Abstract: A method of creating a classifier for media validation is described. Information from all of a set of training images from genuine media items is used to form a segmentation map which is then used to segment each of the training set images. Features are extracted from the segments and used to form a classifier which is preferably a one-class statistical classifier. Classifiers can be quickly and simply formed, for example when the media is a banknote for different currencies and denominations in this way and without the need for examples of counterfeit banknotes. A media validator using such a classifier is described as well as a method of validating a banknote using such a classifier. In a preferred embodiment a plurality of segmentation maps are formed, having different numbers of segments.

Abstract: A self-service terminal comprises a pc core; at least one module coupled to the pc core; a control application executing on the pc core for controlling the operation of the terminal; and a management application executing on the pc core. The management application is arranged to (i) monitor state of health of the pc core, the control application, and the at least one module, (ii) detect a fault state at any of the pc core, the control application, and the at least one module, (iii) monitor the control application to ascertain if a filter criterion is satisfied, and (iv) transmit a fault signal from the terminal only if the filter criterion is not satisfied.

Abstract: A dual-stack document storage bin comprises a substantially U-shaped container including a first bottom wall which interconnects first and second sidewalls to provide (i) the substantially U-shape, and (ii) a first document storage chamber which is defined between the first and second sidewalls and into which documents can be stacked to form a first stack of documents when the U-shaped container is in a first position. The dual-stack document storage bin further comprises a substantially L-shaped housing including a second bottom wall and a third sidewall which is disposed relative to the second bottom wall to provide (i) the substantially L-shape, and (ii) a second document storage chamber which is defined between the third side wall and the second sidewall and into which documents can be stacked to form a second stack of documents when the U-shaped container is in a second position which is different from the first position.

Abstract: An RFID or NFC reader is associated via a data link with a tag module such that when the reader transmits an interrogation signal the tag module responds with a random, or constrained random, information signal. The information signal masks a signal transmitted by an RFID or NFC tag which the reader is interrogating, making fraudulently obtaining details contained in the tag transmission more difficult.

Abstract: A item checkout device and weigh plate with improved electromagnetic field performance. The item checkout device includes a housing, an electromagnetic field generator in the housing, a barcode reader in the housing, a scale assembly in the housing, and the weigh plate. The weigh plate is supported by the scale assembly and includes a non-metallic planar section located over the electromagnetic field generator and having a top surface resistant to damage and substantially transparent to an electromagnetic field from the electromagnetic field generator, and a window coplanar with the non-metallic planar section and located over the barcode reader.

Abstract: A secure tag coding method and device. The method comprises: providing a first type of secure tag having a first luminescence profile to indicate a first level code; providing a second type of secure tag having a second luminescence profile different from the first luminescence profile to indicate a second level code; mixing secure tags of the first type with secure tags of the second type in a predetermined ratio so that excitation of the mixed secure tags produces a composite of the first luminescence profile and the second luminescence profile, from which composite a multi-level code can be ascertained; and applying the mixture of first and second types of secure tags to a substrate. The substrate carrying this secure tag coding arrangement provides multi-level codes. The device for selecting and applying the secure tag coding arrangement to the substrate is also described.

Abstract: A dual-aperture barcode scanner with tether-free housing. The scanner includes vertical portion including switches and a housing adjacent to but separated from the switches.

Abstract: A mirrored spinner with paired offset facets for scattering a laser beam. The mirrored spinner includes a first number of mirrored facets, including a second number of pairs of offset mirrored facets.

Abstract: A method of remotely controlling a user interface which includes peer-peer client/server software modules that allow the user interface on a host computer to be displayed by a remote terminal.

Abstract: A method of producing a coated optical element which uses in-mold decoration (IMG) techniques. The method includes injection molding an element adjacent a coating of a preform sheet, whereby the coating transfers to the element to create the optical element.

Abstract: A media stacker unit comprises: (i) at least one stacker wheel and (ii) a detent. The stacker wheel includes: a hub for mounting on an axle, and a plurality of arcuate tines, each tine being coupled to the hub at a hub end and extending transverse to the axle to a point radially spaced from the axle at a capture end. When the stacker wheel is rotated about the axle, the capture ends traverse a capture circumference. Each tine further comprises a resilient tine portion. The detent partially extends within the capture circumference for engaging with and temporarily retarding a capture end as the stacker wheel is rotated. This reduces the time during which that capture end blocks a media transport path, thereby reducing the possibility of a media item colliding with a capture end and jamming the media stacker unit.

Abstract: A printer with debris control apparatus which minimizes printer fouling. The printer includes a print head for printing on media, a platen having a side for feeding the media along a path past the print head, and debris control member in contact with the media.

Abstract: A self service terminal having a slot; at least one shutter for selectively opening and closing the slot and a gear drive for moving the shutter between open and closed positions, the gear drive having a first gear that interacts with a second gear, at least one of the first and second gears defining a stop that is engagable with the other of the first and second gears to stop or prevent non-gear driven movement of the shutter.

Abstract: A method of detecting attempted fraud at a self-service terminal. The method involves providing a classifier having a plurality of input zones, each input zone being adapted to receive data of a different modality. The classifier may be a statistical model. The method also involves mapping inputs from a plurality of sensors in the self-service terminal to respective input zones of the classifier. For each input zone, the classifier independently operates on inputs within that zone to create a weighted set; combines the weighted sets using a dedicated weighting function for each weighted set to produce a composite set; and derives a plurality of class values from the composite set to create a classification result. The classification result can be used to predict the probability of abnormal operation, which may be indicative of fraud.

Abstract: A self-service checkout system which continues operation when cash transaction options are not available. The self-service checkout system includes a cash dispenser, a display for displaying payment options, an input device for recording selection of payment options, including cash and non-cash transaction options, and a processor for disabling the cash transaction options when an amount of cash in the cash dispenser falls below a predetermined limit, but for otherwise continuing operation by allowing the non-cash transaction options.

Abstract: It is difficult to provide a mechanism that is able to verify electronic signatures of different types in a simple and cost-effective manner. This is achieved by using a signature verification engine with an interface enabling signature modules to be removably plugged in. Each signature module has information about a particular signature type and functionality for verifying signatures of that type. The signature verification engine receives requests to verify signatures. It identifies a suitable signature module and works with that module to verify the signature. An enterprise who acquires equipment incorporating the signature verification engine is able to plug in its own signature module giving versatility whilst retaining security.