit 14 using the image data of the conveyance path taken by the camera 12.
Assuming that coins are transported at a constant speed by the transport belt, image data in which the coins whose types are identified are transported at a constant speed after the types are identified at the coin recognition position 32 is captured by the camera 12. .
As shown in FIG. 4, in the captured image data, XY coordinates having a specific fixed point on the transport path as the origin (0, 0) are set, and the current position of the coin moving is acquired from the image data.
Since each coin is recognized as an elliptical image having a predetermined size, for example, the coordinates of the center position of the elliptical image are acquired as the current position of the coin.

Moreover, although the coin identification position 32, each storage distribution position 31, etc. also have a fixed area | region, as shown in FIG. 2 (a), (b) mentioned later, the coordinate of the center position of the area | region is set to coin. These are stored in advance as representative coordinates of the identification position 32 and each storage distribution position 31.
For example, as shown in FIG. 2D, the acquired current position of the coin is stored in the storage unit 30 as input coin information 35 in association with the type of coin and the coordinate indicating the current position.
Since the coin moves at a substantially constant speed, it is preferable that the information on the current position of the inserted coin information 35 is updated almost in real time.

The coin arrival determination unit 16 is a part that determines whether or not the conveyed coin has arrived at a predetermined storage distribution position 31.
The coordinates indicating the storage distribution position 31 for each type of coin are stored in advance as shown in FIG.
Further, as described above, the type of the inserted coin and its current position are associated with each other and acquired as the inserted coin information 35 in real time.
Therefore, the coordinates of the current position of the inserted coin are compared with the coordinates of the storage distribution position stored in advance corresponding to the type of the inserted coin, and when both the coordinates are almost the same, It is determined that the received coin has arrived at the storage distribution position immediately before the storage in which the coin is to be stored.
For example, after the inserted coin is identified as 100 yen, the current position (x33, y33) of the 100 yen as shown in FIG. 2 (d) corresponds to the 100 yen shown in FIG. 2 (a). When it almost coincides with the minute position (x5, y5), it is determined that the 100 yen coin has arrived at the 100 yen distribution position 31e.

The coin conveyance unit 17 is a part that guides the inserted coins to a predetermined conveyance path and moves the coins on the conveyance path. In the conveyance path, for example, a conveyance belt is installed.
The transport belt is driven in one direction by a motor or the like at a constant speed, and moves the coins mounted on the transport belt in a predetermined transport direction 53.
The transport path for transporting coins is preferably a straight line because a single camera 12 captures images from the coin identification position 32 to the position of the storage box 23f farthest from the coin identification position 32, but it does not necessarily have to be a straight line.
Even if it is a conveyance path having a curved portion in part, even if it is a meandering conveyance path, a spatial region including the conveyance path from the coin identification position 32 to the position of the furthest storage 23f is What is necessary is just to attach the camera 12 to the position which can image | photograph with the camera 12. FIG.

The coin insertion detection unit 18 is a part that detects that a coin has been inserted from the coin insertion slot 21.
The coin insertion slot 21 is an entrance for inserting coins, similar to those provided in vending machines and POS terminals, and the fact that the coins inserted into the coin insertion slot have passed immediately after the coin insertion slot. A switch or sensor for detection is provided as the coin insertion detection unit 18.
For example, the switch may be arranged so that the contact is closed when the inserted coin passes, and detects that the coin has been inserted when the contact is closed. Alternatively, an infrared sensor consisting of a light emitting part and a light receiving part is used as the sensor, and the infrared sensor is arranged so that the inserted coin passes between the light emitting part and the light receiving part, and the light emitting part is directed toward the light receiving part. When the emitted infrared ray is shielded by a passing coin, it is detected that a coin has been inserted.

The storage controller 19 is a part that stores the conveyed coins in the storage 23 corresponding to the type of the coins, and is a part that mainly opens and closes the storage lid 22.
As shown in FIG. 3 and the like, a plurality of storages 23 are arranged at predetermined positions at different positions on the coin transport path 52 for each of a plurality of types of coins. In advance. An openable / closable storage lid 22 is provided on each storage 23. Each storage 23 is arranged in association with six coins, for example, as shown in FIG.
In normal times, such as when no coins are inserted, all the storage lids 22 are closed so that the conveyed coins are not stored in the storage.

In addition, the storage control unit 19 has moved the inserted coin to the position of the storage associated with the identified coin type based on the current position of the coin detected by the coin position detection unit 15. When it is confirmed that this is the case, the inserted coins are stored in storages associated with the types of the coins.
Specifically, when the coins identified by the coin identifying unit 14 are stored in the storage 23 associated with the type, the storage lid 22 provided on the storage 23 is opened.
Further, as described above, a plurality of storage distribution positions 31 are provided at positions upstream of the positions of the respective storages. However, the coin position detection unit 15 determines that the current position of the conveyed coin is the storage vibration. When it is detected that the coin is in one of the minute positions, if the type of the coins transferred matches the type of the storage 23 corresponding to the detected storage distribution position 31, The provided storage lid 22 is opened.
When the coins at the sorting position are further transported in a state where the storage lid 22 is opened, the coins are stored in the storage 23 at the position where the storage lid 22 is opened.
When the coins are completely stored, the storage lid 22 is closed after a predetermined time has elapsed.

The storage unit 30 is a part for storing information and programs necessary for executing each function of the coin identification device of the present invention, and is mainly a semiconductor storage element such as ROM, RAM, flash memory, HDD, SSD, etc. And other storage media such as a CD-ROM are used.
The storage unit 30 stores, for example, a storage distribution position 31, a coin identification position 32, coin determination information 33, input image data 34, input coin information 35, and the like.

The storage distribution position 31 (hereinafter also simply referred to as the distribution position) is a position for determining whether or not the conveyed coins are stored in a predetermined storage, as shown in FIG. It is provided at a position immediately before each storage.
The storage distribution position 31 is an area having a larger area than the coin to be identified, and is provided in advance on a conveyance path through which the coin passes.
Further, for each type of coin, the storage distribution position 31 is fixedly arranged in advance, and if the area is circular, for example, the XY coordinates of the center position of the circle with respect to the XY coordinates shown in FIG. Each storage distribution position 31 is specified.

FIG. 2A shows an explanatory diagram of one embodiment of the storage distribution position 31.
Here, the coordinates of the distribution positions of the six types of coins and the coordinates of the distribution position 54b of the discharge port 54 are preset and stored.
For example, the coordinates indicating the center position of the distribution position of the 500 yen coin are (x6, y6), and the coordinates indicating the discharge position 54b are preset to (x7, y7).
As shown in FIG. 3 and the like, the discharge port 54 is an opening for discharging a coin (for example, a false coin) whose type cannot be identified to the outside. The discharge port distribution position 54b is a position for determining whether or not to discharge the conveyed coins.
For example, when the inserted coin is a coin of another country or a coin used only in a specific store, and the coin identifying unit 14 cannot identify the type of the inserted coin, the storage control unit 19 However, the coin whose type could not be identified is discharged from the discharge port 54 to the outside.
Specifically, the discharge lid 54a above the discharge port 54 is opened.
The storage distribution position 31 is information to be compared with the current position of the inserted coin stored as the inserted coin information 35, and is used to determine whether or not the coin has arrived at a predetermined distribution position.

The coin identification position 32 (hereinafter, also simply referred to as an identification position) is a position for identifying the type of the inserted coin, and the image data when the coin is conveyed to this position is used to recognize the coin. The identification unit 14 identifies the type of the coin.
The coin identification position 32 is fixedly provided on the conveyance path, and is provided in advance at a position as shown in FIG. 3, for example.
The coin identification position 32 is also an area having a larger area than the coin to be identified, and if the area is, for example, a circle, the identification is made with the XY coordinates of the center position of the circle with respect to the XY coordinate system shown in FIG. The position 32 is specified.
As shown in FIGS. 2B and 4, the coin recognition position 32 is represented by A (x0, y0), where A is the center of the circle.

The coin determination information 33 (hereinafter also referred to as a reference image) is a pre-stored image data of a plurality of coins to be identified for each type of coin. In order to identify the type of coin, This is information used as a comparative image.
FIG. 2C shows an example of the coin determination information 33.
Here, a file serving as a reference image is stored for each of the six types of coins.
For example, in the case of a 1-yen coin, image data on the front surface of 1 yen and image data on the back surface of 1 yen are stored as a reference image file (IMG001).
However, as shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 and the like, when the image of the coin photographed by the camera 12 is photographed from above the lick, it is strictly not the image photographed from directly above the front and back surfaces of the coin. Different.
Therefore, in the file stored as the reference image 33, in addition to the front and back images taken from directly above, or in place of these images, coins from above the slanted position where the camera is actually placed You may memorize | store the image which image | photographed the front surface and the back surface.
Moreover, as the reference image 33, not only such six types of coins, but also other coins (coins in other countries, dedicated coins used only in specific stores, etc.) depending on the store used and the usage situation. The image file may be stored.

The input image data 34 is image data photographed by the camera 12, and is, for example, image data as shown in FIGS.
As described above, the input image data 34 includes a space from the identification position 32 closest to the camera 12 to the storage location farthest from the camera.
Further, the input image data 34 may be a still image continuously photographed at a predetermined time interval or a moving image.
At least after the first coin is inserted, the storage of the input image data 34 is started, and then the input image data 34 is continuously stored until a certain period (for example, 10 seconds) elapses thereafter. Alternatively, the input image data 34 is stored until the coins are stored in the storage.
The stored input image data 34 may be deleted after a specific event process such as a change payment process is completed.

The inserted coin information 35 stores the type of each inserted coin and the current position of the coin on the transport path in association with each other.
The type is determined by the coin identifying unit 14 described above.
Also, the current position is calculated in almost real time using the input image data 34 taken by the camera 12, and the coordinates indicating the position of the coin on the transport path are calculated and stored in correspondence with the type of the coin.
FIG. 2D shows an example of the inserted coin information 35. Here, the case where four coins are inserted in the order of “10 yen”, “10 yen”, “100 yen”, “5 yen” is shown, and the current position of each coin is expressed in XY coordinates. Is remembered.
In addition, when the coin identifying unit 14 cannot identify the type of the inserted coin, information such as “undecided” or “fake coin” is stored as the type of the inserted coin information 35, for example. The current position of the coin is also stored. When the current position of the coin of “undecided” type substantially coincides with the distribution position (x7, y7) of the discharge port, the discharge lid 54a above the discharge port 54 is opened and It is discharged outside.

<Coin identification and sorting>
Here, the outline | summary of one Example of the conveyance of a coin, identification, and a distribution process is first demonstrated using FIG.
FIG. 3A shows a state where the inserted coin 51 has been transported to a position before the transport path 52 photographed by the camera 12 (right end in the figure).
Also, in the conveyance path, in order from the right side, an identification position 32, a discharge port distribution position 54b, a discharge lid 54a, a one-circle distribution position 31a, a one-yen storage box 22a, a five-circle distribution position 31b, Storage lid 22b for 5-yen storage, 10-yen allocation position 31c, storage lid 22c for 10-yen storage, 50-yen allocation position 31d, storage lid 22d for 50-yen storage, 100-yen allocation position 31e, 100 yen Assume that the storage lid 22e of the storage, the 500 yen sorting position 31f, and the storage lid 22f of the 500 yen storage are arranged.
Further, it is assumed that there is a discharge port 54 below the discharge lid 54a, and a storage is provided below each coin storage lid.

If the coin 51 is further conveyed leftward from the conveyance state of FIG. 3A, a state as shown in FIG. 3B is obtained.
FIG. 3B shows a state where the coin 51 is conveyed to the identification position 32.
In this transport state, it is detected that the coin 51 exists at the identification position 32 by identifying the image data photographed by the camera 12.
At this time, an image (identification image) of the region at the identification position 32 is cut out, and the coin identification unit 14 uses the reference image file included in the coin determination information 33 to determine the type of the coin 51 at the identification position 32. Identify.
For example, if the coin image acquired from the identification image matches the reference image of 5 yen, the inserted coin 51 is identified as 5 yen.
In addition, the type of the identified coin and the coordinates of the current position are stored in the inserted coin information 35 of the storage unit 30.

Thereafter, if the coin 51 is further conveyed leftward at a constant speed, a state as shown in FIG.
FIG. 3C shows a state in which a 5-yen coin identified as 5-yen is conveyed to the 5-yen sorting position 31b. While the coin 51 is being conveyed, the coordinates of the current position are updated by acquiring image data in substantially real time.
In the transport state of FIG. 3C, by recognizing the image data taken by the camera 12, the coin 51 that has arrived at the 5-yen distribution position 31b is determined to be a 5-yen coin.

Since the coin 51 that has arrived at the 5-yen distribution position 31b is a 5-yen coin, the storage lid 22b attached on the storage 23b in order to store the 5-yen coin in the 5-yen storage 23b. Is released.
Thereafter, since the 5-yen coin 51 is further conveyed leftward, it falls into the 5-yen storage 23b and is stored.

The above is the outline of the identification, conveyance and distribution processing of the inserted coins.
According to this, as shown in FIG. 3A, image data including the coin identification position 32 and the distribution position of each coin is photographed by one camera 12, so that each distribution position is It is not necessary to provide a sensor for detecting that a coin has passed at each sorting position.
Therefore, since no position detection sensor is provided, the price can be reduced compared to conventional devices, and the space for placing the sensor and the wiring to the sensor are not required. Can be achieved.

(First embodiment: storing processing of one input coin)
A series of processes until a 100-yen coin is stored in a storage for 100 yen will be described with reference to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6.
4 and 5 show input image data captured by the camera 12 that changes with time.
In FIG. 6, the conveyance state of the 100 yen coin conveyed in the conveyance path 52 is shown.
FIG. 4A and FIG. 6A show a state where the inserted 100-yen coin has been conveyed to the identification position 32.
At this time, image data as shown in FIG. 4A is captured and stored as input image data 34.
The image recognition unit 13 compares the input image data 34 with image data in a state in which no coins are inserted, thereby corresponding to the coin 51 at the identification position 32 in the transport state shown in FIG. Recognize that something exists.

Therefore, the image recognition unit 13 cuts out an image (identification image) of the portion of the identification position 32 from the input image data 34 and gives it to the coin identification unit 14.
The coin identifying unit 14 compares the image (input coin image) corresponding to the coin in the acquired identification image with the reference image 33 stored in the storage unit 30 in advance.
When it is determined that the input coin image substantially matches the image of the 100 yen reference image file among the reference image files stored in the storage unit 30, the type of coin existing at the identification position 32 is determined to be 100 yen. .
As a result, since the type of the inserted coin is determined to be 100 yen, “100 yen” is stored as the type in the inserted coin information 35.
Further, since the 100-yen coin is currently at the identification position 32, the coordinates (x0, y0) of the coin identification position 32 shown in FIG. 2B are stored as the current position of the inserted coin information 35.

Thereafter, 100-yen coins are transported by the transport belt at a constant speed toward the direction in which the storage is located.
Even during the transfer of coins, image data of the transfer path is continuously input by the camera 12 to track the current position of the identified 100 yen coin.
For example, as shown in FIG. 4B, when the identified 100 yen coin arrives at the 5-yen distribution position 31b, the coin position detection unit 15 inputs the input image data in the transport state of FIG. 34, the current position of the 100-yen coin is detected, and the coordinate value (x2, y2) corresponding to the 5-yen distribution position 31b is stored in the current position of the 100-yen coin stored as the inserted coin information 35.

In this manner, the current position of the coin whose type is identified is detected from the input image data 34 acquired in substantially real time, and the content of the current position corresponding to the 100 yen coin stored in the inserted coin information 35 is detected. Updated to the new current position.
4B, the coin arriving at the 5-yen distribution position 31b is 100 yen instead of 5 yen, so the 5-yen storage lid 22b is kept closed, and the 100-yen coin is Then, it passes over the closed 5-yen storage lid 22b.

Thereafter, when the 100-yen coin is further conveyed, the 100-yen coin moves to the 100-yen distribution position 31e as shown in FIGS. 5 (a) and 6 (b).
At this time, in the inserted coin information 35, a value that substantially matches the coordinates (x5, y5) of the 100-yen distribution position 31e is stored at the current position corresponding to the 100-yen coin.
The coin arrival determination unit 16 checks the inserted coin information 35, and the current position stored corresponding to the type of the inserted coin is the stored distribution position 31 shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not it is possible to match the distribution position stored corresponding to the type.

When the type of the inserted coin is 100 yen, the current position of the 100-yen coin in the inserted coin information 35 is compared with the 100-yen sorting position (x5, y5) in the storage sorting position 31 and can be matched. It is determined whether or not.
5 (a) and 6 (b), the current position of the 100-yen coin that has been conveyed substantially coincides with the 100-yen sorting position (x5, y5). , It is determined that it has arrived at the 100 yen allocation position 31e.
When it is determined that the 100 yen coin has arrived at the 100 yen allocation position 31e, the storage control unit 19 immediately opens the 100 yen storage lid 22e.
Thereafter, since the 100-yen coin moves at a constant speed in the transport direction 53, the 100-yen coin is located at the position where the 100-yen storage lid 22e was located, as shown in FIGS. Is moved into the 100-yen storage 23e and stored.

(2nd Example: Storage processing of a plurality of input coins)
Here, with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, when a plurality of coins are continuously inserted, a series of processing until the coins are respectively stored in the corresponding storages will be described.
FIG. 7 shows an example of input image data when three coins are inserted.
FIG. 8 shows an explanatory diagram of the transported state of three inserted coins.

FIG. 7A shows input image data photographed by the camera 12 in the conveyance state shown in FIG.
7 (a) and 8 (a), three coins (100 yen, 500 yen, 1 yen) are inserted in this order, and the 100 yen coin moves to the 100 yen distribution position 31e. A conveyance state in which the yen coin has moved to the vicinity of the 50-yen distribution position 31d and the 1-yen coin has moved to the identification position 32 is shown.

At this time, three coins are photographed in the input image data 34 photographed by the camera 12.
The image recognition unit 13 compares the input image data 34 with an image in a state where no coins are conveyed, thereby recognizing that three coins are in a position as shown in FIG.
Since it can be seen that one coin exists at the identification position 32, a partial image of the identification position 32 is cut out, and the coin identification unit 14 identifies the type of coin at the identification position 32 as described above.
If the image of the coin included in the cut partial image of the identification position 32 matches the reference image of 1 yen in the reference image 33, the type of the coin is identified as 1 yen and And memorize the current position.

Also, the coin that has reached the 100-yen distribution position 31e in the input image data 34a is already identified as a 100-yen coin when passing through the identification position 32, and its type and current position are “100 yen” ( x5, y5) are stored in the inserted coin information 35. At this time, the coin arrival determination unit 16 confirms that the current position of the 100 yen coin matches the 100 yen distribution position (x5, y5) of the storage distribution position 31, It is determined that it has arrived at the 100 yen allocation position.
Thereby, the storage control unit 19 opens the storage lid 22e on the 100-yen storage 23e.
Thereafter, when the 100-yen coin is further conveyed in the conveying direction 53, the 100-yen coin is dropped and stored in the storage unit 23e for 100 yen.
The 500-yen coin exists in the vicinity of the 50-yen allocation position, but the coin position detection unit 15 determines that the coordinates near the 50-yen allocation position are the 500-yen coin in the input coin information 35 as the current position. Is stored at the current position corresponding to.

FIGS. 7B and 8B show a state in which three coins are further conveyed and the one-yen coin has moved to the one-yen distribution position 31a.
At this time, it is assumed that the 100-yen coin has already been stored in the storage unit 23e for 100-yen, and the 500-yen coin has reached the vicinity of the storage lid 22e on the 100-yen storage in front of the 500-yen allocation position.
In this transport state, when the coin arrival determination unit 16 confirms that the coin identified as 1 yen has arrived at the 1-yen distribution position 31a, the storage control unit 19 sets the top of the 1-yen storage box 23a. The storage lid 22a is opened.
Thereafter, when the 1-yen coin is further transported in the transport direction 53, the 1-yen coin is dropped and stored in the 1-yen storage 23a.
For the 500 yen coin, the coordinates in the vicinity of the storage lid 22e of the storage for 100 yen are stored at the current position corresponding to the 500 yen coin in the input coin information 35.

FIG. 8C shows a transport state in which a 500-yen coin has moved to the 500-yen sorting position 31f.
At this time, 100-yen coins and 1-yen coins are already stored in the corresponding storages (23e, 23a).
In this transport state, when the coin position detector 15 detects that the coordinates of the current position of the 500 yen coin is (x6, y6) using the input image data 34 taken by the camera 12, This coordinate is stored as the current position corresponding to the 500 yen coin in the inserted coin information 35.

The coin arrival determination unit 16 checks the inserted coin information 35 and confirms that the current position of the 500 yen coin matches the distribution position (x6, y6) corresponding to 500 yen in the storage distribution position 31. If so, it is determined that the 500 yen coin has arrived at the 500 yen allocation position 31f.
Thereby, the storage controller 19 opens the storage lid 22f on the storage box 23f for 500 yen.
Thereafter, when the 500-yen coin is further conveyed in the conveyance direction 53, the 500-yen coin is dropped and stored in the 500-yen storage box 23f.

As described above, when three coins are continuously inserted, even if three coins are included in the input image data photographed by one camera 12, each coin exists. A partial image of the position to be identified, the type of the coin is identified, the current position of each coin is further recognized, the current position of the coin, and the storage distribution position stored in advance in association with the type of the coin, , It can be determined that the coin has arrived at the corresponding sorting position.
That is, by using the input image data, it is possible to identify the type of coin and determine the arrival of the coin at the sorting position, and there is no need to provide a sensor for detecting the passing position of the coin. .

<Flow of coin identification processing for identification>
9, 10, 11, and 12 are used to show an embodiment of the transfer process and the like of the coin identification storage device of the present invention.
FIG. 9 shows a main flowchart of one embodiment of the coin conveyance identification distribution process of the present invention.
Here, in order to facilitate the explanation, a flow of a series of processes when one coin is inserted will be described.
When a plurality of coins are continuously inserted, a coin insertion detection process, a conveyance process, an identification process, a sorting process, and the like are executed in parallel by time division multiplexing processes.

In step S1 of FIG. 9, the control unit 11 activates the camera 12 and starts capturing an image of the entire conveyance path, for example, as shown in FIG. Image data taken by the camera 12 is stored as input image data 34.
In step S <b> 2, a coin identification position is set, and this position coordinate is stored in the storage unit 30 as a coin identification position 32.
The coin identification position 32 may be set by a person in charge using an input unit (not shown) before the device is shipped.
Alternatively, a predetermined marker is added in advance to the area to be the coin identification position on the conveyance path, and the image recognition unit 13 recognizes the position of the marker using input image data captured by the camera. The coordinates of the coin identification position 32 may be set and stored in the storage unit 30 automatically.

In step S3, the storage distribution position for each coin is set, and the position coordinates are stored in the storage unit 30 as the storage distribution position 31 of each coin.
The storage allocation position 31 may also be set by a person in charge before shipping the device.
Alternatively, a predetermined marker is previously added to each storage distribution position, and the image recognition unit 13 recognizes the position of the marker using input image data captured by the camera. The coordinates of each storage distribution position 31 may be set and stored in the storage unit 30 automatically.

Note that the coin determination information 33 shown in FIG. 2C, which is a reference image for identifying each coin, is stored in advance in the storage unit 30 before shipping.
As described above, information to be stored in advance such as coin determination information is received from a server or the like that has a communication unit (not shown) and stores information to be set in advance via a network such as the Internet. You may make it do.

In step S4, the coin insertion detection unit 18 performs a coin insertion detection process.
Here, it is checked whether or not a coin has been inserted into the coin insertion slot 21.
If it is detected in step S5 that a coin has been inserted, the process proceeds to step S6, and if not, the process returns to step S4.
In step S <b> 6, the coin transport unit 17 starts the transport process of the inserted coins.
The inserted coin passes through a predetermined route, is guided to the first point of the conveyance path, and is mounted on the conveyance belt.
For example, when it is detected by an optical sensor that the coin is mounted on the transport belt, the control unit 11 starts the operation of the transport belt 17.
The operation of the conveyor belt 17 is also performed when the processes after step S7 are being executed. In addition, when the inserted coins are stored in a predetermined storage or are discharged from the discharge port, a series of processing for the inserted coins has been completed, and therefore, after a certain time has elapsed, the conveyor belt Stop the operation.

In step S <b> 7, the control unit 11 inputs image data captured by the camera 12 and stores the input image data 34 in the storage unit 30.
In step S <b> 8, the image recognition unit 13 uses the input image data 34 to check whether or not a coin exists at the coin identification position 32 stored in the storage unit 30.
If there is a coin, the process proceeds to step S9, and if not, the process returns to step S7.
However, as described above, the coin conveyance process is continuously performed, and when a plurality of coins are inserted, other processes may be performed in parallel.

In step S <b> 9, the image recognition unit 13 cuts out the image at the coin recognition position 32 from the input image data 34 and acquires an image for identification.
In step S10, the coin identifying unit 14 performs a coin identifying process.
Here, the type of coin existing at the coin identification position 32 is identified. Details of the coin identification process are shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In step S11, using the information on the current position of the coin detected by the coin position detection unit 14, the coin arrival determination unit 16 performs a coin distribution process.
In the coin distribution process, mainly, a process of storing the coins whose types have been identified in a predetermined storage is performed.
Details of the coin distribution process are shown in the flowchart of FIG.

In step S12, a timer T for setting the timing for stopping the conveyance process is initialized and started.
However, this step of setting the timer T may be omitted when the transfer process is stopped immediately after the process of sorting the inserted coins is completed.
In step S13, coin insertion detection processing is performed as in step S4.
If a new coin is inserted in step S14, the process returns to step S7, and the above identification and distribution process is repeated.
If no coin has been inserted, the process proceeds to step S15 to check whether or not the set time of the timer T has elapsed.
If the set time has not elapsed, the process returns to step S13. When the set time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S16, and it is assumed that no new coins are inserted, and the coin transport unit 17 stops the operation of the transport belt and stops the coin transport process. Then, it returns to step S4.

(Coin identification process)
FIG. 10 shows a flowchart of one embodiment of the coin identifying process shown in step S10 of FIG.
Here, the type of the coin at the coin identification position 32 is mainly determined.
In step S21, the image for identifying the coin identifying position 32 acquired in step S9 is compared with the reference image 33 for each coin stored in advance in the storage unit 30.
In this comparison, for example, the shape, color, size, pattern, and the like of the objects included in both images are examined to calculate the coincidence, and it is checked whether the coincidence is greater than a predetermined threshold value.
If the degree of coincidence is greater than a predetermined threshold, it is determined that the acquired image matches the reference image, and the type of coins inserted is determined as the type associated with the matching reference image.

In step S22, as a result of the comparison, if the acquired image matches the one-circle reference image among the reference images 33 stored in the storage unit, the process proceeds to step S23. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S24. .
In step S23, information indicating 1 yen is stored as the input coin information 35, the coordinates (x0, y0) of the coin identification position 32 are stored in the current position, and the coin identification process is terminated.

In step S24, if the acquired image matches the five-circle reference image 33, the process proceeds to step S25, and if not, the process proceeds to step S26.
In step S25, information indicating 5 yen is stored as the input coin information 35, the coordinates (x0, y0) of the coin identification position 32 are stored in the current position, and the coin identification process is terminated.
Hereinafter, in steps S26, S28, S30, and S32, when the acquired image matches the reference image 33 of 10, 50, 100, and 500 yen, the process proceeds to steps S27, S29, S31, and S33.
In these steps, as coin input information 35, information indicating 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen and 500 yen is stored in the type, and the coordinates (x0, y0) of the coin identification position 32 are stored in the current position. Then, the coin identification process is terminated.

If the acquired image does not match the 500 yen reference image 33 in step S32, the process proceeds to step S34. In this case, since the coin included in the acquired image did not match any of the reference images set in advance as an identifiable coin, the inserted coin is a fake coin or an unidentifiable coin. It is determined as (undecided).
In step S34, as input coin information 35, information indicating a fake coin (or undetermined) is stored in the type, and the coordinates (x0, y0) of the coin identification position 32 are stored in the current position, and the coin identification process is performed. finish.
As described above, using the input image data 34, the type of the coin that has been conveyed to the coin identification position 32 is identified, and the current position of the coin is stored as the coin identification position (x0, y0). .

(Coin distribution processing)
FIG. 11 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of the coin distribution process shown in step S11 of FIG.
Here, for each identified type, a process of storing the inserted coins in a storage corresponding to the type is performed.
In step S41, the type in the information stored in the input coin information 35 is read.
When a plurality of input coin information is stored in the input coin information 35, the processing from step S41 onward is repeated for each stored input coin information. Alternatively, the sorting process is executed in parallel until each coin is stored in the storage for each type of inserted coin.

In step S42, if the read type is a false coin (or undetermined), the process proceeds to step S43, and if not, the process proceeds to step S47.
In step S43, image data photographed by the camera 12 is input.
Since the coins identified as fake coins are still conveyed after the identification, they have moved to a position farther than the current position stored in the inserted coin information 35.
Therefore, the latest current position of the false coin is acquired from the newly captured input image data 34. The acquired current position is overwritten and stored in the current position of the inserted coin information 35.
In step S44, the latest current position acquired by the false coin is compared with the outlet distribution position 54b stored in advance in the storage distribution position 31.

In step S45, it is checked whether or not the false coin has arrived at the discharge port distribution position 54b.
Here, it is checked whether or not the coordinates of the current position of the false coin substantially coincide with the coordinates of the outlet allocation position. If the two coincide, the false coin arrives at the outlet allocation position 54b. Judge that
If the fake coin has arrived at the discharge port distribution position 54b, the process proceeds to step S46. Otherwise, the process returns to step S43, and the position comparison process as described above is repeated.
In step S46, the discharge lid 54a of the discharge port is opened for a predetermined time Ta.
Here, it is assumed that the fixed time Ta is set to be longer than the time taken for the fake coins being transported to be transported from the discharge port sorting position 54b to the position of the discharge lid 54a.

Until the fixed time Ta elapses, the false coin is moved to the position of the discharge port 54, falls to the discharge port 54, and is discharged from the discharge port 54.
After this fixed time has elapsed, the discharge lid 54a of the discharge port is closed.
After step S46, the process ends.

In step S47, if the type of the read input coin information 35 is checked, if the type is 1 yen, the process proceeds to step S48, and if not, the process proceeds to step S49.
In step S48, 1 is set in the variable X indicating the type of coin, and then the process proceeds to step S59.
In step S59, an X-yen coin storage process is executed. Since X = 1, in this case, a 1-yen coin storage process is executed.
Details of the X-yen coin storage process are shown in FIG.
In addition to 1, one of 5, 10, 50, 100, and 500 is set as the variable X indicating the type of coin.

In step S49, if the type of the read coin information 35 is 5 yen, the process proceeds to step S50, and if not, the process proceeds to step S51.
In step S50, after setting 5 to the variable X indicating the type of coins, the process proceeds to step S59. In this case, in step S59, a 5-yen coin storage process is executed.

Further, when the types of the input coin information 35 read out in steps S51, S53, S55, and S57 are 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen, and 500 yen, respectively, the process proceeds to steps S52, S54, S56, and S58. , Set the variable X to 10, 50, 100 and 500, respectively.
Here, a numerical value corresponding to the read type is set in the variable X indicating the type of coin.
After the variable X is set, in step S59, the X-yen coin storage process shown in FIG. 12 is executed.
In the X-yen coin storage process, the input image data 34 taken by the camera is used, and the X-yen storage cover is used when the current position of the coin identified as the X-yen substantially matches the storage distribution position of the X-yen. Is opened, and the conveyed X-yen coin is stored in the corresponding storage.

(X Yen coin storage processing)
FIG. 12 shows a flowchart of an embodiment of the X-yen coin storage process shown in step S59 of FIG.
Here, the X variable X means the coin type set in the flowchart of FIG.
In step S71, image data photographed by the camera 12 is input. The coordinates of the current position of the X yen coin are acquired using the input image data.
In step S72, the acquired current position is compared with the storage distribution position 31 of the X circle stored in advance in the storage unit 30, and it is checked whether or not both positions substantially match. When both positions substantially coincide, it is determined that the X-yen coin has arrived at the X-yen allocation position.
If it is determined in step S73 that the X-yen coin has arrived at the X-yen allocation position, the process proceeds to step S74. If not, the process returns to step S71, and the current position of the X yen coin is newly acquired again, and it is checked whether or not the X yen coin has arrived at the storage distribution position 31 of the X yen.

In step S74, processing for storing the X-yen coins in the corresponding storage is performed. That is, the X circle storage lid immediately after the X circle distribution position is opened. For example, if the variable X is 100, the 100 yen storage lid is opened.
Since the X-yen coin is transported in the transport direction by the transport belt, the X-yen coin is dropped and stored in the storage with the storage lid opened.
In step S75, after a predetermined time Tb has elapsed, the X-circle storage lid is closed, and the process is terminated.
Here, the fixed time Tb is set to a time longer than the time taken for the X-yen coin to travel from the storage distribution position of the X-yen to the storage lid.
With the above processing, the current position of the X-yen coin being transferred is always acquired by one camera, so the current position of the X-yen coin is immediately before the X-yen coin storage. When the storage allocation position is substantially coincident, the X-yen coins being conveyed can be stored in the corresponding storage by opening the storage lid on the storage of the X-yen coins.

<Other embodiments>
(Third embodiment: other identification target)
In the above embodiment, six types of Japanese coins have been described as identification targets, but the present invention is not limited to this.
For example, coins from other countries, coins used only at specific stores, play coins, and the like may be used as identification targets.
In addition to coins, the identification target may be a bill, a gift certificate, or a ticket, or an object whose type can be identified by image data captured by a camera. The present invention can also be used for an apparatus that distinguishes a non-defective product from a non-defective product for a certain product according to the appearance. Further, the present invention can be applied to a device that reads and sorts specific information on a conveyed object. An apparatus may be used.

(Fourth embodiment: other transport paths)
In the said Example, although the linear conveyance path was demonstrated as a conveyance path which conveys a coin, in the range image | photographed with one camera, a coin identification position, each storage, and each storage distribution position And is not limited to a straight line.
In addition to the straight conveyance path, for example, a U-shaped conveyance path or a vertical conveyance path may be used.

(Fifth embodiment: other camera arrangement)
In the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 and the like, the camera 12 is arranged above the conveyance path and the predetermined conveyance path is photographed. However, the present invention is not limited to this.
What is necessary is just to attach a camera so that the range of the conveyance path containing a coin identification position and each storage and storage distribution position can be image | photographed.
As a position where the camera is attached, for example, the camera may be attached to a position such as a central portion of the conveyance path or a lower portion of the conveyance path.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Control part, 12 Image | photographing part, 13 Image recognition part, 14 Coin identification part, 15 Coin position detection part, 16 Coin arrival determination part, 17 Coin conveyance part, 18 Coin insertion detection part, 19 Storage control part, 21 Coin insertion part , 22 storage lid, 23 storage, 30 storage unit, 31 storage distribution position, 32 coin identification position, 33 coin determination information (reference image), 34 input image data, 35 input coin information

Claims (6)

A coin transport unit that guides the inserted coins to a predetermined transport path and moves on the transport path; and
A plurality of storage bins arranged at different positions on the transport path for each of a plurality of coin types, and pre-corresponding to the coin types;
A photographing unit for photographing the conveyance path including the position of the storage;
Using the image data of the photographed conveyance path, a coin identifying unit that identifies the type of coins conveyed to a predetermined position on the conveyance path;
A coin position detection unit that detects a current position of the coin whose type is identified, using image data of the photographed conveyance path,
Based on the detected current position of the coin, when it is confirmed that the inserted coin has moved to the storage location associated with the identified coin type, the inserted coin An apparatus for storing and identifying coins, comprising: a storage controller that stores coins in a storage associated with the type of the coins. A storage unit that stores in advance a reference image of a plurality of coins to be identified for each type of coin,
The coin identifying unit acquires an image of a coin transported to a predetermined position on the transport path from the image data of the captured transport path, and among the reference images of coins stored in advance in the storage unit, The coin identifying and storing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a coin type corresponding to a reference image that can coincide with the acquired coin image is determined as the type of the conveyed coin.   An openable and closable storage lid is provided on the storage, and the storage control unit stores the coin identified by the coin identification unit in the first storage associated with the type. The coin identification storage device according to claim 1, wherein the storage lid provided on the first storage is opened.   A plurality of storage allocation positions for determining arrival of coins of the type associated with each storage are provided on the transport path and upstream of the position of each storage, and the coin position When the detection unit detects that the current position of the conveyed coin is in one of the storage distribution positions, the type of the transferred coin corresponds to the detected storage distribution position. 4. The coin identifying and storing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, when the type matches the type of storage, the storage control unit opens a storage lid provided on the first storage.   When the transport path is provided with a discharge port, and the coin identifying unit cannot identify the type of the inserted coin, the storage control unit transfers the coin whose type cannot be identified from the discharge port to the outside. The coin identification storage device according to claim 1, wherein the coin identification storage device is discharged.   The imaging unit is composed of a single camera, and is arranged at a position where the conveyance path including a predetermined position for identifying the type of coin and the positions of the plurality of storages can be imaged. The coin identifying and storing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images