EP0571061A2 - Dispositif pour produire un interface utilisateur flexible pour un automate d'affranchissement - Google Patents

Dispositif pour produire un interface utilisateur flexible pour un automate d'affranchissement Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP0571061A2
EP0571061A2 EP93250146A EP93250146A EP0571061A2 EP 0571061 A2 EP0571061 A2 EP 0571061A2 EP 93250146 A EP93250146 A EP 93250146A EP 93250146 A EP93250146 A EP 93250146A EP 0571061 A2 EP0571061 A2 EP 0571061A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
functions
input
display
function
level
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
EP93250146A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP0571061B1 (fr
EP0571061A3 (fr
Inventor
Claus Freytag
Norbert Knoth
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.)
Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Original Assignee
Francotyp Postalia GmbH
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 Francotyp Postalia GmbH filed Critical Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Priority to EP98250224A priority Critical patent/EP0867840B1/fr
Publication of EP0571061A2 publication Critical patent/EP0571061A2/fr
Publication of EP0571061A3 publication Critical patent/EP0571061A3/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0571061B1 publication Critical patent/EP0571061B1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00193—Constructional details of apparatus in a franking system
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00193—Constructional details of apparatus in a franking system
    • G07B2017/00266—Man-machine interface on the apparatus
    • G07B2017/00298—Visual, e.g. screens and their layouts

Definitions

  • the invention relates to an arrangement for generating a flexible user interface for office devices, in particular for franking machines, which can be used for franking mail and are equipped with at least one input means, an input / output control means and an output means.
  • a franking machine with an input device which has function keys (dialing or test keys).
  • the selection keys determine whether a 10-digit numerical display shows the amounts of the rising or falling postage register or the counter reading of a piece counter.
  • the test buttons are required for test purposes, with further display elements being switched on / off.
  • the input device further comprises a keypad for entering the lock combination and a special self-encrypting combination lock switch, which is used for reloading the postage billing amount under secured conditions and can be operated via a button if the lock combination is entered correctly.
  • the adjustable functions are limited to a small number of three functions (postage printing, billing, refilling the credit register) by the selected arrangement and sequential switching for the sequential selection of the functions.
  • a strip printer also has a button with a character scale for symbols or other identifiers on an upper housing part, with the setting being accepted into a memory or into a display, in particular a liquid crystal display (LCD), by being pressed down the button is triggered.
  • a secure entry which is a prerequisite for a franking machine, cannot be carried out with this.
  • the displayable selection of functions is already, thanks to the arranged character scale on the circumference of the button limited in space.
  • a user interface for a franking machine is to be equipped in a much more complex manner.
  • the front plate of another franking machine known from DE 30 40 559 C2 has a keyboard and a numerical display unit for a more complex user interface.
  • the man / machine interface is controlled by a control device for operating the franking machine and the functions of the keyboard, the display unit and the LED display elements are implemented.
  • a central processor unit CPU
  • CPU central processor unit
  • the keyboard is connected to a decoder and the display unit is connected to the interface hardware via drivers.
  • the keyboard includes keys for numeric input values, a decimal key for printing, a delete key, a postage key and further function keys for the register content of the rising register - corresponding to the amount of postage used - and for the register content of the falling register - corresponding to the remaining amount - for control - or postage total, number of items, batch value and batch number.
  • a different assignment of the function keys is not easily possible.
  • buttons Switching the function of the buttons is only possible with a rear maintenance switch.
  • a side key switch with a lock cylinder is used for resetting, starting up and reloading the franking machine, the position of which can be observed through a window.
  • the setting options are limited in principle to a small number of input functions.
  • Scales, lamps, light emitting diodes (LED) and liquid crystal displays (LCD) are known as output options for displaying values or results or for displaying states. With increasing complexity, the clarity decreases and the possibilities of misinterpretation increase.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a user interface for franking machines with little effort, which offers the best mutual adaptation between the operator and the franking machine. Any number of function input options should exist without the complexity being increased by many input means.
  • the user interface for franking machines consists of ergonomic input and output means. Extremely simple user guidance is achieved by prioritizing frequently used input functions in a display structure by optimally adapting the input and output means to the human senses and by coordinating the input and output means with one another.
  • the invention is based on the fact that the operation of the franking machine is based on one or more processes for setting the parameters of individual input functions.
  • a process basically consists of two operating steps, namely the selection of an input function and the setting of its parameters. For the first operating step, access to frequently used input functions is made easier and for the second operating step, the setting is made on the basis of a quickly possible selection.
  • the invention is further based on the consideration that it is necessary to display the effects of the selection of functions and the setting of the parameters immediately in an easily understandable form.
  • the best way to achieve this is to display the expected cliché in a single display.
  • the clear presentation takes the form: What you see is what you get (WYSIWYG).
  • the user is to be guided through the solution according to the invention in order to make the operation as simple as possible.
  • the user interface informs the user of the individual operating steps or specifies individual operating steps. Incorrect operation can largely be ruled out if the user interface only suggests sensible operating steps.
  • a start setting is effective, which can subsequently be changed in a targeted manner. That is through a programmable normal adaptive Configuration or achieved through an auto-adaptive configuration of the input function in the display structure.
  • An advantage of the user interface according to the invention is that the franking process can be carried out at any time. You only need to make the necessary settings if you want to frank with a setting that has changed compared to the basic setting or not with the previous setting. All settings made are saved. An additional deletion option for the value setting is not necessary due to the manner in which the parameters are set, which is done by selecting predetermined setting positions. The number of input elements is greatly reduced. This increases the clarity of the input options. At the same time, the number of input functions and setting options can be chosen as large as desired.
  • a great advantage of the user interface is the extreme flexibility. Not only can individual parts of the display be changed, but functions can also be added, deleted, integrated differently or displayed. A customer-specific adaptation is easily possible through software changes, also with regard to foreign language display. Above all, the clear presentation of the cliché is user-friendly. The actual complexity is achieved through appropriate software. During development, careful software engineering and a sufficiently large and expandable memory area were taken into account.
  • the classification of the functions in the different levels according to customer requirements means that in the simplest case a customer does not need any further functions besides the classic basic functions and thus acquire an automatic franking machine at a favorable price can.
  • the other extreme means that, in addition to maximum equipment, there is the option of integrating functions that will be added later into the user interface. Deleting functions for special reasons is also conceivable.
  • input and output means 1 to 3 are connected via an input / output control means 5 to a processor system 11, which has a post-technical security area, directly or via a BUS, on which at least one memory means 7 and a processing unit (CPU) 8 and a clock / date module 9 are connected.
  • the basis of the franking machine consists of a printer module 4 coupled to the processor system and power electronics 6, which contains a power supply and control for the drives (paper transport, printer, belt, strip dispenser) and sensors. If a postal item (letter) arrives at the entrance opening of the franking machine, franking is automatically carried out according to the saved setting.
  • Other peripheral input / output means can also be connected to the processor system 11.
  • the first input means 1, the first output means 3 and the input / output control means 5 form the arrangement 10 for generating a flexible user interface.
  • the output means 3 is the display means of the user interface and the first input means 1 is used to select input functions and / or to set the parameters.
  • the franking machine is equipped in a known manner with at least one further input means 2 and with at least one second output means 4, for example the associated printer module 4 of the franking machine.
  • two output / input means 2a, 2b coupled with a serial interface are provided, for programs and / or data, which are transmitted by a transmission means (not shown in FIG. 1) delivered or transmitted via an interface.
  • the storage means 7 consists in the usual way of several permanent, temporary and non-volatile memories. A part of the memory, together with the CPU, forms a protected postal area within the processor system 11 in a known manner.
  • the programs for the user interface and addressable tables with addressable data are also stored in the permanent memory of the franking machine, each table being assigned to a specific input function can be called.
  • a first display of the flexible user interface in the window of the display means is defined as the first display option, which represents symbols and alphanumeric characters.
  • the first display option represents symbols and alphanumeric characters.
  • a first level with four fields and a first field of the first level are defined with which the entry of parameters should begin.
  • Processor system 11 within the framework of flexible user guidance, specifies the most common input functions for the first display in a start setting.
  • the user guidance prescribes the position of the current input function in a display structure and, depending on the required input situation, possibly in a field of the Display means 3 characterized by signaling.
  • the readiness to leave the start setting is to be indicated.
  • the first field is appropriately identified, from which the user is guided by a user guide becomes.
  • a certain function is assigned to the field.
  • the labeling can be done by complementary color and / or black / white display or by flashing. It is possible to design the user interface in such a way that the display switches to a rest position after an adjustable time (for example 10 seconds), in which no area of the display flashes any longer.
  • an element of the input means 1 is actuated, for example, the postage value begins to flash in a field and can be set using the input means 1.
  • Another form can be realized by passive signaling in the lower part of the field, in particular an imprint. The representation in the field must be rolled.
  • First selection means 108 or second selection means 109 are assigned to input means 1 for the function or parameters, which in a preferred variant are implemented in hardware and / or software in the processing unit (CPU).
  • the first selection means 108 for the input function consists, for example, of at least one counter, which is connected to a clock cycle and / or to which an acknowledgment signal Q is applied.
  • the counter selects the input function which is input in an I / O controller 51 of the input / output control means 5 which has a parallel interface.
  • the I / O controller controls the display means 3, which displays the selected input function in one of several, preferably four, fields of the display means 3.
  • the second selection means 109 is also implemented in software as a counter and a means 107 programmable for at least one configuration of the functions in a display structure and is provided for further user guidance.
  • the second selection means 109 interacts with the first input means 1 in order to select one of the selected ones Identify parameters and functions for selecting additional representations in the display window or in the same field assigned to the input function assigned to the stored table.
  • the means for the configuration 107 controls the sequence in the context of the user guidance in such a way that after acknowledgment further callable levels and / or operating steps are called up and specified in the display window and / or in the same field, and the first selection means 108 after an acknowledgment of the input the in the input functions displayed in the fields are switched step by step in a defined order.
  • the second selection means 109 for the parameters can also be a counter with decoder in the input / output control means 5 or in the I / O controller 51, which cooperates with elements of the first input means.
  • FIG. 2 shows a user interface with an I / O controller 51, with a display means (LCD) 30 and with a first input means 1, for which a single setting means 110 and an acknowledgment means 111 are preferably used.
  • the I / O controller 51 is connected either directly to the processor system 11 via data, address and control lines or via a BUS to the microprocessor bus of the processor system 11 and has control means for the LCD 30 and evaluation means for the setting means 110.
  • a rotary encoder (rotary encoder) 110 is used as the only setting means, digital values can be decremented and incremented by unlimited left and right rotations. With these values, addresses can be generated in the microprocessor, via which data or further addresses for functions can be selected in tables which are stored in a memory (not shown in FIG. 3).
  • Such a table is assigned to each of the input functions and stored in the permanent memory of the storage means 7.
  • the selected data correspond to parameters and the selected addresses correspond to functions which are represented in the respectively selected field of the display (LCD) 30 as a symbol or alphanumerically.
  • the acknowledgment means 111 can be mechanically coupled to the setting means 110.
  • Axial pressure on the rotary encoder can trigger a push-button function with which the acknowledgment signal Q is generated.
  • user guidance is used with a sequence of input functions that is to be cycled through, the further switching being triggered by the acknowledgment signal.
  • FIG. 3 shows two preferred display options Face 1 and 2 for four input functions for a first variant of the user interface that can be selected one after the other by the first selection means 108.
  • the display 30 initially shows Face 1 with a start setting for the parameter values.
  • the fields shown in the display 30 are traversed in the order from right to left by a label in steps that can be advanced with each acknowledgment.
  • the order of the input functions that can be called can also be defined differently than in the fields of Face 1 and 2 of the user interface shown in FIG. 3.
  • a cliché can be displayed on a graphic-capable liquid crystal display (240 * 64 dots) on a scale of 1: 1 in sufficient quality.
  • FIGS. 2 and 3 The operation of a franking machine with the described input / output means is explained below with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3 using a simple implementation example with the four input functions: postage value, date, advertising slogan and type of dispatch.
  • the face 1 of FIG. 3 shows a preferred first level of the user interface.
  • a standard display appears in the display window.
  • the postage value is 0100 (1, - DM).
  • the date is transmitted from the clock / date module 9 and shown in field 3.
  • a standard advertising slogan number 1 is displayed in field 2.
  • a type of shipment is initially not shown in field 1. This means that the most common postal items can be franked immediately after switching on without any further input.
  • the postage value After being switched on, the postage value is shown flashing in field 4 of the display 30.
  • the postage value is changed by turning the rotary encoder. Only franking values are shown that are also available in the postage table. Accidental setting of a value of 1.01 DM is therefore impossible.
  • the acknowledgment means 111 By pressing the rotary encoder 110, the acknowledgment means 111 is actuated and the input is acknowledged.
  • the date is now shown flashing in field 3 of the display 30.
  • the date can also be changed by turning the rotary encoder 110.
  • the advertising cliché flashes in field 4.
  • the advertising clichés stored in the storage means 7 can be selected from the memory and displayed.
  • Face 2 appears with fields 1 to 4 in the display 30.
  • the blinking field in each case allows parameters to be entered.
  • the termination of the input of parameters for functions in the fields of the representation shown in Face 2 causes a switch back to the preferred first representation of the user interface shown in Face 1 of FIG. 3.
  • the names of the fields can be displayed in plain text or as a symbol.
  • the Toshiba TLX-711A with the T6963C controller can be used as the LCD.
  • An optically coupled rotary encoder switch, in particular the Grayhill 61 C11-01-08-02 component, together with the HCTL-2000 interface module from Hewlett-Packard is suitable for the rotary encoder 110 used for parameter setting.
  • the values are entered according to a sequence specified by the machine, eg postage value, date, advertising slogan, etc.
  • the input function is also completed when the acknowledgment key is pressed. This leads to the next input function. Is indicated by the selection of a blank space or by "Normal" in the display position in the display field for an entry function No new or no value entered, must also be acknowledged by pressing a key and switched to the next input function. If, in an extreme application, only one function is required at the end of the sequence, the user has to work his way backwards by pressing the acknowledgment key several times. This can be modified for higher demands by the second variant of the previously described user interface described below.
  • FIG. 4 shows a second variant of the user interface with a special display structure, the user guidance, through a linked structure, allowing freedom of choice for the sequence of the function call. Due to the acknowledgment after each input of parameters for the input function just set, further input functions specified by the user guidance can be called in the next field or without parameter input in the same field or the input can be terminated with a switch back to the initial display Face 1.
  • an LCD with a display area that is twice as large is used.
  • the display in the field is scrolled during the selection.
  • the cliché is shown in field 2.
  • Another type of dispatch should not be entered or a transfer to field 1 of Face 1 should be avoided.
  • names for the other functions are now visible.
  • the number of function fields in the lower part of the plate display is limited due to space constraints.
  • one of the displayed functions can be used to switch on another level.
  • Face 1.0 field 2 of the cliché display (the first level) contains a function input option (not shown in FIG. 4a) which can be used to switch to the second level.
  • This second level should include less important and less frequently used functions. It is easy to make an extension afterwards so that new established functions can be integrated.
  • field 3 in Face 2.0 represents the function of automatic postage determination by displaying a symbol for a balance or in plain text by the words "postage computer”. Behind it are the options (YES / NO) or (automatic / manual weight entry) visible .
  • One of the options, for example NO or manual weight input, is selected with the rotary encoder 110.
  • the tabular list of weight values - shown in FIG. 4f - now appears in field 4, in addition in field 3 the destination of the mail item, field 2 the form of the mail item and field 1 the type of delivery of the mail item , with corresponding surcharges to be taken into account.
  • the NEXT function can also be provided at the end of the second part of a list in order to be able to switch to the first part of the list.
  • the user guidance marks the next list. A selection is again made via the rotary encoder 110 before an acknowledgment takes place. Then a selection is made in the next list, etc.
  • the display After acknowledging the last list in the face 2.3 display of the second level, the display returns to face 1.0 of the first level, from which further levels can be selected via the level switch.
  • a field 1 is provided in the face 3.0 for setting the stamp offset. It turns out that despite the simplicity of the rotary encoder there is a multifunctionality which also adapts very strongly to human requirements. In accordance with the direction of rotation, the parameter size in the display field for the stamp offset is increased or decreased in millimeters.
  • FIG. 4j A representation of the fourth level Face 4.0 is indicated in FIG. 4j.
  • the cliché disappears and the question of a security code appears when you switch to the service area.
  • An authorized user can now enter the code by acknowledging left / right turns.
  • This method is known per se from franking machines with combination lock switches, for example from DE 24 38 055 C2 or from code locks on safes. After the service area has been released, the authorized person can query the machine's status or values or make entries. After completing the service work, the system switches back to the cliché display.
  • the configuration of the input functions in the display structure and also the display structure itself are adapted in a further development of the inventive concept.
  • a switchover to an interface for setting the user interface is provided.
  • an authorization routine is also processed before an adaptive configuration can be programmed. The user can later switch between the normal configuration shown for example in FIGS. 4, 4a to 4i and the adaptive configuration make.
  • the one-button input can be too cumbersome in special cases.
  • additional lateral functional input means are therefore provided in order to carry out a level changeover.
  • function input means are arranged in a defined assignment to the fields of the display means.
  • FIG. 4a relates to a representation of Face 1.0 of a first level of the user interface.
  • a representation of Face 2.0 of the second level - which is shown in FIG. 4b - can be called up with the control element 106.
  • Further representations of the second level, Face 2.4 and Face 2.3, shown in FIGS. 4e and 4d, can be called up by the operating elements 103 and 104 assigned to the individual display fields of the display of the first second level.
  • field 2 in Face 2.0 can display the name of the cost center.
  • the cost center can be represented numerically or display different departments in plain text.
  • a cost center can be selected from a list by operating the rotary encoder.
  • Another field 1 in Face 2.0 can provide the switch to the strip encoder by selecting (YES / NO) according to the postage computer function.
  • the register contents can be read out by setting in another field 4 in Face 2.0. If the representation of the values requires a lot of space, it is possible to delete the entire representation on the display and instead - as shown in FIG. 4d - show the register contents. Switching back to the cliché display is done by acknowledging or actuating the rotary encoder.
  • FIG. 4c shows a face 3.0 representation of the third level, from which two further representations of the third levels face 3.3 and face 3.2 can be called up via the control elements 102 and 103 of the user interface, in which a selection can be made by the user.
  • FIG. 4j shows a representation of the fourth level, Face 4.0, from which the control elements 105, 106 can be used to switch to the display of another surface.
  • any other levels can preferably be selected by repeated actuation of the operating element 106 serving as a level switch.
  • the arrangement of a further control element 105 allows the return to the first level, from any other representation of a level.
  • keys are arranged above and below the display, which are assigned to individual areas of the display.
  • Four buttons are located above the cliché and are assigned to the postage stamp, the date stamp, the advertising cliché and the type of dispatch. Keys that correspond to the functional fields shown are arranged below the display.
  • an input function is selected by pressing the key assigned to it.
  • the corresponding display flashes and can be set with the rotary encoder. A confirmation is given when you press a key assigned to the next field.
  • the acknowledgment button on the encoder can be omitted. This means that each function can be operated independently of the previous one.
  • the transfer takes place depending on the sequence of operation carried out by the user guidance.
  • function input means are also provided on a first level, as already explained for FIG. 5, in order to carry out a level and / or function changeover. however, the assignment of the function to the function input means 101, 102, 103 and 104 variable for the function switching and is carried out according to the frequency of use of the function.
  • the ergonomic auto-adaptive user interface has an LCD 30 (240 * 64 dots) which serves as output means 3.
  • Four keys are arranged under the LCD, which are assigned to representations in the display. To the left of the LCD 30 are two keys 105 and 106, one above the other (level key and home key).
  • the encoder 110 is installed on the right side. After switching on, a standard print image is shown on the LCD in the upper part of the fields.
  • the four soft keys act as function keys and are assigned to the four elements of the print image: postage stamp, day stamp, advertising slogan and shipping method. After pressing a soft key, the corresponding part starts to flash on the display.
  • the rotary encoder can be used to change numerical values or to select an element from a list.
  • the setting of postage and date and the selection of the advertising slogan and the shipping method are the four classic functions for operating a franking machine and are therefore assigned to level 1.
  • the lower key (level key) 106 is provided, for example, with an arrow pointing downward. This is intended to convey to the user that lower levels are actuated when actuated.
  • the upper key (basic position key) 105 bears an identifier, preferably an upward-pointing arrow, which points to a filled circle. This is to symbolize that when the key is pressed, the system jumps from all levels to the basic position with the representation of the cliché.
  • the auto-adaptive configuration is based on statistics to be maintained by the franking machine, which logs and evaluates the operation of the device.
  • a relevant expert system with a statistical means 114 is to be integrated in the software of the franking machine.
  • One result of this evaluation of data can be the automatic adaptation of the user interface to the needs of the user, which are dependent on the area of use.
  • An advantageous method of working for the determination carried out by the franking machine consists of two phases: a statistical phase in which only data for a new configuration are determined under the normal or adaptive configuration, and a configuration phase for creating the new configuration.
  • a statistical phase in which only data for a new configuration are determined under the normal or adaptive configuration
  • a configuration phase for creating the new configuration.
  • each cost center is taken into account individually when the data is stored in a storage area 115.
  • the individual functions have different priorities or frequency of execution.
  • a software module (car adapter 116) can evaluate the execution of individual functions. If the auto adapter 116 detects that a function is performed very often that is established at a deep level, a reconfiguration can be carried out. To do this, the position of the function concerned with swapped a function that is not used as often.
  • the reconfiguration is controlled by the control data stored in a memory area of a memory or means 112, on the basis of a display structure stored in a memory 117 of means 107 and on the basis of a ranking of the input functions that is temporarily stored in a rank memory 120.
  • FIG. 4 An example is shown in FIG. In level 4, the function of field 3 has been used very often in a defined, evaluated time range in representation 4.0, which is indicated by a + symbol, and in level 2.0 the function of field 2 in representation 2.0 has been used least what has been identified by a sign.
  • FIG. 7 shows the basic sequence for a user interface with an auto-adaptive configuration.
  • the postage meter machine has, in a known manner, a start and an initialization routine as well as an implementation of the user identification.
  • a cost center is assigned to the user.
  • a configuration routine determines whether a flag 113 is set for this or another assignment.
  • field 2 of the fourth level of the Face 4.0 display there is first of all a possible change in the normal / adaptive assignment, if no normal / adaptive assignment was last set.
  • Calling the "User Interface" function calls up the Face 4.2 display in order to set a flag for the normal / adaptive assignment.
  • Another option is in field 1 in Face 4.0 if the security code has been entered after calling the "Service" function. This means that normal / adaptive assignments can be set differently for each cost center. If a flag 113 is set to normal or adaptive assignment, the reconfiguration is determined but remains ineffective in the operating mode. If the flag is set to reconfiguration, the reconfiguration takes effect.
  • configuration data are transferred to the working memory 112 in the operating mode.
  • These relate to the display structure stored in the memory 117 in all display levels, within which, under the control of the programmable means 107 for the configuration and by means of the first selection means 108, switching takes place from one input function to the next.
  • the individual fields of the Face 1.0 display are assigned functions of type of dispatch, advertising slogan, date and postage value. Value tables belonging to these functions are transferred from the permanent memory to the main memory.
  • the same process also takes place when the configuration data for Face 2.0, 2.4, 2.3, 2.2 and 2.1 are taken over and the configuration data for Face 3.0, 3.4, 3.3, 3.2 and 3.1 is taken over and the configuration data for Face 4.0, 4.4, 4.3 is taken over.
  • the required input data are now transferred into the main memory during the input mode, with one counter each being set for the selected functions or a flag is set for the selected functions and a counter is also set or a flag is set for correspondingly set table values.
  • the acknowledgment signal Q causes a counter for the function selection or a flag to be switched on.
  • the acknowledgment also causes the decompression of cliché data and its preparation, as well as the insertion of additional graphic pixels generated from input data in data preparation mode and a partial display of the data previously set, as well as the other input options in display mode as part of the user interface through the user interface.
  • the last acknowledgment signal of an input routine causes the start of the statistics phase in addition to error registration in statistics mode.
  • Each function code of an acknowledged and used function is transferred to a corresponding register R1 in this.
  • the corresponding register is selected using a demultiplexer D.
  • Register R1 is assigned together with further registers R for all functions in a special working memory area A assigned to cost center a and used for statistics. During the franking process, the counting of each frequency counter Hx, which is assigned to a function x used for franking, is effected in this working memory area. The counts of frequency counters Ay that are assigned to an unused function are not increased. The counter readings therefore correspond to the frequency with which functions are used.
  • the number of frankings or operating hours can be counted and monitored in a further separate counter Z for each cost center. Will be a for reached the separate counter and limit value that can be preset separately for each cost center, all counts of the frequency counters H to a cost center a are reduced by one bit and a signal Ü is sent to the car adapter.
  • the car adapter 116 After predetermined operating times or when the signal U occurs, the car adapter 116 evaluates the count of all the frequency counters H assigned to the cost centers and then resets it to zero.
  • the evaluation is carried out by simultaneously counting up and / or counting down the counter readings, the first reaching of a presettable limit value by one of the frequency counters signaling an uppermost first rank and counting the counter readings and reaching the limit value by a further frequency counter signaling a second rank.
  • the code of the associated function with the first rank is adopted by the car adapter 116 from the register R in the working memory area A and is stored in one of n memory areas in the rank memory 120 in accordance with the ranking. In the same way, the code of the functions lower in the order of priority is adopted before all frequency counters are reset.
  • the car adapter 116 now calculates a variant for a reconfiguration for level two of the display structure, each with four input functions in accordance with the ranking for the four fields per face in each representation of the level.
  • a very frequent change in the stored data for a reconfiguration can be prevented by threshold values. These threshold values can be specified as limit values for the frequency counter H and the operating time or franking number counter Z.
  • a restructuring is carried out in accordance with the further ranking, by reassigning the positions of the four fields per face.
  • the calculated reconfiguration of the functions for each cost center in the display structure is stored in memory areas B, C of the main memory.
  • the display due to the reconfiguration only takes place if a flag for the reconfiguration is set in the working memory.
  • field 2 of the fourth level of the Face 4.0 display is sought based on the normal / adaptive assignment and the "user interface" function is called up, the Face 4.2 display is called up.
  • a display then appears - not shown in FIG. 4j - with the selection option, normal / adaptive assignment or reconfiguration.
  • the franking machine can be switched off after use without losing the setting.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Devices For Checking Fares Or Tickets At Control Points (AREA)
  • Input From Keyboards Or The Like (AREA)
EP93250146A 1992-05-22 1993-05-19 Dispositif pour produire un interface utilisateur flexible pour un automate d'affranchissement Expired - Lifetime EP0571061B1 (fr)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
EP98250224A EP0867840B1 (fr) 1992-05-22 1993-05-19 Machine à affranchir avec interface utilisateur flexible

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4217478 1992-05-22
DE4217478A DE4217478A1 (de) 1992-05-22 1992-05-22 Anordnung zur Erzeugung einer flexiblen Benutzeroberfläche für Frankiermaschinen

Related Child Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP98250224A Division EP0867840B1 (fr) 1992-05-22 1993-05-19 Machine à affranchir avec interface utilisateur flexible

Publications (3)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0571061A2 true EP0571061A2 (fr) 1993-11-24
EP0571061A3 EP0571061A3 (fr) 1995-05-31
EP0571061B1 EP0571061B1 (fr) 1999-01-07

Family

ID=6459799

Family Applications (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP98250224A Expired - Lifetime EP0867840B1 (fr) 1992-05-22 1993-05-19 Machine à affranchir avec interface utilisateur flexible
EP93250146A Expired - Lifetime EP0571061B1 (fr) 1992-05-22 1993-05-19 Dispositif pour produire un interface utilisateur flexible pour un automate d'affranchissement

Family Applications Before (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP98250224A Expired - Lifetime EP0867840B1 (fr) 1992-05-22 1993-05-19 Machine à affranchir avec interface utilisateur flexible

Country Status (2)

Country Link
EP (2) EP0867840B1 (fr)
DE (3) DE4217478A1 (fr)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0718801A1 (fr) * 1994-12-21 1996-06-26 Francotyp-Postalia GmbH Interface utelisateur pour une machine à affranchir
EP0731425A1 (fr) * 1995-03-07 1996-09-11 Frama Ag Dispositif de détermination de la valeur d'affranchissement
EP0919957A1 (fr) * 1997-11-28 1999-06-02 Neopost Industrie Dispositif d'impression de donnée d'information sur des articles de courrier
EP1008962A2 (fr) 1998-12-03 2000-06-14 Francotyp-Postalia Aktiengesellschaft & Co. Dispositif pour l'entrée et l'affichage d'informations de l'utilisateur sur un dispositif d'affichage

Families Citing this family (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
DE19549305A1 (de) 1995-12-22 1997-07-03 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Verfahren und Anordnung zur Dateneingabe in eine Frankiermaschine
US6297821B1 (en) * 1998-04-23 2001-10-02 Pitney Bowes Inc. Mailing machine including an embedded control system having a screen control architecture
DE10011194B4 (de) * 2000-03-08 2007-06-21 Francotyp-Postalia Ag & Co. Kg Benutzerfreundliche Frankiermaschine
DE10339525A1 (de) * 2003-08-21 2005-03-17 Volkswagen Ag Vorrichtung und Verfahren zur Eingabe von Begriffen und/oder Befehlen

Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4495581A (en) * 1981-10-19 1985-01-22 Piccione James M User programmable postal rate calculator
US4731728A (en) * 1985-01-10 1988-03-15 Pitney Bowes Inc. Postage meter with means for preventing unauthorized postage printing
US4814995A (en) * 1982-03-29 1989-03-21 Pitney Bowes Inc. Postage value determining scale with recall and display of special fee entries
EP0386390A2 (fr) * 1989-03-08 1990-09-12 Frama Ag Machine à affranchir

Family Cites Families (16)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
ZA743969B (en) 1973-10-16 1975-06-25 Pitney Bowes Inc Computer responsive postage meter
US4302821A (en) 1979-10-30 1981-11-24 Pitney-Bowes, Inc. Interposer control for electronic postage meter
JPS5962945A (ja) * 1982-09-30 1984-04-10 Sharp Corp モ−ド設定方式
US4638439A (en) * 1983-05-05 1987-01-20 Pitney Bowes Inc. Postage metering system with display
DE3436811A1 (de) * 1984-10-06 1986-04-10 Olympia Werke Ag, 2940 Wilhelmshaven Verfahren und anordnung zum einstellen der betriebsparameter eines druckwerkes oder dergleichen
DE3607945A1 (de) * 1986-03-11 1987-09-17 Mannesmann Ag Bedienungspult fuer drucker, insbesondere fuer matrixdrucker
US4872119A (en) * 1986-04-28 1989-10-03 Teraoka Seiko Co., Ltd. Electronic postal scale for computing a postal charge
DE3631487A1 (de) * 1986-09-16 1988-03-17 Mettler Instrumente Ag Geraet, insbesondere waage, mit einer anzeige der resultate von nacheinander erfolgenden ausgewaehlten funktionsablaeufen
FR2617313B1 (fr) * 1987-02-27 1991-08-16 Smh Alcatel Systeme d'exploitation d'une machine a affranchir electronique
US4941091A (en) * 1987-06-30 1990-07-10 Pitney Bowes Inc. Mail management system transaction data customizing and screening
US4927278A (en) 1987-12-29 1990-05-22 Brother Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Tape cassette and tape printer for use therewith
US4846597A (en) * 1988-03-25 1989-07-11 Advanced Matrix Technology, Inc. Line printer panel and control system
DE3821355A1 (de) * 1988-06-24 1989-12-28 Telefunken Electronic Gmbh Auswahl- und steuersystem
EP0496785B1 (fr) * 1989-10-17 1997-03-26 The Perkin-Elmer Corporation Interface robotique
JP3168570B2 (ja) * 1989-11-08 2001-05-21 富士通株式会社 アイコンパターン自動生成装置および方法
US5140678A (en) * 1990-05-04 1992-08-18 International Business Machines Corporation Computer user interface with window title bar icons

Patent Citations (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4495581A (en) * 1981-10-19 1985-01-22 Piccione James M User programmable postal rate calculator
US4814995A (en) * 1982-03-29 1989-03-21 Pitney Bowes Inc. Postage value determining scale with recall and display of special fee entries
US4731728A (en) * 1985-01-10 1988-03-15 Pitney Bowes Inc. Postage meter with means for preventing unauthorized postage printing
EP0386390A2 (fr) * 1989-03-08 1990-09-12 Frama Ag Machine à affranchir

Cited By (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP0718801A1 (fr) * 1994-12-21 1996-06-26 Francotyp-Postalia GmbH Interface utelisateur pour une machine à affranchir
US5818020A (en) * 1994-12-21 1998-10-06 Francotyp-Postalia Ag & Co. User interface for a postage meter machine
EP0731425A1 (fr) * 1995-03-07 1996-09-11 Frama Ag Dispositif de détermination de la valeur d'affranchissement
EP0919957A1 (fr) * 1997-11-28 1999-06-02 Neopost Industrie Dispositif d'impression de donnée d'information sur des articles de courrier
FR2771836A1 (fr) * 1997-11-28 1999-06-04 Neopost Ind Dispositif d'impression de donnees d'information sur des articles de courrier
EP1008962A2 (fr) 1998-12-03 2000-06-14 Francotyp-Postalia Aktiengesellschaft & Co. Dispositif pour l'entrée et l'affichage d'informations de l'utilisateur sur un dispositif d'affichage

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE4217478A1 (de) 1993-11-25
DE59309268D1 (de) 1999-02-18
EP0867840A2 (fr) 1998-09-30
DE59310392D1 (de) 2007-11-22
EP0571061B1 (fr) 1999-01-07
EP0571061A3 (fr) 1995-05-31
EP0867840A3 (fr) 2000-09-27
EP0867840B1 (fr) 2007-10-10

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
DE3718594C3 (de) Steuerungsvorrichtung einer Druckmaschine
EP0658861B1 (fr) Procédé d'exploitation d'une machine à affranchir
EP0716398B1 (fr) Circuit d'interface pour machine d'affranchissement
EP0387202A2 (fr) Machine à affranchir
EP0867840B1 (fr) Machine à affranchir avec interface utilisateur flexible
EP0718801B1 (fr) Interface utelisateur pour une machine à affranchir
DE3631487C2 (fr)
EP0422434A2 (fr) Dispositif de mise à la date du timbre à date d'une machine à affranchir
EP0406663A2 (fr) Dispositif pour augmenter (arrondir) un prix de voyage
EP0047926B1 (fr) Commande de la mise hors circuit de l'entraînement des éléments de dosage d'encre dans des machines d'impression rotatives
CH663101A5 (de) Vorrichtung zur einstellung der typenraeder des datumsdruckwerkes in elektronisch gesteuerten frankiermaschinen.
EP0534123B1 (fr) Clavier de destination et dispositif d'affichage à l'étage pour ascenseurs
EP0809215A2 (fr) Module calculateur d'affranchissement interchangeable et procédé pour transmission de données
DE3719817C2 (fr)
DE3841251C2 (de) Rastvorrichtung
DE20314910U1 (de) Anordnung zur Erzeugung eines Druckbildes für Frankier- und Poststempelmaschinen
EP0305753B1 (fr) Procédé pour introduire des paramètres opératoires dans une machine à écrire commandée par microprocesseur ou dans une machine de bureau similaire
DE3841235C2 (de) Druckrad-Einstellvorrichtung
EP0084575A1 (fr) Dispositif de contrôle d'un taximètre électronique
EP1008962B1 (fr) Dispositif pour l'entrée et l'affichage d'informations de l'utilisateur sur un dispositif d'affichage
EP0386390B1 (fr) Machine à affranchir
DE3213796C2 (fr)
DE4107030A1 (de) Verfahren zum laden grafischer daten in eine frankiermaschine
DE2724065B2 (de) Verfahren und Schaltungsanordnung zur manuellen Eingabe von Informationen (Daten)
EP1141794B1 (fr) Procede et dispositif pour representer une surface

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB IT LI

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA GMBH

PUAL Search report despatched

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A3

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB IT LI

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 19950627

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT & CO.

RAP3 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT & CO.

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 19970522

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAG Despatch of communication of intention to grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB IT LI

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: ROTTMANN, ZIMMERMANN + PARTNER AG

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 59309268

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 19990218

GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

Effective date: 19990128

ET Fr: translation filed
ITF It: translation for a ep patent filed

Owner name: STUDIO JAUMANN P. & C. S.N.C.

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

26N No opposition filed
REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: IF02

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20090527

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20090523

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20090526

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20090522

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20090519

Year of fee payment: 17

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

Effective date: 20100519

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20110131

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100531

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100531

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100519

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101201

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100531

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20100519