EP0560714B1 - Postage meter - Google Patents

Postage meter Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0560714B1
EP0560714B1 EP93810144A EP93810144A EP0560714B1 EP 0560714 B1 EP0560714 B1 EP 0560714B1 EP 93810144 A EP93810144 A EP 93810144A EP 93810144 A EP93810144 A EP 93810144A EP 0560714 B1 EP0560714 B1 EP 0560714B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
data
memory
assembly unit
unit
old
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 - Lifetime
Application number
EP93810144A
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German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0560714A3 (en
EP0560714A2 (en
Inventor
Werner Haug
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Frama AG
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Frama AG
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Filing date
Publication date
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Publication of EP0560714A2 publication Critical patent/EP0560714A2/en
Publication of EP0560714A3 publication Critical patent/EP0560714A3/en
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Publication of EP0560714B1 publication Critical patent/EP0560714B1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00362—Calculation or computing within apparatus, e.g. calculation of postage value
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00016—Relations between apparatus, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office, in a franking system
    • G07B17/0008—Communication details outside or between apparatus
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00016—Relations between apparatus, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office, in a franking system
    • G07B17/0008—Communication details outside or between apparatus
    • G07B2017/00153—Communication details outside or between apparatus for sending information
    • G07B2017/00177—Communication details outside or between apparatus for sending information from a portable device, e.g. a card or a PCMCIA
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00362—Calculation or computing within apparatus, e.g. calculation of postage value
    • G07B2017/00395—Memory organization
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00362—Calculation or computing within apparatus, e.g. calculation of postage value
    • G07B2017/00395—Memory organization
    • G07B2017/00403—Memory zones protected from unauthorized reading or writing

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a franking machine with the features the preamble of claim 1.
  • the invention has for its object a franking machine to find access to their amounts of value data storage on the occasion of repair work is denied and which is nevertheless replaced when a defective one is replaced Computer system prevents data loss forgery. This problem is solved on the basis of the characteristics of claim 1. Furthermore, a method for data backup proposed with the features of the claim 8th.
  • the structure and mode of operation of the electronic franking machine can, for example, according to US-A-4,520 725 (EP-A- 0 105 424), US-A-4 898 093 (EP-A- 0 222 275), US-A- 4,788,623 (EP-A-0 214 410), US-A-07 / 490,037 (EP-A-0 386 390), US-A 07 / 490,040 (EP-A-0 387 202), US-A-07 / 499.604 (EP-A-0 390 731), and it is therefore unnecessary these details which are not immediately essential for the invention to describe again in more detail.
  • the Franking machine at least one computer unit (CPU) 1 and several data memories (RAM, PROM) that are connected via a data transmission line (Bus Transceiver) 2 connected to each other are.
  • the present invention is concerned with measures to ensure that the changeable data storage not by outside access, e.g. B. during repair work, can be changed and that they are damaged electronic components are not lost.
  • the non-volatile, changeable data storage 3 for the stored, for Franking required amount of value and accordingly for used quantities.
  • a replenishment of this value set is encoded, e.g. by telephone or in writing Data exchange with the post office possible (EP-A-0 390 731 or US-A-07 / 499,604).
  • the non-volatile, battery-supported data storage 3 can refer to different content, i.e. on the total amount of all frankings as well as on different user accounts be divided into different sub-accounts are divided by the respective user of the franking machine can optionally be charged when franking. Allocation to one of the different user accounts is carried out using an identification key, e.g. corresponding to the above-mentioned US-A-4 788 623 (EP-A-0 214 410).
  • the data storage device 3 So that the data storage device 3 is not replaced without authorization can, it is enclosed in a housing part 4, the flat hood 5 by four sealing screws 6 on the carrier plate 7 is attached.
  • the is at least one Data storage 3 is not pluggable firmly on the electronic Carrier plate 7 (board) connected. A repositioning will thus avoided because when changing the position by accident or by Falsifying the data contained therein could be changed.
  • the data traffic e.g. querying the connection that enables the remaining amount of value, etc. of the data memory 3 with the computer unit (CPU) via a provided in the data transmission line 2 (bus transceiver) Connector unit 8 in which the data transmission is looped.
  • Data transmission line 2 (bus transceiver) forms an amplifier that can be switched on and off and that can reverse the direction. He also takes over Buffer functions to block faults and acts as Data filter by putting only those data in a particular Passes direction, e.g. after exchanging the Assembly unit 10 from the old assembly unit 10 or from whose data storage 3 are to be transferred.
  • a locking bolt 20 become. This extends across the housing part 4 and by two wall parts laterally encompassing the housing part 4 21, 22 of an inner housing frame of the franking machine. Corresponding through openings are in these parts intended.
  • the new assembly unit 10 ' is in reverse order built into the machine. There is also an identification tag in it (Flag) set. After removing the connector unit 8 becomes the old, defective assembly unit 10 with its released lower connector unit 11 in the Plug unit 12 of the new assembly unit 10 'inserted, so that it has the vertical position shown in FIG occupies. The franking machine is then switched on Electricity connected, a special key in their key holder (US-A-4 788 623 (EP-A-0 214 410)) and one Key (“DEST”) on the input keyboard of the franking machine pressed. These commands start the transfer program for the Data transfer from the old, dismantled, to the new, assembled Assembly unit 10 ', one more in the following described plausibility program is required.
  • Flag identification tag in it
  • a first control program it is determined which of several data blocks of data memory 3 is faulty is, because for security reasons the postal Data multiple times, in different locations of the data storage 3 saved. So is in perfect condition the content of all data blocks is identical. By adding up from the content of different blocks can according to the control program the faulty block can be determined. At a Majority of data blocks with the same data content becomes of it assumed that this content is the right one and can be transferred to the new data memory 3.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mathematical Physics (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Devices For Checking Fares Or Tickets At Control Points (AREA)
  • Techniques For Improving Reliability Of Storages (AREA)
  • Storage Device Security (AREA)
  • Manufacturing And Processing Devices For Dough (AREA)
  • Iron Core Of Rotating Electric Machines (AREA)
  • Holo Graphy (AREA)
  • Arrangements For Transmission Of Measured Signals (AREA)

Abstract

Franking machine The data memory (RAM) (3) containing the postal data corresponding to value quantities, of an electronically controlled franking machine, together with a computer unit (1) is enclosed on a carrier plate in a sealed housing part. In the case of a defect of an element enclosed in this housing part, the entire assembly unit comprising the carrier plate with the housing part is exchanged. For the subsequent forgery-proof transmission of the data from the data memory (3) to that of the new assembly unit, two connector units (11, 12) are provided in the data transmission line between the data memory (3) and the computer unit (1). One of these is closed by a connecting connector unit (8) so that, when the franking machine is operated, the data flow is looped through the connecting connector unit (8). A write line (9) provided in addition to the data transmission line (2 bus transceiver) is used for reading in the operating data during the franking so that it is not accessible via any connector unit. For the data transmission, the connector unit (11) of the defective assembly unit is connected to the connector unit (12) of the exchanged new assembly unit after removal of the connecting connector unit (8). <IMAGE>

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Frankiermaschine mit den Merkmalen des Oberbegriffs des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a franking machine with the features the preamble of claim 1.

Bei einer durch die EP-A-0 393 896 bekannten Frankiermaschine dieser Art erfolgt zur Erhöhung der Sicherheit gegen Missbrauch zwischen dem in einem separaten, gesicherten Gehäuseteil eingeschlossenen Schaltkreisen und den Wertmengenspeichern einerseits und den Schaltkreisen und elektronischen Bauteilen einer postalischen Druckvorrichtung andererseits ein codierter Datenaustausch, wobei durch eine Einheit zum Datenvergleich feststellbar ist, ob die Verbindung zwischen dem in dem gesicherten Gehäuseteil eingeschlossene System und der Druckvorrichtung gelöst worden ist.In a franking machine known from EP-A-0 393 896 This is done to increase security against abuse between the in a separate, secured housing part included circuits and the value storage on the one hand and the circuits and electronic Components of a postal printing device on the other hand an encoded data exchange, with a unit for It can be determined whether the connection between the system enclosed in the secured housing part and the printing device has been released.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Frankiermaschine zu finden, bei der ein Zugriff zu ihrem Wertmengen beinhaltenden Datenspeicher anlässlich von Reparaturarbeiten verwehrt ist und die dennoch beim Auswechseln eines defekten Rechnersystems einen Datenverlust fälschungssicher verhindert. Die Lösung dieser Aufgabe erfolgt aufgrund der Merkmale des Patentanspruchs 1. Weiterhin wird ein Verfahren zur Datensicherung vorgeschlagen mit den Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 8.The invention has for its object a franking machine to find access to their amounts of value data storage on the occasion of repair work is denied and which is nevertheless replaced when a defective one is replaced Computer system prevents data loss forgery. This problem is solved on the basis of the characteristics of claim 1. Furthermore, a method for data backup proposed with the features of the claim 8th.

Im folgenden wird die Erfindung anhand der Zeichnungen und bevorzugten Ausführungsformen beschrieben. Es zeigt:

Fig.1
ein Blockschema mit erfindungswesentlichen Teilen der Frankiermaschine,
Fig.2
eine unvollständige Aufsicht auf eine elektronische Bauteile einschliessendes Montageeinheit,
Fig.3
einen Querschnitt durch die Montageeinheit nach Fig.2 entlang einer Verbindungslinie zwischen den plombierten Verschlussschrauben, ohne elektronische Bauteile,
Fig.4
einen Teil der Montageeinheit nach Fig.2 im Bereich des schlaufenden Steckers, in teilweise geschnittener Seitenansicht,
Fig.5
eine verkürzte Darstellung des Verriegelungsbolzens,
Fig.6
eine vergrösserte Darstellung eines Teils eines Verriegelungsbolzen, mit anliegendem Signalschalter,
Fig.7
eine Darstellung einer neuen Montageeinheit entsprechend Fig.2 mit gekoppelter alter Montageeinheit,
Fig.8
eine Seitenansicht beider, miteinander gekoppelter Montageeinheiten nach Fig.7,
Fig.9
eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht einer Montageeinheit mit elektronischen Bauteilen und ihrem Datenfluss,
Fig.10
eine Darstellung entsprechend Fig.9 einer neuen Montageeinheit mit angekoppelter alter Montageeinheit, mit Andeutung des Datenflusses bei der Datenübergabe und
Fig.11 A-F
Programmablaufpläne für die Datenübertragung von der alten zur neuen Montageeinheit.
The invention is described below with reference to the drawings and preferred embodiments. It shows:
Fig. 1
2 shows a block diagram with parts of the franking machine that are essential to the invention,
Fig. 2
incomplete supervision of an assembly unit including electronic components,
Fig. 3
3 shows a cross section through the assembly unit according to FIG. 2 along a connecting line between the sealed screw plugs, without electronic components,
Fig. 4
part of the assembly unit according to Figure 2 in the area of the looping connector, in a partially sectioned side view,
Fig. 5
a shortened representation of the locking bolt,
Fig. 6
an enlarged view of part of a locking bolt, with a signal switch,
Fig. 7
a representation of a new assembly unit according to Figure 2 with a coupled old assembly unit,
Fig. 8
3 shows a side view of the two assembly units according to FIG. 7 coupled to one another,
Fig. 9
1 shows a schematic perspective view of an assembly unit with electronic components and their data flow,
Fig. 10
a representation corresponding to Figure 9 of a new assembly unit with a coupled old assembly unit, with an indication of the data flow during data transfer and
Fig. 11 AF
Program flowcharts for data transfer from the old to the new assembly unit.

Der Aufbau und die Arbeitsweise der elektronischen Frankiermaschine können beispielsweise entsprechend den US-A- 4 520 725 (EP-A- 0 105 424), US-A-4 898 093 (EP-A- 0 222 275), US-A- 4 788 623 (EP-A- 0 214 410), US-A-07/490,037 (EP-A- 0 386 390), US-A 07/490,040 (EP-A- 0 387 202), US-A-07/499.604 (EP-A-0 390 731) ausgeführt sein, und es erübrigt sich somit, diese für die Erfindung nicht unmittelbar wesentlichen Details nochmals näher zu beschreiben. Entsprechend hat die Frankiermaschine mindestens eine Rechnereinheit (CPU) 1 und mehrere Datenspeicher (RAM, PROM), die über eine Datenübertragungsleitung (Bus Transceiver) 2 miteinander verbunden sind. Die vorliegende Erfindung befasst sich mit Massnahmen, die sicherstellen sollen, dass die veränderbaren Datenspeicher nicht durch Zugriff von aussen, z. B. während Reparaturarbeiten, verändert werden können und dass sie bei Schäden an elektronischen Bauteilen nicht verloren gehen.The structure and mode of operation of the electronic franking machine can, for example, according to US-A-4,520 725 (EP-A- 0 105 424), US-A-4 898 093 (EP-A- 0 222 275), US-A- 4,788,623 (EP-A-0 214 410), US-A-07 / 490,037 (EP-A-0 386 390), US-A 07 / 490,040 (EP-A-0 387 202), US-A-07 / 499.604 (EP-A-0 390 731), and it is therefore unnecessary these details which are not immediately essential for the invention to describe again in more detail. Accordingly, the Franking machine at least one computer unit (CPU) 1 and several data memories (RAM, PROM) that are connected via a data transmission line (Bus Transceiver) 2 connected to each other are. The present invention is concerned with measures to ensure that the changeable data storage not by outside access, e.g. B. during repair work, can be changed and that they are damaged electronic components are not lost.

Besondere Bedeutung hat in dieser Hinsicht der nichtflüchtige, veränderbare Datenspeicher 3 für die gespeicherte, zum Frankieren benötigte Wertmenge und entsprechend auch für die verbrauchten Wertmengen. Eine Neuauffüllung dieser Wertmenge ist über einen codierten, z.B. telefonischen oder schriftlichen Datenaustausch mit dem Postamt möglich (EP-A-0 390 731 bzw. US-A-07/499,604). The non-volatile, changeable data storage 3 for the stored, for Franking required amount of value and accordingly for used quantities. A replenishment of this value set is encoded, e.g. by telephone or in writing Data exchange with the post office possible (EP-A-0 390 731 or US-A-07 / 499,604).

Der nichtflüchtige, batteriegestütze Datenspeicher 3 (NOVRAM) kann auf verschiedene Inhalte, d.h. auf den Gesamtbetrag aller erfolgten Frankierungen sowie auf verschiedene Benutzerkonten aufgeteilt sein, die ausserdem in verschiedene Unterkonten aufgeteilt sind, die vom jeweiligen Benutzer der Frankiermaschine wahlweise beim Frankieren belastet werden können. Die Aufteilung auf eines der verschiedenen Benutzerkonten erfolgt mittels eines Identifikationsschlüssels, z.B. entsprechend der eingangs genannten US-A-4 788 623 (EP-A-0 214 410).The non-volatile, battery-supported data storage 3 (NOVRAM) can refer to different content, i.e. on the total amount of all frankings as well as on different user accounts be divided into different sub-accounts are divided by the respective user of the franking machine can optionally be charged when franking. Allocation to one of the different user accounts is carried out using an identification key, e.g. corresponding to the above-mentioned US-A-4 788 623 (EP-A-0 214 410).

Damit der Datenspeicher 3 nicht unbefugt ausgewechselt werden kann, ist er in einem Gehäuseteil 4 eingeschlossen, dessen flache Haube 5 durch vier Plombenschrauben 6 an der Trägerplatte 7 befestigt ist. Ausserdem ist der mindestens eine Datenspeicher 3 nicht steckbar fest auf der elektronischen Trägerplatte 7 (Platine) angeschlossen. Ein Umstecken wird somit vermieden, da beim Umstecken durch Zufall oder durch Fälschung die darin enthaltenen Daten verändert werden könnten. Ausserdem erfolgt die den Datenverkehr, z.B. das Abfragen der verbliebenen Wertmenge etc. ermöglichende Verbindung des Datenspeichers 3 mit der Rechnereinheit (CPU) über eine in der Datenübertragungsleitung 2 (Bus Transceiver) vorgesehene Verbindungssteckereinheit 8, in der die Datenübertragung geschlauft wird. Die Datenübertragungsleitung 2 (Bus Transceiver) bildet einen Verstärker, der ein- und ausschaltbar ist und der die Richtung umkehren kann. Er übernimmt auch Pufferfunktionen zum Abblocken von Störungen und wirkt als Datenfilter, indem er nur diejenigen Daten in einer bestimmten Richtung durchlässt, die z.B. nach dem Austausch der Montageeinheit 10 von der alten Montageeinheit 10 bzw. von deren Datenspeicher 3 zu übertragen sind.So that the data storage device 3 is not replaced without authorization can, it is enclosed in a housing part 4, the flat hood 5 by four sealing screws 6 on the carrier plate 7 is attached. In addition, the is at least one Data storage 3 is not pluggable firmly on the electronic Carrier plate 7 (board) connected. A repositioning will thus avoided because when changing the position by accident or by Falsifying the data contained therein could be changed. In addition, the data traffic, e.g. querying the connection that enables the remaining amount of value, etc. of the data memory 3 with the computer unit (CPU) via a provided in the data transmission line 2 (bus transceiver) Connector unit 8 in which the data transmission is looped. Data transmission line 2 (bus transceiver) forms an amplifier that can be switched on and off and that can reverse the direction. He also takes over Buffer functions to block faults and acts as Data filter by putting only those data in a particular Passes direction, e.g. after exchanging the Assembly unit 10 from the old assembly unit 10 or from whose data storage 3 are to be transferred.

Zusätzlich zu der Datenübertragungsleitung 2 ist eine unabhängige Schreibleitung 9 vorhanden, über die in den Datenspeicher 3 Daten eingelesen werden, so dass sich der Dateninhalt verändert. Da diese Schreibleitung nicht über die Verbindungssteckereinheit geschlauft ist, kann der Datenspeicher 3 von ausserhalb des plombierten Gehäuseteils 4 nicht verändert werden. Im stromlosen Zustand bzw. im Ruhezustand der Rechnereinheit 1 ist die Schreibleitung 9 so geschaltet, dass Daten nur aus dem Datenspeicher 3 herausgelesen werden können.In addition to the data transmission line 2 is an independent one Write line 9 available, via the in the data memory 3 data are read so that the data content changed. Because this write line does not have the connector unit is looped, the data storage 3 not changed from outside the sealed housing part 4 become. In the de-energized state or in the idle state of the Computer unit 1, the write line 9 is switched so that Data can only be read from the data memory 3.

Tritt an einem auf der Trägerplatte 7 in dem plombierten Gehäuseteil 4 angeschlossenen elektronischen Element ein Fehler auf, z.B. durch Ausfall eines Mikroprozessors oder durch Kurzschluss in der Speisung, so wird anstatt Oeffnen des plombierten Gehäuseteils 4 und Austausch oder Reparatur des betreffenden Teiles, das aus der Trägerplatte 7 und dem Gehäuseteil 4 zusammengesetzte Montageeinheit 10 durch eine neue ersetzt. Danach wird die Verbindungssteckereinheit 8 von der alten Trägerplatte 7 entfernt und der dadurch freiwerdende Gegenstecker 11 in eine freie, zusätzlich an der Datenübertragungsleitung 2 vorgesehene Steckereinheit 12 (Fig.1 und 2) der neuen Montageeinheit 10' gesteckt. Dies hat zur Folge, dass die Rechnereinheit (CPU) der neuen Montageeinheit 10' die Daten des Datenspeichers 3 der alten Montageeinheit 10 einlesen kann. Dieser Datenfluss ist in Fig. 10 durch die Pfeile 14 bis 16 angedeutet. Der Datenfluss bei normalem Betrieb ist in Fig.9 angedeutet, in der die Schlaufung über die Verbindungssteckereinheit 8 durch die Pfeile 17,18 symbolisiert ist.Occurs on a on the carrier plate 7 in the sealed housing part 4 connected electronic element an error on, e.g. by failure of a microprocessor or by Short circuit in the supply, so instead of opening the sealed housing part 4 and replacement or repair of the relevant part, which consists of the support plate 7 and the housing part 4 assembled assembly unit 10 by a new ones replaced. Then the connector 8 of the old carrier plate 7 removed and the thereby released Mating connector 11 in a free, additionally on the data transmission line 2 provided connector unit 12 (Fig.1 and 2) inserted the new assembly unit 10 '. This has to Consequence that the computer unit (CPU) of the new assembly unit 10 'the data of the data memory 3 of the old assembly unit 10 can read. This data flow is shown in FIG Arrows 14 to 16 indicated. The data flow during normal operation is indicated in Fig.9, in which the loop over the Connector unit 8 symbolized by the arrows 17, 18 is.

Um die Montageeinheit 10 mit einer defekten Montageeinheit 10 bzw. mit einem defekten elektronischen Bauteil aus der Frankiermaschine ausbauen zu können, muss vorher bei ausgeschalteter Frankiermaschine ein Verriegelungsbolzen 20 entfernt werden. Dieser erstreckt sich quer durch den Gehäuseteil 4 und durch zwei den Gehäuseteil 4 seitlich umfassende Wandteile 21,22 eines inneren Gehäuserahmens der Frankiermaschine. Entsprechende Durchstecköffnungen sind in diesen Teilen vorgesehen.Around the assembly unit 10 with a defective assembly unit 10 or with a defective electronic component from the franking machine To be able to remove, must first be switched off Postage meter removed a locking bolt 20 become. This extends across the housing part 4 and by two wall parts laterally encompassing the housing part 4 21, 22 of an inner housing frame of the franking machine. Corresponding through openings are in these parts intended.

Um trotz dieser Verriegelung der Montageeinheit 10 eine Verschiebung in ihrer Ebene zu ermöglichen, so dass eine Trennung der Steckereinheiten 24,25,26 für den Tastaturprint, den Leistungsprint und den Interfaceprint der Frankiermaschine möglich ist, ohne die Montageinheit 10 demontieren und folglich austauschen zu müssen, sind die Durchstecköffnungen für den Verriegelungsbolzen 20 und für zwei zusätzliche Führungsstifte 27 als Schlitz 28 geformt.To shift despite this locking of the assembly unit 10 allow in their level, making a separation of the plug units 24, 25, 26 for the keyboard print, the Performance print and the interface print of the franking machine is possible without disassembling the assembly unit 10 and consequently the through openings for the locking bolt 20 and for two additional guide pins 27 shaped as a slot 28.

Das Herausziehen des durch einen Splint 30 oder einen Sprengring gesicherten Verriegelungsbolzens 20 bewirkt nicht nur die Freigabe der Montageeinheit 10 für ihren Ausbau, sondern sie bewirkt auch über einen in dem Gehäuseteil 4 eingeschlossenen Signalschalter 31 das Setzen einer elektronischen Markierung (Flag) in einem von zwei batteriegestützten, in der Montageeinheit 10 vorgesehenen 1-Bit-Speichern. Diese Markierung kennzeichnet somit, dass die Montageeinheit 10 ausgebaut worden ist. Für diese Schalterbetätigung hat der Verriegelungsbolzen 20 eine durch zwei konische Bereiche 32,33 gebildete Verengung 34, in die sich der Schalterknopf 35 beim Herausziehen des Verriegelungsbolzens 20 hineinbewegt. Beide 1-Bit-Speicher können vom Rechner gelesen und zurückgesetzt werden. Der zweite Speicher kann auch durch den Rechner gesetzt werden.Pulling out the by a split pin 30 or a snap ring secured locking bolt 20 not only causes the release of the assembly unit 10 for its removal, but it also causes one enclosed in the housing part 4 Signal switch 31 the setting of an electronic marker (Flag) in one of two battery-powered, in the Mounting unit 10 provided 1-bit memories. This mark thus indicates that the assembly unit 10 has been removed has been. The locking bolt has for this switch operation 20 one formed by two conical regions 32, 33 Narrowing 34, in which the switch button 35 when pulling out of the locking bolt 20 moves into it. Both 1-bit memories can read from the computer and reset become. The second memory can also be set by the computer become.

Die neue Montageeinheit 10' wird in umgekehrter Reihenfolge in die Maschine eingebaut. In ihr ist ebenfalls eine Erkennungsmarke (Flag) gesetzt. Nach dem Entfernen der Verbindungssteckereinheit 8 wird die alte, defekte Montageeinheit 10 mit ihrer freigewordenen unteren Steckereinheit 11 in die Steckereinheit 12 der neuen Montageeinheit 10' eingesteckt, so dass sie zu dieser die in Fig.8 gezeigte senkrechte Position einnimmt. Anschliessend wird die Frankiermaschine an Strom angeschlossen, ein Sonderschlüssel in ihre Schlüsselaufnahme (US-A-4 788 623 (EP-A-0 214 410)) gesteckt und eine Taste ("DEST") der Eingabetastatur der Frankiermaschine gedrückt. Diese Befehle starten das Transferprogramm für die Datenübergabe von der alten, demontierten, zur neuen, montierten Montageeinheit 10', dem noch ein im folgenden näher beschriebenes Plausibilitätsprogramm vorangesetzt ist. Abschliessend wird die Erkennungsmarke (Flag) der neuen Montageeinheit 10' durch ihren Rechner gelöscht und in der alten defekten Montageeinheit 10 eine zweite, unlöschbare Erkennungsmarke (Flag) gesetzt, so dass die alte Montageeinheit 10 nicht missbräuchlich für eine zweite Datenübergabe geeignet ist. Der Ablauf des Transferprogramms wird auf dem Anzeigefeld (Display) durch die Angabe "Transfer" angezeigt, und am Ende des Transferprogramms erscheint dort die Angabe "End". Danach wird die Frankiermaschine wieder abgeschaltet und der Posttarifspeicher 36 (Modell-Prom) und ein Codespeicher 37 (US-A-07/499,64 (EP-A-0 390731)) von der alten Montageeinheit 10 entfernt und an der neuen Montageeinheit 10' angeschlossen. Dies ist möglich, da sie ausserhalb des plombierten Gehäuseteils 4 angeordnet sind. Abschliessend wird die alte Montageeinheit 10 wieder von der neuen Montageeinheit 10' gelöst und wieder mit ihrer Verbindungssteckereinheit 8 versehen. Danach wird der Strom wieder eingeschaltet und die Frankiermaschine bei offenem Maschinengehäuse getestet.The new assembly unit 10 'is in reverse order built into the machine. There is also an identification tag in it (Flag) set. After removing the connector unit 8 becomes the old, defective assembly unit 10 with its released lower connector unit 11 in the Plug unit 12 of the new assembly unit 10 'inserted, so that it has the vertical position shown in FIG occupies. The franking machine is then switched on Electricity connected, a special key in their key holder (US-A-4 788 623 (EP-A-0 214 410)) and one Key ("DEST") on the input keyboard of the franking machine pressed. These commands start the transfer program for the Data transfer from the old, dismantled, to the new, assembled Assembly unit 10 ', one more in the following described plausibility program is required. Finally becomes the identifier of the new assembly unit 10 'deleted by your computer and in the old one defective assembly unit 10 a second, indelible identifier (Flag) set so that the old assembly unit 10 not improperly suitable for a second data transfer is. The transfer program is shown on the display panel (Display) is indicated by "Transfer", and on "End" appears there at the end of the transfer program. The franking machine is then switched off again and the Postal tariff memory 36 (model prom) and a code memory 37 (US-A-07 / 499.64 (EP-A-0 390731)) from the old assembly unit 10 removed and connected to the new assembly unit 10 '. This is possible because they are outside the sealed housing part 4 are arranged. Finally, the old one Assembly unit 10 again from the new assembly unit 10 ' solved and provided again with their connector unit 8. Then the power is turned on again and the Franking machine tested with the machine housing open.

Bevor die Daten des alten Datenspeichers 3 in den neuen eingelesen werden, sind verschiedene Kontrollprogramme bzw. Plausibilitätsprogramme durchzuführen, durch die sichergestellt werden soll, dass nicht fehlerhafte Daten neu eingelesen werden können.Before the data from the old data memory 3 is read into the new one different control programs or To carry out plausibility programs that ensure to ensure that non-incorrect data is reread can be.

Entsprechend einem ersten Kontrollprogramm wird ermittelt, welcher von mehreren Datenblöcken des Datenspeichers 3 fehlerhaft ist, denn aus Sicherheitsgründen werden die postalischen Daten mehrmals, an verschiedenen Orten des Datenspeichers 3 abgespeichert. Im fehlerfreien Zustand ist somit der Inhalt aller Datenblöcke identisch. Durch Summenbildung aus dem Inhalt verschiedener Blöcke kann gemäss dem Kontrollprogramm der fehlerhafte Block ermittelt werden. Bei einer Majorität von Datenblöcken mit gleichem Dateninhalt wird davon ausgegangen, dass diese Inhalte die richtigen sind und auf den neuen Datenspeicher 3 übertragen werden können. According to a first control program, it is determined which of several data blocks of data memory 3 is faulty is, because for security reasons the postal Data multiple times, in different locations of the data storage 3 saved. So is in perfect condition the content of all data blocks is identical. By adding up from the content of different blocks can according to the control program the faulty block can be determined. At a Majority of data blocks with the same data content becomes of it assumed that this content is the right one and can be transferred to the new data memory 3.

Sollte der Datenspeicher 3 eines Rechnersystems total ausgefallen sein, dann können keine Daten mehr übermittelt werden und es wird entsprechend ein Null-Daten-Vermerk gesendet. Aus diesem Grund befinden sich auf der Trägerplatte 7 mindestens zwei voneinander unabhängige Mikroprozessorsysteme mit allen erforderlichen Peripherieelementen. Diese Rechnersysteme sind seriell miteinander verbunden, und sie bewirtschaften die postalischen Daten unabhängig voneinander. Das zuvor beschriebene Kontrollprogramm wird für alle dieser Rechnersysteme durchgeführt.Should the data store 3 of a computer system fail completely then no more data can be transmitted and a zero data note is sent accordingly. Out for this reason, there are at least 7 on the carrier plate two independent microprocessor systems with all required peripheral elements. These computer systems are connected in series, and they manage the postal Data independent of each other. The previously described Control program is used for all of these computer systems carried out.

Entsprechend einem weiteren Kontrollprogramm wird überprüft, ob der Dateninhalt des jeweiligen Datenspeichers der ausgebauten Trägerplatte 7 grösser ist als derjenige der eingebauten neuen Trägerplatte 7. Auf diese Weise wird sichergestellt, dass der Dateninhalt auf eine Wertmenge gleich Null eingegeben werden kann.According to another control program, it is checked whether the data content of the respective data storage of the removed Carrier plate 7 is larger than that of the built-in new carrier plate 7. This ensures that the data content to a value set equal to zero can be entered.

Die Fig. A-F geben zusätzlich in Programmdarstellungsweise die Programmabläufe wieder. Die verschiedenen Funktionsfelder bedeuten z.B.: Anfang, Ende, Entscheid, Funktion, komplexe Funktion, Ausgabe. Die Angabe Z8 betrifft einen Steuerrechner, während die Angabe Z80 den dem Bedienungs- und Anzeigefeld (Keyboard) zugeordneten Rechner betrifft. Die möglicherweise auftretenden Fehler sind beziffert und erscheinen mit dieser Ziffer und der Bezeichnung "error" im Anzeigefeld. Die Fehlernummern haben die folgende Bedeutung:

Error 80:
Das Zählwerk (Register) der neuen Montageeinheit 10 hat nicht den Wert Null.
Error 81:
In der neuen, zur Datenübergabe (Transfer) angeschlossenen Montageeinheit ist die Markierung (Flag) nicht gesetzt.
Error 82:
Die neue, zur Datenübergabe angeschlossene Montageeinheit ist für die Datenübergabe gesperrt oder sie spricht nicht an.
Error 2D:
Netzunterbruch: der Motor, das Codeprogramm oder die Datenübertragung (Transfer) sind zu starten
Error 86:
Fehlerfeststellung bei der Ueberprüfung, die Datenübergabe ist zu wiederholen,
Error 538:
Blockfehler
Error 87:
Uebertragungsfehler in den Postdaten von Z80 zu Z8,
Error 88:
Beide Speichersysteme ungültig. Die Daten sind nicht rekuperierbar.
Error 544:
Uebertragungsfehler Z8 zu Z80,
Error 83:
Die zweite Sperrmarkierung kann an der alten Montageeinheit 10 nicht gesetzt werden.
Error 84:
Die erste Markierung (Flag) der ausgebauten Montageeinheit 10 ist nicht rücksetzbar.
Error 582..597:
Unterschied Z80 - Z8, z.B. im Total, in einem der Benutzerkonten etc.
The AF also reproduce the program sequences in the program representation. The different function fields mean, for example: start, end, decision, function, complex function, output. The specification Z8 relates to a control computer, while the specification Z80 relates to the computer assigned to the operating and display field (keyboard). The errors that may occur are numbered and appear with this number and the name "error" in the display field. The error numbers have the following meaning:
Error 80:
The counter (register) of the new assembly unit 10 is not zero.
Error 81:
The marking (flag) is not set in the new assembly unit connected for data transfer.
Error 82:
The new assembly unit connected for data transfer is blocked for data transfer or it does not respond.
Error 2D:
Power interruption: the motor, the code program or the data transfer (transfer) must be started
Error 86:
Error detection during the check, the data transfer must be repeated,
Error 538:
Block error
Error 87:
Transmission errors in the postal data from Z80 to Z8,
Error 88:
Both storage systems invalid. The data cannot be recovered.
Error 544:
Transmission error Z8 to Z80,
Error 83:
The second lock mark cannot be set on the old assembly unit 10.
Error 84:
The first marking (flag) of the removed assembly unit 10 cannot be reset.
Error 582..597:
Difference Z80 - Z8, e.g. in total, in one of the user accounts etc.

Claims (12)

  1. Franking machine with at least one electronic computer (1, CPU), which is connected to at least one memory (3, RAM) for postal data containing value amounts by means of a writing line (9) for writing in working data and a bus transceiver (2), the computer (1) and memory (3) on a common assembly unit (10, 10') being enclosed in a sealed casing part (4), characterized in that the data transmission line (2) has a first and a second plug unit (12, 11), which are located outside the sealed, closed casing part (4) on the assembly part (7) and whereof the first (12) is open, whereas the second (11) is in plug connection with a looping connector unit (8) by means of which data transmission takes place between the computer (1) and memory (3), so that on replacing the assembly unit (10) by a new assembly unit (10') after removing the connector unit (8), the second plug unit (11) of the old unit is connectable with the first plug unit (12) of the new unit for the transmission of the data content between the associated memories (3, 3').
  2. Franking machine according to claim 1, characterized in that the memory (3) is spatially subdivided into several identical data blocks, which store the same postal data.
  3. Franking machine according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that there are at least two independent CPU's on the assembly unit (10, 10').
  4. Franking machine according to one of the claims 1 to 3, characterized in that for data transfer from the memory of a defective assembly unit to that of a replacement assembly unit the particular CPU is programmed to check the condition that the content of the old memory is greater than that of the corresponding, replaced, new memory (3).
  5. Franking machine according to one of the claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the assembly unit (10) with the sealed casing part (4) is mechanically secured on an inner frame (21, 22) of the franking machine by a releasable locking element (20), which is in operative connection with a signalling device (31) enclosed in the sealed casing part (4) for supplying a signal setting a first flag on unlocking on a battery-assisted memory enclosed in the sealed casing part (4).
  6. Franking machine according to claim 5, characterized in that the releasable locking element is a bolt (20) extending through the casing part (4) and frame parts (21, 22) connected in unreleasable manner to the franking machine and the signalling device comprises a switch (31) in contact with the bolt.
  7. Franking machine according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that the CPU (1) enclosed in the casing part (4) on ending the data transfer from the memory of the old to that of the new assembly unit (10, 10') in the battery-assisted memory of the old assembly unit (10) is programmed to set a second, non-resettable flag, through which a second data transfer from said old assembly unit (10) is made impossible.
  8. Method for securing postal data in the case of a defect in a CPU of a franking machine according to claim 1, in which at least one postal value quantity containing memory (3, RAM) is connected by means of a writing line (9) for writing in working data and by a data transmission line (2) (BUS transceiver) to a computer (1) within a sealed casing unit (4), the data transmission line (2) having a first and a second plug unit (12, 11), which are located outside the casing part (4) and whereof the first (12) is open, whereas the second (11) is in plug Connection with a looping connector unit (8), by means of which data transmission takes place between computer (1) and memory (3), in which the following steps are performed:
    replacement of the old assembly unit (10) containing the defective computer system by an identical, new assembly unit (10') with a new computer system,
    producing a plug connection between the second plug unit (11) of the old assembly unit (10) and the first plug unit (12) of the new assembly unit (10') and
    transmitting the data content of the old memory (3) to the new memory (3') across the connection formed.
  9. Method according to claim 8, characterized in that at least two independent CPU's are programmed for performing monitoring runs and prior to the transfer of data from an old memory (3) to a new memory (3') it is established by comparison which of several data blocks for the storage of the same postal data is faulty.
  10. Method according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the transfer of the postal data from the old memory (3) to the new memory only takes place after performing a monitoring programme, which checks whether the content of a particular, old memory (3) is greater than the content of the corresponding new memory (3).
  11. Method according to one of the claims 8 to 10, characterized in that when a new assembly unit replaces an old assembly unit (10, 10') at least one programmable read-only memory (24, 25, PROM) is released from the old assembly unit (10) prior to the transfer of the data content from the latter to the new memory (3') and at the end of the transfer of said data content is connected to the new assembly unit (10').
  12. Method according to one of the claims 8 to 11, characterized in that on dismantling the old assembly unit (10) a mechanical signalling device (31) in a battery-assisted memory of said assembly unit (10) sets a first flag and at the end of the data transfer the CPU in a battery-assisted memory sets a second flag, which blocks the old assembly unit (10) for a further data transfer.
EP93810144A 1992-03-10 1993-03-01 Postage meter Expired - Lifetime EP0560714B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH754/92A CH683652A5 (en) 1992-03-10 1992-03-10 Franking machine.
CH754/92 1992-03-10

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0560714A2 EP0560714A2 (en) 1993-09-15
EP0560714A3 EP0560714A3 (en) 1995-05-31
EP0560714B1 true EP0560714B1 (en) 1999-01-13

Family

ID=4194417

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP93810144A Expired - Lifetime EP0560714B1 (en) 1992-03-10 1993-03-01 Postage meter

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US (1) US5509117A (en)
EP (1) EP0560714B1 (en)
AT (1) ATE175795T1 (en)
CH (1) CH683652A5 (en)
DE (1) DE59309284D1 (en)

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ATE285610T1 (en) * 1995-03-07 2005-01-15 Frama Ag DEVICE FOR DETERMINING A FANKING VALUE
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DE69704684T2 (en) * 1996-02-23 2004-07-15 Fuji Xerox Co., Ltd. Device and method for authenticating a user's access rights to resources according to the challenge-response principle
DE19607101A1 (en) * 1996-02-24 1997-08-28 Hella Kg Hueck & Co Electronic device and device for data transmission between two identical electronic devices
US6004048A (en) * 1998-05-18 1999-12-21 Pitney Bowes Inc. Apparatus and method for ensuring good print quality in a mail handling system including a fixed printhead/moving mailpiece subsystem
US6678271B1 (en) * 1999-07-12 2004-01-13 Nortel Networks Limited High performance system and method having a local bus and a global bus
DE10149210A1 (en) * 2001-10-02 2003-04-24 Francotyp Postalia Ag Arrangement for unlocking and opening of a security housing, especially a franking machine housing, whereby a print module is first moved out of the way to allow mechanical release of the security housing
EP1300807B8 (en) 2001-10-02 2006-03-15 Francotyp-Postalia GmbH Method and device for opening a security housing
DE202006008952U1 (en) * 2006-05-31 2006-08-03 Francotyp-Postalia Gmbh Arrangement for changing the customer data of a franking machine for tranmsitting data serially to a customer card
US8917045B2 (en) * 2012-11-19 2014-12-23 Nidec Motor Corporation Methods and systems for selecting and programming replacement motors

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GB2173738B (en) * 1985-04-19 1989-07-12 Roneo Alcatel Ltd Secure transport of information between electronic stations
JPS62168292A (en) * 1985-10-15 1987-07-24 ピツトネイ・ボウズ・インコ−ポレ−テツド Dual redundant electronic postage meter
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CH678366A5 (en) * 1989-03-08 1991-08-30 Frama Ag
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CH679088A5 (en) * 1989-07-21 1991-12-13 Frama Ag

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US5509117A (en) 1996-04-16
ATE175795T1 (en) 1999-01-15
CH683652A5 (en) 1994-04-15
DE59309284D1 (en) 1999-02-25
EP0560714A3 (en) 1995-05-31
EP0560714A2 (en) 1993-09-15

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