Secure currency stacker box and apparatus incorporating the same

Abstract

Apparatus for validating paper currency banknotes and for forming a stack of such banknotes for removal from the apparatus. The apparatus includes a removable stacker box, a note acceptor for validating a paper currency banknote inserted in the apparatus, a transport mechanism for carrying the validated banknote to the stacker box, and a drive assembly including a motor and a pusher rod coupled to the motor for reciprocation thereby. The currency stacker box is in the form of an enclosed housing containing a holding plate, a pair of carrier belts and associated guide members, and a pusher plate. The housing includes a first small access opening, and a narrow slot through which the banknotes are introduced edgewise for engagement by the carrier belts. The carrier belts carry the validated banknote in front of the pusher plate. The pusher rod is arranged to extend through the small access opening in the currency stacker box when the stacker box is mounted in the apparatus. When reciprocated by the motor the pusher rod engages the pusher plate to cause the pusher plate to push the banknote from the carrier belts onto a stack on the holding plate. When the currency stacker box is full of validated banknotes it may be removed from the apparatus by operating a latching mechanism, leaving the pusher rod connected to the apparatus. A lockable door is provided on the stacker box to provide access to the banknotes stored therein.