CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application

Serial No. 62/576,055 for a MODULAR ATM, filed on 10/23/2017, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

1. Field

[0002] The present disclosure relates to automated transaction machines (ATMs).

2. Description of Related Prior Art

[0003] Banking transactions requested by a customer may be processed in different ways. For example, a banking customer may visit a teller and the teller may process the banking transaction. Alternatively, the customer may use an ATM to process a banking transaction.

[0004] The background description provided herein is for the purpose of generally presenting the context of the disclosure. Work of the presently named inventors, to the extent it is described in this background section, as well as aspects of the description that may not otherwise qualify as prior art at the time of filing, are neither expressly nor impliedly admitted as prior art against the present disclosure.

SUMMARY

[0005] An ATM can include a user-interface device, at least one computing device, a battery, a head portion, and a socket-half. The user-interface device can be configured to receive an input from a user. The input can correspond, at least in part, to an account maintained by a financial institution. The user-interface device is configured to transmit the input. The at least one computing device can be in data communication with the user-interface device to receive the input. The battery can be selectively connectable to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device to direct electric power when connected to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device. The head portion can house the user-interface device and the at least one computing device and the battery. The socket-half can be mounted to the head portion and be exposed on an outside surface of the head portion. The socket-half can be selectively connectable to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device and to the battery, to direct electric power when connected to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device and to the battery.

[0006] According to other features, the ATM can also include a first rail receiving a first level of voltage from the battery, wherein the user-interface device receives power off of the first rail. The ATM can also include a first circuit assembly connected to the first rail and configured to convert the first level of voltage to a second level of voltage different from the first level of voltage and communicating the second level of voltage to a second rail. The ATM can also include a second circuit assembly connected to the first rail in parallel with the first circuit assembly and configured to convert the first level of voltage to a third level of voltage different from the first level of voltage and from the second level of voltage and communicating the third level of voltage to a third rail. One of the second level of voltage and the third level of voltage can be higher than the first level of voltage and the other of the second level of voltage and the third level of voltage can be lower than the first level of voltage.

[0007] In other features, the ATM can also include a relay disposed between the battery and the first rail. The relay can be arranged such that the relay connects the battery and the first rail in a first configuration and in a second configuration selectively switches the battery off of the first rail. The ATM can also include a battery charger circuit disposed between the relay and the socket-half. The battery charger circuit can be connected to the battery when the relay is in the second configuration. The relay can be connected to the socket-half whereby the relay is switched from the first configuration to the second configuration when electrical power is available at the socket-half.

[0008] According to additional features, the socket-half can be directly connected to the first rail. The ATM can also include a capacitor connected to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device and to the battery. The capacitor can be loaded by the battery and can be configured to direct electric power to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device when power from the battery is lost. The battery is configured to provide operating power to the user-interface device and to the at least one computing device for at least ten minutes.

[0009] According to other features, the ATM can also include a base portion selectively engageable with the head portion, wherein the head portion can rest on the base portion when the base portion and the head portion are engaged together. The ATM can also include a second socket-half mounted in the base portion, wherein the socket-half and the second socket-half can mate as the base portion and the head portion are brought into engagement with one another. The socket-half and the second socket-half mate are configured to transmit power and data between the base portion and the head portion. [0010] In other features, the ATM can also include an advanced function dispenser (AFD) configured to dispense banknotes, wherein the base portion can house the AFD. The AFD can communicate with the at least one computing device through the socket-half and the second socket- half. The base portion can be configured to receive power from the grid and direct power to the head portion through the socket-half and second socket-half. The ATM can include a power management module configured to receive power from the grid, direct power through the base portion, convert power from AC to DC, and direct DC power to the head portion through the socket-half and second socket-half. The user-interface device can be any one of a key pad, a display, a scanner, a near field communication (NFC) transceiver, and a card reader.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The detailed description set forth below references the following drawings:

[0012] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a modular ATM according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 2 is a first partially-exploded view of the modular ATM according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 3 is a second partially-exploded view of the modular ATM according to the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 4 is a first functional block diagram of the exemplary modular ATM;

[0016] Figure 5 is a second functional block diagram of the exemplary modular ATM;

[0017] Figure 6 is a first circuit schematic of a first portion of an electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM;

[0018] Figures 7A - 7C are portions of a second circuit schematic of a second portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM, the second portion being a battery charging circuit;

[0019] Figures 8A and 8B are a third circuit schematic of a third portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM;

[0020] Figure 9 is a fourth circuit schematic of a fourth portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM;

[0021] Figure 10 is a fifth circuit schematic of a fifth portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM; and

[0022] Figure 11 is a schematic of a control architecture of the exemplary modular ATM. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The present disclosure, as demonstrated by the exemplary embodiment described below, can provide an ATM that is modular in a plurality of different ways. For example, the exemplary modular ATM includes a power management system that allows peripherals of the ATM to be replaced without powering down other peripherals. Also, a plurality of peripherals can be group together in a head portion with a battery, so that these peripherals can be powered by the battery during periods away from the grid. Further, the exemplary modular ATM applies a publish/subscribe communication architecture that allows peripherals to be changed with the need to recompile or alter programing of other components of the ATM.

[0024] Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 discloses an exemplary modular ATM 10 according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure. The modular ATM 10 includes a head portion 12 and a base portion 14. The head portion 12 and the base portion 14 can collectively define a housing for components and subsystems of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The exemplary head portion 12 and the exemplary base portion 14 house internal components and subsystems. The exemplary base portion 14 is configured to receive power from the grid and direct power to the head portion 12, as set forth in greater detail below. The internal components and subsystems of the exemplary head portion 12 and the exemplary base portion 14 are set forth in greater detail below.

[0025] As best shown in Figures 2 and 3, the exemplary base portion 14 defines a shelf 16 sized to receive a bottom of the exemplary head portion 12. The exemplary head portion 12 can rest on the shelf 16. Posts, such as post 18, can project away from the shelf 16. Each of the exemplary posts 18 can be received in a slot, such as slot 20, defined in the bottom of the exemplary head portion 12. The exemplary posts 18 can be shaped to include a relatively wider head and relatively narrow body. The exemplary slots 20 can be keyed such that a first portion of the slot is relatively wider to receive the head of one of the posts 18 and a second portion of the slot is relatively narrow, sized similarly to the relatively narrow body of the post 18. In operation, the head portion 12 can be lowered onto the shelf 16 so that each of the heads of the posts 18 is received in the relatively wider portion of one of the slots 20. Then, the head portion 12 can be moved deeper into the shelf 16, towards a back wall 22 of the shelf 16, whereby the heads of the posts 18 are captured by the narrow portions of the slots 20, precluding the head portion 12 from being lifted relative to the base portion 14.

[0026] Mating plugs/sockets (socket-halves forming a socket pair) can be mounted in the shelf

16 and in the back of the head portion 12. The exemplary head portion 12 includes a first half 24 of a socket pair. The exemplary socket-half 24 is mounted to the head portion 12 and is exposed on an outside surface of the head portion 12. The exemplary socket-half 24 is selectively connectable to the user-interface devices and to the computing device 34 and to the battery 76, to direct electric power when connected to the user-interface devices and to the computing device 34 and to the battery 76. A second half 26 of the socket pair is mounted in the back wall 22 of the shelf 16 of the base portion 14. In the exemplary embodiment, the first half 24 and the second half 26 mate when the head portion 12 is moved deeper into the shelf 16, against the back wall 22. The socket pair can define a plurality of distinct connections when mated together. In operation, data and power signals can be communicated through the socket pair 24, 26, between the internal components and subsystems of the exemplary head portion 12 and the exemplary base portion 14.

[0027] The exemplary head portion 12 and the exemplary base portion 14 can also include structures to enhance security of interconnection. For example, the exemplary head portion 12 can include one or more blades, such as blade 28. The exemplary base portion 14 can include a slot, such as slot 30, to receive each blade. The exemplary base portion 14 can further include a lock at each slot, such as lock 32. The exemplary lock 32 can receive a key to convert from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration, and from the locked configuration to the unlocked configuration. In the exemplary embodiment, the blade 28 is received in the slot 30 when the head portion 12 is moved deeper into the shelf 16, against the back wall 22. After the blade 28 is received in the slot 30, the lock 32 can be engaged to lock the blade 28 in the slot 30.

[0028] Figure 4 discloses a functional block diagram of the exemplary modular ATM 10 according to one or more implementations of the present disclosure. The modular ATM 10 includes different structures and subsystems for receiving input from a user and executing transactions. A dashed line is shown in Figure 4 to delineate the components of the head portion 12 in the exemplary embodiment and the components of the base portion 14.

[0029] The modular ATM 10 includes a computing device 34. The exemplary computing device 34 has one or more processors and a non-transitory, computer readable medium. The computing device 34 operates under the control of an operating system, kernel and/or firmware and executes or otherwise relies upon various computer software applications, components, programs, objects, modules, data structures, etc. The computer readable medium (memory) of the computing device 34 can include random access memory (RAM) devices comprising the main storage of computing device 34, as well as any supplemental levels of memory, e.g., cache memories, nonvolatile or backup memories (e.g., programmable or flash memories), read-only memories, etc. In addition, the memory may be considered to include memory storage physically located elsewhere in computing device 34, such as any cache memory in a processor, as well as any storage capacity used as a virtual memory. The computing device 34 can also include one or more mass storage devices, e.g., a floppy or other removable disk drive, a hard disk drive, a direct access storage device (DASD), an optical drive (e.g., a CD drive, a DVD drive, etc.), and/or a tape drive, among others, represented by memory 36.

[0030] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a display 38. The computing device

34 can control the display 38 to present information to the user for furthering completion of the transaction. The display 38 can be a touch screen that allows the user to enter information through the display 38. The exemplary display 38 is configured to transmit any user-entered information to the computing device 34.

[0031] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a key pad 40 and an encryption module

44. Generally, the combination of a key pad and an encryption module are referred to in the art as an encrypted pin pad (EPP). The exemplary key pad 40 includes a plurality of keys, such as key 42. The exemplary encryption module 44 has one or more processors and a non-transitory, computer readable medium. The user can press the keys of the key pad 40 to enter a pin. The key pad 40 is placed in communication with the encryption module 44 and therefore the numbers of the pin are received by the encryption module 44. It is noted that the communication of the pin is direct and secure; the pin cannot be intercepted between the key pad 40 and the encryption module 44. The pin is then encrypted by the encryption module 44 to define a pin block. The encryption module 44 includes a network encryption key and applies the network encryption key to encrypt the pin to the pin block. The exemplary encryption module 44 is configured to transmit the pin block to the computing device 34, which can direct the pin block away from the modular ATM 10 during completion of a financial transaction.

[0032] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a card reader 46. The card reader 46 can receive a token from the user, such as a card. The card reader 46 can read data on a magnetic strip on the back of a card and/or can read data from a chip embedded in the card. The card reader 46 can be configured to execute read and write operations with respect to any storage medium fixed to the user's card. The exemplary card reader 46 is configured to transmit any data read from the user's card to the computing device 34, which can direct the data read from the card away from the modular ATM 10 during completion of a financial transaction. The exemplary card reader 46 can also be configured to receive commands and data from the computing device 34 and change data stored on the user's card.

[0033] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a printer module 48. The computing device 34 can control the printer module 48 to print a receipt when a transaction has been completed. The printer module 48 can communicate one or more messages to the computing device 34, such as a maintenance message regarding the need to refill printer paper.

[0034] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes an article exchange unit 50. In the exemplary embodiment, the article exchange unit 50 is configured to receive items such as checks. An exemplary article exchange unit 50 can include a drum on which received items are stored. The article exchange unit 50 can be a recycler. The exemplary article exchange unit 50 includes a slot 52 defined on an exterior of the modular ATM 10 for the passage of such items. In other embodiments of the present disclosure, an article exchange unit can be configured to facilitate the receive other items. The article exchange unit 50 can include one or more sensors and transmit signals from any such sensors to the computing device 34 to execute an exchange. The computing device 34 can control the article exchange unit 50 in response to such signals. For example, the article exchange unit 50 can include a sensor that detects receipt of an item such as a check. The article exchange unit 50 can include a further sensor in the form of a scanner that generates an image of the received item and transmits the image to the computing device 34. When an exchange involves the dispensation of an article to the user, the computing device 34 can control the article exchange unit 50 to dispense the item(s) requested by the user.

[0035] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a printer module 54. The printer module 54 can generate a continuous record of all transactions executed by the modular ATM 10. The computing device 34 can control the printer module 54 to supplement the record after each transaction has been completed. The printer module 54 can communicate one or more messages to the computing device 34, such as a maintenance message regarding the need to refill printer paper.

[0036] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes an access module 56. The access module 56 can be positioned proximate to a rear side of the modular ATM 10. The access module 56 can be utilized for service and support technicians. For example, the access module 56 can be utilized by a field engineer to complete software updates to the computing device 34. The access module 56 can also be utilized when non-software updates and maintenance is performed, such as the refilling of printer paper or currency.

[0037] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a transceiver 58. The exemplary transceiver 58 is configured to facilitate communication between the computing device 34 and other computing devices that are distinct from and physically remote from the computing device 34. An example of such a remote computing device is a server computing device, such as a banking or financial institution server communicating with a plurality of ATMs. The exemplary transceiver 58 places the computing device 34 in communication with one or more networks, such as network 60. The network 60 can be a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, a Multi -protocol label switching (MPLS) network, a cellular network such as operated by cellular phone companies, or any combination thereof. The transceiver 58 can transmit data and requests for input generated by the computing device 34 and receive responses to these requests, directing these responses to the computing device 34.

[0038] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a transceiver 62. The exemplary transceiver 62 is configured to facilitate communication between at least one of the encryption module 44 and the computing device 34 and other computing devices that are distinct from and physically proximate to the modular ATM 10. An example of such a proximate computing device is a smartphone possessed by the user. The dashed connection lines in Figure 1 represent optional interconnections. The exemplary transceiver 62 can place the user's smartphone in communication with the encryption module 44, the computing device 34, or both. The exemplary transceiver 62 can implement various communication protocols. For example, the transceiver 62 can be a Near Field Communication (NFC) device. Alternatively, the transceiver 62 can be a Bluetooth beacon. The transceiver 62 can transmit and receive data and requests for input generated by the encryption module 44 and/or the computing device 34, such transmissions occurring with the user's smart phone for example.

[0039] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes an advanced function dispenser (AFD)

64. The AFD 64 can dispense banknotes, such as currency. The exemplary AFD 64 is positioned in a safe 66. One or more cassettes or cash boxes 68 are also positioned and protected in the safe 66. Banknotes are stored in the cassettes 68 for disbursement to a user of the modular ATM 10. The exemplary AFD 64 can extract the banknotes from one or more of the cassettes 68 and direct them out of the modular ATM 10 through the slot 52. The AFD 64 thus communicates with the slot 52 in parallel with the article exchange unit 50. The exemplary AFD 64 can communicate with and be controlled by the computing device 34 (this is not illustrated in Figure 4 due to the number of components already shown). The exemplary AFD 64 communicates with the computing device 34 through the socket-half 24 and the second socket-half 26. Each of the cassettes 68 can engage the AFD 64 through a rack whereby the positioning of the cassettes 68 is controlled. Further, the each of the cassettes 68 and the AFD 64 can include mating mechanical connectors of any form, whereby a positive mechanical interconnection is confirmed electronically. When one or more of the cassettes 68 and the AFD 64 are not properly interconnected, a signal or lack thereof can be communicated to the computing device 34 whereby an error message is generated, or the modular ATM 10 can be disabled. [0040] The exemplary modular ATM 10 also includes a scanner 70. The scanner 70 can scan, for example, at least a portion of a display of a smart phone and communicate the scanned display to the computing device 34. A token can be displayed on the display of the smart phone and thus scanned by the scanner 70. The token can be a bar code, a quick response (QR) code, a number, a string of alphanumeric characters, a weblink, or some other symbolic indicia. The exemplary scanner 70 is configured to transmit any scanned data to the computing device 34, which can direct the scanned away from the modular ATM 10 during completion of a financial transaction.

[0041] Figure 5 is a second functional block diagram of the exemplary modular ATM 10.

Figure 5 is provided to illustrate a power management arrangement of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The base portion 14 can receive power from the grid 72. The base portion 14 can include a power management module 74. The power management module 74 can direct power from the grid 72 to the subsystems and components within the base portion 14. The AFD 64 is one example of a component of the base portion 14. The power management module 74 can also convert power received from the grid 72 as desired for the head portion 12. The power management module 74 can convert power from AC to DC and can direct DC power to the head portion 12 through the socket-half 24 and second socket-half 26. For example, in the exemplary embodiment, the power management module 74 delivers 12 VDC to the head portion through the socket pair 24, 26.

[0042] A battery 76 is provided in the exemplary head portion 12 to power the subsystems and components within the head portion 12 when power is not supplied from the base portion 14, such as during transport. The battery 76 can provide 12 VDC. In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the battery 76 can provide ten minutes of power to the subsystems and components within the head portion 12. The battery 76 can provide electrical power to a 12 VDC rail, referenced at 78, when power is not supplied from the base portion 14. One or more of the user-interface devices receives power off of the first rail 78. The socket-half 24 is directly connected to the first rail 78 so that power can be supplied to the rail from the base portion 14 when the head portion 12 and base portion 14 are interconnected.

[0043] When the exemplary head portion 12 and the exemplary base portion 14 are interconnected, the 12 VDC power from the base portion 14 is directed to the rail 78, to a battery charger circuit 80, and to a relay 82. The battery charger circuit 80 is also connected to the relay 82, as shown in Figure 5. The exemplary battery charger circuit 80 is disposed between the relay 82 and the socket-half 24. The relay 82 is disposed between the battery 76 and the first rail 78. The relay 82 is arranged such that the relay 82 connects the battery 76 and the first rail 78 in a first configuration and in a second configuration selectively switches the battery 76 off of the first rail 78. The relay 82 is switched from the first configuration to the second configuration when electrical power is available at the socket-half 24. Thus, the battery charger circuit 80 is connected to the battery 76 when the relay 82 is in the second configuration.

[0044] The battery 76 delivers power to the 12 VDC rail 78 if power is not supplied from the base portion 14. When power is supplied from the base portion 14, the relay 82 is switched, connecting the battery 76 and the battery charger circuit 80 and isolating the battery 76 from the rail 78, so that the battery 76 can be charged. The battery 76 allows the various devices, subsystems, and components within the head portion 12 to be changed without the loss of power to the other devices, subsystems, and components. The battery 76 is thus selectively connectable to the user-interface devices and to the computing device 34. An appropriately-sized capacitor is positioned on the rail 78 so that power is maintained on the rail 78 during the switch of power source between the battery 76 and the base portion 14. An exemplary capacitor is referenced in Figure 6 at 96. The exemplary capacitor 96 is connected to the user-interface devices and to the computing device 34 and to the battery 76, through the rail 78. The capacitor 96 is loaded by the battery 76 initially and directs electric power to the user-interface devices and to the computing device 34 when power from the battery 76 is lost, particularly when the relay 82 is being switch between the first configuration and the second configuration.

[0045] In the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, various subsystems and components within the head portion 12 require different amounts of power. An exemplary circuit assembly 84 is connected to the rail 78, converts the first level of voltage on the first rail 78 to a second level of voltage different from the first level of voltage, and communicates and outputs 5 VDC to a rail 86. The exemplary circuit assembly 84 is shown in Figure 10. An exemplary circuit assembly 88 is connected to the rail 78, converts the first level of voltage on the first rail 78 to a third level of voltage different from the first level of voltage, and communicates and outputs 19 VDC to a rail 90. The exemplary circuit assembly 88 is shown in Figure 9. An exemplary circuit assembly 92 is connected to the rail 78, converts the first level of voltage on the first rail 78 to a fourth level of voltage different from the first level of voltage, and communicates and outputs 24 VDC to a rail 94. The exemplary circuit assembly 92 is shown in Figures 8 A and 8B.

[0046] It is noted that embodiments of the present disclosure may include less than four rails or more than four rails, may include rails at different voltage levels, and/or may include multiple rails of the same voltage level if desired. In the exemplary embodiment, three 24 VDC rails are established. Two of the 24 VDC rails are used to power peripherals/modules/devices and one 24 VDC rail is used to power the battery charging circuitry. The charger rail is not enabled unless the 12 VDC rail 78 is powered from the base portion 14. The reason for multiple 24 VDC rails to power peripherals/modules/devices in the exemplary embodiment is that only so much power can be directed through the DC-DC converter logic.

[0047] Figure 6 is a first circuit schematic of a first portion of an electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM 10. It is noted that any particular value of components shown in the Figures or particular part numbers of components shown in the Figures are exemplary; the present disclosure is not limited to such values and such part numbers. The exemplary first portion shows the power input portion of the head portion 12. Figures 7A - 7C are portions of a second circuit schematic of a second portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The exemplary second portion is a battery charging circuit. Figures 8A and 8B are portions of a third circuit schematic of a third portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The exemplary third portion is the circuit assembly 92, for outputting 24 VDC to the rail 94. Figure 9 is a fourth circuit schematic of a fourth portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The exemplary fourth portion is the circuit assembly 88, for outputting 19 VDC to a rail 90. It is noted that "EN" shown in Figure 9 is further explained in Figure 8B. Figure 10 is a fifth circuit schematic of a fifth portion of the electrical system of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The exemplary fourth portion is the circuit assembly 84, for outputting 5 VDC to a rail 86.

[0048] In operation, the user-interface devices of the exemplary modular ATM 10 are configured to receive an input from a user. The exemplary modular ATM 10 includes a plurality of user-interface devices which can be used individually by the user or in groups of two or more. The exemplary modular ATM 10 includes the key pad 40, the display 38, the scanner 70, the NFC transceiver 62, and the card reader 46. For example, the user may use only the NFC transceiver 62 when directing the input to the exemplary modular ATM 10. Alternatively, the input can be data received from more than one user-interface device. For example, the user may use the key pad 40, display 38, and the card reader 46 when providing the input to the exemplary modular ATM 10.

[0049] The input corresponds at least in part to an account maintained by a financial institution. For example, the input can be a scan of a QR code that was generated by a financial institution and transmitted to a smartphone of a user. The user can present the QR code in front of the scanner 70 to provide the input. The QR code can correspond to the user's account with the financial institution and an amount to be dispensed (as part of a pre-staged transaction). In another example, the input can be the data contained in a chip in a card, which includes the user's account number. [0050] Figure 11 is a schematic of a control architecture of the exemplary modular ATM 10.

The exemplary modular ATM 10 applies a publish/subscribe protocol in controlling at least some of its functions and operations. In the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, the computing device 34 can be one or more processors. Reference number 98 is utilized to reference processing operations for the overall functionality of the exemplary modular ATM 10. Processor 98 can be part of the computing device 34 or can be running on the computing device 34, and can itself run a terminal service. An exemplary terminal service referenced at 100. A service, such as the terminal service, can be provided through hardware, software, or a combination of hardware and software. A service can receive data from a component or device or peripheral or subsystem of the exemplary modular ATM 10. A service can also generate a message containing the received data, wherein the data can be received in one format and the message is in another format. Any particular component or device or peripheral or subsystem of the exemplary modular ATM 10 can communicate data to a corresponding service and the service can communicate a message containing the data in JSON format and according to the MQTT protocol. Further, the service can define a topic of the message and the topic of the message is contained within the message. A topic can itself be defined by one or more topic levels. The service can direct the message, defined by one or more topic levels, to a broker 102. The broker can publish the message to other service(s) that have subscribed to the topic of the message. Thus, a service can also subscribe to messages defined by particular topics.

[0051] The exemplary terminal service 100 is running on the processor 98 and can be configured to subscribe to messages defined by particular topics. Topics can be defined in part by the device from which a message originates (as will be described in greater detail below). The broker 102 receives all messages and publishes the messages to services that have subscribed to the topic associated with each message. Thus, the services do not directly communicate with one another. In the exemplary embodiment, the broker 102 can be the Eclipse Mosquitto™ broker (see https://mosquitto.org/). The terminal service 100 can be subscribed to all topics and will therefore receive all messages published by the broker 102, other than messages emanating from the terminal service 100 itself. Messages received by the terminal service 100 can be directed to the processor 98 for processing according to logic stored in memory 36.

[0052] The exemplary broker 102 is a secondary service running on the processor 98 of the computing device 34. The term "secondary" is applied to distinguish the broker 102 from other services based on generally functionality and not on importance. For example, unlike a service that may receive data in a first format or protocol and transmit the data in a different format or protocol, the broker 102 receives and transmits messages in the same format or protocol. Further, the broker 102 filters messages and publishes messages to the appropriate services.

[0053] In one exemplary operating scenario, a user can insert a bank card into a card reader, such as card reader 46. In Figure 11, reference number 104 is utilized as a generic user-interface device. In this example, box 104 corresponds to the card reader 46. The user-interface device 104 in the form of the card reader 46 is configured to transmit the input (card data) to the broker 102.

[0054] The exemplary processor 98 is also running a user-interface service, referenced at 106.

In this example, the input (card data) is first transmitted by the user-interface 104 to the user-interface service 106. Communication between the user-interface device 104 and the user-interface service 106 is referenced at 108. The input (card data) can be first transmitted to the user-interface service 106. The user-interface service 106 can convert the input (card data) to a different format. For example, the user-interface service 106 can convert the input (card data) to JSON format in MQTT protocol. The user-interface service 106 can then transmit the input (card data), in JSON format and in MQTT protocol, to the broker 102. Communication between the user-interface service 106 and the broker 102 is referenced at 110. The communication from the user-interface service 106 can designate a topic (with one or more topic levels) for the message to be published by the broker 102.

[0055] The broker 102 is configured to publish the received data input as a first message. The first message will be in JSON format and in MQTT protocol. One or more other services may be subscribed to the topic of the data input and thus receive the first message. In the exemplary embodiment, the terminal service 100 has subscribed, with the broker 102, to the topic associated with the data contained in the communication from the user-interface service 106. Communication between the terminal service 100 and the broker 102 is referenced at 114. The terminal service 100 and the user-interface service 106 are isolated from one another with respect to direct communications; the exemplary terminal service 100 and the exemplary user-interface service 106 do not communicate directly with one another.

[0056] The terminal service 100 is configured to receive the first message from the broker

102 and transmit the content of the first message to the processor 98. Communication between the terminal service 100 and the processor 98 is referenced at 116. The terminal service 100 is configured to transmit the content of the first message to the processor 98 for processing according to logic stored in memory 36. For example, processor 98 can determine one or more commands to transmit in response to receipt of the content of the first message. For example, the processor 98 may transmit the data contained in the first message outside of the modular ATM 10 for validation/approval. In another example, the processor 98 may issue a command to the display 38 to display a message for the user to enter a PIN. The terminal service 100 is configured to convert the format of the first message from JSON format and MQTT protocol to another format/protocol before transmitting to the processor 98, if necessary.

[0057] In response to receiving the first message, in this continuing example, the processor

98 can determine that banknotes should be dispensed to the user. In Figure 11, reference number 120 is utilized as a generic output device. In this example, box 120 corresponds to the AFD 64. The exemplary processor 98 can direct an appropriate command to the terminal service 100. The terminal service 100 can convert the command to a different format if necessary. For example, the terminal service 100 can convert the command to JSON format in MQTT protocol. The terminal service 100 can then transmit the command, in JSON format in MQTT protocol, to the broker 102. The communication from the terminal service 100 can designate a topic (with one or more topic levels) for the message to be published by the broker 102.

[0058] The broker 102 can publish a second message containing the command. The topic of the second message can include, as a topic level, "AFD" for example. The exemplary processor 98 of the computing device 34 is also running an AFD service, referenced at 112. The AFD service 112 can be subscribed to messages that contain commands for the AFD 64 and thus receive the second message, in JSON format and MQTT protocol, from the broker 102. Communication between the AFD service 112 and the broker 102 is referenced at 118.

[0059] The AFD service 112 can convert the command to a different format if desired. For example, the AFD service 112 can convert the command from the JSON format and/or MQTT protocol. The AFD service 112 can then transmit the command to the output device 120 (the AFD 64 in this example) for execution of the command. The exemplary AFD service 11 is illustrated with a bus-based messaging protocol, referenced at 122. In one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, output devices and/or user-interface devices can be configured to receive and transmit communications under a common protocol that may be different from the protocol of the services and the broker 102. Lightweight Application Communication Bus (LACB) and Extensions for Financial Services (XFS) Service Provider are two examples of such protocols. A service may include a bus applying these protocols so that a single service can communicate with more than one device. Figure 11 shows AFD service 112 configured to communicate with a second device (in phantom) other than the box 120 using the bus-based messaging protocol 122.

[0060] The AFD service 112 can communicate the command to output device 120 (the AFD

64 in this example). Communication between the AFD service 112 and the output device 120 is referenced at 124. The AFD 64 dispenses banknotes in response to the second message. [0061] The communication architecture disclosed above allows subcomponents of the exemplary modular ATM 10 to be replaced with greater ease. In the exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure, all of the components of the modular ATM 10 can apply the architecture. The user-interface device 104 could be the scanner 70 and the processor 98 could be running a scanner service. The display 38 could be a user-interface device 104 or an output device 120 and the processor 98 could be running a display service. The user-interface device 104 could be the encrypting key pad 40 and messages containing the encrypted PIN can be transmitted in JSON format and in MQTT protocol.

[0062] In the example above, the initial sequence began based on an input from a user.

However, the communication architecture can also be applied for diagnostic data. The various devices of the modular ATM 10 can include diagnostic sensors to alert the computing device 34 of problems and/or confirm operating status. For example, the exemplary AFD 64 is configured to transmit diagnostic data to the broker 102 through the AFD service 112 and the broker 102 is configured to transmit messages to the terminal service 100 containing the diagnostic data.

[0063] In one or more implementations of the present disclosure, one or more of the devices can respond to the receipt of a message by publishing a message. In one example, the AFD 64 can confirm that banknotes have been dispensed by publishing a message that will be received by the processor 98. In one or more implementations of the present disclosure, one or more of the services associated with a particular device can subscribe to messages published by a service other than the terminal service 100. In one example, the AFD 64 can subscribe to messages published by the encrypting key pad 40. Upon receipt of a message to dispense banknotes, the AFD 64 can first confirm receipt of a message published previously by the encrypting key pad 40, before executing a command to dispense bank notes. This feature can inhibit the perpetration of fraudulent activity, such as jackpotting.

[0064] Figure 11 shows another feature of one or more implementations of the present disclosure. A peripheral 126 is mounted in the housing defined by the head portion 12 and the base portion 14. The peripheral 126 can be configured to perform an action and is in communication with the broker 102. In one example, the peripheral 126 can be the article exchange unit 50. Further, the article exchange unit 50 can be a recycler that operates through an XFS Service Provider, referenced at 128. A microprocessor chip 130 can be interconnected with the computing device 34 through a physical socket pair 132. The exemplary microprocessor chip 130 is interconnected with the peripheral 126 and is running a peripheral service 134 configured to bridge communications between the XFS Service Provider 128 and the broker 102. The peripheral service 134 running on the microprocessor chip 130 is configured to convert messages received from the broker 102 to XFS format so that modification of the programming of the peripheral 126 is not required for the peripheral to be utilized in the modular ATM 10.

[0065] In one or more implementations of the present disclosure, each device can be operating its respective service on its own processor. In the Figure 11, the recycler is shown operating on its own compute platform (the microprocessor chip 130). But embodiments of the present disclosure can be practiced wherein each device (AFD 64, NFC transceiver 62, card reader 46, encrypting key pad 40, etc.) is on a separate compute platform and communicating with a broker 102 over network connections.

[0066] The computing device 34 is configured to transmit content of a message received from the broker 102 outside of the exemplary modular ATM 10. The terminal service 100 can convert a format of the second message from a first protocol to a second protocol prior in order for the processor 98 to transmit the content of the second message outside of the exemplary modular ATM 10 if necessary.

[0067] While the present disclosure has been described with reference to an exemplary embodiment, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated for carrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosure will include all embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. The right to claim elements and/or sub-combinations that are disclosed herein is hereby unconditionally reserved. The use of the word "can" in this document is not an assertion that the subject preceding the word is unimportant or unnecessary or "not critical" relative to anything else in this document. The word "can" is used herein in a positive and affirming sense and no other motive should be presumed.