EP0060937B1 - Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals - Google Patents

Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0060937B1
EP0060937B1 EP81110234A EP81110234A EP0060937B1 EP 0060937 B1 EP0060937 B1 EP 0060937B1 EP 81110234 A EP81110234 A EP 81110234A EP 81110234 A EP81110234 A EP 81110234A EP 0060937 B1 EP0060937 B1 EP 0060937B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
markings
light
arrangement according
sensing means
counter
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired
Application number
EP81110234A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0060937A1 (en
Inventor
Rolf Lochinger
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Siemens Building Technologies AG
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LGZ Landis and Gyr Zug AG
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Priority to AT81110234T priority Critical patent/ATE9620T1/en
Publication of EP0060937A1 publication Critical patent/EP0060937A1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06M—COUNTING MECHANISMS; COUNTING OF OBJECTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06M1/00—Design features of general application
    • G06M1/27—Design features of general application for representing the result of count in the form of electric signals, e.g. by sensing markings on the counter drum
    • G06M1/272—Design features of general application for representing the result of count in the form of electric signals, e.g. by sensing markings on the counter drum using photoelectric means
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06M—COUNTING MECHANISMS; COUNTING OF OBJECTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06M3/00—Counters with additional facilities
    • G06M3/06—Counters with additional facilities for printing or separately displaying result of count

Definitions

  • An arrangement of the type mentioned in the preamble of claim 1 is known (GB-A 2018 069), in which optical markings, each consisting of four individual lines, are assigned to the respective numbers of the number rolls to represent the content of number-roll counters of, for example, electricity meters .
  • the different line width or line thickness enables the selection of a specific code.
  • the scanning is carried out by means of a light pen, which is guided along the row of individual lines, which is why the four individual lines of each individual marking are to be arranged one after the other in the same scanning direction.
  • This type of marking requires a relatively large total area, may even disrupt the numerical image and does not allow installed measuring devices to be equipped with such a counter or to provide existing counters with such markings.
  • the invention has for its object to improve an arrangement of the type mentioned in such a way that a universal and reliable scanning is possible despite the small space requirement of the marking.
  • diffraction gratings for storing authenticity information on credit cards, identity cards and the like.
  • diffraction gratings are arranged on the card with a special structure representing the authenticity information; During the authenticity check, it is checked whether the energy components in certain diffraction orders are in a predetermined relationship to one another.
  • DE-A2215828 it is known (DE-A2215828) to use holography in information input systems for electronic data processing machines and in particular for storing and reading out identification information on identification cards and credit cards.
  • 10 means a number roller counter, which has number rollers 11 to 13 and behind an aperture 14 z. B. is arranged in a measuring device, not shown. Each of the number rollers 11 to 13 carries numbers on its outer surface, for. B. the numbers 0, 1, 2 ... 9 or 00, 10, 20 ... 90. The respective content (counter status) of the counter 10 can be read through a window 15 of the aperture 14 by the eye.
  • Markers 16 are arranged on each number roller 11 to 13. These markings 16 are of such a nature that they block the beam path - i.e. H. Modify not only the beam intensity, but also the beam direction - of a photoelectric scanner 17 by diffraction or refraction.
  • the markings 16 are advantageously arranged on the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13.
  • the markings 16 of a number roller 11, 12, 13 each differ from one another, so that each marking individually modifies the beam path in a manner characteristic of the respective position of the number roller.
  • Each number 0 to 9 of the number rollers 11 to 13 is advantageously assigned a single individual marking 16 which, as will be explained in more detail below, can be located next to, between or above the numbers 0 to 9.
  • the scanning device 17 consists of a light source 18, a group of light receivers 19 and a signal processing element 20.
  • the light source 18 throws a light beam onto that marking 16 'of the number roller 11 which is assigned to the number of the number roller 11 appearing in the window 15.
  • the light beam is deflected at the marking 16 ', optionally split into a plurality of partial beams and directed in one or more predetermined directions.
  • Each of the light receivers 19 is receptive to a narrow bundle of light from the light scattered at the marking 16 '.
  • the deflected light beams excite one or more of the light receivers 19, and the signal processing element 20 emits an electrical signal at its output, which represents the respective position of the number roller 11 and thus the number appearing in the window 15 in serial or parallel coded form.
  • the number rollers 12 and 13 are scanned in the same way.
  • Reflective phase holograms are preferably suitable as markings 16. You can use a hologram of the assigned number, a hologram of the binary-coded number or a hologram of any, e.g. B. in the Gray code organized representation, which allows a clear differentiation of the numbers 0 to 9 as easily as possible. Such holograms can be produced by interference from coherent radiation or synthetically, ie with the aid of a computer.
  • markings 16 are reflective phase diffraction gratings, the individual markings being able to differ from one another in terms of the grating frequency and orientation of the diffraction gratings; In order to make it easier to distinguish between ten different markings 16, it is also possible to implement each marking by superimposing two different diffraction gratings. A space can be provided between the markings 16 to indicate a number change taking place.
  • the markings 16 can be embossed directly into the number rollers 11 to 13 by known embossing or diffraction grating duplication methods by means of an embossing die using pressure and heat. It is also possible to coat at least part of the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 with a thermoplastic layer and to emboss the markings 16 before or after the application of the thermoplastic layer.
  • the markings 16 are advantageously embossed in a thermoplastic film which, for. B. is fixed by gluing on the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 and encloses them in a ring.
  • FIG. 2 shows a number roll 21 with such a strip-shaped film 22, which is narrow compared to the width of the number roll 21 and only covers the one free edge of the outer surface. Different hatching in FIG. 2 indicates that the individual markings 16 are not identical. To increase the reflection, the surface area provided with the markings 16 or the entire surface of the film 22 can be coated with a thin metal layer.
  • FIG. 3 shows a number roll 23 with a strip-shaped, transparent film 24 which has approximately the same width as the number roll 23 and which covers the zones of the lateral surface of the number roll 23 provided with the numbers 0 to 9.
  • Each of the markings 16 embossed in the film 24 is arranged between two numbers.
  • the markings 16 can be metal-coated.
  • FIG. 4 shows a number roll 25 which differs from the number roll 23 of FIG. 3 in that the markings 16 embossed into a transparent film 26 applied to the outer surface of the number roll 25 are arranged above the numbers 0 to 9 to cover the numbers.
  • This arrangement has the advantage that the numbers can occupy practically the entire circumferential surface of the number roller 25, since the markings 16 do not take up any space on their own.
  • the legibility of the numbers is hardly affected by the markings 16, since only a small part of the light incident on the number roller 25 is reflected by the surface of the film 26.
  • the light signals incident on the light receivers 19 are also relatively weak, but this hardly impedes reliable photoelectric detection of the markings 16.
  • light source 18 are, for. B. laser diodes, LEDs or incandescent lamps, which cast a light beam on the markings 16 directly or via light guides.
  • the lighting is advantageously carried out intermittently, so that the service life of the components used is increased and permanent lighting caused by a defect or fraudulent manipulation can be detected by means of the evaluation element 20.
  • photodiodes or phototransistors can be used, which can be integrated on a common semiconductor chip. Like the lighting, the detection of the light rays can also take place directly or via light guides.
  • the number rollers 11 to 13 can be scanned in parallel or sequentially.
  • a single light source 18 can be provided and each group of numbers 11 to 13 can be assigned a group of light receivers 19, the signals of which are processed sequentially in a common signal processing element.
  • a separate light source can be assigned to each number roller 11 to 14 and a common group of light receivers 19 can be assigned to all number rollers, the light sources being controlled sequentially and the light receiver group being optically coupled to the individual number rollers via light guides.
  • the light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be installed in a mechanically movable scanning head, which scans the number rollers 11 to 13 in succession. It is also possible to work with a single, mechanically movable light receiver which is guided into all angular positions in which a light signal modified by the markings 16 can be expected.
  • the sampling can be carried out periodically and the result can be stored in an electronic memory of the signal processing element 20. This permits the use of slow-working, inexpensive components, and the scanning can be carried out in any cycle which is independent of the cycle of the information output at the output of the signal processing element 20.
  • the light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be assembled into a fixed block for each number roll or for the entire counter 10.
  • the Scanning device 17 is advantageously arranged outside this sealable part, so that manipulations on the scanning device do not result in a new calibration of the measuring device.
  • the optical coupling between the counter 10 and the scanning device 17 is advantageously carried out via light guides.
  • the z. B. consists of a portable base unit and a scanning head connected to this via a cable.
  • the scanning device or its scanning head is placed on the measuring device, the beam path of the scanning device preferably leading through a counter window of the measuring device.
  • the advantages of the invention can now be easily recognized. Since it is sufficient to assign a single marking to each number of number rolls, these markings take up very little space, so that the number image is not disturbed by the markings and, in existing counter designs, neither the width of the number rolls has to be enlarged nor the size of the numbers reduced.
  • the individual markings can be selected to be very small, for example a hologram with an area of the order of one square millimeter is sufficient. In comparison to known solutions that work with pure reflection markings, but require at least four places per number for a marking, the requirements for the adjustment accuracy are approximately the same - provided the markings are the same size.
  • Existing measuring devices or counters can easily be retrofitted, especially since it is even possible to glue a film bearing the markings on the number rolls.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Length Measuring Devices By Optical Means (AREA)
  • Control Of Electric Motors In General (AREA)
  • Discharging, Photosensitive Material Shape In Electrophotography (AREA)
  • Facsimile Image Signal Circuits (AREA)
  • Holo Graphy (AREA)
  • Optical Transform (AREA)

Abstract

1. An arrangement for representing the content of number disc counters in the form of electrical signals, comprising optical markings (16) disposed on the peripheral surface of at least one number disc (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) and a photoelectric sensing means (17) for sensing the markings (16), the sensing means including a light source (18) and light receivers (19), characterised in that associated with each number of the number disc (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) is a single individual marking (16) in the form of a reflection phase diffraction grating or reflection phase hologram for modifying the ray path of the sensing means (17) by optical diffraction, and that each light receiver (19) is receptive of a narrow light beam from the light diffracted at the respective marking (16) lit.

Description

Bekannte Anordnungen zur Darstellung des Inhalts von Zahlenrollen-Zählwerken in Form elektrischer Signale beruhen auf der mechanischen, elektrischen, magnetischen oder photoelektrischen Abtastung von codierten Spuren auf den Zahlenrollen. Die vielfältigen Randbedingungen, nämlich Wirtschaftlichkeit, Verschleissfreiheit, Alterungsbeständigkeit, geringer Platzbedarf, Nachrüstbarkeit bestehender Zählwerke usw. werden bei der photoelektrischen Abtastung wohl am besten, bei bekannten Anordnungen aber trotzdem noch nicht in befriedigender Weise erfüllt.Known arrangements for representing the content of number roller counters in the form of electrical signals are based on the mechanical, electrical, magnetic or photoelectric scanning of coded tracks on the number rollers. The various boundary conditions, namely economy, wear and tear, aging resistance, small space requirements, upgradeability of existing counters, etc. are probably best achieved with photoelectric scanning, but are still not satisfactorily met with known arrangements.

Es ist eine Anordnung der im Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 genannten Art bekannt (GB-A 2018 069), bei der zur Darstellung des Inhalts von Zahlenrollen-Zählwerken von beispielsweise Elektrizitätszählern den jeweiligen Zahlen der Zahlenrollen optische Markierungen zugeordnet sind, welche jeweils aus vier Einzelstrichen bestehen. Die unterschiedliche Strichstärke bzw. Strichdicke ermöglicht die Auswahl eines bestimmten Codes. Die Abtastung erfolgt mittels eines Lichtgriffels (light pen), der längs der Reihe der Einzelstriche entlang geführt wird, weshalb die vier Einzelstriche jeder Einzelmarkierung in derselben Abtastrichtung nacheinander anzuordnen sind. Diese Art der Markierung verlangt eine verhältnismässig grosse Gesamtfläche, stört allenfalls sogar das Zahlenbild und lässt es nicht zu, installierte Messgeräte mit einem solchen Zählwerk nachzurüsten oder bestehende Zählwerke mit solchen Markierungen zu versehen.An arrangement of the type mentioned in the preamble of claim 1 is known (GB-A 2018 069), in which optical markings, each consisting of four individual lines, are assigned to the respective numbers of the number rolls to represent the content of number-roll counters of, for example, electricity meters . The different line width or line thickness enables the selection of a specific code. The scanning is carried out by means of a light pen, which is guided along the row of individual lines, which is why the four individual lines of each individual marking are to be arranged one after the other in the same scanning direction. This type of marking requires a relatively large total area, may even disrupt the numerical image and does not allow installed measuring devices to be equipped with such a counter or to provide existing counters with such markings.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Anordnung der eingangs genannten Art dahingehend zu verbessern, dass eine universelle und zuverlässige Abtastung trotz geringen Platzbedarfs der Markierung möglich ist.The invention has for its object to improve an arrangement of the type mentioned in such a way that a universal and reliable scanning is possible despite the small space requirement of the marking.

Die Lösung dieser Aufgabe gelingt durch die im Kennzeichen des Anspruchs 1 angegebenen Merkmale.This object is achieved by the features specified in the characterizing part of claim 1.

Es ist zwar bekannt (DE-A 2 538 875), Beugungsgitter zum Speichern von Echtheitsinformationen auf Kreditkarten, Identitätskarten und dergleichen einzusetzen. Dabei werden zur Erzielung einer hohen Fälschungssicherheit auf der Karte Beugungsgitter mit einer besonderen, die Echtheitsinformation darstellenden Struktur angeordnet ; bei der Echtheitsprüfung wird geprüft, ob die Energieanteile in bestimmten Beugungsordnungen in einem vorbestimmten Verhältnis zueinander stehen. Ferner ist es bekannt (DE-A2215828), die Holographie in Informationseingabesystemen für elektronische Datenverarbeitungsmaschinen und insbesondere zum Speichern und Auslesen von Identifikationsinformationen bei Identifikationskarten und Kreditkarten anzuwenden. Hierbei handelt es sich um dem Fachgebiet der Erfindung fernliegende Spezialgebiete der Technik, in denen die Beugungsoptik zur Erzielung einer hohen Fälschungssicherheit angewandt wird.It is known (DE-A 2 538 875) to use diffraction gratings for storing authenticity information on credit cards, identity cards and the like. In order to achieve a high level of security against forgery, diffraction gratings are arranged on the card with a special structure representing the authenticity information; During the authenticity check, it is checked whether the energy components in certain diffraction orders are in a predetermined relationship to one another. Furthermore, it is known (DE-A2215828) to use holography in information input systems for electronic data processing machines and in particular for storing and reading out identification information on identification cards and credit cards. These are special fields of technology which are remote from the field of the invention and in which the diffraction optics are used to achieve a high level of security against forgery.

Nachfolgend werden einige Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung anhand der Zeichnungen näher erläutert.Some exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

Es zeigen :

  • Figur 1 eine Prinzipdarstellung eines Zählwerkes und einer Abtasteinrichtung und
  • Figuren 2 bis 4 verschiedene Zahlenrollen.
Show it :
  • Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of a counter and a scanner and
  • Figures 2 to 4 different number rolls.

In der Fig. 1 bedeutet 10 ein Zahlenrollen-Zählwerk, das Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 aufweist und hinter einer Blende 14 z. B. in einem nicht dargestellten Messgerät angeordnet ist. Jede der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 trägt auf ihrer Mantelfläche Zahlen, z. B. die Zahlen 0, 1, 2... 9 oder 00, 10, 20... 90. Der jeweilige Inhalt (Zählwerkstand) des Zählwerkes 10 kann durch ein Fenster 15 der Blende 14 von Auge abgelesen werden.In Fig. 1, 10 means a number roller counter, which has number rollers 11 to 13 and behind an aperture 14 z. B. is arranged in a measuring device, not shown. Each of the number rollers 11 to 13 carries numbers on its outer surface, for. B. the numbers 0, 1, 2 ... 9 or 00, 10, 20 ... 90. The respective content (counter status) of the counter 10 can be read through a window 15 of the aperture 14 by the eye.

Auf jeder Zahlenrolle 11 bis 13 sind Markierungen 16 angeordnet. Diese Markierungen 16 sind solcher Art, dass sie den Strahlengang - d. h. nicht nur die Strahlenintensität, sondern auch die Strahlenrichtung - einer photoelektrischen Abtasteinrichtung 17 durch Beugung oder Brechung modifizieren. Vorteilhaft sind die Markierungen 16 auf der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 angeordnet. Die Markierungen 16 einer Zahlenrolle 11, 12, 13 unterscheiden sich jeweils voneinander, so dass jede Markierung den Strahlengang individuell in für die jeweilige Stellung der Zahlenrolle charakteristischer Weise modifiziert. Vorteilhaft ist jeder Zahl 0 bis 9 der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 einzige individuelle Markierung 16 zugeordnet, die sich, wie weiter unten noch näher erläutert wird, neben, zwischen oder über den Zahlen 0 bis 9 befinden kann.Markers 16 are arranged on each number roller 11 to 13. These markings 16 are of such a nature that they block the beam path - i.e. H. Modify not only the beam intensity, but also the beam direction - of a photoelectric scanner 17 by diffraction or refraction. The markings 16 are advantageously arranged on the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13. The markings 16 of a number roller 11, 12, 13 each differ from one another, so that each marking individually modifies the beam path in a manner characteristic of the respective position of the number roller. Each number 0 to 9 of the number rollers 11 to 13 is advantageously assigned a single individual marking 16 which, as will be explained in more detail below, can be located next to, between or above the numbers 0 to 9.

Die Abtasteinrichtung 17 besteht im dargestellten Beispiel aus einer Lichtquelle 18, einer Gruppe von Lichtempfängern 19 und einem Signalverarbeitungsglied 20. Die Lichtquelle 18 wirft einen Lichtstrahl auf jene Markierung 16' der Zahlenrolle 11, welche der im Fenster 15 erscheinenden Zahl der Zahlenrolle 11 zugeordnet ist. Der Lichtstrahl wird an der Markierung 16' abgelenkt, gegebenenfalls in mehrere Teilstrahlen aufgespalten und in eine oder mehrere vorbestimmte Richtungen gelenkt. Jeder der Lichtempfänger 19 ist für ein enges Lichtbündel aus dem an der Markierung 16' gestreuten Licht empfänglich. Die abgelenkten Lichtstrahlen erregen einen oder mehrere der Lichtempfänger 19, und das Signalverarbeitungsglied 20 gibt an seinem Ausgang ein elektrisches Signal ab, das die jeweilige Stellung der Zahlenrolle 11 und damit die im Fenster 15 erscheinende Zahl in seriell oder parallel codierter Form darstellt. Auf gleiche Weise erfolgt die Abtastung der Zahlenrollen 12 und 13.In the example shown, the scanning device 17 consists of a light source 18, a group of light receivers 19 and a signal processing element 20. The light source 18 throws a light beam onto that marking 16 'of the number roller 11 which is assigned to the number of the number roller 11 appearing in the window 15. The light beam is deflected at the marking 16 ', optionally split into a plurality of partial beams and directed in one or more predetermined directions. Each of the light receivers 19 is receptive to a narrow bundle of light from the light scattered at the marking 16 '. The deflected light beams excite one or more of the light receivers 19, and the signal processing element 20 emits an electrical signal at its output, which represents the respective position of the number roller 11 and thus the number appearing in the window 15 in serial or parallel coded form. The number rollers 12 and 13 are scanned in the same way.

Als Markierungen 16 eignen sich vorzugsweise reflektierende Phasenhologramme. Sie können ein Hologramm der zugeordneten Zahl, ein Hologramm der binär codierten Zahl oder ein Hologramm einer beliebigen, z. B. im Gray-Code organisierten Darstellung, die möglichst einfach eine eindeutige Unterscheidung der Zahlen 0 bis 9 gestattet, beinhalten. Solche Hologramme können durch Interferenz kohärenter Strahlung oder synthetisch, d. h. mit Hilfe eines Rechners, hergestellt werden. Ferner eignen sich als Markierungen 16 reflektierende Phasenbeugungsgitter, wobei sich die einzelnen Markierungen durch die Gitterfrequenz und Orientierung der Beugungsgitter voneinander unterscheiden können ; um die Unterscheidung von zehn verschiedenen Markierungen 16 zu erleichtern, ist es auch möglich, jede Markierung durch Ueberlagerung zweier verschiedener Beugungsgitter zu realisieren. Zwischen den Markierungen 16 kann ein Zwischenraum zur Anzeige eines stattfindenden Zahlenwechsels vorgesehen werden.Reflective phase holograms are preferably suitable as markings 16. You can use a hologram of the assigned number, a hologram of the binary-coded number or a hologram of any, e.g. B. in the Gray code organized representation, which allows a clear differentiation of the numbers 0 to 9 as easily as possible. Such holograms can be produced by interference from coherent radiation or synthetically, ie with the aid of a computer. Also suitable as markings 16 are reflective phase diffraction gratings, the individual markings being able to differ from one another in terms of the grating frequency and orientation of the diffraction gratings; In order to make it easier to distinguish between ten different markings 16, it is also possible to implement each marking by superimposing two different diffraction gratings. A space can be provided between the markings 16 to indicate a number change taking place.

Die Markierungen 16 können nach bekannten Hologramm- oder Beugungsgitter-Vervielfältigungsmethoden mittels einer Prägematrize unter Anwendung von Druck und Wärme unmittelbar in die Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 eingeprägt werden. Es ist auch möglich, mindestens einen Teil der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 mit einer thermoplastischen Schicht zu beschichten und die Markierungen 16 vor oder nach der Applikation der thermoplastischen Schicht in diese einzuprägen. Vorteilhaft werden die Markierungen 16 in eine thermoplastische Folie geprägt, die z. B. durch Kleben auf der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 befestigt wird und diese ringförmig umschliesst.The markings 16 can be embossed directly into the number rollers 11 to 13 by known embossing or diffraction grating duplication methods by means of an embossing die using pressure and heat. It is also possible to coat at least part of the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 with a thermoplastic layer and to emboss the markings 16 before or after the application of the thermoplastic layer. The markings 16 are advantageously embossed in a thermoplastic film which, for. B. is fixed by gluing on the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 and encloses them in a ring.

Die Fig. 2 stellt eine Zahlenrolle 21 mit einer solchen streifenförmigen Folie 22 dar, die im Vergleich zur Breite der Zahlenrolle 21 schmal ist und nur den einen zahlenfreien Rand der Mantelfläche bedeckt. Durch eine unterschiedliche Schraffur ist in der Fig. 2 angedeutet, dass die einzelnen Markierungen 16 nicht identisch sind. Zur Erhöhung der Reflexion kann der mit den Markierungen 16 versehene Oberflächenbereich oder die gesamte Oberfläche der Folie 22 mit einer dünnen Metallschicht beschichtet sein.FIG. 2 shows a number roll 21 with such a strip-shaped film 22, which is narrow compared to the width of the number roll 21 and only covers the one free edge of the outer surface. Different hatching in FIG. 2 indicates that the individual markings 16 are not identical. To increase the reflection, the surface area provided with the markings 16 or the entire surface of the film 22 can be coated with a thin metal layer.

Die Fig. 3 zeigt eine Zahlenrolle 23 mit einer streifenförmigen, transparenten Folie 24, welche etwa die gleiche Breite wie die Zahlenrolle 23 aufweist und die mit den Zahlen 0 bis 9 versehenen Zonen der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle 23 bedeckt. Jede der in die Folie 24 geprägten Markierungen 16 ist jeweils zwischen zwei Zahlen angeordnet. Auch hier können die Markierungen 16 metallbeschichtet sein.FIG. 3 shows a number roll 23 with a strip-shaped, transparent film 24 which has approximately the same width as the number roll 23 and which covers the zones of the lateral surface of the number roll 23 provided with the numbers 0 to 9. Each of the markings 16 embossed in the film 24 is arranged between two numbers. Here too, the markings 16 can be metal-coated.

In der Fig. 4 ist eine Zahlenrolle 25 gezeichnet, die sich von der Zahlenrolle 23 der Fig. 3 dadurch unterscheidet, dass die in eine auf die Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle 25 aufgebrachte, transparente Folie 26 geprägten Markierungen 16 über den Zahlen 0 bis 9 angeordnet sind, die Zahlen also bedecken. Diese Anordnung hat den Vorteil, dass die Zahlen praktisch die gesamte Mantelfläche Zahlenrolle 25 belegen können, da die Markierungen 16 keinen Platz für sich allein beanspruchen. Die Lesbarkeit der Zahlen wird durch die Markierungen 16 kaum beeinträchtigt, da von der Oberfläche der Folie 26 nur ein geringer Teil des auf die Zahlenrolle 25 einfallenden Lichtes reflektiert wird. Aus dem gleichen Grunde sind zwar auch die auf die Lichtempfänger 19 einfallenden Lichtsignale verhältnismässig schwach, was jedoch eine zuverlässige photoelektrische Erkennung der Markierungen 16 kaum erschwert.FIG. 4 shows a number roll 25 which differs from the number roll 23 of FIG. 3 in that the markings 16 embossed into a transparent film 26 applied to the outer surface of the number roll 25 are arranged above the numbers 0 to 9 to cover the numbers. This arrangement has the advantage that the numbers can occupy practically the entire circumferential surface of the number roller 25, since the markings 16 do not take up any space on their own. The legibility of the numbers is hardly affected by the markings 16, since only a small part of the light incident on the number roller 25 is reflected by the surface of the film 26. For the same reason, the light signals incident on the light receivers 19 are also relatively weak, but this hardly impedes reliable photoelectric detection of the markings 16.

Als Lichtquelle 18 eignen sich z. B. Laserdioden, LED's oder Glühlämpchen, die unmittelbar oder über Lichtleiter einen Lichtstrahl auf die Markierungen 16 werfen. Vorteilhaft erfolgt die Beleuchtung intermittierend, so dass die Lebensdauer der eingesetzten Komponenten erhöht und mittels des Auswertegliedes 20 eine durch einen Defekt oder eine betrügerische Manipulation verursachte Dauerbeleuchtung erkannt werden kann.As light source 18 are, for. B. laser diodes, LEDs or incandescent lamps, which cast a light beam on the markings 16 directly or via light guides. The lighting is advantageously carried out intermittently, so that the service life of the components used is increased and permanent lighting caused by a defect or fraudulent manipulation can be detected by means of the evaluation element 20.

Zur Detektion der durch die Markierungen 16 modifizierten Lichtstrahlen können z. B. Photodioden oder Phototransistoren eingesetzt werden, die auf einem gemeinsamen Halbleiterplättchen integriert sein können. Wie die Beleuchtung kann auch die Detektion der Lichtstrahlen unmittelbar oder über Lichtleiter erfolgen.To detect the light rays modified by the markings 16, e.g. B. photodiodes or phototransistors can be used, which can be integrated on a common semiconductor chip. Like the lighting, the detection of the light rays can also take place directly or via light guides.

Zum Auslesen des gesamten Inhalts des Zählwerkes 10 können die Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 parallel oder sequentiell abgetastet werden. Hierzu kann eine einzige Lichtquelle 18 vorgesehen und jeder Zahlenrolle 11 bis 13 eine Gruppe von Lichtempfängern 19 zugeordnet werden, deren Signale in einem gemeinsamen Signalverarbeitungsglied sequentiell verarbeitet werden. Ferner kann jeder Zahlenrolle 11 bis 14 eine gesonderte Lichtquelle und allen Zahlenrollen eine gemeinsame Gruppe von Lichtempfängern 19 zugeordnet werden, wobei die Lichtquellen sequentiell angesteuert werden und die Lichtempfänger-Gruppe über Lichtleiter optisch an die einzelnen Zahlenrollen gekoppelt ist. Ferner können die Lichtquelle 18 und die Lichtempfänger 19 in einen mechanisch bewegbaren Abtastkopf eingebaut werden, der die Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 nacheinander abtastet. Es ist auch möglich, mit einem einzigen, mechanisch bewegbaren Lichtempfänger zu arbeiten, der in alle Winkelpositionen geführt wird, in denen ein durch die Markierungen 16 modifiziertes Lichtsignal zu erwarten ist.To read out the entire contents of the counter 10, the number rollers 11 to 13 can be scanned in parallel or sequentially. For this purpose, a single light source 18 can be provided and each group of numbers 11 to 13 can be assigned a group of light receivers 19, the signals of which are processed sequentially in a common signal processing element. Furthermore, a separate light source can be assigned to each number roller 11 to 14 and a common group of light receivers 19 can be assigned to all number rollers, the light sources being controlled sequentially and the light receiver group being optically coupled to the individual number rollers via light guides. Furthermore, the light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be installed in a mechanically movable scanning head, which scans the number rollers 11 to 13 in succession. It is also possible to work with a single, mechanically movable light receiver which is guided into all angular positions in which a light signal modified by the markings 16 can be expected.

Die Abtastung kann periodisch durchgeführt und das Ergebnis in einem elektronischen Speicher des Signalverarbeitungsgliedes 20 gespeichert werden. Dies gestattet den Einsatz langsam arbeitender, preisgünstiger Bauteile, und die Abtastung kann in einem beliebigen Takt durchgeführt werden, der unabhängig ist vom Takt der Informationsausgabe am Ausgang des Signalverarbeitungsgliedes 20.The sampling can be carried out periodically and the result can be stored in an electronic memory of the signal processing element 20. This permits the use of slow-working, inexpensive components, and the scanning can be carried out in any cycle which is independent of the cycle of the information output at the output of the signal processing element 20.

Die Lichtquelle 18 und die Lichtempfänger 19 können für jede Zahlenrolle oder für das gesamte Zählwerk 10 zu einem festen Block zusammengebaut werden.The light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be assembled into a fixed block for each number roll or for the entire counter 10.

Ist das Zählwerk 10 in einem plombierbaren Teil eines Messgerätes untergebracht, so wird die Abtasteinrichtung 17 vorteilhaft ausserhalb dieses plombierbaren Teils angeordnet, so dass Manipulationen an der Abtasteinrichtung keine erneute Eichung der Messgerätes nach sich ziehen. Die optische Kopplung zwischen dem Zählwerk 10 und der Abtasteinrichtung 17 erfolgt hierbei vorteilhaft über Lichtleiter.If the counter 10 is housed in a sealable part of a measuring device, then the Scanning device 17 is advantageously arranged outside this sealable part, so that manipulations on the scanning device do not result in a new calibration of the measuring device. The optical coupling between the counter 10 and the scanning device 17 is advantageously carried out via light guides.

Eine bevorzugte Möglichkeit besteht darin, die Abtasteinrichtung in einem gesonderten Ablesegerät unterzubringen, die z. B. aus einem tragbaren Basisgerät und einem mit diesem über ein Kabel verbundenen Abtastkopf besteht. Zum Ablesen des Zählwerkinhaltes wird die Abtasteinrichtung bzw. deren Abtastkopf auf das Messgerät gesetzt, wobei der Strahlengang der Abtasteinrichtung vorzugsweise durch ein Zählwerkfenster des Messgerätes führt.A preferred possibility is to accommodate the scanning device in a separate reading device, the z. B. consists of a portable base unit and a scanning head connected to this via a cable. To read the contents of the counter, the scanning device or its scanning head is placed on the measuring device, the beam path of the scanning device preferably leading through a counter window of the measuring device.

Die Vorteile der Erfindung lassen sich nun leicht erkennen. Da es genügt, jeder Zahl der Zahlenrollen eine einzige Markierung zuzuordnen, beanspruchen diese Markierungen nur sehr wenig Platz, so dass das Zahlenbild durch die Markierungen nicht gestört wird und bei bestehenden Zählwerkkonstruktionen weder die Breite der Zahlenrollen vergrössert noch die Grösse der Zahlen verkleinert werden muss. Die einzelnen Markierungen können sehr klein gewählt werden, beispielsweise genügt ein Hologramm mit einer Fläche in der Grössenordnung von einem Quadratmillimeter. In Vergleich zu bekannten Lösungen, die mit reinen Reflexionsmarkierungen arbeiten, jedoch pro Zahl mindestens vier Plätze für eine Markierung benötigen, sind - gleiche Grösse der Markierungen vorausgesetzt - die Anforderungen an die Justiergenauigkeit etwa gleich gross. Bestehende Messgeräte oder Zählwerke können ohne weiteres nachgerüstet werden, zumal es sogar möglich ist, eine die Markierungen tragende Folie auf die Zahlenrollen aufzukleben.The advantages of the invention can now be easily recognized. Since it is sufficient to assign a single marking to each number of number rolls, these markings take up very little space, so that the number image is not disturbed by the markings and, in existing counter designs, neither the width of the number rolls has to be enlarged nor the size of the numbers reduced. The individual markings can be selected to be very small, for example a hologram with an area of the order of one square millimeter is sufficient. In comparison to known solutions that work with pure reflection markings, but require at least four places per number for a marking, the requirements for the adjustment accuracy are approximately the same - provided the markings are the same size. Existing measuring devices or counters can easily be retrofitted, especially since it is even possible to glue a film bearing the markings on the number rolls.

Claims (11)

1. An arrangement for representing the content of number disc counters in the form of electrical signals, comprising optical markings (16) disposed on the peripheral surface of at least one number disc (11 ; 12 ; 13; 21 ; 23 ; 25) and a photoelectric sensing means (17) for sensing the markings (16), the sensing means including a light source (18) and light receivers (19), characterised in that associated with each number of the number disc (11 ; 12 ; 13 ; 21 ; 23 ; 25) is a single individual marking (16) in the form of a reflection phase diffraction grating or reflection phase hologram for modifying the ray path of the sensing means (17) by optical diffraction, and that each light receiver (19) is receptive of a narrow light beam from the light diffracted at the respective marking (16) lit.
2. An arrangement according to claim 1, characterised in that associated with the light source (18) of each sensing means (17) is a plurality or a group of light receivers (19).
3. An arrangement according to claim 2, characterised in the the light source periodically senses the optical markings (16) and that the signals of the light receivers (19) of a group are sequentially passed for processing in a common signal processing means (20) provided with an electronic memory.
4. An arrangement according to claim 2 or claim 3, characterised in that the light receivers (19) of a group are formed as photodiodies or phototransistors and are integrated on a common semiconductor wafer.
5. An arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the markings (16) are impressed into the peripheral surface of the number disc (11 ; 12; 13 ; 21 ; 23 ; 25).
6. An arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least a part of the peripheral surface of the number disc (11 ; 12; 13 ; 21 ; 23; 25) is coated with a thermoplastic layer into which the markings (16) are impressed.
7. An arrangement according to claim 6, characterised in that the layer (22 ; 24 ; 26) is formed by a film disposed in an annular configuration on the peripheral surface.
8. An arrangement according to claim 6 or claim 7, characterised in that the layer (26) is transparent and that the markings (16) are arranged over the numbers.
9. An arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the counter (10) is disposed in a lead-sealable part of a meter and the sensing means (17) is arranged outside the lead-sealable part, and that the sensing means (17) is optically coupled to the counter (10) by light conductors.
10. An arrangement according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the counter (10) is disposed in a lead-sealable meter and the sensing means (17) is disposed in a separate read-out device.
11. An arrangement according to claim 10, characterised in that the ray path of the sensing means (17) passes through a counter window of the meter.
EP81110234A 1981-03-17 1981-12-08 Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals Expired EP0060937B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT81110234T ATE9620T1 (en) 1981-03-17 1981-12-08 ARRANGEMENT FOR REPRESENTING THE CONTENTS OF NUMBER ROLLER COUNTER IN THE FORM OF ELECTRICAL SIGNALS.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH1790/81 1981-03-17
CH1790/81A CH650089A5 (en) 1981-03-17 1981-03-17 Arrangement for displaying the contents of number roller counters in the form of electrical signals.

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0060937A1 EP0060937A1 (en) 1982-09-29
EP0060937B1 true EP0060937B1 (en) 1984-09-26

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Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP81110234A Expired EP0060937B1 (en) 1981-03-17 1981-12-08 Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals

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EP (1) EP0060937B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE9620T1 (en)
CH (1) CH650089A5 (en)
DE (1) DE3166368D1 (en)

Families Citing this family (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CH661365A5 (en) * 1983-11-03 1987-07-15 Landis & Gyr Ag ARRANGEMENT FOR THE DISPLAY AND SCAN OF THE CONTENT OF NUMBER ROLLER COUNTERS.
GB8812760D0 (en) * 1988-05-28 1988-06-29 Smith Meters Ltd Counter
DE3901816A1 (en) * 1989-01-23 1990-07-26 Gas Elektrizitaets Und Wasserw METHOD FOR TESTING COUNTERS, ESPECIALLY ELECTRICITY, GAS AND WATER METERS, AND DEVICE FOR IMPLEMENTING THE METHOD
FR2648256B3 (en) * 1989-05-12 1991-05-31 Sagem POSTAL POSTAGE COMPOSER
CA2073409A1 (en) * 1991-10-15 1993-04-16 Paul F. Sullivan Light beam position detection and control apparatus employing diffraction patterns
AU7656594A (en) * 1994-03-01 1995-09-18 Brand, Edith Electronic recording device for reading a counter with a readable display
FR2745231B1 (en) * 1996-02-28 1998-05-15 Pascal Corgier PROGRAMMABLE MOTION WHEEL COMPOSER
FR2814545A1 (en) * 2000-09-26 2002-03-29 Jean Luc Trapant Digital counter for displaying the amount of air sampled during a sampling period based on an analogue display meter with rotating counter wheels, the rotation of which is optically sensed and used with the digital display
DE102009003976A1 (en) * 2009-01-07 2010-07-08 Hengstler Gmbh Device for the optical scanning of graduations of a mechanical roller counter

Family Cites Families (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1410911A (en) * 1971-09-08 1975-10-22 Counting Instr Ltd Meter reading systems
US3807859A (en) * 1971-11-11 1974-04-30 Sanyo Electric Co Information input system using holography
CH589897A5 (en) * 1975-08-14 1977-07-29 Landis & Gyr Ag
GB2018069A (en) * 1978-03-23 1979-10-10 Kent Ltd G Encoding meter readings

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
ATE9620T1 (en) 1984-10-15
DE3166368D1 (en) 1984-10-31
CH650089A5 (en) 1985-06-28
EP0060937A1 (en) 1982-09-29

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