Abstract: A method and apparatus of reading bank notes is provided comprising storing signals in a memory. The imaging apparatus for scanning a stationary banknote includes a stationary light source, mirror, charge coupled device (CCD), and lens. The method corresponding to at least a portion of an array of pixels defined by a printed pattern on the face of a bank note, raster scanning the face of the bank note with a charge coupled device (CCD) to obtain a serial signal representing the pattern, searching the memory for the serial signal, comparing the serial signal with the stored signals, and indicating the correct presence of the bank note in the event the comparison correlates to a predetermined degree.

Abstract: An optical sensor comprising an optical fiber having a core covered by a cladding, the cladding having an index of refraction different from that of the core, apparatus for retaining the fiber in a sinuously looped disposition, apparatus for fixing the fiber to an object to be sensed whereby movement to be sensed results in one or both of accordion expansion and contraction of loops of the fiber and microbending of the fiber, apparatus for applying a first optical signal into one end of the fiber, apparatus for detecting a resulting optical signal from the other end of the fiber, and apparatus for comparing the first and resulting optical signals to obtain an indication of the movement.