Abstract: In a sheet separating apparatus, for example an automated teller machine (ATM) in which banknotes are removed one by one from a stack (12) of banknotes, includes a vacuum pump (32), and suction unit (10A,B,C,D) connectable alternately between a vacuum enable port (30) of the vacuum pump (32) when a note is picked from the stack (12), and a vacuum release port (42) of the pump (32), when the note is released from the suction unit. Pre-filtered air from the vacuum pump (32) is therefore partially recycled, and dust is substantially excluded from the system.

Abstract: An envelope dispensing module (10) for use in an ATM includes feed belts (26) for feeding the lowermost envelope (18') of a stack of envelopes (18) along a feed path (49) towards an exit slot (50). Pulse generating apparatus (54) includes a roller (62) which is urged into engagement with the underside of the lowermost envelope (18') as this envelope (18') is fed along the feed path (49). During such feeding movement, a sensor (68) associated with a timing disc (64) mounted for rotation with the roller (62) generates a series of timing pulses in response to rotation of the roller (62) due to its engagement with the lowermost envelope (18'). Electronic control circuitry is arranged to stop the feed belts (26) with the lowermost envelope (18') in its correctly presented position at the exit slot (50) in response to the control circuitry counting a predetermined number of timing pulses subsequent to the sensing of the leading edge of this envelope (18') by an exit sensor (78) positioned behind the exit slot (50).