Importance

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Abstract

An anti-theft device for Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) provides for the blurring or defacing of banknotes which are stored within ATM banknote cassettes/containers within the ATM upon a breach of security of the ATM, the breach of security being either a break-in attempt or the attempted removal of the entire ATM from its location. An indelible dye or ink, stored under pressure within a tank internal to the ATM unit, is caused to be released into a distribution manifold, which is integral with the banknote cassette and in communication with the interior thereof, upon receipt of an actuating signal. The actuating signal is preferably developed by an electrical device which triggers the release of the ink into the cassette. In one embodiment, connection and disconnection of the distribution manifold to the tank occurs automatically without user interface when cassettes are changed. In another embodiment, the distribution manifold is separate from the cassette. When ink enters the manifold fluid pressure extends a set of nozzles to carry ink to bores drilled in the cassettes, thus requiring only minimal modification of the cassette. A swiveling extension is added to the end of the pick up tube in the pressurized ink tank. When the machine, and therefore the tank, is tilted, the swiveling extension helps extract the maximum quantity of ink possible from the tank.

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First Claim