CA2264473A1 - Atm control system and method - Google Patents
Atm control system and method Download PDFInfo
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- CA2264473A1 CA2264473A1 CA 2264473 CA2264473A CA2264473A1 CA 2264473 A1 CA2264473 A1 CA 2264473A1 CA 2264473 CA2264473 CA 2264473 CA 2264473 A CA2264473 A CA 2264473A CA 2264473 A1 CA2264473 A1 CA 2264473A1
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Abstract
A computerized control system and method is disclosed for operating a plurality of ATM's that may include hundreds or thousands of ATM's operating over a wide area in different cities and states. The computer program of the present invention keeps track of the numerous entities, terminal data, and transaction data associated with each ATM
in the system and provides for communications to these different entities to thereby efficiently control operation of each ATM. Entities tracked for each ATM
include funding bank, receiving bank, armored car service armored car service substation, owner, distributor, vault cash insurance provider, damage insurance provider, monitoring personnel and other contacts. The system automates communications between such entities and can communicate reports, cash orders, and shipping manifests by e-mail and by fax at selected times and dates. The system controls ATM transition events in an orderly manner such as changes of terminal ID, terminal location, ownership, funding banks, processors, and so forth. The control system analyzes cash transaction histories for each ATM and projects cash needed to allow the ATM to dispense cash for a specified period without holding excessive cash. The forecasted cash needs may be selectively used and transmitted at selectable tunes and by various means including facsimile as cash orders or shipping manifests to vendors such as the finding bank, armored car service, and armored car service substation.
in the system and provides for communications to these different entities to thereby efficiently control operation of each ATM. Entities tracked for each ATM
include funding bank, receiving bank, armored car service armored car service substation, owner, distributor, vault cash insurance provider, damage insurance provider, monitoring personnel and other contacts. The system automates communications between such entities and can communicate reports, cash orders, and shipping manifests by e-mail and by fax at selected times and dates. The system controls ATM transition events in an orderly manner such as changes of terminal ID, terminal location, ownership, funding banks, processors, and so forth. The control system analyzes cash transaction histories for each ATM and projects cash needed to allow the ATM to dispense cash for a specified period without holding excessive cash. The forecasted cash needs may be selectively used and transmitted at selectable tunes and by various means including facsimile as cash orders or shipping manifests to vendors such as the finding bank, armored car service, and armored car service substation.
Description
ATM CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
S 1. Field of the Invent ion The present isivention relates generally to automated transaction machines and, more particularly, to a computerized control system and method for controlling a plurality of automated transaction machines.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
S 1. Field of the Invent ion The present isivention relates generally to automated transaction machines and, more particularly, to a computerized control system and method for controlling a plurality of automated transaction machines.
2. Description of the Background Automated transaction machines (ATM's ) are found ubiquitously throughout the United States and other countries. With the present large numbers of such machines in oper,ition, and with each machine having numerous operation requit~ements, problems arc encountered i11 attempting to operate each machine efficiently and profitably.
An efficient control system to monitor hundreds or thousands of ATM's that may be located over a wide area spread out over different cities and states should preferably provide coordination with the many activities, contacts, service providers, and management personnel required to successfully operate each machine. Each ATM at each individual location in the system may conceivably have its own unique set of vendors, owners, distributors, and the like. ATM's to be monitored could be owned and serviced by many different entities. Thus, each ATM could conceivably have a dil-ferent cash supplier bank, receiving bank) and armored courier service. The owner of the ATM may or may not employ a distributor/operator to place ATM's in various stores, locations, and outlets.
In the system of ATM's, the individual ATM's may be bought and sold so that a control system should preferably also efficiently handle changes of locations, owners, operators, and service providers, as well as identification numbers used or required by service providers for each machine. A system should preferably coordinate control and setup of the maclune during interim periods of change so that time required to place the machine in operation, even when various service providers will change in the future, is minimized.
Day-to-day operations, such as control over vault cash of the ATM, should be regularly monitored and adjusted as necessary for each individual machine in the ATM
system so that preferably neither too much nor too little cash is in each machine. This is necessary to provide a good return on the vault cash in each machine and a good return on the collective cash in a system of ATM's. Furthermore, the designated providers and trznsporters of vault cash, which may be one or more sources for each different machine, should each be contacted in ample time with accurate instructions for the particular I11aC1llIle.
Transaction data for each machine, which machines may use different processors, should preferably be updated and stored on a regular basis and a history of operation maintained. Preferably, a history should include many factors, any one of which may be particularly pertinent to profitability for the particular machine. The history should preferably include, but not be limited to, such factors as ownership or relocation of the machines that occur to determine improvements of system profitability. A
history of each machine may be desirable to monitor profitability of each machine as well as profitability of the system of machines. To monitor profitability of the system of ATM's may require reviewing results from different perspectives, including filter factors such as location, types of location businesses, cities, ZIP codes, distributors, operators, and the like. Thus, I S an analysis should be available for filters based on such factors.
Furthermore, persons responsible for analysis should be notified when the information is available and be provided with the desired filtered data in a timely manner.
It will be appreciated that control of a system of ATM's requires coordination and communication of many facts, many people, and many service providers of various types, from the different types of insurers as to the various possible liabilities associated with ATM operation to the local substation of the armored car service that dispenses the vault cash in a partic~~lar ATM terminal. To maintain profitability, such communications have to be quickly and timely made to the correct entities. Otherwise, operation of the system will require excessive time and cost, greatly reducing profitability. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the present invention, which addresses these and other problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The control system and method of the present invention may be used to effectively control a system of ATM's that may include a large and/or changing number of machines located over a wide area. An extensive database is maintained for each machine that includes not only transaction histories and other data related to profitability) bia also operational data for normal operation and for contingencies that could otherwise require excessive labor time. In other words, the control system coordinates a complex operation of a large number of machines and the entities required to operate cacti individual maclaii:e. The system is capable of generating fax messages and e-mail to send those entities the necessary instructions, reports, and other data.
A computer method is provided for controlling a plurality of ATM's. The actions taken by the computer program normally comprise recording cash transactions in each of the plurality of ATM's over time. The vault cash needed for each of the plurality ATM's is projected for a selected time period based on the recorded cash transactions.
One or more respective vault cash suppliers is located for each of the plurality of ATM's from a database of information, and appropriate contacts are made for each of the plurality of ATM's to provide instructions regarding vault cash to be supplied to each ATM. The method further comprises contacting the one or more respective vault cash suppliers through an Internet connection.
A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for computerized projection of vault cash requirements for each ATM. The projecting of vault cash presently preferably comprises a statistical least squared projection technique. An appropriate owner or operator for the system may display the computer projected vault cash on a form for review, and the method permits input from the operator for changing the projected vault cash in any machine in the system and/or instructions to the one or more respective vault cash suppliers. The one or more vault cash suppliers may comprise an armored car service and a funding bank for each specific ATM in the system of ATM's. The computer program may selectively fax reports regarding cash transactions to the vault cash suppliers or other entities. Input screens are available to enter information about new ATM's. The initial cash inputs to be supplied are stored from data entered through the input screens. Appropriate personnel can approve and change or set dates of money trlnsfers for the funding banks and armored couriers.
The computerized control system records cash transactions in each of the plurality of ATM's over time to form a historical record of transactions for each ATM. A
data base is maintained for each of the plurality of ATM's regarding entities to be contacted concerning the historical record of transactions for each of the plurality of ATM's. A
plurality of selectable communications may be generated regarding the historical record o~ transactions for each ATM. The system also allows a user to electronically transmit one or more selected communications to the appropriate entities associated with each of tl:e plurality of ATM's for analysis, monitoring, or other purposes. Onc communication may include coordinating cash delivery time to each of the plurality of ATM's with respect to provider banks and armored couriers. Other communications include zero trmsaction or low transaction reports for each of the plurality of ATM's to the appropriate group of entities associated with each of the plurality of ATM's. Daily transaction reports fc~ r each of the plurality of ATM's are collected and may also be transmitted to the appropriate entity associated with each ATM.
The system stores a large amount of data for efficient operation and makes the data readily available to authorized users. The system allows for all the various changes that occur) such as the purchase and sale of an ATM. Information about a first ATM
owner information for each of the plurality of ATM's may lie stored. A.s well, information about a second owner may be also stored if the ATM should change ownership. Supplier banks for respective of the plurality of ATM's may change.
Information and changes concerning armored courier service for respective of the plurality of ATM's is stored. Transaction data for each of the plurality of ATM's may be programmably transmitted at selected times to the one or more contact entities that receive reports concernvy the transaction data. Information is stored regarding any movement of each of the plurality of ATM's from a first ATM location to a second ATM
location. Intialization information for each ATM is also stored when the ATM
is moved to the second ATM location. Initialization information may include ATM
identification numbers and subsequent ATM identification numbers to take effect at a future date. The method allows a user to select to manually make a change in the ATM
identification number effective for such factors as relating the new ATM number to the stored transaction data.
The computerized system provides and sends reports based on filters relating to the stored information. The filters include such factors as ATM location, type of business at ATM location, and the amount of transactions far a selected period. Many other details of operation are stored, including, for instance, the storing of one or more types of insurance information for contingencies related to each of the plurality of ATM's.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a control system for operating a Plurality of ATM's.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a system that reliably communicates with the many various entities that are involved in operating any one of a plurality of ATM's.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a control system that coordinates the process of predicting necessary vault cash accurately to improve profitability of operation.
A feature of the present invention is the ability to programmably contact provider banks and armored courier services for providing vault cash for a plurality of ATM's.
A feature of the present invention is use of a technique for predicting vault cash to maintain the amount of cash sufficient for reliable operation but not so high to unnecessarily lose the interest value of the cash.
Another feature of the present invention is an Internet connection that may be used to transmit e-mail to the entities involved in operating each ATM or the system of ATM's.
An advu~tage of the present invention is a more efficient operation of a plurality of ATM's.
These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the drawings, the descriptions given herein, and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a system overview for controlling a plurality of ATM's in accord with the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a computer control for operating a plurality of ATM's in accord with the present invention;
An efficient control system to monitor hundreds or thousands of ATM's that may be located over a wide area spread out over different cities and states should preferably provide coordination with the many activities, contacts, service providers, and management personnel required to successfully operate each machine. Each ATM at each individual location in the system may conceivably have its own unique set of vendors, owners, distributors, and the like. ATM's to be monitored could be owned and serviced by many different entities. Thus, each ATM could conceivably have a dil-ferent cash supplier bank, receiving bank) and armored courier service. The owner of the ATM may or may not employ a distributor/operator to place ATM's in various stores, locations, and outlets.
In the system of ATM's, the individual ATM's may be bought and sold so that a control system should preferably also efficiently handle changes of locations, owners, operators, and service providers, as well as identification numbers used or required by service providers for each machine. A system should preferably coordinate control and setup of the maclune during interim periods of change so that time required to place the machine in operation, even when various service providers will change in the future, is minimized.
Day-to-day operations, such as control over vault cash of the ATM, should be regularly monitored and adjusted as necessary for each individual machine in the ATM
system so that preferably neither too much nor too little cash is in each machine. This is necessary to provide a good return on the vault cash in each machine and a good return on the collective cash in a system of ATM's. Furthermore, the designated providers and trznsporters of vault cash, which may be one or more sources for each different machine, should each be contacted in ample time with accurate instructions for the particular I11aC1llIle.
Transaction data for each machine, which machines may use different processors, should preferably be updated and stored on a regular basis and a history of operation maintained. Preferably, a history should include many factors, any one of which may be particularly pertinent to profitability for the particular machine. The history should preferably include, but not be limited to, such factors as ownership or relocation of the machines that occur to determine improvements of system profitability. A
history of each machine may be desirable to monitor profitability of each machine as well as profitability of the system of machines. To monitor profitability of the system of ATM's may require reviewing results from different perspectives, including filter factors such as location, types of location businesses, cities, ZIP codes, distributors, operators, and the like. Thus, I S an analysis should be available for filters based on such factors.
Furthermore, persons responsible for analysis should be notified when the information is available and be provided with the desired filtered data in a timely manner.
It will be appreciated that control of a system of ATM's requires coordination and communication of many facts, many people, and many service providers of various types, from the different types of insurers as to the various possible liabilities associated with ATM operation to the local substation of the armored car service that dispenses the vault cash in a partic~~lar ATM terminal. To maintain profitability, such communications have to be quickly and timely made to the correct entities. Otherwise, operation of the system will require excessive time and cost, greatly reducing profitability. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the present invention, which addresses these and other problems.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The control system and method of the present invention may be used to effectively control a system of ATM's that may include a large and/or changing number of machines located over a wide area. An extensive database is maintained for each machine that includes not only transaction histories and other data related to profitability) bia also operational data for normal operation and for contingencies that could otherwise require excessive labor time. In other words, the control system coordinates a complex operation of a large number of machines and the entities required to operate cacti individual maclaii:e. The system is capable of generating fax messages and e-mail to send those entities the necessary instructions, reports, and other data.
A computer method is provided for controlling a plurality of ATM's. The actions taken by the computer program normally comprise recording cash transactions in each of the plurality of ATM's over time. The vault cash needed for each of the plurality ATM's is projected for a selected time period based on the recorded cash transactions.
One or more respective vault cash suppliers is located for each of the plurality of ATM's from a database of information, and appropriate contacts are made for each of the plurality of ATM's to provide instructions regarding vault cash to be supplied to each ATM. The method further comprises contacting the one or more respective vault cash suppliers through an Internet connection.
A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides for computerized projection of vault cash requirements for each ATM. The projecting of vault cash presently preferably comprises a statistical least squared projection technique. An appropriate owner or operator for the system may display the computer projected vault cash on a form for review, and the method permits input from the operator for changing the projected vault cash in any machine in the system and/or instructions to the one or more respective vault cash suppliers. The one or more vault cash suppliers may comprise an armored car service and a funding bank for each specific ATM in the system of ATM's. The computer program may selectively fax reports regarding cash transactions to the vault cash suppliers or other entities. Input screens are available to enter information about new ATM's. The initial cash inputs to be supplied are stored from data entered through the input screens. Appropriate personnel can approve and change or set dates of money trlnsfers for the funding banks and armored couriers.
The computerized control system records cash transactions in each of the plurality of ATM's over time to form a historical record of transactions for each ATM. A
data base is maintained for each of the plurality of ATM's regarding entities to be contacted concerning the historical record of transactions for each of the plurality of ATM's. A
plurality of selectable communications may be generated regarding the historical record o~ transactions for each ATM. The system also allows a user to electronically transmit one or more selected communications to the appropriate entities associated with each of tl:e plurality of ATM's for analysis, monitoring, or other purposes. Onc communication may include coordinating cash delivery time to each of the plurality of ATM's with respect to provider banks and armored couriers. Other communications include zero trmsaction or low transaction reports for each of the plurality of ATM's to the appropriate group of entities associated with each of the plurality of ATM's. Daily transaction reports fc~ r each of the plurality of ATM's are collected and may also be transmitted to the appropriate entity associated with each ATM.
The system stores a large amount of data for efficient operation and makes the data readily available to authorized users. The system allows for all the various changes that occur) such as the purchase and sale of an ATM. Information about a first ATM
owner information for each of the plurality of ATM's may lie stored. A.s well, information about a second owner may be also stored if the ATM should change ownership. Supplier banks for respective of the plurality of ATM's may change.
Information and changes concerning armored courier service for respective of the plurality of ATM's is stored. Transaction data for each of the plurality of ATM's may be programmably transmitted at selected times to the one or more contact entities that receive reports concernvy the transaction data. Information is stored regarding any movement of each of the plurality of ATM's from a first ATM location to a second ATM
location. Intialization information for each ATM is also stored when the ATM
is moved to the second ATM location. Initialization information may include ATM
identification numbers and subsequent ATM identification numbers to take effect at a future date. The method allows a user to select to manually make a change in the ATM
identification number effective for such factors as relating the new ATM number to the stored transaction data.
The computerized system provides and sends reports based on filters relating to the stored information. The filters include such factors as ATM location, type of business at ATM location, and the amount of transactions far a selected period. Many other details of operation are stored, including, for instance, the storing of one or more types of insurance information for contingencies related to each of the plurality of ATM's.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a control system for operating a Plurality of ATM's.
It is another object of the present invention to provide a system that reliably communicates with the many various entities that are involved in operating any one of a plurality of ATM's.
It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a control system that coordinates the process of predicting necessary vault cash accurately to improve profitability of operation.
A feature of the present invention is the ability to programmably contact provider banks and armored courier services for providing vault cash for a plurality of ATM's.
A feature of the present invention is use of a technique for predicting vault cash to maintain the amount of cash sufficient for reliable operation but not so high to unnecessarily lose the interest value of the cash.
Another feature of the present invention is an Internet connection that may be used to transmit e-mail to the entities involved in operating each ATM or the system of ATM's.
An advu~tage of the present invention is a more efficient operation of a plurality of ATM's.
These and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the drawings, the descriptions given herein, and the appended claims.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a system overview for controlling a plurality of ATM's in accord with the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a computer control for operating a plurality of ATM's in accord with the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a computer control for vendor setup in operating a plurzlity of ATM's in accord with the present iilvcntion;
FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a computer control for vault cash management of a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a computer screen for use in various report generations related to a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a computer screen for use vi transaction report generation related to a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a computer screen for printing cash orders related to a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a computer screen related to ATM setup;
FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a computer screen related to miscellaneous activities; and FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a ATM screen related to changing ATM ID
numbers.
While the present invention will be described in connection with presently preferred embodiments) it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modii'lcations, and equivalents included within the spirit of the invention and as defined in the appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
With reference now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, an ATM
system 10 is shown very generally comprising a plurality of ATM's 12 that may include hundreds of ATM's located in various cities. A computerized control 14 that includes, among other components as discussed hereinafter) an ATM database 16 and a communication module 18, iS used to coordinate the numerous activities of each ATM
12 witl>in system 10. Data line 19 connects to each ATM to provide transaction data on a regular basis. The computerized control system is used to make various reports, money orders, contracts, shipping manifests, and the like that can be sent at selected times to vendors for controlling the necessary activities such as cash replenishment of ATM's 12 wherein each ATM at each individual location in the system may conceivably have its own unique set of vendors, owners, distributors, and the like.
More specifically, FIG. 2 discloses a main control module 20 for a control program in accord with the present invention. From the main screen 22, a user may select various modules to perform functions for controlling a plurality of ATM's.
For instance, with ATM setup module 24, various options are provided such as the following: entering new ATM information, finding the desired ATM for which to edit information, finding the desired ATM for which to view information, saving ATM
iilformation, exporting ATM data to clientele for use by the clientele and/or clientele software, and returnuig to the main menu. Each ATM has basic location information associated therewith. A computer screen with location information includes data such as the D.B.A. of the business at which it is located; the address, city, state, and ZIP code;
the manager's name, telephone, fax, and e-mail; the type of location and business hours;
and the weekly days of operation. As well, a screen or tab to a screen with owner information for each ATM would include data such as the owner's name, address, city) state, ZIP code, fiat, phone) contact, title of the contact, e-mail, federal tax ID, and state tax ID. The type of owner is available such as owned by the operator of the software of the present invention, a merchant-owned ATM, Bank ATM, a shared risk ATM) or management only type of ATM operator. A screen with distributor information such as name, representative, lead source, and referral data is included. More extensive _g_ distributor information is discussed hereinafter with respect to the distributor setup module. A screen related to equipment information may include chassis serial number, equipment pricing, customer P.O. number, ATM phone, installation date, warranty expiration elate, manufacturer) model IlllIllbCI', lock type, journal type, SO('lwai'C VC1'St011, connection capabilities, mechanism serial numbers, and cassette serial numbers. A
screen related to configuration information may include items such as the ATM
ID) FIID, m<~ster password, combination, admviistration password, the processor information, the master key, the cassettes including denomination and physical sizes, ATM
status information, iso block numbers, and the like.
FIG. 8 discloses a representative screen 26 relating to ATM information.
Screen 26 discloses several areas for information. For instance, ATM status is provided in region 28. Cassette information is provided in region 30. Protocol numbers are given in region 32.
Another screen or tab may disclose various accessories that preferably include installation fees, interior lighted sign, exterior lighted sign, marketing kit, freight, custom art charge) application fees, costs associated with the above) and the like.
Shipment information may be entered here relating to shipping of the ATM. A cash management screen or tab may include details as to who supplies or manages the vault cash. For instance, the owner may wish to manage the cash, or the control system operator may mal~age the owner's cash or supply the cash, or other entities may manage the vault cash.
The funding bank i<iformation may be entered here and may also tic available under vendor setup, as discussed hereinafter. Funding bank information may include the bank name; routing transit number; settlement accounting number; verification data;
mailing address, including city, state, ZIP code, and street address; actual location bank address, including city, state, and ZIP code, as well as contact information including name, e-mail, fax, and phone. Contract information may be included such as interest on the daily outstanding balance and/or other additional charges. Residual calculation information for a particular ATM may also be available for entering or editing its this module.
V~u-ious checks arc preferably implemented to insure that required information has been entered when setting up a new ATM.
_g_ Vendor setup module 34 of FIG. 1 is referenced again in FIG. 3) which discloses in schematic form aspects of the various vendors involved in the system of ATM's.
While all vendors are available for review, it will be noted that particular vendors are used for each ATM. Therefore, the control program of the present invention maintains the vendors and can relate the particular set of vendors for each ATM 12, as necessary.
As indicated previously, the owner or manager may provide vendors, and so the present invention also provides this information. Vendors include such services as the armored car service 36) as well as the armored car substation 38. Representative information screens for both armored car service 36 and armored car substation 38 would include items such as the respective names, addresses, city, state, ZIP code, phones, fax numbers, contacts, title of the contacts, e-mail, and emergency numbers, including cell numbers and pagers. Similar types of information would be shown on screens for fundin~settlement banks 40. Other than name, address, and contact information, which is shown for all vendors as discussed above, funding bank information includes I S additional information related to that vendor's function. Cash ordering protocols, such as whether orders arc taken by fax or by telephone and backup protocols, are provided.
Other items include routing transit numbers, vault cash insurance, setup fees, cash order listings, balancing, and the like. Phone service provider setup 42 preferably shows a screen or tab with information as to which phone companies are used with contacts, addresses, city, and so forth.
Receiving bank setup 44 includes screens that provide information about receiving banks used in the system. In addition to names, addresses, phones, etc., information also includes routing transit numbers, cash order protocols, repeat codes, auto-wiring phone numbers, and the like. Additional information may preferably include data such as account maintenance fees, totals of checks paid and checks deposited, cash deposited, encoding fees, armored car fees, deposits canceled, wire transfers incoming and outgoing, mail advice) return item handling, copies, fax service, duplicate statements, insufficient fund charges, change orders automated and call-in, deposit corrections, currency order strapped and non-strapped, and like data. ATM service setup 46 includes information about service providers for repairs for the ATM's due to malfunction.
Related to this information is that of ATM manufacturer setup 48, which includes the usual contact information as noted above, as well as information about the respective ATM's, including part numbers of various components, e.g., front-loading) single denomination) and dial-up cash dispenser. Related information would include the prices such as wholesae, retail, and distributor prices.
Other vendors would include insurance providers such as given or insertable under vault cash insurance setup 50 and physical damage insurance setup 52, which give contact names, costs) and the like associated information. All modules preferably include a return 54 to return to the main menu.
Vault cash management module 56 of FTG. 2 is disclosed in more detail in schematic form iii hTG. 4. Vault cash management module 56 is utilized to determine the amount of money to be wired everyday for ATM's 12 for given time periods. This module also preferably keeps track of and updates each ATM 12 balance. Module prints useful reports, some of wluch are faxed to the armored couriers and funding banks.
In addition, module 56 may send e-mail through a preferred Internet connection to concerned entities to inform them of various matters, e.g., periodically informing of money orders that are yet to be deposited into ATM's by armored couriers. This module, in the presently preferred embodiment, has six basic components including initial cash 58 for ordering initial cash typically for brand new ATM terminals. Other parts include daily money ordering selection 60, special cash order 62, ATM balancing update 64, reports/contracts 66, and money tracking 68.
Initial cash order 58 component allows the user to order money for brand new ATM terminals. Based on data regarding ATM's entered by the users, the control program of the present invention identifies brand new ATM terminals, displays them in a well-designed form, and allows the user to choose any number of them and enter the amount of money that will be deposited into them. The control program of the present invention also allows the user to store the money orders into text files. As well, the money orders arc saved into its database and update the daily balances.
Daily money ordering selection 60 allows the user to order money for ATM
terminals that are already in operation. Based on the transaction data of the ATM's, the control program of the present invention estimates or predicts how much money for each ATM is required to be deposited so that it will not run out of money until the next replenishment date as indicated by cash projection module 70. While it is believed novel to use a program to make such an estimate for a plurality of ATM's for cash management based on transaction data for each ATM, this estimate is important because it affects ATM operation as well as slow of money. It will be readily understood that it is undesirable to tie up excessive capital in an ATM whose history is not good.
On the other hand, it is not desirable to deposit too small an amount of money into an ATM, because it may run out of money before the next replenishment date, which in turn affects income from the machine.
Although the present invention may be implemented by other mathematical techniques, the presently preferred method of analyzing transaction history component 72 for each ATM uses a statistical least square method. The analysis predicts the date that cash will be depleted and/or the amount of money that might be withdrawn in any specified period. The program displays the results with sufficient iilformation in a well designed form for review by an authorized user via user input 74. The projection for vault cash preferably includes an additional cushion to account for unusual withdrawals so that the vault cash will be sufficient for continued operation. The cash margin may vary for each ATM. In a presently preferred embodiment of the invention, a three-day cushion is often selected. A selected three-day cushion may vary between ATM's because the predicted daily withdrawal for each ATM may vary.
Typically) cash is replenished at prearranged dates such as on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly SCI1G(1111C. The desired cash replenishment schedule is selectable and is stored in the computer memory for each ATM. However, the program continuously monitors the rate of cash withdrawal for each ATM and, should it be necessary, the program will warn that changing conditions require replenishment of cash at a different time. In such a case, the program also provides sufficient advance notice as required for the particular armored courier associated with the ATM in question. Generally, armored couriers will aCt LO I'Cp1Ci11sh cash within a maximum of three days after an order is transmitted.
In the presently preferred least squared method, it has been found that the initial three replenishment periods of operation for an ATM) and especially the first three-month lustory of daily transactions for a typical ATM, provide a pattern of withdrawal that can be used to accurately predict future cash needs for an ATM. However, recent activity is continuously monitored against the most recent three replenishment periods so that changing patterns of withdrawals for each ATM arc detected and accounted for.
In this way, the vault cash for each ATM, and the rather sizable amount of vault cash for a system of ATM's, is optimized to thereby boost the return on the vault cash.
The program allows the user to select ATM terminals for which to make money orders and to make corrections to predictions as deemed best. In addition, the program allows the authorized user to save the orders using, for example, a text file for further reference. Selected orders may be saved in the database for future transmission at preferred times. As well, this portion of the program updates daily balances of the respective ATM terminals.
FIG. 7 shows a related screen for printing cash orders. The authorized user cai~
print all orders as indicated at 76 or can select orders to print based on criteria as at 78 wherein the criteria may preferably include funding bank) receiving bank or receiving bank substation, armored car service or substation, or the operator, or certain groups.
Special cash order component 62 is used because the ID of an ATM terminal changes if its processor changes. In that case) it may be necessary to order money ahead of time for that terminal using the new ID. However, because the existing ID
is still in effect, that option cannot be used for ordering money. To get around this problem, the computer control program of the present invention provides a simple form where the authorized user can enter the new ID, existing ID, deposit date, amount, location name, replenishment date, comment section, and like information. Unlike other options, the user preferably has to choose to have the keyed in data posted or saved.
ATM balancing update 64 is used to keep track of money deposited into and removed from the ATM terminals. ATM balancing update preferably has two basic subparts. With respect to money tracking, the authorized user can enter and change various amounts and dates of money orders flowing from one place to another, such as from the operator of the computerized control system to the funding bank, from the funding bank to the armored courier, from the armored courier to the ATM, and so forth.
Tlus feature allows adjustment of the current ATM balance due to yet unknown reasons of a mismatch between ATM terminal balance and computer control balance.
Another subpart of special cash order component 62 is for cash removal. Cash from an ATM may hive to be removed for various reasons. For instance, a change of funding bank or a C~LSh swap type of ATM terminal status wherein a new deposit is made and existing money is removed requires a cash removal mode of operation. An ATM
may be taken out of business for a time, thereby requiring removal of cash.
The cash removal subparr facilitates keeping track of amounts removed from the ATM and corrects ATM balance in the computer control Cites. It is also posslblC to adjust the balance by keying in overage/shortage amounts of money.
Reports/contracts section 66 allows the authorized user to print reports that include wiring templates, shipping manifests, money orders for ATM's. The reports may be faxed t~ the. appropriate funding banks and armored couriers. The reports may be used on a daily basis or at other time intervals. The contracts portion of section 66 allows the authorized user to print word documents, and may use a selected word processor format.
Money tracking part 68 permits the control program of the present invention to send e-mail at spccii'ied times to concerned entities, including particular concerned persons, informing them of the status of money orders. The authorized user can deactivate this feature or later active to the e-mail facility within money tracking part 68.
The authorized user can also specify the tunes at wlnich the control program of the present invention will notify users of its money ordering status. An Internet connection is preferably used for this type of function. Tab 80 allows the authorized user to return to the main menu.
Distributor setup module 82 leads the authorized user to screens or tabs wherein the user is able to enter all fundamental sets of operation regarding any distributor including information about the distributor) the equipment of the distributor, and the 2~ representative of the distributor. Distributor information includes data such as name, address, city) state) phone, ZIP code, fax, e-mail, federal tax ID, state tax ID, contact person, and contact person title. Pricing information may also be provided regarding transaction pricing, installation fee) interior lighted sign, marketing kit, exterior lighted sign no. 1, exterior lighted sign no. 2, and so forth.
Report generation module 84 is used to allow the authorized user to monitor ATM system 10 operation as well as individual ATM 12 operation. Representative screens for report generation module 84 may be represented in FIG. 5 and FIG.
6. For example, selecting All Terminals report 86 would print transaction information for ATM
terminals based on selected criteria. Representative examples of a screen for selecting criteria of a repc;rt 1S S~loWll 111 FIG. G. For example, a date range for the desired selection of ATM transactions may be asked in date range section 88. Selection criteria from ATM
terminal selections of section 90 may include all ATM terminals, specific ATM
t "rminals, cities, states, or ZIP codes. Other criteria may include ATM
terminals of p;wticular owners, description information, distributors, funding banks, or those with cash supplied by the operator of the control program of the present invention. As well, selection may be made among active ATM terminals, relocated ATM terminals, stolcl>/damagcd ATM terminals, or ATM terminals pending installation.
Transaction summaries for this report may include the FIID; the ATM terminal ID; and the ucscription, city, state, and number of withdrawals, total withdrawals, and average withdrawal. Depending on how many ATM terminals are selected, the report may be numerous pages long. A cash supply report such as that indicated at 92 may include a summary of the cash supply balance for each selected ATM terminal on a particular day as well as a total balance of all selected ATM terminals. Reports may be sorted by ID's, descriptions, city) average number of transactions, date range, ZIP code, owner funding bank) cash supplied by operator of the control program, and the like.
The zero transaction report or monthly zero transaction report 94 is based on selected criteria that concerns ATM terminals doing zero transactions within a given period. Number of withdrawals by month report 96 shows withdrawals on selected ATM
terminals based on selected criteria, such as that as given above. Variation transaction 98 shows v~u-iations in transactions among the ATM terminals based on selected criteria, such as that as indicated above. Relocated ATM terminal history 100 provides transaction information for ATM terminals that have been relocated to a different place selected on criteria such as discussed above. Other reports are also available including various sales reports, order forms, invoices, intereet expenses, money orders, and so forth.
With reference to FIG. 2, transaction information module 102 permits the authorized viewer to see screens or printouts of selected factors for a listing of individual transactions for selected ATM terminals based on criteria discussed above, such as all ATM terminals, cash supplier, funding bank) city, state, operator, armored car service, and the like. For instance, criteria viewable in these screens might include the type of card used in the machine for a transaction, the card number, the date of transaction, the tlIlle, the sequence number, authorization code, amount, access fee, other fees, completion code, various texts, withdrawal from checking or savings, inquiry, and the like. Other screens may include other types of transaction information that may arise such as surcharges, reconciliation, driving expense, and the like. Projections of predictive cash balances may be compared with actual cash balances in screens and/or reports of this module.
Processor setup module lOG brings up screens related to the particular processors used with the ATM's, including factors discussed above such as name, address, phone number, contact information, charges, and so forth.
Import processor data module 107 brings screens related to importing daily trmsaction data from the ATM's, which data varies in format depending on the processor used for the particular ATM from which data is collected. For instance, if an LYNC
processor is chosen) the control program leads the user through steps related to importing data in the LYNC format. TS~pical data imported may include ATM terminal ID, transaction date, transaction time, cardholder number) transaction sequence number) transaction code, amount requested, authorization code, completion code) amount dispensed, access fee, interchange income, trace number, network) and report date. The data is put veto a daily transaction summary table. Daily balances are computed for each ATM terminal. At the completion, various reports, such as zero transaction reports, daily transaction reports, and the like, may be e-mailed to concerned persons. Data from each ATM terminal is saved to create a transaction history for each ATM 12 in the system of ATM's. If the processor is a SUN-type processor or ACS processor) similar overall functions occur except that data is imported using different formats.
Mi'sccllaneous activities 104 include various functions not already listed.
FIG.
9 reveals a screen that is typical of the type of functions preferred for inclusion in this module. For instance, if a terminal is going to change the key field of ATM
terminal ID
as indicated at 108, then the user will be able to put the new ATM terminal ID
and old ATM terminal ID along with a new and old FIID and processor ahead of the time when the change will actually occur for interim action as discussed hcreinbefore. A
screen such as that shown in FIG. 10 shows the old information 110 and the new information 112. As well, the date and time for the change of numbers may be entered as indicated at I 14. Other items open up screens related to the heading. Calculate daily balances al I 16 calculates the daily balance for a particular selected ATM terminal from the starting transaction date of the ATM terminal to the ending transaction date of the ATM
terminal by adding any positive amount as a deposit and subtracting any negative amount as a withdrawal. Delete imported data at 118 will delete data from a given processor on a selected transaction date. Edit clearing schedule at 120 is provided to edit bank transaction clearing information. The user chooses the desired bank from a pull-down menu to update the clearing schedule. These are the dates that the transaction is cleared by fhc bank and is needed for bank reconciliation purposes. Enter deposit amount at 122 is an option provided to enter the deposit amount for a particular ATM
terminal on a particular date. Relocate ATM terminal at 124 provides the option to relocate a terminal from one location to another. The control program of the present invention leads the user through the appropriate screens to change the necessary information. Edit transaction data at 126 allows the user the option to edit any existing information.
Selecting make terminal ID change effective at 128 allows the user to make the change effective in the control program. VJhen this is activated, the system changes the primary key and indexing information and replaces the old ID with the new ID. The delete D-R
type transaction option at 130 deletes daily transactions of the type D or R
selected by the user. The user provides the ATM terminal ID and the transaction date and transaction t}~pe.
With reference to FIG. 2, monthly residual calculations module 131 preferably includes means for verifying residual data and printing reports that may be monthly or may also be for other date ranges. Residual calculations preferably include screens .~Ilowing veriFication of transaction data, armored car expense data, phone expense data, and other siunilar types of data. Upon completion of use of the control program of the present invention, close module 132 may be used to close the program.
The data discussed herein is presently preferably stored in tables that form databases, and the information will interact and be available from several different modules. V~u-ious forms of dltabases and the like could be used for data storage.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention is illustrative and e~:planatory thereof, and it will appreciated by those skilled ill the art, that changes in the organization, additional functions, placement) screens, and layouts, as well as in the details of the combinations of features of the various control elements, may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a computer control for vault cash management of a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a computer screen for use in various report generations related to a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a computer screen for use vi transaction report generation related to a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 7 is a schematic view of a computer screen for printing cash orders related to a plurality of ATM's;
FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a computer screen related to ATM setup;
FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a computer screen related to miscellaneous activities; and FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a ATM screen related to changing ATM ID
numbers.
While the present invention will be described in connection with presently preferred embodiments) it will be understood that it is not intended to limit the invention to those embodiments. On the contrary, it is intended to cover all alternatives, modii'lcations, and equivalents included within the spirit of the invention and as defined in the appended claims.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
With reference now to the drawings, and more particularly to FIG. 1, an ATM
system 10 is shown very generally comprising a plurality of ATM's 12 that may include hundreds of ATM's located in various cities. A computerized control 14 that includes, among other components as discussed hereinafter) an ATM database 16 and a communication module 18, iS used to coordinate the numerous activities of each ATM
12 witl>in system 10. Data line 19 connects to each ATM to provide transaction data on a regular basis. The computerized control system is used to make various reports, money orders, contracts, shipping manifests, and the like that can be sent at selected times to vendors for controlling the necessary activities such as cash replenishment of ATM's 12 wherein each ATM at each individual location in the system may conceivably have its own unique set of vendors, owners, distributors, and the like.
More specifically, FIG. 2 discloses a main control module 20 for a control program in accord with the present invention. From the main screen 22, a user may select various modules to perform functions for controlling a plurality of ATM's.
For instance, with ATM setup module 24, various options are provided such as the following: entering new ATM information, finding the desired ATM for which to edit information, finding the desired ATM for which to view information, saving ATM
iilformation, exporting ATM data to clientele for use by the clientele and/or clientele software, and returnuig to the main menu. Each ATM has basic location information associated therewith. A computer screen with location information includes data such as the D.B.A. of the business at which it is located; the address, city, state, and ZIP code;
the manager's name, telephone, fax, and e-mail; the type of location and business hours;
and the weekly days of operation. As well, a screen or tab to a screen with owner information for each ATM would include data such as the owner's name, address, city) state, ZIP code, fiat, phone) contact, title of the contact, e-mail, federal tax ID, and state tax ID. The type of owner is available such as owned by the operator of the software of the present invention, a merchant-owned ATM, Bank ATM, a shared risk ATM) or management only type of ATM operator. A screen with distributor information such as name, representative, lead source, and referral data is included. More extensive _g_ distributor information is discussed hereinafter with respect to the distributor setup module. A screen related to equipment information may include chassis serial number, equipment pricing, customer P.O. number, ATM phone, installation date, warranty expiration elate, manufacturer) model IlllIllbCI', lock type, journal type, SO('lwai'C VC1'St011, connection capabilities, mechanism serial numbers, and cassette serial numbers. A
screen related to configuration information may include items such as the ATM
ID) FIID, m<~ster password, combination, admviistration password, the processor information, the master key, the cassettes including denomination and physical sizes, ATM
status information, iso block numbers, and the like.
FIG. 8 discloses a representative screen 26 relating to ATM information.
Screen 26 discloses several areas for information. For instance, ATM status is provided in region 28. Cassette information is provided in region 30. Protocol numbers are given in region 32.
Another screen or tab may disclose various accessories that preferably include installation fees, interior lighted sign, exterior lighted sign, marketing kit, freight, custom art charge) application fees, costs associated with the above) and the like.
Shipment information may be entered here relating to shipping of the ATM. A cash management screen or tab may include details as to who supplies or manages the vault cash. For instance, the owner may wish to manage the cash, or the control system operator may mal~age the owner's cash or supply the cash, or other entities may manage the vault cash.
The funding bank i<iformation may be entered here and may also tic available under vendor setup, as discussed hereinafter. Funding bank information may include the bank name; routing transit number; settlement accounting number; verification data;
mailing address, including city, state, ZIP code, and street address; actual location bank address, including city, state, and ZIP code, as well as contact information including name, e-mail, fax, and phone. Contract information may be included such as interest on the daily outstanding balance and/or other additional charges. Residual calculation information for a particular ATM may also be available for entering or editing its this module.
V~u-ious checks arc preferably implemented to insure that required information has been entered when setting up a new ATM.
_g_ Vendor setup module 34 of FIG. 1 is referenced again in FIG. 3) which discloses in schematic form aspects of the various vendors involved in the system of ATM's.
While all vendors are available for review, it will be noted that particular vendors are used for each ATM. Therefore, the control program of the present invention maintains the vendors and can relate the particular set of vendors for each ATM 12, as necessary.
As indicated previously, the owner or manager may provide vendors, and so the present invention also provides this information. Vendors include such services as the armored car service 36) as well as the armored car substation 38. Representative information screens for both armored car service 36 and armored car substation 38 would include items such as the respective names, addresses, city, state, ZIP code, phones, fax numbers, contacts, title of the contacts, e-mail, and emergency numbers, including cell numbers and pagers. Similar types of information would be shown on screens for fundin~settlement banks 40. Other than name, address, and contact information, which is shown for all vendors as discussed above, funding bank information includes I S additional information related to that vendor's function. Cash ordering protocols, such as whether orders arc taken by fax or by telephone and backup protocols, are provided.
Other items include routing transit numbers, vault cash insurance, setup fees, cash order listings, balancing, and the like. Phone service provider setup 42 preferably shows a screen or tab with information as to which phone companies are used with contacts, addresses, city, and so forth.
Receiving bank setup 44 includes screens that provide information about receiving banks used in the system. In addition to names, addresses, phones, etc., information also includes routing transit numbers, cash order protocols, repeat codes, auto-wiring phone numbers, and the like. Additional information may preferably include data such as account maintenance fees, totals of checks paid and checks deposited, cash deposited, encoding fees, armored car fees, deposits canceled, wire transfers incoming and outgoing, mail advice) return item handling, copies, fax service, duplicate statements, insufficient fund charges, change orders automated and call-in, deposit corrections, currency order strapped and non-strapped, and like data. ATM service setup 46 includes information about service providers for repairs for the ATM's due to malfunction.
Related to this information is that of ATM manufacturer setup 48, which includes the usual contact information as noted above, as well as information about the respective ATM's, including part numbers of various components, e.g., front-loading) single denomination) and dial-up cash dispenser. Related information would include the prices such as wholesae, retail, and distributor prices.
Other vendors would include insurance providers such as given or insertable under vault cash insurance setup 50 and physical damage insurance setup 52, which give contact names, costs) and the like associated information. All modules preferably include a return 54 to return to the main menu.
Vault cash management module 56 of FTG. 2 is disclosed in more detail in schematic form iii hTG. 4. Vault cash management module 56 is utilized to determine the amount of money to be wired everyday for ATM's 12 for given time periods. This module also preferably keeps track of and updates each ATM 12 balance. Module prints useful reports, some of wluch are faxed to the armored couriers and funding banks.
In addition, module 56 may send e-mail through a preferred Internet connection to concerned entities to inform them of various matters, e.g., periodically informing of money orders that are yet to be deposited into ATM's by armored couriers. This module, in the presently preferred embodiment, has six basic components including initial cash 58 for ordering initial cash typically for brand new ATM terminals. Other parts include daily money ordering selection 60, special cash order 62, ATM balancing update 64, reports/contracts 66, and money tracking 68.
Initial cash order 58 component allows the user to order money for brand new ATM terminals. Based on data regarding ATM's entered by the users, the control program of the present invention identifies brand new ATM terminals, displays them in a well-designed form, and allows the user to choose any number of them and enter the amount of money that will be deposited into them. The control program of the present invention also allows the user to store the money orders into text files. As well, the money orders arc saved into its database and update the daily balances.
Daily money ordering selection 60 allows the user to order money for ATM
terminals that are already in operation. Based on the transaction data of the ATM's, the control program of the present invention estimates or predicts how much money for each ATM is required to be deposited so that it will not run out of money until the next replenishment date as indicated by cash projection module 70. While it is believed novel to use a program to make such an estimate for a plurality of ATM's for cash management based on transaction data for each ATM, this estimate is important because it affects ATM operation as well as slow of money. It will be readily understood that it is undesirable to tie up excessive capital in an ATM whose history is not good.
On the other hand, it is not desirable to deposit too small an amount of money into an ATM, because it may run out of money before the next replenishment date, which in turn affects income from the machine.
Although the present invention may be implemented by other mathematical techniques, the presently preferred method of analyzing transaction history component 72 for each ATM uses a statistical least square method. The analysis predicts the date that cash will be depleted and/or the amount of money that might be withdrawn in any specified period. The program displays the results with sufficient iilformation in a well designed form for review by an authorized user via user input 74. The projection for vault cash preferably includes an additional cushion to account for unusual withdrawals so that the vault cash will be sufficient for continued operation. The cash margin may vary for each ATM. In a presently preferred embodiment of the invention, a three-day cushion is often selected. A selected three-day cushion may vary between ATM's because the predicted daily withdrawal for each ATM may vary.
Typically) cash is replenished at prearranged dates such as on a weekly, biweekly, or monthly SCI1G(1111C. The desired cash replenishment schedule is selectable and is stored in the computer memory for each ATM. However, the program continuously monitors the rate of cash withdrawal for each ATM and, should it be necessary, the program will warn that changing conditions require replenishment of cash at a different time. In such a case, the program also provides sufficient advance notice as required for the particular armored courier associated with the ATM in question. Generally, armored couriers will aCt LO I'Cp1Ci11sh cash within a maximum of three days after an order is transmitted.
In the presently preferred least squared method, it has been found that the initial three replenishment periods of operation for an ATM) and especially the first three-month lustory of daily transactions for a typical ATM, provide a pattern of withdrawal that can be used to accurately predict future cash needs for an ATM. However, recent activity is continuously monitored against the most recent three replenishment periods so that changing patterns of withdrawals for each ATM arc detected and accounted for.
In this way, the vault cash for each ATM, and the rather sizable amount of vault cash for a system of ATM's, is optimized to thereby boost the return on the vault cash.
The program allows the user to select ATM terminals for which to make money orders and to make corrections to predictions as deemed best. In addition, the program allows the authorized user to save the orders using, for example, a text file for further reference. Selected orders may be saved in the database for future transmission at preferred times. As well, this portion of the program updates daily balances of the respective ATM terminals.
FIG. 7 shows a related screen for printing cash orders. The authorized user cai~
print all orders as indicated at 76 or can select orders to print based on criteria as at 78 wherein the criteria may preferably include funding bank) receiving bank or receiving bank substation, armored car service or substation, or the operator, or certain groups.
Special cash order component 62 is used because the ID of an ATM terminal changes if its processor changes. In that case) it may be necessary to order money ahead of time for that terminal using the new ID. However, because the existing ID
is still in effect, that option cannot be used for ordering money. To get around this problem, the computer control program of the present invention provides a simple form where the authorized user can enter the new ID, existing ID, deposit date, amount, location name, replenishment date, comment section, and like information. Unlike other options, the user preferably has to choose to have the keyed in data posted or saved.
ATM balancing update 64 is used to keep track of money deposited into and removed from the ATM terminals. ATM balancing update preferably has two basic subparts. With respect to money tracking, the authorized user can enter and change various amounts and dates of money orders flowing from one place to another, such as from the operator of the computerized control system to the funding bank, from the funding bank to the armored courier, from the armored courier to the ATM, and so forth.
Tlus feature allows adjustment of the current ATM balance due to yet unknown reasons of a mismatch between ATM terminal balance and computer control balance.
Another subpart of special cash order component 62 is for cash removal. Cash from an ATM may hive to be removed for various reasons. For instance, a change of funding bank or a C~LSh swap type of ATM terminal status wherein a new deposit is made and existing money is removed requires a cash removal mode of operation. An ATM
may be taken out of business for a time, thereby requiring removal of cash.
The cash removal subparr facilitates keeping track of amounts removed from the ATM and corrects ATM balance in the computer control Cites. It is also posslblC to adjust the balance by keying in overage/shortage amounts of money.
Reports/contracts section 66 allows the authorized user to print reports that include wiring templates, shipping manifests, money orders for ATM's. The reports may be faxed t~ the. appropriate funding banks and armored couriers. The reports may be used on a daily basis or at other time intervals. The contracts portion of section 66 allows the authorized user to print word documents, and may use a selected word processor format.
Money tracking part 68 permits the control program of the present invention to send e-mail at spccii'ied times to concerned entities, including particular concerned persons, informing them of the status of money orders. The authorized user can deactivate this feature or later active to the e-mail facility within money tracking part 68.
The authorized user can also specify the tunes at wlnich the control program of the present invention will notify users of its money ordering status. An Internet connection is preferably used for this type of function. Tab 80 allows the authorized user to return to the main menu.
Distributor setup module 82 leads the authorized user to screens or tabs wherein the user is able to enter all fundamental sets of operation regarding any distributor including information about the distributor) the equipment of the distributor, and the 2~ representative of the distributor. Distributor information includes data such as name, address, city) state) phone, ZIP code, fax, e-mail, federal tax ID, state tax ID, contact person, and contact person title. Pricing information may also be provided regarding transaction pricing, installation fee) interior lighted sign, marketing kit, exterior lighted sign no. 1, exterior lighted sign no. 2, and so forth.
Report generation module 84 is used to allow the authorized user to monitor ATM system 10 operation as well as individual ATM 12 operation. Representative screens for report generation module 84 may be represented in FIG. 5 and FIG.
6. For example, selecting All Terminals report 86 would print transaction information for ATM
terminals based on selected criteria. Representative examples of a screen for selecting criteria of a repc;rt 1S S~loWll 111 FIG. G. For example, a date range for the desired selection of ATM transactions may be asked in date range section 88. Selection criteria from ATM
terminal selections of section 90 may include all ATM terminals, specific ATM
t "rminals, cities, states, or ZIP codes. Other criteria may include ATM
terminals of p;wticular owners, description information, distributors, funding banks, or those with cash supplied by the operator of the control program of the present invention. As well, selection may be made among active ATM terminals, relocated ATM terminals, stolcl>/damagcd ATM terminals, or ATM terminals pending installation.
Transaction summaries for this report may include the FIID; the ATM terminal ID; and the ucscription, city, state, and number of withdrawals, total withdrawals, and average withdrawal. Depending on how many ATM terminals are selected, the report may be numerous pages long. A cash supply report such as that indicated at 92 may include a summary of the cash supply balance for each selected ATM terminal on a particular day as well as a total balance of all selected ATM terminals. Reports may be sorted by ID's, descriptions, city) average number of transactions, date range, ZIP code, owner funding bank) cash supplied by operator of the control program, and the like.
The zero transaction report or monthly zero transaction report 94 is based on selected criteria that concerns ATM terminals doing zero transactions within a given period. Number of withdrawals by month report 96 shows withdrawals on selected ATM
terminals based on selected criteria, such as that as given above. Variation transaction 98 shows v~u-iations in transactions among the ATM terminals based on selected criteria, such as that as indicated above. Relocated ATM terminal history 100 provides transaction information for ATM terminals that have been relocated to a different place selected on criteria such as discussed above. Other reports are also available including various sales reports, order forms, invoices, intereet expenses, money orders, and so forth.
With reference to FIG. 2, transaction information module 102 permits the authorized viewer to see screens or printouts of selected factors for a listing of individual transactions for selected ATM terminals based on criteria discussed above, such as all ATM terminals, cash supplier, funding bank) city, state, operator, armored car service, and the like. For instance, criteria viewable in these screens might include the type of card used in the machine for a transaction, the card number, the date of transaction, the tlIlle, the sequence number, authorization code, amount, access fee, other fees, completion code, various texts, withdrawal from checking or savings, inquiry, and the like. Other screens may include other types of transaction information that may arise such as surcharges, reconciliation, driving expense, and the like. Projections of predictive cash balances may be compared with actual cash balances in screens and/or reports of this module.
Processor setup module lOG brings up screens related to the particular processors used with the ATM's, including factors discussed above such as name, address, phone number, contact information, charges, and so forth.
Import processor data module 107 brings screens related to importing daily trmsaction data from the ATM's, which data varies in format depending on the processor used for the particular ATM from which data is collected. For instance, if an LYNC
processor is chosen) the control program leads the user through steps related to importing data in the LYNC format. TS~pical data imported may include ATM terminal ID, transaction date, transaction time, cardholder number) transaction sequence number) transaction code, amount requested, authorization code, completion code) amount dispensed, access fee, interchange income, trace number, network) and report date. The data is put veto a daily transaction summary table. Daily balances are computed for each ATM terminal. At the completion, various reports, such as zero transaction reports, daily transaction reports, and the like, may be e-mailed to concerned persons. Data from each ATM terminal is saved to create a transaction history for each ATM 12 in the system of ATM's. If the processor is a SUN-type processor or ACS processor) similar overall functions occur except that data is imported using different formats.
Mi'sccllaneous activities 104 include various functions not already listed.
FIG.
9 reveals a screen that is typical of the type of functions preferred for inclusion in this module. For instance, if a terminal is going to change the key field of ATM
terminal ID
as indicated at 108, then the user will be able to put the new ATM terminal ID
and old ATM terminal ID along with a new and old FIID and processor ahead of the time when the change will actually occur for interim action as discussed hcreinbefore. A
screen such as that shown in FIG. 10 shows the old information 110 and the new information 112. As well, the date and time for the change of numbers may be entered as indicated at I 14. Other items open up screens related to the heading. Calculate daily balances al I 16 calculates the daily balance for a particular selected ATM terminal from the starting transaction date of the ATM terminal to the ending transaction date of the ATM
terminal by adding any positive amount as a deposit and subtracting any negative amount as a withdrawal. Delete imported data at 118 will delete data from a given processor on a selected transaction date. Edit clearing schedule at 120 is provided to edit bank transaction clearing information. The user chooses the desired bank from a pull-down menu to update the clearing schedule. These are the dates that the transaction is cleared by fhc bank and is needed for bank reconciliation purposes. Enter deposit amount at 122 is an option provided to enter the deposit amount for a particular ATM
terminal on a particular date. Relocate ATM terminal at 124 provides the option to relocate a terminal from one location to another. The control program of the present invention leads the user through the appropriate screens to change the necessary information. Edit transaction data at 126 allows the user the option to edit any existing information.
Selecting make terminal ID change effective at 128 allows the user to make the change effective in the control program. VJhen this is activated, the system changes the primary key and indexing information and replaces the old ID with the new ID. The delete D-R
type transaction option at 130 deletes daily transactions of the type D or R
selected by the user. The user provides the ATM terminal ID and the transaction date and transaction t}~pe.
With reference to FIG. 2, monthly residual calculations module 131 preferably includes means for verifying residual data and printing reports that may be monthly or may also be for other date ranges. Residual calculations preferably include screens .~Ilowing veriFication of transaction data, armored car expense data, phone expense data, and other siunilar types of data. Upon completion of use of the control program of the present invention, close module 132 may be used to close the program.
The data discussed herein is presently preferably stored in tables that form databases, and the information will interact and be available from several different modules. V~u-ious forms of dltabases and the like could be used for data storage.
The foregoing disclosure and description of the invention is illustrative and e~:planatory thereof, and it will appreciated by those skilled ill the art, that changes in the organization, additional functions, placement) screens, and layouts, as well as in the details of the combinations of features of the various control elements, may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.
Claims (30)
1. A system control method for controlling a plurality of ATM's, each of said ATM's having a vault cash amount and being operable for receiving and dispensing money, said system control method comprising:
recording daily money transactions in each of said plurality of ATM's;
forming a money transaction history from said recorded daily money transactions over a selected time period for each of said plurality of ATM's;
forming a computerized projection of said vault cash amount for a selected future time period based on said money transaction history for each of said plurality of ATM's;
associating one or more vault cash suppliers respectively for each of said plurality of ATM's; and selectively contacting said one or more respective vault cash suppliers to provide instructions for replenishing said vault cash amount in each of said plurality of ATM's.
recording daily money transactions in each of said plurality of ATM's;
forming a money transaction history from said recorded daily money transactions over a selected time period for each of said plurality of ATM's;
forming a computerized projection of said vault cash amount for a selected future time period based on said money transaction history for each of said plurality of ATM's;
associating one or more vault cash suppliers respectively for each of said plurality of ATM's; and selectively contacting said one or more respective vault cash suppliers to provide instructions for replenishing said vault cash amount in each of said plurality of ATM's.
2. The system control method of Claim 1, further comprising:
selectively using said computerized projection of said vault cash amount for determining said vault cash amount to be replenished by said one or more vault cash suppliers for each of said plurality of ATM's.
selectively using said computerized projection of said vault cash amount for determining said vault cash amount to be replenished by said one or more vault cash suppliers for each of said plurality of ATM's.
3. The system control method of Claim 1, wherein said step of projecting vault cash comprises a programmable statistical least squared projection technique.
4. The system control method of Claim 4, wherein said step of contacting further comprises:
programmable contacting of said respective vault cash supplier through an Internet connection.
programmable contacting of said respective vault cash supplier through an Internet connection.
5. The system control method of Claim 1, further comprising:
programmably associating each of said one or more vault cash suppliers to each of said plurality of ATM's.
programmably associating each of said one or more vault cash suppliers to each of said plurality of ATM's.
6. The system control method of Claim 7, further comprising:
programmably controlled faxing of reports regarding cash transactions to said one or more vault cash suppliers at user selectable times.
programmably controlled faxing of reports regarding cash transactions to said one or more vault cash suppliers at user selectable times.
7. The system control method of Claim 1, further comprising:
providing a computer input screen to enter information for transferring an ATM
to another location including a date for a change of an ATM terminal identification number.
providing a computer input screen to enter information for transferring an ATM
to another location including a date for a change of an ATM terminal identification number.
8. The system control method of Claim 1, further comprising:
providing a user input for selecting dates of money orders to be programmably between funding banks and armored couriers.
providing a user input for selecting dates of money orders to be programmably between funding banks and armored couriers.
9. A computer method for controlling a plurality of ATM's, comprising:
recording cash transactions in each of said plurality of ATM's over a selected time period to form an historical record of transactions for each of said plurality of ATM's;
maintaining in a computer memory a plurality of entities to be contacted regarding said historical record of transactions, programmably associating a respective of said plurality of entities with each of said plurality of ATM's;
programmably selectably producing a plurality of communications regarding said historical record of transactions for each of said plurality of ATM machines;
and programmably transmitting one or more of said plurality of communications to one or more of said plurality of entities respectively associated with each of said plurality of ATM's.
recording cash transactions in each of said plurality of ATM's over a selected time period to form an historical record of transactions for each of said plurality of ATM's;
maintaining in a computer memory a plurality of entities to be contacted regarding said historical record of transactions, programmably associating a respective of said plurality of entities with each of said plurality of ATM's;
programmably selectably producing a plurality of communications regarding said historical record of transactions for each of said plurality of ATM machines;
and programmably transmitting one or more of said plurality of communications to one or more of said plurality of entities respectively associated with each of said plurality of ATM's.
10. The computer method of Claim 9, further comprising:
programmably transmitting cash delivery time coordination information to respective provider banks and armored couriers respectively associated with each of said plurality of ATM's.
programmably transmitting cash delivery time coordination information to respective provider banks and armored couriers respectively associated with each of said plurality of ATM's.
11. The computer method of Claim 9, further comprising:
programmably transmitting any zero transaction reports for said plurality of ATM's to a respective entity from said plurality of entities.
programmably transmitting any zero transaction reports for said plurality of ATM's to a respective entity from said plurality of entities.
12. The computer method of Claim 9, further comprising:
programmably transmitting a daily transaction report for each of said plurality of ATM's to a respective entity from said plurality of entities.
programmably transmitting a daily transaction report for each of said plurality of ATM's to a respective entity from said plurality of entities.
13. A computerized system for controlling a plurality of ATM's, comprising:
storing a first ATM location for each of said plurality of ATM's;
storing first ATM owner information for each of said plurality of ATM's;
storing supplier bank information for each of said plurality of ATM's;
storing armored courier service information for each of said plurality of ATM;
storing transaction data for each of said plurality of ATM's; and storing one or more contact entities to programmably receive reports concerning said transaction data.
storing a first ATM location for each of said plurality of ATM's;
storing first ATM owner information for each of said plurality of ATM's;
storing supplier bank information for each of said plurality of ATM's;
storing armored courier service information for each of said plurality of ATM;
storing transaction data for each of said plurality of ATM's; and storing one or more contact entities to programmably receive reports concerning said transaction data.
14. The computerized system of Claim 13, further comprising:
storing information regarding any movement of each of said plurality of ATM's from said first ATM location to a second ATM location.
storing information regarding any movement of each of said plurality of ATM's from said first ATM location to a second ATM location.
15. The computerized system of Claim 14, further comprising:
storing initialization information for each ATM which is moved to said second ATM location.
storing initialization information for each ATM which is moved to said second ATM location.
16. The computerized system of Claim 15, further comprising:
storing terminal identification number change information, and allowing a user to select to make a change in said terminal identification number effective.
storing terminal identification number change information, and allowing a user to select to make a change in said terminal identification number effective.
17. The computerized system of Claim 13, further comprising:
storing information regarding any change of said first ATM owner information.
storing information regarding any change of said first ATM owner information.
18. The computerized system of Claim 13, further comprising:
storing electronic contact information for contacting said supplier bank for respective of said plurality of ATM's, and programmably contacting said supplier bank for transmitting cash transfer data for respective of said plurality of ATM's.
storing electronic contact information for contacting said supplier bank for respective of said plurality of ATM's, and programmably contacting said supplier bank for transmitting cash transfer data for respective of said plurality of ATM's.
19. The computerized system of Claim 13, further comprising:
storing electronic contact information for contacting said armored courier service for respective of said plurality of ATM's, and programmably transmitting cash transfer data to said armored courier.
storing electronic contact information for contacting said armored courier service for respective of said plurality of ATM's, and programmably transmitting cash transfer data to said armored courier.
20. The computerized system of Claim 13, further comprising:
programmably providing reports based on filters relating to said stored information including ATM location, type of business at ATM location, and amount of ATM transactions for a selected period.
programmably providing reports based on filters relating to said stored information including ATM location, type of business at ATM location, and amount of ATM transactions for a selected period.
21. The computerized system of Claim 13, further comprising:
storing one or more types of insurance information for contingencies related to each of said plurality of ATM's.
storing one or more types of insurance information for contingencies related to each of said plurality of ATM's.
22. A computerized system for controlling a plurality of ATM's, said ATM's being operable for receiving and dispensing money, said system comprising:
a terminal setup section for entering information relating to each of said plurality of ATM's including a respective terminal identification number, a respective armored courier service, a respective funding source, a respective owner, and a respective location;
a data import section for receiving daily transaction data for each of said plurality of ATM's and for forming a transaction history for each of said plurality of ATM's; and a report section for producing reports of said transaction history for each of said ATM's based on selectable filter criteria, said selectable filter criteria comprising said respective terminal identification number, said respective owner, and said respective location.
a terminal setup section for entering information relating to each of said plurality of ATM's including a respective terminal identification number, a respective armored courier service, a respective funding source, a respective owner, and a respective location;
a data import section for receiving daily transaction data for each of said plurality of ATM's and for forming a transaction history for each of said plurality of ATM's; and a report section for producing reports of said transaction history for each of said ATM's based on selectable filter criteria, said selectable filter criteria comprising said respective terminal identification number, said respective owner, and said respective location.
23. The computerized system of Claim 22, further comprising:
a vault cash control section for projecting vault cash required to enable each of said plurality of ATM's to dispense cash for a selected future time period.
a vault cash control section for projecting vault cash required to enable each of said plurality of ATM's to dispense cash for a selected future time period.
24. The computerized system of Claim 23, further comprising:
said vault cash control section being operable for using said projection of vault cash to programmably make cash orders to said respective funding source and said respective armored courier service for each of said plurality of ATM's.
said vault cash control section being operable for using said projection of vault cash to programmably make cash orders to said respective funding source and said respective armored courier service for each of said plurality of ATM's.
25. The computerized system of Claim 24, further comprising:
a communication section for transmitting messages at selectable times by computer to said respective funding source and said respective armored courier service for each of said plurality of ATM's.
a communication section for transmitting messages at selectable times by computer to said respective funding source and said respective armored courier service for each of said plurality of ATM's.
26. The computerized system of Claim 22, further comprising:
a transition section for controlling timing of a transition of one or more ATM's of said plurality of ATM's.
a transition section for controlling timing of a transition of one or more ATM's of said plurality of ATM's.
27. The computerized system of Claim 26, wherein:
said transition is a change in terminal ID.
said transition is a change in terminal ID.
28. The computerized system of Claim 26, wherein:
said transition is a change of location.
said transition is a change of location.
29. The computerized system of Claim 26, wherein:
said transition is a change of funding source.
said transition is a change of funding source.
30. The computerized system of Claim 26, wherein:
said transition is a change of ownership.
said transition is a change of ownership.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US3635798A | 1998-03-06 | 1998-03-06 | |
| US09/036,357 | 1998-03-06 |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2264473A1 true CA2264473A1 (en) | 1999-09-06 |
Family
ID=29581809
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2264473 Abandoned CA2264473A1 (en) | 1998-03-06 | 1999-03-05 | Atm control system and method |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2264473A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7849003B2 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2010-12-07 | Efunds Corporation | Methods and systems for opening and funding a financial account online |
| CN101540077B (en) * | 2008-03-18 | 2011-08-03 | 冲电气工业株式会社 | Terminal and automatic trading device |
| US20140025514A1 (en) * | 2010-04-01 | 2014-01-23 | M3 Technology Solutions, LLC | Cash management system and method |
-
1999
- 1999-03-05 CA CA 2264473 patent/CA2264473A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US7849003B2 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2010-12-07 | Efunds Corporation | Methods and systems for opening and funding a financial account online |
| US8160957B2 (en) | 2006-04-28 | 2012-04-17 | Efunds Corporation | Methods and systems for opening and funding a financial account online |
| CN101540077B (en) * | 2008-03-18 | 2011-08-03 | 冲电气工业株式会社 | Terminal and automatic trading device |
| US20140025514A1 (en) * | 2010-04-01 | 2014-01-23 | M3 Technology Solutions, LLC | Cash management system and method |
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