EP0557662A1 - Container for portable objects - Google Patents

Container for portable objects Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0557662A1
EP0557662A1 EP92400515A EP92400515A EP0557662A1 EP 0557662 A1 EP0557662 A1 EP 0557662A1 EP 92400515 A EP92400515 A EP 92400515A EP 92400515 A EP92400515 A EP 92400515A EP 0557662 A1 EP0557662 A1 EP 0557662A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
edges
container
container device
shell
shells
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.)
Granted
Application number
EP92400515A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0557662B1 (en
Inventor
Jean Malot
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.)
Hypercom France SA
Original Assignee
Hypercom France SA
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Hypercom France SA filed Critical Hypercom France SA
Priority to DE69209046T priority Critical patent/DE69209046D1/en
Priority to AT92400515T priority patent/ATE135483T1/en
Publication of EP0557662A1 publication Critical patent/EP0557662A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0557662B1 publication Critical patent/EP0557662B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/42—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for ticket printing or like apparatus, e.g. apparatus for dispensing of printed paper tickets or payment cards
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B3/00—Machines for issuing preprinted tickets
    • G07B3/04—Machines for issuing preprinted tickets from a stack
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B5/00—Details of, or auxiliary devices for, ticket-issuing machines

Definitions

  • the invention relates to the field of portable objects used for payment of a transaction or access to a service.
  • the Applicant has proposed an automatic distributor in which the calling cards are connected together by a flexible packaging strip stored in a screen by folding along the weakening lines. transverse arranged respectively between two consecutive cards contained in the packaging strip.
  • a sectioning device is provided for sectioning the packaging strip along a weakening line and allowing, after the sectioning, the transfer to an exit slot of the section of strip thus cut containing the card to be distributed. The transfer is ensured by superimposed toothed belts, each winding in a closed circuit on two end rollers.
  • the packaging of the calling cards confers a beginning of protection against the fraudulent sale of non-authentic calling cards insofar as it is recommended to the user to buy only calling cards in packaging.
  • the packaging of the calling cards does not provide a satisfactory solution to the problem of theft of calling cards during their transportation from the manufacturer to the distributor device and when they are placed in said distributor. Indeed, packaged calling cards that are stolen during these operations can still be used without danger of prosecution for thieves.
  • the invention provides a solution to this problem.
  • the invention relates to a portable object container device, intended to be placed in a dispensing device.
  • first and second shells each consist of a rectangular bottom, two longitudinal walls and two side walls, which allows when said first and second shells are assembled to define a container device of rectangular parallelepiped shape.
  • the means forming a witness comprise a frangible cover made of a plastic material.
  • the assembly means comprise a plurality of protruding tongues and arranged on the longitudinal walls of one of the first and second shells and suitable for snapping in semi-elastic manner in a plurality of mortises arranged on the longitudinal walls of the other of the first and second shells facing the plurality of tabs.
  • the transverse outlet slot is rectangular in shape and said slot has a width substantially equal to the thickness of a portable object.
  • the first and second shells are made of a reinforced plastic material.
  • the container device is disposable and transportable.
  • the device shown in Figures 1 and 2 comprises, in a cabinet 10, a central control unit 12 suitable for controlling the various elements of the device via appropriate connections.
  • the device firstly comprises a member 14 making it possible to introduce an electronic payment means into the cabinet 10.
  • the electronic payment introduction means 14 is a memory card reader provided with an introduction slot behind which a connector assembly makes contact with the card.
  • the card reader advantageously has protection against a sudden insertion of the card.
  • the card reader 14 is coupled to the central unit 12 on the one hand and to a banking center by telephone link (not shown) on the other hand.
  • the card reader 14 thus allows a user to introduce into the cabinet 10 a bank card according to the value of the calling card which he wishes to buy.
  • the device also comprises a manual magnetic stripe reader 16.
  • the manual stripe reader is of the ISO 2 type. It is also coupled to the central control unit 12.
  • the device further comprises means for input / output of information vis-à-vis the user, such as for example a display 18 of LCD type of two lines of twenty characters.
  • This display 18 is designed to display appropriate information, for example information relating to the operation of the device itself or to the use of the calling cards as well as the balance to be paid.
  • this display is protected by a polycarbonate window ensuring high impact resistance.
  • Two push buttons 20 and 22 are provided to allow respectively to select a foreign language and to cancel the transaction.
  • the device comprises four distribution units 24, 26, 28 and 30, also coupled to the central unit 12, and suitable for distributing payment cards, one by one, to the outside of the wardrobe.
  • each distribution unit comprises a selection button 32, a slot 34 through which the calling card comes out, a window 36 allowing the effigy of the calling card pasted on the container device to be seen, which will be described in more detail below. after.
  • the operating or maintenance agent has at his disposal a keyboard 38 of twenty keys and a display 40 of two lines of sixteen characters for performing self-test and configuration functions.
  • the display 40 for displaying information intended for the operator and the display 18 for the balance to be paid can be combined into a single display.
  • the user wishing to use the device of the invention uses the selection buttons to select the calling card he wishes to buy, for example the purchase of a so-called "40-unit calling card”.
  • the central unit checks the payment made by the user and then delivers it to the user. ci a corresponding card by the selected distribution unit.
  • the cabinet 10 is intended to be placed in a public place and must therefore form a safe to resist attempted theft or burglary of any kind.
  • This cabinet contains all the various constituent elements of the automatic vending device, and in particular the distribution units 24 to 30. These units which themselves contain payment cards can in fact represent significant market values.
  • the central control unit 12 is built around a microcontroller, two REPROM type memories and two RAM type memories.
  • the microcontroller is provided with an integrated serial link reserved for dialogue with the payment memory card.
  • FIG. 3 represents the distribution unit 24, it should be noted that the distribution units 26, 28 and 30 are identical to the distribution unit 24 but are filled, for example, with value cards. different merchants.
  • Each distribution unit comprises a container device 50 of rectangular parallelepiped shape in which is stacked substantially vertically a stack of telephone cards of rectangular shape (not shown).
  • the container device 50 firstly comprises a first shell 52 of elongated shape formed by a bottom 56 of rectangular shape, two longitudinal walls 58 and 60 and two side walls 62 and 64.
  • the container device 50 further comprises a second shell 54 of elongated shape, symmetrical to the shell 52 and consisting of a bottom 66, two longitudinal walls 68 and 70 and two side walls 71 and 73.
  • edges of the lateral and longitudinal walls of the shell 52 are combined with the edges of the lateral and longitudinal walls of the shell 54.
  • An assembly mechanism ensures that the edges of the shell 52 and the edges of the shell 54 cannot be dismantled without breaking.
  • the assembly means comprise six tabs 72-1 to 72-6 projecting and arranged on the longitudinal walls 58 and 60 of the shell 52.
  • the projecting ends of the tongues 72 each consist of two semi-elastic fingers suitable for snapping into the mortises 74.
  • the assembly of the two shells 52 and 54 defines at one end of the container device a transverse outlet slot 80.
  • the side wall 64 of the shell 52 and the side wall 73 of the shell 54, as well as the longitudinal walls 58, 60, 68 and 70 in the immediate vicinity of said side walls are cut to define a transverse outlet slot 80 whose dimensions are substantially those of a calling card.
  • a cover 85 forming a breakable indicator normally obstructs the transverse outlet slot 75.
  • the cover 85 is for example of rectangular shape.
  • the shells 52 and 54 are made of a reinforced plastic material.
  • the tongues 72 are made of a semi-elastic plastic material.
  • the breakable cover 85 is made of a light plastic material. It is for example heat-sealed to the longitudinal wall 58.
  • the non-breakable assembly device without breakage as well as the breakable cover will make it possible to verify that the container has not been opened during transport of the latter from the place of manufacture to the place of operation and that no card was fraudulently or inadvertently issued during said transport.
  • the container device according to the invention provides secure transport of the calling cards from their place of manufacture to their place of automatic distribution.
  • a housing 77 for receiving a foam or a spring (not shown) pressing the calling cards down and avoiding unwanted movements of the calling cards during transport.
  • Two positioning tabs 91 and 93 without claw and projecting from the slotted end of the container favor the positioning of the container device on the support plate which will be described below.
  • a fixing mechanism ensures the fixing of the container device on the support plate.
  • the fixing mechanism comprises four legs (110-1 to 110-4) in the form of a claw or protruding hooks.
  • the four tabs 110 are arranged in the vicinity of the split end of the container device in pairs, on the bottoms 56 and 66 of the shells.
  • the protruding end of the legs 110 consists of a hook or claw.
  • the positioning tabs 91 and 93 are interposed between the pairs of legs 110.
  • FIGS. 5A, 5B and 6 illustrate the installation of the container device in the distribution unit.
  • the distribution unit 24 comprises, in addition to the container device, a support plate 100 capable of supporting the container device substantially vertically.
  • the hook or claw portion of the legs 110 penetrates into openings 112 formed in the support plate 100 for locking the container device on the support plate in a locked manner.
  • the locking / unlocking of the fixing of the container device on the support plate is advantageously controlled by a system for detecting the absence of a calling card in the container.
  • the locking / unlocking means 120 comprise a removable plate disposed under the support plate 100.
  • the hook part of the legs 110 penetrates into openings made in the removable plate 120.
  • a lever 130 with elastic return secured to the removable plate is formed by two elbows 132-1 and 132-2 suitable for blocking the horizontal translation of the removable plate.
  • the fixing of said container device to the support plate is locked by the lever 130 which blocks the horizontal translation of the removable plate 120.
  • the non-empty container device can only be removed from the support plate 100 by breaking the hooks of the claws 110-1 to 110-4.
  • a free counterweight 140 disposed inside the container device opposite the transverse outlet slot will allow the unlocking of the binding to be controlled in the absence of calling cards in the container.
  • the free flyweight 140 has at one of its lateral ends an appendage 136-0 delimited by two recesses 136-1 and 136-2.
  • the elbows 132-1 and 132-2 rise upwards until they are housed in the recesses 1361 and 136-2, which allows a horizontal translation of the removable plate 120 to release the hook-forming part of the legs and thus release the container device from the support plate and from the removable plate.
  • FIG. 7 represents the extraction means.
  • the extraction means comprise a movable drawer 150 in substantially horizontal translation comprising at its free end upwardly curved edges 152.
  • a gearmotor (not shown) controls the displacement in substantially horizontal translation of the drawer so that it penetrates into the transverse outlet slot, the curved edges of the drawer cooperating with the edges of the calling card 160 (FIG. 5) to allow its extraction from the container device towards the outside according to arrow F2 (FIG. 5).
  • the gearmotor is provided with an endless screw whose axis is orthogonal to the substantially horizontal movement of the drawer.
  • the unlocking system described with reference to FIG. 6 is hidden by a protective cover which prohibits any unauthorized person from extracting a non-empty container of calling cards without tearing off the claws 110-1 to 110-4.
  • Removing the protective cover requires the use of a mechanical key held by an authorized agent.
  • gearmotors of the distribution units are controlled in forward and reverse directions by a transistor power circuit.
  • An optoelectronic sensor system informs the central control unit 12 of the correct distribution of the telephone card, of the stopping of the distribution motor and of the withdrawal of the telephone card by the user.
  • the coefficient of friction of the extraction drawer is such that it avoids the deterioration of the calling cards in particular against scratches and markings of said calling cards.
  • the curved edges of the drawer 152 drive the card 160 towards the transverse outlet slot 75 of the container device. It should be noted that the thickness of the transverse exit slot 75 is such that it prevents the simultaneous exit of two telephone cards.
  • the distribution device is reset by returning the extraction means to their original position. During this return, the curved edges 152 of the free end of the drawer 150 are erased so as not to damage the calling cards.
  • protective means can protect the dispenser against the production of foreign bodies in the dispensing slot.
  • the cards or calling cards are stacked in a container device as described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. This stacking is carried out at the manufacturer of calling cards, the counterweight 140 being placed above the last calling card.
  • the calling cards are not bagged here in a packaging strip as in the previous structures.
  • the container device contains 200 calling cards.
  • the calling cards carry a number.
  • the calling cards are stacked so that the continuity of the calling card numbers in the container is guaranteed by the manufacturer.
  • the container device has a specific number. The manufacturer can thus record and record on the container device the data relating to the batch of cards stacked in the container device.
  • the container device is closed and sealed at the manufacturer according to the assembly device as described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. This assembly guarantees the integrity of the content of the container device.
  • the lid forming a witness 85 guarantees the non-opening of the container device.
  • the containers are sent directly to the distribution centers formed by the dispensing devices described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.
  • the operator whose function is to set up the container device in the dispensing device, checks that the assembly as well as the means forming a witness are still intact and in place. This verification allows the operator to determine whether the container device has been opened during transport from the manufacturer to the operator.
  • the operator When the assembly and the means forming a witness verify a predetermined condition, that is to say not deteriorated, of the tongues or of the cover, the operator knows that the container device contains a set of integral and complete calling cards of the type of that displayed by the figurine placed on the container and the amount of which is identical to that marked on the label of the container device.
  • the operating operator then introduces a service card into the memory card reader 14 and then enters his service code on the keyboard.
  • the central control unit 12 finally checks that the service code thus entered authorizes the owner of the service card to open the cabinet door with a mechanical key.
  • the operating operator is authorized to replace the empty container device (s) with full container devices.
  • these are optoelectronic type means or the counting of the calling cards distributed by the control unit which detect the absence of calling card in one of the distributing devices. In response to this detection, the central control unit notifies the operating center via the telephone link that an empty device needs to be replaced.
  • an exchange protocol between the operator and the central control unit to provide an additional degree of security against theft of calling cards in the dispensing device described above.
  • the operating operator selects the distribution unit that he has just filled so that the first calling card of the container device that he has just replaced is distributed to him. This selection is validated by electronic payment, for example by bank card.
  • the operator uses this first card in the memory card reader of the device to transfer the identification data of the batch of cards stored in the container device thus replaced to the central control unit.
  • the identification data of said batch include the serial number of the calling cards, the number of calling cards as well as the type 40, 80 or 120 units.
  • the operating operator collects the calling card and returns it to the operator's accounting center.
  • this first calling card can be coded according to the service code of the operator operating for control purposes.
  • the data for identifying the batch of calling cards will be taken into account by the central control unit as well as by a host computer via the telephone link.
  • the security protocol which consists of removing the first calling card from the container by the operating operator and having this card read by the control unit also makes it possible to verify that the container device has been correctly installed in the dispensing device and checking the proper functioning of the dispensing device.
  • the dispensing device also knows that such a dispensing unit houses a card container device of such type and that said container device has been put in place by such an operator.

Abstract

Container device for portable objects, intended to be placed in a dispensing device. The container device comprises: - a first shell (52) of elongate shape having first edges in which a pile of portable objects can be stacked longitudinally, - a second shell (54) having second edges matching the first edges, - assembly means (72, 74) suitable for assembling, in a way which cannot be dismantled without breaking, of the first edges of the first shell (52) and of the second edges of the second shell (54), the said assembly defining, at one of the ends of the container device, a transverse outlet slot (75) for the portable objects, and - means (85) forming a breakable tell-tale and suitable for normally obstructing the said slot (75). <IMAGE>

Description

L'invention se rapporte au domaine des objets portatifs utilisés pour le paiement d'une transaction ou l'accès a un service.The invention relates to the field of portable objects used for payment of a transaction or access to a service.

Dans son Brevet français No 86 00511, publié sous le No 2 592 975, la Demanderesse a proposé un distributeur automatique dans lequel des télécartes sont reliées entre elles par une bande d'emballage souple stockée en paravent par pliage le long des lignes d'affaiblissement transversales disposées respectivement entre deux cartes consécutives contenues dans la bande d'emballage. Un dispositif de sectionnement est prévu pour sectionner la bande d'emballage le long d'une ligne d'affaiblissement et permettre, après le sectionnement, le transfert vers une fente de sortie du tronçon de bande ainsi découpée contenant la carte à distribuer. Le transfert est assuré par des courroies crantées superposées s'enroulant chacune en circuit fermé sur deux galets d'extrémités.In its French Patent No. 86 00511, published under No. 2,592,975, the Applicant has proposed an automatic distributor in which the calling cards are connected together by a flexible packaging strip stored in a screen by folding along the weakening lines. transverse arranged respectively between two consecutive cards contained in the packaging strip. A sectioning device is provided for sectioning the packaging strip along a weakening line and allowing, after the sectioning, the transfer to an exit slot of the section of strip thus cut containing the card to be distributed. The transfer is ensured by superimposed toothed belts, each winding in a closed circuit on two end rollers.

L'emballage des télécartes confère un début de protection contre la vente frauduleuse de télécartes non authentiques dans la mesure où il est recommandé à l'usager de n'acheter que des télécartes sous emballage.The packaging of the calling cards confers a beginning of protection against the fraudulent sale of non-authentic calling cards insofar as it is recommended to the user to buy only calling cards in packaging.

Toutefois, l'emballage des télécartes n'apporte pas de solution satisfaisante au problème du vol de télécartes lors de leur acheminement du fabricant au dispositif distributeur et lors de leur mise en place dans ledit distributeur. En effet, les télécartes sous emballage qui sont volées lors de ces opérations peuvent encore être utilisables sans danger de poursuite pour les voleurs.However, the packaging of the calling cards does not provide a satisfactory solution to the problem of theft of calling cards during their transportation from the manufacturer to the distributor device and when they are placed in said distributor. Indeed, packaged calling cards that are stolen during these operations can still be used without danger of prosecution for thieves.

L'invention apporte une solution à ce problème.The invention provides a solution to this problem.

L'invention porte sur un dispositif conteneur d'objets portatifs, destiné à être mis en place dans un dispositif distributeur.The invention relates to a portable object container device, intended to be placed in a dispensing device.

Selon une définition générale de l'invention, le dispositif conteneur comprend:

  • une première coquille de forme allongée, présentant des premiers bords et dans laquelle est susceptible d'être empilée longitudinalement une pile d'objets portatifs,
  • une seconde coquille présentant des seconds bords conjugués avec les premiers bords,
  • des moyens d'assemblage propres à assurer un assemblage indémontable sans casse des premiers bords de la première coquille et des seconds bords de la seconde coquille, ledit assemblage définisant à l'une des extrémités du dispositif conteneur une fente transversale de sortie pour les objets portatifs,
  • des moyens formant témoin cassable et propres à obstruer normalement ladite fente,
    le dispositif conteneur étant susceptible d'être mis en place dans le dispositif distributeur seulement dans le cas où ledit dispositif conteneur vérifie une condition prédéterminée relative à l'intégrité desdits moyens d'assemblage et des moyens formant témoin, ce qui permet de conférer un degré de sécurité élévé à l'acheminement des objets portatifs du fabricant au dispositif distributeur et à la mise en place dudit dispositif conteneur dans le dispositif distributeur.
According to a general definition of the invention, the container device comprises:
  • a first shell of elongated shape, having first edges and in which a stack of portable objects is capable of being stacked longitudinally,
  • a second shell having second edges conjugated with the first edges,
  • assembly means suitable for ensuring a non-removable assembly without breakage of the first edges of the first shell and of the second edges of the second shell, said assembly defining at one end of the container device a transverse outlet slot for portable objects ,
  • means forming a breakable witness capable of normally obstructing said slot,
    the container device being capable of being placed in the dispensing device only in the case where said container device verifies a predetermined condition relating to the integrity of said assembly means and means forming a witness, which makes it possible to confer a degree of high security in the transportation of portable objects from the manufacturer to the dispensing device and in the positioning of said container device in the dispensing device.

En pratique, les première et seconde coquilles sont chacune constituées d'un fond de forme rectangulaire, de deux parois longitudinales et de deux parois latérales, ce qui permet lorsque lesdites première et seconde coquilles sont assemblées de définir un dispositif conteneur de forme parallélépipédique rectangle.In practice, the first and second shells each consist of a rectangular bottom, two longitudinal walls and two side walls, which allows when said first and second shells are assembled to define a container device of rectangular parallelepiped shape.

Selon un mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, les moyens formant témoin comprennent un opercule cassable constitué d'un matériau en matière plastique.According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the means forming a witness comprise a frangible cover made of a plastic material.

Selon un autre mode de réalisation préféré de l'invention, les moyens d'assemblage comprennent une pluralité de languettes faisant saillies et disposées sur les parois longitudinales de l'une des première et seconde coquilles et propres à s'encliqueter de façon semi-élastique dans une pluralité de mortaises disposées sur les parois longitudinales de l'autre des première et seconde coquilles en regard de la pluralité de languettes.According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembly means comprise a plurality of protruding tongues and arranged on the longitudinal walls of one of the first and second shells and suitable for snapping in semi-elastic manner in a plurality of mortises arranged on the longitudinal walls of the other of the first and second shells facing the plurality of tabs.

En pratique, la fente transversale de sortie est de forme rectangulaire et ladite fente a une largeur sensiblement égale à l'épaisseur d'un objet portatif.In practice, the transverse outlet slot is rectangular in shape and said slot has a width substantially equal to the thickness of a portable object.

De préférence, les première et seconde coquilles sont constituées d'un matériau en matière plastique renforcée.Preferably, the first and second shells are made of a reinforced plastic material.

Avantageusement, le dispositif conteneur est jetable et transportable.Advantageously, the container device is disposable and transportable.

D'autres caractéristiques et avantages de l'invention apparaîtront à la lumière de la description détaillée ci-après et des dessins annexés dans lesquels :

  • la figure 1 est le schéma de principe d'un dispositif distributeur automatique ;
  • la figure 2 représente schématiquement la face avant d'un dispositif distributeur ;
  • la figure 3 est une vue schématique des deux coquilles non assemblées du dispositif conteneur selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 4 est une vue schématique des deux coquilles assemblées du dispositif conteneur selon l'invention ;
  • la figure 5A est une vue en coupe de moyens permettant la mise en place du dispositif conteneur dans le dispositif distributeur;
  • la figure 5B est une vue de dessus de la masselotte;
  • la figure 6 est une vue de dessous des moyens de déverrouillage et des moyens de détection d'absence d'objet portatif ; et
  • la figure 7 représente schématiquement les moyens d'extraction.
Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent in the light of the detailed description below and the appended drawings in which:
  • Figure 1 is the block diagram of an automatic dispensing device;
  • FIG. 2 schematically represents the front face of a dispensing device;
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view of the two unassembled shells of the container device according to the invention;
  • Figure 4 is a schematic view of the two assembled shells of the container device according to the invention;
  • FIG. 5A is a sectional view of means enabling the container device to be put into place in the dispensing device;
  • FIG. 5B is a top view of the counterweight;
  • Figure 6 is a bottom view of the unlocking means and means for detecting the absence of portable object; and
  • FIG. 7 schematically represents the extraction means.

Le dispositif représenté aux figures 1 et 2 comprend, dans une armoire 10, une unité centrale de commande 12 propre à piloter les différents éléments du dispositif par l'intermédiaire de liaisons appropriées. Le dispositif comprend tout d'abord un organe 14 permettant d'introduire un moyen de paiement électronique dans l'armoire 10.The device shown in Figures 1 and 2 comprises, in a cabinet 10, a central control unit 12 suitable for controlling the various elements of the device via appropriate connections. The device firstly comprises a member 14 making it possible to introduce an electronic payment means into the cabinet 10.

Par exemple, le moyen d'introduction de paiement électronique 14 est un lecteur de carte à mémoire doté d'une fente d'introduction derrière laquelle un ensemble connecteur assure le contact avec la carte. Le lecteur de carte possède avantageusement une protection contre une introduction brusque de la carte.For example, the electronic payment introduction means 14 is a memory card reader provided with an introduction slot behind which a connector assembly makes contact with the card. The card reader advantageously has protection against a sudden insertion of the card.

Le lecteur de carte 14 est couplé à l'unité centrale 12 d'une part et a un centre bancaire par liaison téléphonique (non représentée) d'autre part.The card reader 14 is coupled to the central unit 12 on the one hand and to a banking center by telephone link (not shown) on the other hand.

Le lecteur de carte 14 permet ainsi à un usager d'introduire dans l'armoire 10 une carte bancaire en fonction de la valeur de la télécarte qu'il désire acheter.The card reader 14 thus allows a user to introduce into the cabinet 10 a bank card according to the value of the calling card which he wishes to buy.

Le dispositif comprend en outre un lecteur manuel de piste magnétique 16. Par exemple le lecteur manuel de piste est de type ISO 2. Il est également couplé à l'unité centrale de commande 12.The device also comprises a manual magnetic stripe reader 16. For example, the manual stripe reader is of the ISO 2 type. It is also coupled to the central control unit 12.

Le dispositif comprend en outre des moyens d'entrée/sortie d'informations vis-à-vis de l'usager, comme par exemple un afficheur 18 de type LCD de deux lignes de vingt caractères. Cet afficheur 18 est prévu pour afficher des informations appropriées, par exemple des informations relatives au fonctionnement du dispositif lui-même ou à l'utilisation des télécartes ainsi que le solde à payer.The device further comprises means for input / output of information vis-à-vis the user, such as for example a display 18 of LCD type of two lines of twenty characters. This display 18 is designed to display appropriate information, for example information relating to the operation of the device itself or to the use of the calling cards as well as the balance to be paid.

Avantageusement, cet afficheur est protégé par une vitre en polycarbonate assurant une grande résistance aux chocs. Deux boutons poussoirs 20 et 22 sont prévus pour permettre respectivement de sélectionner une langue étrangère et d'annuler la transaction.Advantageously, this display is protected by a polycarbonate window ensuring high impact resistance. Two push buttons 20 and 22 are provided to allow respectively to select a foreign language and to cancel the transaction.

Par ailleurs, le dispositif comprend quatre unités de distri--bution 24, 26, 28 et 30, également couplées à l'unité centrale 12, et propres à distribuer des cartes de paiement, une à une, vers l'extérieur de l'armoire.Furthermore, the device comprises four distribution units 24, 26, 28 and 30, also coupled to the central unit 12, and suitable for distributing payment cards, one by one, to the outside of the wardrobe.

Plus précisément, chaque unité de distribution comprend un bouton de sélection 32, une fente 34 par laquelle sort la télécarte, une fenêtre 36 permettant de voir l'effigie de la télécarte collée sur le dispositif conteneur que l'on décrira plus en détail ci-après.More precisely, each distribution unit comprises a selection button 32, a slot 34 through which the calling card comes out, a window 36 allowing the effigy of the calling card pasted on the container device to be seen, which will be described in more detail below. after.

L'agent exploitant ou de maintenance a à sa disposition un clavier 38 de vingt touches et une visualisation 40 de deux lignes de seize caractères pour effectuer des fonctions d'autotest et de paramétrage.The operating or maintenance agent has at his disposal a keyboard 38 of twenty keys and a display 40 of two lines of sixteen characters for performing self-test and configuration functions.

La visualisation 40 d'affichage des informations destinées à l'exploitant et la visualisation 18 du solde à payer peuvent être confondues en une seule visualisation.The display 40 for displaying information intended for the operator and the display 18 for the balance to be paid can be combined into a single display.

L'usager désirant se servir du dispositif de l'invention utilise les boutons de sélection pour sélectionner la télécarte qu'il désire acheter, par exemple l'achat d'une télécarte dite "télécarte 40 unités".The user wishing to use the device of the invention uses the selection buttons to select the calling card he wishes to buy, for example the purchase of a so-called "40-unit calling card".

Il suffit ensuite à cet usager d'introduire dans le lecteur de carte à mémoire 14, une carte bancaire en fonction des informations affichées par l'afficheur 18. L'unité centrale vérifie le paiement effectué par l'usager et délivre ensuite à celui-ci une carte correspondante par l'unité de distribution sélectionnée.This user then suffices to introduce into the memory card reader 14, a bank card as a function of the information displayed by the display 18. The central unit checks the payment made by the user and then delivers it to the user. ci a corresponding card by the selected distribution unit.

L'armoire 10 est destinée à être placée dans un lieu public et doit donc former coffre-fort pour résister aux tentatives de vol ou d'effraction de toute sorte. Cette armoire renferme tous les différents éléments constitutifs du dispositif distributeur automatique, et notamment les unités de distribution 24 à 30. Ces unités qui renferment elles-mêmes des cartes de paiement peuvent en effet représenter des valeurs marchandes importantes.The cabinet 10 is intended to be placed in a public place and must therefore form a safe to resist attempted theft or burglary of any kind. This cabinet contains all the various constituent elements of the automatic vending device, and in particular the distribution units 24 to 30. These units which themselves contain payment cards can in fact represent significant market values.

L'unité centrale de commande 12 est construite autour d'un micro-contrôleur, de deux mémoires de type REPROM et de deux mémoires de type RAM.The central control unit 12 is built around a microcontroller, two REPROM type memories and two RAM type memories.

Le micro-contrôleur est pourvu d'une liaison série intégrée réservée au dialogue avec la carte à mémoire de paiement.The microcontroller is provided with an integrated serial link reserved for dialogue with the payment memory card.

Il est maintenant fait référence à la figure 3, qui représente l'unité de distribution 24, étant à remarquer que les unités de distribution 26, 28 et 30 sont identiques à l'unité de distribution 24 mais sont remplies par exemple de télécartes de valeurs marchandes différentes.Reference is now made to FIG. 3, which represents the distribution unit 24, it should be noted that the distribution units 26, 28 and 30 are identical to the distribution unit 24 but are filled, for example, with value cards. different merchants.

Chaque unité de distribution comprend un dispositif conteneur 50 de forme parallélépipédique rectangle dans lequel est empilée sensiblement verticalement une pile de télécartes de forme rectangulaire (non représentées).Each distribution unit comprises a container device 50 of rectangular parallelepiped shape in which is stacked substantially vertically a stack of telephone cards of rectangular shape (not shown).

En pratique, le dispositif conteneur 50 comprend tout d'abord une première coquille 52 de forme allongée contituée d'un fond 56 de forme rectangulaire, de deux parois longitudinales 58 et 60 et de deux parois latérales 62 et 64.In practice, the container device 50 firstly comprises a first shell 52 of elongated shape formed by a bottom 56 of rectangular shape, two longitudinal walls 58 and 60 and two side walls 62 and 64.

Le dispositif conteneur 50 comprend en outre une seconde coquille 54 de forme allongée, symétrique à la coquille 52 et constituée d'un fond 66, de deux parois longitudinales 68 et 70 et de deux parois latérales 71 et 73.The container device 50 further comprises a second shell 54 of elongated shape, symmetrical to the shell 52 and consisting of a bottom 66, two longitudinal walls 68 and 70 and two side walls 71 and 73.

Les bords des parois latérales et longitudinales de la coquille 52 sont conjugués avec les bords des parois latérales et longitudinales de la coquille 54.The edges of the lateral and longitudinal walls of the shell 52 are combined with the edges of the lateral and longitudinal walls of the shell 54.

Un mécanisme d'assemblage assure un assemblage indémontable sans casse des bords de la coquille 52 et des bords de la coquille 54.An assembly mechanism ensures that the edges of the shell 52 and the edges of the shell 54 cannot be dismantled without breaking.

En pratique, les moyens d'assemblage comprennent six languettes 72-1 à 72-6 faisant saillie et disposées sur les parois 58 et 60 longitudinales de la coquille 52.In practice, the assembly means comprise six tabs 72-1 to 72-6 projecting and arranged on the longitudinal walls 58 and 60 of the shell 52.

En regard des languettes 72-1 à 72-6 des logements formant mortaises 74-1 à 74-6 sont disposés sur les parois longitudinales 68 et 70 de la coquille 54.Opposite the tabs 72-1 to 72-6 of the housing forming mortises 74-1 to 74-6 are arranged on the longitudinal walls 68 and 70 of the shell 54.

Il est maintenant fait référence à la figure 4.Reference is now made to FIG. 4.

L'encliquetage semi-élastique des languettes 72 dans les logements formant mortaises correspondants 74 assurent un assemblage hermétique, indémontable sans casse des deux coquilles 52 et 54.The semi-elastic snap-fitting of the tabs 72 in the corresponding mortise housing 74 ensures a hermetic, non-removable assembly without breaking the two shells 52 and 54.

Les extrémités faisant saillie des languettes 72 sont constituées chacune de deux doigts semi-élastiques propres à s'encliqueter dans les mortaises 74.The projecting ends of the tongues 72 each consist of two semi-elastic fingers suitable for snapping into the mortises 74.

Il est à remarquer que c'est cet encliquetage qui assure un assemblage indémontable sans casse.It should be noted that it is this snap-fastening which ensures an undemountable assembly without breakage.

L'assemblage des deux coquilles 52 et 54 définit à l'une des extrémités du dispositif conteneur une fente transversale de sortie 80.The assembly of the two shells 52 and 54 defines at one end of the container device a transverse outlet slot 80.

La paroi latérale 64 de la coquille 52 et la paroi latérale 73 de la coquille 54, ainsi que les parois longitudinales 58, 60, 68 et 70 au voisinage immédiat desdites parois latérales sont découpées pour définir une fente transversale de sortie 80 dont les dimensions sont sensiblement celles d'une télécarte. Un opercule 85 formant témoin cassable obstrue normalement la fente transversale de sortie 75. L'opercule 85 est par exemple de forme rectangulaire.The side wall 64 of the shell 52 and the side wall 73 of the shell 54, as well as the longitudinal walls 58, 60, 68 and 70 in the immediate vicinity of said side walls are cut to define a transverse outlet slot 80 whose dimensions are substantially those of a calling card. A cover 85 forming a breakable indicator normally obstructs the transverse outlet slot 75. The cover 85 is for example of rectangular shape.

En pratique, les coquilles 52 et 54 sont constituées d'un matériau en matière plastique renforcée.In practice, the shells 52 and 54 are made of a reinforced plastic material.

Les languettes 72 sont constituées d'un matériau en matière plastique semi-élastique.The tongues 72 are made of a semi-elastic plastic material.

De son côté, l'opercule cassable 85 est constitué d'un matériau en matière plastique légère. Il est par exemple thermosoudé à la paroi longitudinale 58.For its part, the breakable cover 85 is made of a light plastic material. It is for example heat-sealed to the longitudinal wall 58.

Comme décrit plus en détail ci-après, le dispositif d'assemblage indémontable sans casse ainsi que l'opercule cassable vont permettre de vérifier que le conteneur n'a pas été ouvert pendant le transport de celui-ci du lieu de fabrication au lieu d'exploitation et qu'aucune carte n'en est sortie frauduleusement ou malencontreusement pendant ledit transport.As described in more detail below, the non-breakable assembly device without breakage as well as the breakable cover will make it possible to verify that the container has not been opened during transport of the latter from the place of manufacture to the place of operation and that no card was fraudulently or inadvertently issued during said transport.

Il en résulte que le dispositif conteneur selon l'invention assure un transport sécurisé des télécartes de leur lieu de fabrication à leur lieu de distribution automatique.As a result, the container device according to the invention provides secure transport of the calling cards from their place of manufacture to their place of automatic distribution.

A l'intérieur des parois latérales 62 et 74 (figure 3), est prévu un logement 77 permettant de recevoir une mousse ou un ressort (non représenté) appuyant les télécartes vers le bas et évitant des mouvements intempestifs des télécartes pendant leur transport.Inside the side walls 62 and 74 (Figure 3), is provided a housing 77 for receiving a foam or a spring (not shown) pressing the calling cards down and avoiding unwanted movements of the calling cards during transport.

Deux languettes de positionnement 91 et 93 sans griffe et faisant saillie par rapport à l'extrémité fendue du conteneur favorisent le positionnement du dispositif conteneur sur la platine support que l'on va décrire ci-après.Two positioning tabs 91 and 93 without claw and projecting from the slotted end of the container favor the positioning of the container device on the support plate which will be described below.

Un mécanisme de fixation assure la fixation du dispositif conteneur sur la platine support.A fixing mechanism ensures the fixing of the container device on the support plate.

En pratique, le mécanisme de fixation comprend quatre pattes (110-1 à 110-4) en forme de griffe ou de crochets faisant saillie. Les quatre pattes 110 sont disposées au voisinage de l'extrémité fendue du dispositif conteneur par paire, sur les fonds 56 et 66 des coquilles. L'extrémité faisant saillie des pattes 110 est constituée d'un crochet ou griffe. Par exemple, les languettes de positionnement 91 et 93 sont intercalées entre les paires de pattes 110.In practice, the fixing mechanism comprises four legs (110-1 to 110-4) in the form of a claw or protruding hooks. The four tabs 110 are arranged in the vicinity of the split end of the container device in pairs, on the bottoms 56 and 66 of the shells. The protruding end of the legs 110 consists of a hook or claw. For example, the positioning tabs 91 and 93 are interposed between the pairs of legs 110.

Il est maintenant fait référence aux figures 5A, 5B et 6 qui illustrent la mise en place du dispositif conteneur dans l'unité de distribution.Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A, 5B and 6 which illustrate the installation of the container device in the distribution unit.

L'unité de distribution 24 comprend, en outre du dispositif conteneur, une platine support 100 propre à supporter le dispositif conteneur sensiblement verticalement.The distribution unit 24 comprises, in addition to the container device, a support plate 100 capable of supporting the container device substantially vertically.

La partie formant crochet ou griffe des pattes 110 pénètre dans des ouvertures 112 ménagées dans la platine support 100 pour fixer de façon verrouillée le dispositif conteneur sur la platine support.The hook or claw portion of the legs 110 penetrates into openings 112 formed in the support plate 100 for locking the container device on the support plate in a locked manner.

Le verrouillage/déverrouillage de la fixation du dispositif conteneur sur la platine support est avantageusement commandé par un système de détection d'absence de télécarte dans le conteneur.The locking / unlocking of the fixing of the container device on the support plate is advantageously controlled by a system for detecting the absence of a calling card in the container.

En pratique, les moyens de verrouillage/déverrouillage 120 comprennent une plaque amovible disposée sous la platine support 100. La partie formant crochet des pattes 110 pénètre dans des ouvertures ménagées 125 dans la plaque amovible 120.In practice, the locking / unlocking means 120 comprise a removable plate disposed under the support plate 100. The hook part of the legs 110 penetrates into openings made in the removable plate 120.

Un levier 130 à rappel élastique solidaire de la plaque amovible est formé de deux coudes 132-1 et 132-2 propres à bloquer la translation horizontale de la plaque amovible.A lever 130 with elastic return secured to the removable plate is formed by two elbows 132-1 and 132-2 suitable for blocking the horizontal translation of the removable plate.

Plus précisément, ce sont les branches verticales 134-1 et 1342 des coudes qui bloquent la translation de la plaque amovible 120.More precisely, it is the vertical branches 134-1 and 1342 of the elbows which block the translation of the removable plate 120.

Ainsi, lorsque le dispositif conteneur contient plus d'une télécarte, la fixation du dit dispositif conteneur sur la platine support est verrouillée par le levier 130 qui bloque la translation horizontale de la plaque amovible 120.Thus, when the container device contains more than one calling card, the fixing of said container device to the support plate is locked by the lever 130 which blocks the horizontal translation of the removable plate 120.

Il en résulte que le dispositif conteneur non vide ne peut être ôté de la platine support 100 qu'en brisant les crochets des griffes 110-1 à 110-4.As a result, the non-empty container device can only be removed from the support plate 100 by breaking the hooks of the claws 110-1 to 110-4.

Une masselotte libre 140 disposée à l'intérieur du dispositif conteneur à l'opposé de la fente transversale de sortie va permettre la commande du déverrouillage de la fixation en l'absence de télécartes dans le conteneur.A free counterweight 140 disposed inside the container device opposite the transverse outlet slot will allow the unlocking of the binding to be controlled in the absence of calling cards in the container.

La masselotte libre 140 présente à l'une de ses extrémités latérales un appendice 136-0 délimité par deux évidements 136-1 et 136-2.The free flyweight 140 has at one of its lateral ends an appendage 136-0 delimited by two recesses 136-1 and 136-2.

Ainsi, en l'absence de télécarte, les coudes 132-1 et 132-2 remontent vers le haut jusqu'à se loger dans les évidements 1361 et 136-2, ce qui autorise une translation horizontale de la plaque amovible 120 pour dégager la partie formant crochet des pattes et libérer ainsi le dispositif conteneur de la platine support et de la plaque amovible..Thus, in the absence of a calling card, the elbows 132-1 and 132-2 rise upwards until they are housed in the recesses 1361 and 136-2, which allows a horizontal translation of the removable plate 120 to release the hook-forming part of the legs and thus release the container device from the support plate and from the removable plate.

En pratique la translation horizontale de la plaque amovible (dans le sens de la flèche F1) est effectuée par l'opérateur exploitant.In practice, the horizontal translation of the removable plate (in the direction of the arrow F1) is carried out by the operating operator.

Il est maintenant fait référence à la figure 7 qui représente les moyens d'extraction.Reference is now made to FIG. 7 which represents the extraction means.

Les moyens d'extraction comprennent un tiroir mobile 150 en translation sensiblement horizontale comprenant à son extrémité libre des bords recourbés vers le haut 152. Un motoréducteur (non représenté) pilote le déplacement à translation sensiblement horizontale du tiroir de manière a ce que celui-ci pénètre dans la fente transversale de sortie, les bords recourbés du tiroir coopérant avec les bords de la télécarte 160 (figure 5) pour permettre l'extraction de celle-ci du dispositif conteneur vers l'extérieur selon la flèche F2 (figure 5).The extraction means comprise a movable drawer 150 in substantially horizontal translation comprising at its free end upwardly curved edges 152. A gearmotor (not shown) controls the displacement in substantially horizontal translation of the drawer so that it penetrates into the transverse outlet slot, the curved edges of the drawer cooperating with the edges of the calling card 160 (FIG. 5) to allow its extraction from the container device towards the outside according to arrow F2 (FIG. 5).

En pratique, le motoréducteur est muni d'une vis sans fin dont l'axe est orthogonal par rapport au déplacement sensiblement horizontal du tiroir.In practice, the gearmotor is provided with an endless screw whose axis is orthogonal to the substantially horizontal movement of the drawer.

Avantageusement, le système de déverrouillage décrit en référence à la figure 6 est caché par un capot de protection qui interdit à toute personne non habilitée d'extraire un conteneur non vide de télécartes sans arracher les griffes 110-1 à 110-4.Advantageously, the unlocking system described with reference to FIG. 6 is hidden by a protective cover which prohibits any unauthorized person from extracting a non-empty container of calling cards without tearing off the claws 110-1 to 110-4.

Le retrait du capot de protection nécessite l'utilisation d'une clé mécanique détenue par un agent habilité.Removing the protective cover requires the use of a mechanical key held by an authorized agent.

En pratique, les motoréducteurs des unités de distribution sont commandées en marche avant et en marche arrière par un circuit de puissance à transistor.In practice, the gearmotors of the distribution units are controlled in forward and reverse directions by a transistor power circuit.

Un système de capteur optoélectronique informe l'unité centrale de commande 12 de la bonne distribution de la télécarte, de l'arrêt du moteur de distribution et du retrait de la télécarte par l'usager.An optoelectronic sensor system informs the central control unit 12 of the correct distribution of the telephone card, of the stopping of the distribution motor and of the withdrawal of the telephone card by the user.

Le coefficient de frottement du tiroir d'extraction est tel qu'il permet d'éviter la détérioration des télécartes notamment contre les rayures et les marquages desdites télécartes.The coefficient of friction of the extraction drawer is such that it avoids the deterioration of the calling cards in particular against scratches and markings of said calling cards.

Dans le cas de la distribution de la télécarte 160, les bords recourbés du tiroir 152 entraînent la carte 160 vers la fente transversale de sortie 75 du dispositif conteneur. Il est à remarquer que l'épaisseur de la fente transversale de sortie 75 est telle qu'elle interdit la sortie simultanée de deux télécartes.In the case of the distribution of the telephone card 160, the curved edges of the drawer 152 drive the card 160 towards the transverse outlet slot 75 of the container device. It should be noted that the thickness of the transverse exit slot 75 is such that it prevents the simultaneous exit of two telephone cards.

Le réarmement du dispositif de distribution s'effectue par le retour des moyens d'extraction à leur position d'origine. Pendant ce retour, les bords recourbés 152 de l'extrémité libre du tiroir 150 s'effacent pour ne pas endommager les télécartes.The distribution device is reset by returning the extraction means to their original position. During this return, the curved edges 152 of the free end of the drawer 150 are erased so as not to damage the calling cards.

Avantageusement, des moyens de protection peuvent protéger le distributeur contre la production de corps étrangers dans la fente de distribution.Advantageously, protective means can protect the dispenser against the production of foreign bodies in the dispensing slot.

Le fonctionnement du dispositif distributeur et la mise en place du dispositif conteneur dans le dispositif distributeur selon l'invention est le suivant.The operation of the dispensing device and the installation of the container device in the dispensing device according to the invention is as follows.

Tout d'abord, les cartes ou télécartes sont empilées dans un dispositif conteneur tel que décrit en référence aux figures 3 et 4. Cet empilage est effectué chez le fabricant de télécartes, la masselotte 140 étant placée au-dessus de la dernière télécarte.First of all, the cards or calling cards are stacked in a container device as described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. This stacking is carried out at the manufacturer of calling cards, the counterweight 140 being placed above the last calling card.

Il est à remarquer que les télécartes ne sont pas ici ensachées dans une bande d'emballage comme dans les structures antérieures.It should be noted that the calling cards are not bagged here in a packaging strip as in the previous structures.

Par exemple, le dispositif conteneur contient 200 télécartes.For example, the container device contains 200 calling cards.

Avantageusement, les télécartes portent un numéro. Dans ce cas, les télécartes sont empilées de telle sorte que la continuité des numéros des télécartes dans le conteneur est garantie par le fabricant. De son côté le dispositif conteneur porte un numéro spécifique. Le fabricant peut ainsi enregistrer et noter sur le dispositif conteneur les données relatives au lot de cartes empilées dans le dispositif conteneur.Advantageously, the calling cards carry a number. In this case, the calling cards are stacked so that the continuity of the calling card numbers in the container is guaranteed by the manufacturer. For its part, the container device has a specific number. The manufacturer can thus record and record on the container device the data relating to the batch of cards stacked in the container device.

Le dispositif conteneur est fermé et scellé chez le fabricant selon le dispositif d'assemblage tel que décrit en référence aux figures 2 et 3. Cet assemblage garantit l'intégrité du contenu du dispositif conteneur. L'opercule formant témoin 85 garantit la non ouverture du dispositif conteneur.The container device is closed and sealed at the manufacturer according to the assembly device as described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. This assembly guarantees the integrity of the content of the container device. The lid forming a witness 85 guarantees the non-opening of the container device.

En pratique, les conteneurs sont envoyés directement dans les centres de distribution formés par les dispositifs distributeurs décrits en référence aux figures 1 et 2.In practice, the containers are sent directly to the distribution centers formed by the dispensing devices described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2.

L'exploitant qui a pour fonction de mettre en place le dispositif conteneur dans le dispositif distributeur vérifie que l'assemblage ainsi que les moyens formant témoin sont toujours intègres et en place. Cette vérification permet à l'exploitant de déterminer s'il y a eu ouverture du dispositif conteneur lors du transport de celui-ci du fabricant vers l'exploitant.The operator, whose function is to set up the container device in the dispensing device, checks that the assembly as well as the means forming a witness are still intact and in place. This verification allows the operator to determine whether the container device has been opened during transport from the manufacturer to the operator.

Lorsque l'assemblage et les moyens formant témoin vérifient une condition prédéterminée, c'est-à-dire non détériorée, des languettes ou de l'opercule, l'exploitant sait que le dispositif conteneur contient un jeu de télécartes intègre et complet du type de celui exposé par la figurine posée sur le conteneur et dont le montant est identique à celui marqué sur l'étiquette du dispositif conteneur.When the assembly and the means forming a witness verify a predetermined condition, that is to say not deteriorated, of the tongues or of the cover, the operator knows that the container device contains a set of integral and complete calling cards of the type of that displayed by the figurine placed on the container and the amount of which is identical to that marked on the label of the container device.

L'opérateur exploitant introduit alors une carte de service dans le lecteur de carte à mémoire 14 et entre ensuite au clavier son code de service.The operating operator then introduces a service card into the memory card reader 14 and then enters his service code on the keyboard.

L'unité centrale de commande 12 vérifie enfin que le code de service ainsi saisi autorise le possesseur de la carte de service à ouvrir la porte de l'armoire avec une clé mécanique.The central control unit 12 finally checks that the service code thus entered authorizes the owner of the service card to open the cabinet door with a mechanical key.

Après une vérification positive, l'opérateur exploitant est autorisé à remplacer le ou les dispositifs conteneurs vides par des dispositifs conteneurs pleins.After a positive verification, the operating operator is authorized to replace the empty container device (s) with full container devices.

Par exemple, ce sont des moyens de type optoélectronique ou le comptage des télécartes distribuées par l'unité de commande qui détectent l'absence de télécarte dans l'un des dispositifs distributeurs. En réponse à cette détection, l'unité centrale de commande avertit via la liaison téléphonique le centre d'exploitation qu'il y a lieu de remplacer un dispositif vide.For example, these are optoelectronic type means or the counting of the calling cards distributed by the control unit which detect the absence of calling card in one of the distributing devices. In response to this detection, the central control unit notifies the operating center via the telephone link that an empty device needs to be replaced.

Par mesure de sécurité, l'opérateur exploitant n'est autorisé qu'à remplacer des conteneurs vides.As a safety measure, the operating operator is only authorized to replace empty containers.

En pratique, c est le dispositif de sécurité mécanique constitué de la plaque amovible 120 et du levier 130 tel que décrit en référence à la figure 5 qui permet le remplacement des conteneurs vides et interdit le retrait des dispositifs conteneurs non vides.In practice, it is the mechanical safety device consisting of the removable plate 120 and the lever 130 as described with reference to FIG. 5 which allows the replacement of empty containers and prohibits the removal of non-empty container devices.

Après le remplacement du dispositif conteneur vide, l'opérateur exploitant referme l'armoire.After replacing the empty container device, the operating operator closes the cabinet.

Avantageusement, il est prévu en outre un protocole d'échange entre l'opérateur exploitant et l'unité centrale de commande pour conférer un degré de sécurité supplémentaire contre le vol de télécartes dans le dispositif distributeur décrit ci-avant.Advantageously, there is further provided an exchange protocol between the operator and the central control unit to provide an additional degree of security against theft of calling cards in the dispensing device described above.

Selon ce protocole de sécurité, l'opérateur exploitant sélectionne l'unité de distribution qu'il vient de remplir pour qu'il lui soit distribué la première télécarte du dispositif conteneur qu'il vient de remplacer. Cette sélection est validée par paiement électronique, par exemple par carte bancaire.According to this security protocol, the operating operator selects the distribution unit that he has just filled so that the first calling card of the container device that he has just replaced is distributed to him. This selection is validated by electronic payment, for example by bank card.

L'opérateur exploitant introduit cette première télécarte dans le lecteur de carte à mémoire de l'appareil pour transférer dans l'unité centrale de commande les données d'identification du lot de cartes stockées dans le dispositif conteneur ainsi remplacé.The operator uses this first card in the memory card reader of the device to transfer the identification data of the batch of cards stored in the container device thus replaced to the central control unit.

Par exemple, les données d'identification dudit lot comprennent le numéro de série des télécartes, le nombre de télécartes ainsi que le type 40, 80 ou 120 unités.For example, the identification data of said batch include the serial number of the calling cards, the number of calling cards as well as the type 40, 80 or 120 units.

Enfin, l'opérateur exploitant récupère la télécarte et la restitue au centre de comptabilité de l'exploitant.Finally, the operating operator collects the calling card and returns it to the operator's accounting center.

Il faut noter que cette première télécarte peut être codée en fonction du code de service de l'opérateur exploitant à des fins de contrôle.It should be noted that this first calling card can be coded according to the service code of the operator operating for control purposes.

Très avantageusement, les données d'identification du lot de télécartes vont être prises en compte par l'unité centrale de commande ainsi que par un calculateur hôte via la liaison téléphonique.Very advantageously, the data for identifying the batch of calling cards will be taken into account by the central control unit as well as by a host computer via the telephone link.

Dans le cas d'un vol de conteneur plein, après sa mise en place dans le dispositif distributeur, il est possible grâce aux données d'identification du lot de télécartes selon le protocole de sécurité mentionné ci-avant de mettre les télécartes ainsi volées sur une liste dite noire permettant de les mettre hors d'utilisation.In the case of theft of a full container, after its installation in the dispensing device, it is possible thanks to the identification data of the batch of calling cards according to the security protocol mentioned above to put the calling cards thus stolen on a so-called black list allowing them to be put out of use.

Comme le protocole de sécurité permet de connaître en outre le nombre de télécartes déjà distribuées et comme les numéros de série des télécartes se suivent dans le conteneur, il en résulte que, dans le cas d'un vol de conteneur non plein, il est possible de déduire les numéros des télécartes ainsi volées et de placer ces numéros sur une liste dite d'opposition permettant les mettre hors d'utilisation.As the security protocol allows to know moreover the number of phonecards already distributed and as the serial numbers of the phonecards follow each other in the container, it follows that, in the case of theft of a container that is not full, it is possible to deduce the numbers of the telephone cards thus stolen and to place these numbers on a so-called opposition list allowing them to be put out of use.

Le protocole de sécurité qui consiste à faire sortir la première télécarte du conteneur par l'opérateur exploitant et à faire lire cette carte par l'unité de commande permet en outre la vérification de la bonne mise en place du dispositif conteneur dans le dispositif distributeur et la vérification du bon fonctionnement du dispositif distributeur.The security protocol which consists of removing the first calling card from the container by the operating operator and having this card read by the control unit also makes it possible to verify that the container device has been correctly installed in the dispensing device and checking the proper functioning of the dispensing device.

Le dispositif distributeur sait en outre que telle unité de distribution loge un dispositif conteneur de cartes de tel type et que ledit dispositif conteneur a été mis en place par tel opérateur exploitant.The dispensing device also knows that such a dispensing unit houses a card container device of such type and that said container device has been put in place by such an operator.

Bien que l'invention ait été décrite en référence particulière à des télécartes, il est bien entendu qu'elle s'applique aux objets portatifs en général, quelque soit leur nature.Although the invention has been described with particular reference to calling cards, it is understood that it applies to portable objects in general, whatever their nature.

Claims (7)

Dispositif conteneur d'objets portatifs, destiné à être mis en place dans un dispositif distributeur, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend: - une première coquille (52) de forme allongée, présentant des premiers bords et dans laquelle est susceptible d'être empilée longitudinalement une pile d'objets portatifs, - une seconde coquille (54) présentant des seconds bords conjugués avec les premiers bords, - des moyens d'assemblage (72,74) propres à assurer un assemblage indémontable sans casse des premiers bords de la première coquille (52) et des seconds bords de la seconde coquille (54), ledit assemblage définisant à l'une des extrémités du dispositif conteneur une fente transversale de sortie (75) pour les objets portatifs, - des moyens (85) formant témoin cassable et propres à obstruer normalement ladite fente (75),
le dispositif conteneur (50) étant susceptible d'être mis en place dans le dispositif distributeur seulement dans le cas où ledit dispositif conteneur vérifie une condition prédéterminée relative à l'intégrité desdits moyens d'assemblage (72,74) et des moyens formant témoin (85), ce qui permet de conférer un degré de sécurité élévé à l'acheminement des objets portatifs du fabricant au dispositif distributeur et à la mise en place dudit dispositif conteneur dans le dispositif distributeur. Container device for portable objects, intended to be placed in a dispensing device, characterized in that it comprises: - a first shell (52) of elongated shape, having first edges and in which a stack of portable objects is capable of being stacked longitudinally, - a second shell (54) having second edges conjugated with the first edges, - assembly means (72,74) suitable for ensuring a non-removable assembly without breakage of the first edges of the first shell (52) and of the second edges of the second shell (54), said assembly defining at one of the ends from the container device a transverse outlet slot (75) for portable objects, - means (85) forming a breakable indicator capable of normally obstructing said slot (75),
the container device (50) being capable of being placed in the dispensing device only in the case where said container device verifies a predetermined condition relating to the integrity of said assembly means (72,74) and witness means (85), which makes it possible to confer a high degree of security on the transport of portable objects from the manufacturer to the dispensing device and on the installation of said container device in the dispensing device. Dispositif selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que les première et seconde coquilles (52,54) sont chacune constituées d'un fond de forme rectangulaire, de deux parois longitudinales et de deux parois latérales, ce qui permet lorsque lesdites première et seconde coquilles (52,54) sont assemblées de définir un dispositif conteneur de forme parallélépipédique rectangle.Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the first and second shells (52,54) each consist of a rectangular bottom, two longitudinal walls and two side walls, which allows when said first and second shells (52,54) are assembled to define a container device with a rectangular parallelepiped shape. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des précédentes revendications, caractérisé en ce que les moyens formant témoin (85) comprennent un opercule cassable constitué d'un matériau en matière plastique.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the witness means (85) comprise a frangible cover made of a plastic material. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des précédentes revendications, caractérisé en ce que les moyens d'assemblage (72,74) comprennent une pluralité de languettes (72) faisant saillies et disposées sur les parois longitudinales de l'une des première et seconde coquilles (52,54) et propres à s'encliqueter de façon semi-élastique dans une pluralité de mortaises (74) disposées sur les parois longitudinales de l'autre des première et seconde coquilles (52,54) en regard de la pluralité de languettes (72).Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the assembly means (72,74) comprise a plurality of tongues (72) projecting and arranged on the longitudinal walls of one of the first and second shells ( 52,54) and able to snap semi-elasticly into a plurality of mortises (74) arranged on the longitudinal walls of the other of the first and second shells (52,54) opposite the plurality of tabs ( 72). Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des précédentes revendications, caractérisé en ce que la fente transversale de sortie (75) est de forme rectangulaire et en ce que ladite fente a une largeur sensiblement égale à l'épaisseur d'un objet portatif.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the transverse outlet slot (75) is rectangular in shape and in that said slot has a width substantially equal to the thickness of a portable object. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des précédentes revendications, caractérisé en ce que les première et seconde coquilles (52,54) sont constituées d'un matériau en matière plastique renforcée.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first and second shells (52,54) are made of a reinforced plastic material. Dispositif selon l'une quelconque des précédentes revendications, caractérisé en ce qu'il est jetable et transportable.Device according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it is disposable and transportable.
EP19920400515 1991-02-22 1992-02-27 Container for portable objects Expired - Lifetime EP0557662B1 (en)

Priority Applications (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE69209046T DE69209046D1 (en) 1992-02-27 1992-02-27 Portable object containers
AT92400515T ATE135483T1 (en) 1992-02-27 1992-02-27 CONTAINERS FOR PORTABLE ITEMS

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9102178A FR2673353B1 (en) 1991-02-22 1991-02-22 CONTAINER DEVICE FOR PORTABLE OBJECTS IN PARTICULAR TELECARDS.

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0557662A1 true EP0557662A1 (en) 1993-09-01
EP0557662B1 EP0557662B1 (en) 1996-03-13

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EP (1) EP0557662B1 (en)
FR (1) FR2673353B1 (en)

Cited By (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2719930A1 (en) * 1994-05-10 1995-11-17 Dassault Automatismes Telecomm Processing of magnetic data strip travel tickets held in carrier
WO2000031695A1 (en) * 1998-11-20 2000-06-02 Ncr International, Inc. Dispensing container
EP1071052A2 (en) * 1999-06-30 2001-01-24 Asahi Seiko Kabushiki Kaisha Cassette equipment for card

Families Citing this family (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2673353B1 (en) * 1991-02-22 1993-05-14 Dassault Electronique CONTAINER DEVICE FOR PORTABLE OBJECTS IN PARTICULAR TELECARDS.

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2284934A1 (en) * 1974-09-11 1976-04-09 Imprimag Manual ticket dispensing machine - has spring loaded pins passing through ticket box and pushing ticket pile upwards
GB2183221A (en) * 1985-11-25 1987-06-03 Cubic Western Data Ticket magazine module
EP0241342A1 (en) * 1986-03-25 1987-10-14 Electronique Serge Dassault Automatic dispenser-programmer of IC cards
FR2673353A1 (en) * 1991-02-22 1992-08-28 Dassault Electronique Container device for portable objects, phone cards in particular

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2284934A1 (en) * 1974-09-11 1976-04-09 Imprimag Manual ticket dispensing machine - has spring loaded pins passing through ticket box and pushing ticket pile upwards
GB2183221A (en) * 1985-11-25 1987-06-03 Cubic Western Data Ticket magazine module
EP0241342A1 (en) * 1986-03-25 1987-10-14 Electronique Serge Dassault Automatic dispenser-programmer of IC cards
FR2673353A1 (en) * 1991-02-22 1992-08-28 Dassault Electronique Container device for portable objects, phone cards in particular

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2719930A1 (en) * 1994-05-10 1995-11-17 Dassault Automatismes Telecomm Processing of magnetic data strip travel tickets held in carrier
WO2000031695A1 (en) * 1998-11-20 2000-06-02 Ncr International, Inc. Dispensing container
EP1071052A2 (en) * 1999-06-30 2001-01-24 Asahi Seiko Kabushiki Kaisha Cassette equipment for card
EP1071052A3 (en) * 1999-06-30 2004-01-21 Asahi Seiko Kabushiki Kaisha Cassette equipment for card

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0557662B1 (en) 1996-03-13
FR2673353A1 (en) 1992-08-28
FR2673353B1 (en) 1993-05-14

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