JPH08297780A - Check reader for printer loading and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide a check reader which reads a personal check on which magnetic ink character(MICR) data is printed and processes it integrally with a printer. CONSTITUTION: This check reader 10 comprises a guide table 11 capable of inserting to the guide port 4 for single sheet of the printer 1, and a housing 12 which houses a magnetic head for reading the MICR data 17 and a motor for carrying, etc., for the guide table 11, and the check reader is mounted on the main body of the printer 1 in such a way that it can swivel with an arm 13. A check sheet whose MICR data is read by the check reader 10 is introduced to the inside of the printer as it is, and endorsement printing is applied to it, then, it is elected from the exhaust port 6 of the printer 1.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a check reader for reading a personal check printed with MICR characters.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A personal check is used for shopping at a store, like cash and a card. On the surface of this personal check, MICR (Magnet
etic Ink Character Recognition (magnetic ink character recognition) data is used for the description, and it is possible to check the validity / invalidity of the personal check by inquiring these data.

A check reader capable of reading MICR characters is used in shop accounting and the like in order to quickly perform the personal check process. MICR for personal check by this check reader
Data is read using a magnetic head, the analyzed output is supplied to the POS terminal to confirm the data, and the verification time is saved and key input mistakes are prevented. When the validity of the personal check can be confirmed by the MICR reader, the shop data and the like are endorsed (endorsement printing) on the back surface of the personal check, and the check sheet processing is completed.

[0004]

If the MICR reader is used, there will be no key input mistakes and the processing can be carried out efficiently and in a short time. However, a personal check is passed through the MICR reader and then set in the printer. Action is necessary. Therefore, the operator must load the personal checks one after another among a plurality of devices arranged at the POS station. At this time, if the front and back of the personal check or the inserting direction into the MICR reader or the printer is wrong, it is necessary to perform the loading again. Even if the insertion direction is distorted, it may cause a reading error or print failure. In particular, the personal check has a printed surface of MICR data,
The operator needs to be careful because the surface on which endorsement printing is performed is different.

Therefore, it is desirable to further simplify the check processing work in the POS or the like and surely perform it in a short time. It is an object of the present invention to provide a printer-equipped check reader capable of continuously processing a series of operations that meets such demands. In particular, we have realized a check reader that can be integrated in a printer and provide a check reader that can read personal checks and print necessary items in a short time with no mistakes using this integrated processing device. Has an aim. Then, it is an object of the present invention to provide a check leader capable of improving the service to the customer and reducing the labor of the operator. Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to provide a check reader that can be easily installed in a small printer and that can be easily installed in a small POS station by compactly collecting necessary functions.

[0006]

According to the present invention, a check reader can be mounted on a printer so that a series of processes for personal checks can be performed by an integrated device, and a check sheet can be sent from the check reader to the printer. I am trying to send it automatically. That is, the check reader of the present invention is a MICR data reading device which is installed in a paper path so as to face at least one of a paper path for guiding a check paper inserted from one end to the other end and a paper surface of the check paper. At least one magnetic head, and a conveyance means for feeding the check sheet inserted in the paper path from at least one end to the other end,
This paper path is characterized by having an attachment means that can be fixed to the printer with the other end inserted into the guide opening for the cut sheet of the printer.

Since the check reader of the present invention can be fixed with one end of the paper path inserted in the guide port of the printer, the check paper can be delivered between the paper path of the check reader and the paper path of the printer. The check sheet that has been read can be automatically supplied to the printer. Therefore, a series of processes such as reading the check sheet, checking the data, and printing the endorsement can be automatically processed by the printer equipped with the check reader. Also, if a check reader is attached so that the paper path can be inserted into and removed from the guide port of the printer, if you do not read the check paper, for example, turn the check reader up and down or left and right of the printer. , You can temporarily remove the check reader from the printer guide. In this way, the printer can be used in both the state in which the check reader is attached and the state in which the check reader is not attached. The check reader of the present invention has a configuration that can be retrofitted to the printer in this way,
You can effectively use the printer you are already using. Alternatively, this check reader can be easily attached to the printer as a maker option, which is very convenient in constructing a system such as a highly versatile POS.

In order to reduce the size of the check reader of the present invention, it is desirable to match it with the printer side. First, in the check reader of the present invention, the transporting means is provided with at least two transport speeds: a low speed for sending the check sheet to the print head of the printer and a high speed for sending the check sheet to the magnetic head. By preparing the low-speed mode, the paper path inserted into the printer of the check reader of the present invention can also be used as the paper path when printing by the printer. Therefore, it is not necessary to design the paper path of the check reader separately from the paper path of the printer, and a small check reader can be realized.

Further, it is desirable that the conveying means can convey the same check sheet in both directions in the paper path. For example, it is desirable to be able to feed the check sheet from one side of the paper path to the other at a low speed and to feed the check sheet from the other side of the paper path at a high speed. When sending the check sheet from one side of the check reader to the other and introducing it into the printer, a low speed suitable for printing is desirable. On the other hand, since a certain feed speed is required for recognizing MICR characters, it is desirable that the check sheet can be conveyed at a high speed in the opposite direction from the other side to the one side. A swinging gear or the like is used to switch the transport speed depending on the transport direction.

In such a check reader,
Check the paper set on one end of the paper path to the other end of the paper path inserted in the guide opening of the printer,
At least until the MICR data written on the check sheet passes through the position of the magnetic head, the check sheet is preset. After that, MICR data can be read by the magnetic head by sending the check paper from the other end of the paper path to the one end at high speed. The MICR data is collated, and if endorsement printing is required, the check paper is sent again from one end of the paper path to the other end at low speed, and the check paper is sent to the printer. Then, the printer performs endorsement printing on the check sheet.

MIC is a compact check reader
In order to improve the recognition rate of the R data, it is desirable to provide a roller belt for transporting the check sheet while pressing it toward the magnetic head in a position facing the magnetic head in the paper path. The check paper to be inserted has various states such as wrinkles and those with folding marks, but if the check paper is pressed against the magnetic head by the roller belt, the magnetic head will adhere to the MICR data. Therefore, reading mistakes can be prevented. Since this roller belt also has a function of conveying check paper, it is suitable for downsizing the check reader. Furthermore, if you press the roller belt against the magnetic head, the belt will come into close contact with the check sheet.
It also prevents misfeeds.

Further, in order to improve the recognition rate of MICR data, it is important to reduce magnetic noise.
In particular, since a small check reader cannot secure a distance between the magnetic head and the driving motor, the check reader of the present invention uses a ferromagnetic material to shield the driving motor of the conveyance means. Noise is reduced. The shield is preferably box-shaped so as to cover the motor, and it is desirable that the corners of the box-shaped shield be formed of a single material.
This is because if there is a gap in the corner portion, the leakage of magnetic noise from this portion increases. Further, by providing a shield made of a ferromagnetic material at a position facing the front of the magnetic head or at the rear of the magnetic head, the magnetic flux density in the vicinity of the magnetic head can be reduced, which is effective for increasing the recognition rate of MICR data. .

Further, it is desirable that the magnet for re-magnetization of MICR data, which is apt to be stained, is embedded in the resin forming the paper path from the side opposite to the surface through which the check paper passes. As a result, the magnet does not directly contact the check sheet, so that the dirt can be prevented. At the same time, a member for supporting the magnet and a space are not required, which is useful for downsizing the check reader.

Further, as the POS station becomes multifunctional, a PC (personal computer) or the like is provided with a function of guiding an operator. However, as the operation becomes complicated, the capacity of the guiding software increases, It tends to put pressure on the original functions of computers. Therefore, if the check reader of the present invention is mounted on a printer to realize an apparatus capable of continuously performing a plurality of processes, processing errors can be reduced and the load on the computer side can be reduced.

[0015]

EXAMPLES The present invention will be described in more detail below based on examples of the check reader of the present invention.

Overall Structure FIG. 1 shows a state in which a check reader 10 is attached to the printer 1. 2 shows how the check reader 10 is attached to the printer 1, and FIG.
The shape of the check reader 10 seen from the front and the shape seen from the rear are shown. Further, FIG. 4 shows a state in which the check reader 10 is viewed from above, and the housing is cut to show a schematic structure inside the housing.

The printer 1 to which the check reader 10 of the present example is mounted accommodates two rolls of paper, performs journal printing 2 on one roll, and prints on the other roll. Performs receipt printing 3.
Further, a guide port 4 into which a cut sheet (slip sheet) can be inserted is provided below the main body. Such a printer 1 is suitable as a printer constituting a POS station and is often used in shops and hotels.

As shown in FIG. 2, the check reader 10 of this embodiment can be attached to the guide port 4 of the printer 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, the check reader 10 of the present invention has a flat guide table 11 into which a check sheet 16 can be guided, and a guide table 11 extending substantially from the center of the guide table 11 toward the end of the table. A housing 12 that covers about half of the table 11 and an arm 13 that attaches the guide table 11 and the housing 12 to the main body 5 of the printer are provided.

The guide table 11 is a plate-shaped member having a width approximately half that of the guide port 4 of the printer.
Slide up to set the check sheet, and again
The check paper is easily guided by using the upper part as a paper path. A space 11b for setting the check sheet 16 is secured in front of the guide table 11 and a housing 12 is provided behind the space 11b. Further, the rear end 11b of the guide table 11 extends to the rear of the housing 12, and the check sheet 1 is inserted by inserting this portion into the guide opening 4 of the printer.
6 can be guided to the paper path of the printer.

The housing 12 is mainly divided into three parts. A magnetic head for reading MICR data and a roller belt for conveying the check paper 16 are stored inside a portion 12a occupying substantially half the width of the guide table 11. A gap 14 is provided between the guide table 11 and the surface of the guide table 11 so that the check sheet 16 can pass therethrough, and the check sheet 16 set in the gap 14 can be sandwiched by a roller belt and sent to the rear 11c of the table. . A roller for pressing the check sheet from the direction of the back surface of the guide table 11 is also stored in the housing 12a, and the housing 12a is also formed below the guide table 11.

A further expanded portion 12b adjacent to the housing 12a is a portion in which a train wheel 30 for driving the roller belt is stored. A housing 12c is provided between the housing 12b and the arm 13, and a driving motor 20 is stored therein. The rotation of the motor 20 is transmitted to the roller belt via the train wheel 30, and the check sheet 16 is conveyed in the front or rear direction of the guide table 11.

The arm 13 is for mounting the housing 12 and the guide table 11 on the main body 5 of the printer. The arm 13 of this example is attached to the side surface of the main body 5 so as to be rotatable. Therefore, the arm 1
3 is rotated up and down around the portion 13a attached to the main body 5 to set the housing 12 and the guide table 11 in the guide opening 4 of the printer,
It is possible to easily set two states, that is, a state of being lifted up above the main body 5 of the printer and being removed from the guide port 4. In this way, the arm 13 of the present example, with respect to the main body 5 of the printer,
Although it is attached so as to be able to turn in the vertical direction by the screw stopper 15, it may be attached so as to turn to the left and right. Further, a stopper 13b is provided along the arm 13 at the rear of the housing 12c of this example. The stopper 13b hits the main body 5 of the printer when the arm 13 is swung downward and the check reader 10 is set in the guide opening 4 of the printer. The stopper 13b has a function of determining a setting position in the guide port 4 of the guide table 11 and the check reader 1
It plays the role of suppressing the rattling of zero.

Personal check 1 referred to in this example
6 is a check for personal use that is used for payment at the store and is issued by the bank. Personal check surface 16
The user's account number, the serial number of the check sheet, etc. are printed in MICR letters 17a. The MICR character has a standardized character shape and print quality, and also has a standardized print position on a personal check. Therefore, by searching the predetermined area of the personal check with the magnetic head, the waveform corresponding to the MICR character can be obtained, and the printed data can be identified by analyzing the waveform. At this time, before the search with the magnetic head, the magnet is applied to the area marked with the MICR character to magnetize the MICR character.

On the surface 16a of the personal check 16, the amount to be paid and the signature of the payer are further written. Further, on the back surface 16b of the personal check 16, records such as date and time of use, store name, amount of money are endorsed (endorsement printing) 18. When the person in charge of the store receives the personal check, it first confirms the validity / invalidity of the personal check from the data described in MICR characters, and then performs the endorsement printing on the valid personal check.

When the check reader 10 of this embodiment is mounted on the printer 1, the personal check 16 is set on the check reader 10 with the back surface 16b facing upward so that the endorsement printing 18 can be performed by the printer head. When setting, the edge of the check sheet 16 is inserted along the wall surface of the gap 12 opened below the housing 12a on the side of the housing 12b. By setting the personal check 16 in this way, MICR
The data 17 passes over the magnetic head in the housing 12a and the MICR data is read by the magnetic head.

Structure of Paper Path Referring to FIG. 5 to FIG. 7, the check reader 1 of this example
0 and the path of the check sheet in the printer 1 equipped with the check reader 10 will be described. First,
In the printer 1 of this example, a paper path 40 for cut sheets is formed from the lower guide port 4 to the upper discharge port 6. The paper path 40 is composed of a slope 41 that is gently curved from the guide port 4 toward the discharge port 6, and the slope 41 is arranged in this order from the guide port 4 in order.
First paper feed roller 42, paper detector 43, foam stopper 44, second paper feed roller 45, platen 4
6 and the printer head 47 are arranged, and the cut slip sheet on which printing has been performed is discharged from the discharge port 6.

The check reader 10 of the present example has an arm 1
It is attached to the guide port 4 by 3. Therefore, the check sheet conveyed from the check reader 10 into the printer 1 is the path indicated by the broken line 48, and is the paper path 4 of this printer.
0 is entered and printing is performed. Check leader 10
The gap 14 between the guide table 11 and the housing 12a forms a substantially planar paper path 31. A roller belt 32 is provided in the paper path 31, and a magnetic head 21 for reading MICR data is installed at a position facing the roller belt 32. Roller belt 32
Is a drive roller 32a driven by the motor 20 via the train wheel 30, and a roller 32b paired with the drive roller 32a.
And a belt 32c hung between these rollers. In addition, these rollers 32a and 3
Auxiliary rollers 33a and 33 are provided at positions facing 2b.
b is prepared, and the check sheet can be sandwiched by these rollers and reliably conveyed.

The train wheel 30 of this example has two trains 34 and 3.
5 is provided. The first system 34 includes the guide table 11
34a, 3 arranged in the housing 12b above the
4b and 34c. Second
The system 35 is a system constituted by gears 35a and 35b arranged in the lower part of the housing 12b. Power is transmitted from the motor 20 to these systems 34 and 35 via a rocking gear 36. That is, when the motor 20 rotates in the clockwise direction, the oscillating gear 36 oscillates in the clockwise direction, connects to the first system 34, and drives the roller belt 32 via the gear of this system. As a result, the roller belt 32 moves in the feeding direction of the check sheet from the leading end 11a to the trailing end 11c of the guide table (hereinafter, forefeed or forward direction). On the other hand, when the motor 20 rotates counterclockwise, the rocking gear 36 rocks counterclockwise and connects to the second system 35. As a result, the roller belt 32 is driven via the gear of the second system,
The guide sheet moves from the rear end 11c to the front end 11a in the direction in which the check sheet is fed (hereinafter, backfeed or reverse direction).

Further, in the train wheel 30 of this example, the gear ratio of the system 34 for sending in the forward direction is set higher than the gear ratio of the system 35 for sending in the reverse direction. Therefore, the check sheet is fed at a low speed in the forward direction and at a high speed in the reverse direction. The forward direction is the direction in which the check sheet is sent for printing, while the reverse direction is the direction in which it is sent for reading the MICR data. The paper feeding speed during printing is preferably 70 to 90 mm / sec, and if the paper feeding speed during printing is further increased, a print position may be displaced and print quality deteriorates. In addition, the mechanism for ensuring the stop position accuracy becomes expensive. On the other hand, in the commercially available MICR data analysis device, in order to obtain a predetermined recognition rate in analyzing the signal obtained by the magnetic head, the check paper feed speed when reading the MICR data is set to the MICR data format. And, depending on the detection characteristics of the magnetic head, 100 mm /
It is said that about sec is desirable. Therefore, in the check reader of this example, the speed is adjusted by changing the gear ratio of the train wheel. Of course, the rotational speed situation of the stepping motor 20 may be changed depending on the transport direction. The transport speed of the check reader is the feed roller 42 of the printer.
Matching with the conveyance speeds of 45 and 45, the check paper sent to the paper path 40 of the printer by the roller belt 32 of the check reader is sent to the printer head 47 without trouble such as paper jam.

The check reader 10 of this embodiment employs a roller belt 32 for conveying check paper, and a magnetic head 21 for reading MICR data is arranged at a position facing the roller belt 32. Then, a check sheet is put on the roller belt 32 and the magnetic head 2
Tension is applied in the direction of 1, so that the check sheet is brought into close contact with the magnetic head 21 and the MIC
The R data can be read reliably. In this way, the check leader 10 of this example is configured so that the roller belt 3
2 has both the function of conveying the check sheet and the function of bringing the check sheet into close contact with the magnetic head 21 to reduce the size of the check reader. If the check reader is made compact, the portion protruding from the printer 1 can be reduced, and it is possible to obtain a check reader with a simple shape without avoiding an obstacle such as an operator's operation.

FIG. 6 shows a state in which the arm 13 is pivoted upward and the check leader 10 is removed from the guide opening 4. Since the check reader 10 of this example is attached to the side of the main body 5 by the arm 13, it can be easily removed from the guide port 4 by rotating the check reader 10 above the printer. Therefore, when it is not necessary to read and confirm MICR data such as validation paper, these cut sheets can be set in the printer without passing through the check reader 10. of course,
These cut sheets may be set in the printer via the check reader 10. However, with the check reader attached, the paper path for conveying paper becomes longer,
Furthermore, an element such as a magnetic head that tends to become a resistance during conveyance is arranged in the paper path. Therefore, MIC
If you do not need to read R data, it is preferable to remove the check reader and use the printer. When handling the check sheet again, if the arm 13 is swung downward, the guide table of the check leader naturally enters the guide port 4, and the paper path from the check leader to the printer is automatically established. Unlike the example, it is also possible to turn the check leader to the left and right to make it removable. However, since the installation area of information equipment such as a POS is limited, it is preferable to use a type that can be swung upward and detached as in this example. In addition to this, a check reader that fits in the guide opening 4 may be used, but in consideration of the place where the check reader is removed, the turning type is preferable.

The movement of the check sheet in the sheet path will be described in more detail with reference to FIG. FIG. 7 is a diagram in which elements forming the paper path are extracted and shown. In the paper path 31 of the check reader, first, the first paper detector 22 for detecting the insertion of the check paper, the magnetic head 21, and the check paper pass through the magnetic head 21 in the order in which the check paper is guided. A second paper detector 23 for detecting that
Further, a magnet 24 for remagnetizing the MICR data of the check sheet is arranged. The paper path 31 of the check leader extends to the inside of the guide port 4 along the rear end 11c of the guide table 11 and is connected to the paper path 40 of the printer. As described above, the first paper feed roller 42, the paper detector 43, the foam stopper 44, and the second paper feed roller 45 are sequentially arranged in the paper path 40 of the printer. A check sheet is sent to the head.

In the paper paths 31 and 40 having such a configuration, in order to read the MICR data of the check paper and perform endorsement printing, each element performs the following movements. First, the check paper is put in the paper path 31 so that the MICR data is on the lower side, that is, facing the guide table 11. This check sheet is the first sheet detector 2
When detected in 2, the motor 20 rotates clockwise,
The first train wheel 34 drives the roller belt 32 in the forefeed direction. As a result, the check paper advances in the paper path 31 at a low speed. At this time, the insertion status of the check paper in the paper path can be determined by whether or not the edge of the check paper is detected by the second paper detector 23. That is, if the check paper is not detected by the second paper detector 23 even after the lapse of a predetermined time, it is expected that the check paper is meandering in the paper path 31. Alternatively, the meandering property can be confirmed by detecting the end of the check paper with these paper detectors.

When the leading edge of the check sheet smoothly passes through the paper path 31, it enters the paper path 40 of the printer. In the paper path 40, when the leading edge of the check paper is detected by the paper detector 43, the form stopper is released in the direction of arrow B from the standby state shown by the broken line, and the first feed roller 42 is also shown by the broken line. Close from the standby state in the direction of arrow C. Then, the motor on the printer side drives the feed roller 42 to further convey the check sheet. The conveyance speeds of the roller 42 and the roller belt 32 of the check reader are synchronized, and the check sheet is sent at substantially the same speed. In order to reliably perform such an operation, it is desirable that the distance between the second paper detector 23 of the check reader and the paper detector 43 of the printer is set to be equal to or less than the length of the check paper.

When the check paper is further fed and the end of the check paper is detected by the second paper detector 23 of the check reader, the roller belt 32 and the roller 42 stop the conveyance. Then, the foam stopper 44 closes in the direction of arrow A, and the first feed roller 42 opens in the direction of arrow D. The foam stopper 44 only hits the check sheet in the paper path lightly and does not hinder the movement of the check sheet. Therefore, the check sheet is in the paper path 40 of the printer, but is not held by the printer. Therefore, the paper path 40 of the printer
Is used as a paper path for guiding the check sheet to the check reader, and even a small check reader can read MICR data without causing distortion or the like.

When reading MICR data, the motor 20 of the check reader is driven counterclockwise. As a result, the roller belt 32 is driven in the direction of the back feed, and the check sheet passes over the remagnetizing magnet 24 and the magnetic head 21 at a high speed. In this state, the MICR data written on the check sheet is read. The magnet 24 for re-magnetizing the magnetic ink on which MICR data is printed is fixed to a resin member forming the paper path 31 from the side opposite to the paper path, and a magnetic force can be exerted through this member. ing. By contacting the magnet and the check sheet via the resin member, mutual contamination can be prevented. Further, since the magnet is fixed by the resin member, the structure of this portion is also simplified.

In order to read MICR data with high accuracy, it is necessary to bring the check sheet into close contact with the magnetic head 21 to avoid the influence of wrinkles, distortion, etc. on the check sheet. Therefore, as described above, the check sheet is pressed against the magnetic head 21 by the roller belt 32.
Further, in order to perform accurate reading, it is important to suppress magnetic noise with respect to the magnetic head.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 4, the motor 20 of this embodiment is covered with the housing 12c, and the housing 12c is made of permalloy, ferrite,
It is made of a high magnetic permeability material such as pure iron or a ferromagnetic material to suppress the leakage of magnetism from the motor 20.
The housing 12c around the motor 20 is formed by bending a member forming the corner to form a corner portion so that no gap is generated in the corner portion. As shown in FIG.
If there is a gap at the corner of the shield, a large amount of magnetic noise will leak through this gap. On the other hand, if the gaps are not provided at the corners, the amount of magnetic noise leaked out is small even if the seam of the material and the penetration portion of the shaft of the motor are in the flat portion. In this example, the housing 12
By adopting such a structure for c, the influence of magnetic noise is prevented.

Inside the housings 12a and 12b, the mounting plates 37a, 37b and 37c for supporting the train wheel 30 and the roller belt 32 are also made of the same high magnetic permeability material or ferromagnetic material. As a result, the magnetic noise transmitted around the magnetic head 21 can be further reduced.

In addition to this, in the present example, the magnetic head 21
A shield plate 25 made of the same high magnetic permeability material or high magnetic material as that described above is provided so as to wrap it from behind. Further, a shield material 26 made of the same material is also provided at a position facing the magnetic head 21. By providing these shield plates 25 and 26, the magnetic flux concentrates there, so the magnetic flux density on the front surface of the magnetic head 21 decreases,
Magnetic noise due to magnetic fluctuations leaking from motors etc. can be suppressed.

The MI read accurately in this way
The CR data is sent to a computer or the like connected via the printer control device, and the validity of the personal check is confirmed. If the personal check is not valid, the check sheet located near the tip 11 of the guide table is ejected by the operator as it is. on the other hand,
When the personal check is valid, the motor 20 of the check reader is driven again in the clockwise direction, and the check sheet is fore-fed toward the printer at a low speed. Then, in the same manner as above, when the leading edge of the check sheet is detected in the paper path of the printer, the form stopper 44 opens and the first feed roller 42 closes.
The check sheet is sent to the second feed roller 45. Then, when the preparation for the endorsement printing is completed, the check sheet is fed between the printer head and the platen to perform the printing. The printed check sheet is further sent to the upper side and discharged from the printer discharge port. The transport speed of the check reader in the forefeed direction matches the transport speed in the printer, and the paper path 31 of the check reader can be used together with the paper path 40 in the printer during printing. Therefore, it is not necessary to adopt a design in which the paper path 31 of the check reader is independent of the printer, and the check reader can be downsized.

As described above, the check reader of this embodiment can be easily attached to the printer, and is suitable for improving the function by utilizing the existing printer or as an optional device for improving the function of the printer. When the check reader of this example is attached to the printer, the MICR attached to the personal check is attached.
Data reading, data printing on the personal check, and in this example, endorsement printing can be continuously processed. Therefore, the operator who processes the check sheet does not need to set the check sheet again in the plurality of devices, and these processes can be performed reliably in a short time. Furthermore, when the check reader 10 of this example is attached to the printer, it becomes integral with the printer 1, so
It is also possible to reduce the number of devices that make up the S station and the like, and it is possible to arrange devices that are easy to use in a small area. Also, P
Since the interface with the OS station can be reduced, the number of parts including cables can be omitted and the POS station can be simplified. Integrated PO with built-in printer
Even at the S station, the function of a MICR reader can be added by mounting the check reader of this example and incorporating a printer.

The check reader 10 of this embodiment is designed on the assumption that it will be attached to the printer, and the check paper can be handled using the paper path of the printer and the transport mechanism installed therein. ing. As a result, the check reader 10 can be assembled inexpensively and compactly. Further, since the check sheet can be stably and reliably conveyed even in a small size, the MICR data can be reliably read and high reliability can be obtained.

Control Configuration The control of the check reader 10 in this example is performed via the control function of the printer 1. FIG. 9 shows the functional blocks of this example. The command input from the host computer 61 to the command receiving means 62 through the transmission circuit is analyzed by the command analyzing means 63 and executed by the command executing means 64. Command executing means 64
Is the printer mechanism control means 6 according to the analyzed command.
5, a printing mechanism 66 for performing printing, a paper feeding mechanism 67 for feeding roll paper and cut sheets, and a cut sheet loading mechanism 68 for loading cut sheets at a print start position. , And check leader 10
MI that reads MICR characters printed on the check paper of
The CR reading mechanism 51 and the check sheet loading mechanism 52 are controlled. The command executing means 64 also stores the read data by the MICR reading mechanism 69 according to the command.
0, read data analysis means 71 that analyzes the data of the read data storage means 70 to recognize a character and stores it in the recognition result storage means 72, and the data of the recognition result storage means 72 is transmitted to the host computer 61 through a transmission circuit. The data transmission means 73 is also controlled.

FIG. 10 shows a control block diagram of this example. The control is performed mainly by the CPU 78, the ROM 76 in which a program for controlling the CPU 78 is stored, and the read data obtained by converting the character waveform read by the check reader 10 into a digital value and the MICR used for temporary storage of data. A RAM 77 for storing a record of character recognition results and an interface 75 for receiving the data transmitted by the host computer and transmitting the MICR character recognition result to the host are connected. Also, CP
U78 is a print head control circuit 81, a motor control circuit 82, a motor control circuit 83, a plunger control circuit 8
4, plunger control circuit 85, paper detector control circuit 86,
It controls the MICR head control circuit 87, the check feed motor control circuit 88 and the like. Of these, the control circuit 8
Reference numerals 1 to 86 denote a printer head 47 of the printer mechanism unit 90, a step motor 92 that is a drive power source of the printer head, a step motor 93 that is a drive power source of the paper feed mechanism, a paper feed power transmission system switching mechanism 94, respectively. It controls the single-sheet paper loading / roller opening / closing mechanism 95 and the detector 43 for detecting the insertion of the single-cut sheet. Further, the paper detector control circuit 86, the MICR head control circuit 87 and the check feed motor control circuit 88 control the paper detectors 22 and 23, the MICR read head 21 and the motor 20 of the check reader 10, respectively.

Control Method FIG. 11 shows a flow of processing a personal check having MICR data by a printer equipped with the check reader 10 of this embodiment. First, in step 101, the personal check is set on the check reader, and in step 102, MICR data is read. Further, the host computer is queried for the data read in step 103, and endorsement printing is performed in step 104. Then, in step 105, the check paper is ejected from the printer, and a series of processing is ended.

FIG. 12 shows a detailed flow of processing for setting a check sheet. First, in step 112, it is confirmed whether or not the command from the host computer is a command for reading MICR data. If the command is not one of these commands, the process corresponding to the command is performed in step 113.

In the case of a command for loading or a command for reading MICR data, in step 114,
As described with reference to FIG. 7, the motor 20 for sending the check sheet is switched to the clockwise rotation. Further, the printer puts the foam stopper 44 and the first feed roller 42 in a standby state.

In this insertion wait state, step 11
If the operator cancels the check sheet before inserting the check sheet in step 5, in step 116, waiting for the check sheet to be inserted is completed, and the printer side switches the power transmission system switching mechanism 94 for paper feeding to a state in which roll paper can be handled. Finish the process. The cancellation is performed by a command for canceling the waiting for insertion of the check sheet transmitted from the host computer, a switch operation by the operator, or the like.

When the operator turns over the check paper and puts it in the check reader 10, the paper detector 2 is detected in step 117.
The presence of a check sheet is detected by 2. This completes the paper setting and starts reading MICR data.

FIG. 13 shows a detailed flow of processing for reading MICR data. First, in step 121,
As described above, the entire check sheet is fore-fed at one end and then back-fed to read the MICR data. In step 122, reading is performed based on the size of the check sheet until the conveyance of a predetermined length preset on the control side of the printer is completed or until the character waveform of the check sheet is no longer detected. At this time, in step 123, it is determined whether or not the character waveform is detected. If the character waveform is not detected and step 122 is completed, the process proceeds to step 127 and the reading is completed. As a case where the character waveform is not detected, there is a case in which the check paper is inserted in the wrong direction (front and back). In addition, there is a case in which the MICR character does not pass through the surface of the magnetic head because the check paper is in contact with the edge of the check paper against the paper detector 22, but the check paper is inclined at the time of insertion. Therefore, because the character waveform could not be detected, the host computer 1
An error may be returned to the operator and the operator may be prompted to reset the check paper.

On the other hand, if the character waveform is detected in step 123, the reading is continued as it is, and step 12
When the end of the character waveform, for example, a blank space of 3 characters or more is detected at 6, the process proceeds to step 127. If the end of the character waveform is not detected in step 126, the length of the check sheet in the paper feed direction is maximized in step 125, and when the length is fed, the flow proceeds to step 127 and the reading is finished.

When the reading is completed, the motor 20 is stopped in step 127. The read data is analyzed by the read data analysis means 71, and the recognized character is stored in the RAM 77 or the like.

FIG. 14 shows a flow of processing for transmitting the recognized information to the host computer 1 and waiting for confirmation. In step 131, the MICR data analysis result is transmitted to the host computer 1 via the interface 75. When the transmission of the recognition result is completed, the host computer determines from the received recognition result whether the check paper read is valid or invalid. During this time,
The device side is in a standby state to receive the determination result. If cancellation is executed before the determination result is transmitted in step 132 during this waiting, the check sheet can be removed from the check reader without executing the following steps. The cancellation is performed by a command for canceling the waiting for the reception of the determination result transmitted from the host computer, a switch operation by the operator, or the like.

When the judgment result is received in step 133, it is confirmed in step 134 whether the judgment result is valid or invalid. If the read personal check is valid, endorsement printing is performed in step 135. Therefore, the check reader 10 sends the check sheet again to the printer, and the printer further sends the sent check sheet to the print position. On the other hand, if the data identified by the MICR character is invalid, the step 135 is passed and the check sheet is ready to be taken out from the check reader.

After performing the endorsement printing in this way, the check sheet is discharged from the printer side in step 136. When the personal check 16 is written on the table, the personal check 16 discharged as described above may be turned into a table and set again in the guide port 4. At this time, since the check reader 10 is unnecessary, the arm 13 can be swung and raised above the printer. The customer checks the written personal check, the operator confirms the signature, and then stores the personal check.

Note that each of the steps described above may be executed by the printer and the check reader upon receiving a command from the host computer for each individual step, and a plurality of steps such as reading MICR data or printing may be performed. You may receive a command from a host computer as a unit, and manage each subsequent step with a printer or a check reader.
Alternatively, the printer side manages all the series of processing,
It is also possible to perform only the confirmation of MICR data on the host computer side. As described above, when the check reader of this example is attached to the printer, one interface may be prepared in the host computer in order to perform the series of processes described above. Therefore, the interface on the host computer side can be effectively utilized. Furthermore, once the check paper is set on the check reader of this example, the MICR data reading to the endorsement printing are performed, and the processing by the operator is simplified. Therefore, since the guidance function displayed on the display or the like for prompting the operator to take measures can be reduced, the load of the control program of the host computer or the apparatus of this example can be reduced.

Further, in the above-mentioned check reader, the magnetic head is provided on one side of the paper path, but the magnetic head may be provided on the opposite side, or the magnetic heads may be provided on both sides. . Further, the control mechanism of the check reader may not be provided on the printer side, and may be realized in the check reader, or may be connected to the printer or the host machine with an interface for transferring a signal for adjusting the timing and the read data. .

[0059]

As described above, the check reader according to the present invention is unitized so that it can be easily installed in the printer, and the function of reading MICR data is added only by mounting it in the guide port of the printer. it can.
Therefore, the printer alone, which is integrated with the check reader of the present invention, can continuously process a series of flow from the reading of the personal check to the endorsement printing. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the trouble of the operator repeatedly loading the check sheets onto a plurality of devices, and to eliminate troubles such as defective printing due to defective loading and defective reading of data. Therefore, if the personal check process is performed using the printer equipped with the check reader according to the present invention, the processing time required for each customer can be shortened, and the service can be improved.

Further, the check reader according to the present invention is made compact so that it does not get in the way even when it is mounted on a printer, and is suitable for an information processing device such as a POS where the installation location is limited. Also, in order to improve the recognition rate of MICR data, a mechanism for protecting against magnetic noise and a mechanism for holding check sheets are housed in a compact housing, which is a check reader that is easy for the operator to use and has few reading errors. .

In particular, since the check reader of the present invention can be easily attached to an existing printer, the function of the current POS can be improved by using this check reader. Also, it is suitable as an option for upgrading the functions of the printer, and it is a useful check leader for providing a printer with optimum functions, which can flexibly respond to user requests.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a state in which a check reader according to an embodiment of the present invention is mounted on a printer.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing how the check reader shown in FIG. 1 is mounted on a printer.

3A and 3B are a front view and a rear view of the check reader shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a view from above of the check leader shown in FIG. 1, with the housing omitted to show the internal construction of the housing.

5 is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration of the train wheel of the check leader shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the check leader shown in FIG. 1 is turned upward.

7 is a cross-sectional view showing an outline of the configurations of the paper path of the check reader and the paper path of the printer shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a motor housing of the check reader shown in FIG.

9 is a functional block diagram of the check reader shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

10 is a control block diagram of the check reader shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

11 is a flowchart showing a processing flow when handling a personal check by the check reader shown in FIG. 1. FIG.

FIG. 12 is a detailed flowchart showing a flow of processing for setting a sheet in the flowchart shown in FIG.

13 is a flowchart showing the MIC of the flowchart shown in FIG.
It is a detailed flowchart which shows the flow of the process which reads R data.

FIG. 14 is a detailed flowchart showing a flow of processing for confirming read data in the flowchart shown in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 ... Printer 4 ... Single sheet paper guide port 5 ... Printer body 6 ... Ejection port 10 ... Check reader 11 ... Guide table 12 ... Housing 13 ... Arm 14 ... Gap under housing 15 ..Screws for fixing the arm 16..Single form paper (personal check) 17 .. MICR data 20 .. Motor 21 .. Magnetic heads 22 and 23 .. Paper detector 24 .. Magnet 30 .. Wheel train 31.・ Paper path of check reader 32 ・ ・ Roller belt 34, 35 ・ ・ System of train wheel 36 ・ ・ Oscillating gear 40 ・ ・ Paper path of printer 43 ・ ・ Paper detector 44 ・ ・ Form stopper

Claims (13)

[Claims] 1. A paper path for guiding a check sheet inserted from one end to the other end, and a MICR data reading unit installed in the paper path so as to face at least one of the paper surfaces of the check sheet. At least one magnetic head, a conveying unit that feeds the check sheet inserted in the paper path from at least the one end to the other end, and the paper path, the other end of which guides the cut sheet of the printer. A check reader for mounting a printer, comprising a mounting means that can be fixed to the printer in a state of being inserted into a mouth. 2. The check reader for mounting a printer according to claim 1, wherein the paper path is attached to the guide opening by the attaching means so as to be removable. 3. The printer mounting check according to claim 2, wherein the mounting means is a means for mounting the paper path so that the paper path can be vertically swung with a center on a side of the printer. leader. 4. The transporting device according to claim 1, wherein the transporting unit has at least two transporting speeds: a low speed for sending the check sheet to the print head of the printer and a high speed for sending the check sheet to the magnetic head. A check reader for installing a printer, which is characterized by that. 5. The printer-installed check reader according to claim 1, wherein the transporting unit is capable of transporting the same check sheet in any of reciprocating directions in the sheet path. 6. The sheet feeding device according to claim 1, wherein the conveying unit can feed the check sheet from one end to the other end of the paper path at a low speed, and the check sheet from the other end to one end of the paper path. A check reader for a printer, which is capable of sending documents at high speed. 7. The printer according to claim 1, wherein a speed at which the check sheet is sent from the one end to the other end of the transport unit is the same as a transport speed of the cut sheet of the printer. Check reader for installation. 8. The transporting device according to claim 1, wherein the transporting device includes a roller belt at a position facing the magnetic head in the paper path and transporting the check paper while pressing the check paper toward the magnetic head. A check reader for installing a printer, which is characterized by that. 9. The printer-equipped check reader according to claim 1, wherein the conveying means includes a driving motor and a shield material made of a ferromagnetic material that covers the motor. 10. The shield material according to claim 9, wherein the shield member is box-shaped so as to cover the motor, and at least corner portions of the box-shaped member are formed by a seamless integrated member. A check reader for installing a printer, which is characterized by that. 11. The printer-mounted check reader according to claim 1, wherein a shield made of a ferromagnetic material is provided at a position facing the front of the magnetic head and at least at a rear of the magnetic head. . 12. A magnet for remagnetizing MICR data is provided in the vicinity of the magnetic head according to claim 1,
Further, at least a portion of the paper path where the magnet is arranged is made of resin, and the magnet is embedded in the paper path from a side opposite to a surface through which the check sheet passes. Check reader for. 13. A paper path for guiding a check sheet from one edge to the other edge, and an MI installed in the paper path so as to face at least one of the paper surfaces of the check sheet.
A control method of a check reader for a printer, which has at least one magnetic head for reading CR data and can be fixed while the other end of the paper path is inserted in a guide opening for cut sheet of the printer. Then, after the MICR data described on the check sheet is sent at a low speed from the one end to the other end at least until the MICR data passes through the position of the magnetic head, the check sheet is transferred to the other end of the paper path. The MICR data is read by the magnetic head from one end to the other at high speed, and again,
A method for controlling a check reader for a printer, comprising feeding the check sheet from one end of the paper path to the other end at a low speed.