The automated banking industry, especially deposit automation, is rapidly evolving. One aspect of deposit automation includes automatic check processing modules. These are modules capable of scanning and reading a check and crediting the amount to customers's bank accounts without ever having to step inside the bank. Most of these modules are available at drive-up or walk-up Automated Teller Machines (ATMs). With the need for more functionality and the same space constraints as past designs, there are many times when low profile pinch force is required to help transport media within an ATM module.
The ultimate purpose of this thesis is to provide an understanding of the unique design and analysis that goes into the creation of a pair of low profile leaf springs used for paper handling in ATMs. This involves first explaining the application in which these springs are used and the need for the design. Once the springs’ functions are defined, the parameters around which the design was created will be defined.
The prototype design for these leaf springs uses mild steel which is not suited for the application in a production environment. Careful attention is required to produce consistent parts using the mild steel, because a tight tolerance band is required and because the parts are prone to deformation during handling. The shortcomings of the prototype designs are recognized, and a new design is developed and analyzed to take the place of the mild steel version of the component. This new design for the bin spring parts involves a slight modification to the geometry of the springs and a drastic change to the material selected. Finite element analysis, component measurements and functional testing are provided to support the redesign and its success for the intended application. As a result of these analyses and functional tests, a new leaf spring drive system that is both functional and manufacturable is presented.