EP0805419A2 - Method for processing data in a mail processing system with a franking machine and arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

The method involves printing out a document including address field and notes, scanning of the notes in a post position, data processing and franking. Postal items are detected in the transport path to the franking machine. Data are accessed in the franking machine according to the detected address and/or notes and customer data automatically entered into the franking machine. Print images specific to the originator can be accessed in a second step involving the alteration of data in non-volatile memory. The data are processed processing in franking mode with customer specific accounting before franking.

Description

The invention relates to a method for data processing in a mail processing system with a franking machine according to the type specified in the preamble of claims 1, 2, 21, 25, 26, 27 and 28 and an arrangement according to the type specified in the preamble of claims 29 and 31.

Letters are created in modern offices on the personal computer. The printed letters are enveloped by hand in the office or automatically enveloped in a post office with an inserting system. Such post offices also have franking machines.

A franking machine is used for franking mail and can be equipped with a control unit, a storage means, an input means, a MODEM or other data receiving means, an input / output control means, a display means and a printer. For example, a fixed print head prints the franking imprint column by column with simultaneous letter transport. A print width of approximately 1 inch is achieved.

If the postage meter contains a postage calculator, weight information is entered by the scale. According to EP 566 225 A2, a method for data entry into a franking machine is already known for such a system, which uses chip cards or a cellular communication network to enter tariff changes. Such chip cards, which have a plurality of non-volatile memories or separately accessible memory areas and a microprocessor, are successively inserted into a single read / write unit in order to serially transmit data representing different information into the franking machine. This data stored in the franking machine can then be accessed during its operation. Such a franking machine is a stand-alone franking machine and is not intended to be integrated into a mail processing system with a large number of devices.

If the balance contains a postage calculator, the postage values determined in the balance are transmitted from the balance to the franking machine. In the German application (official file number P 44 47 404.0-53), a method and an arrangement for data entry into a scale were proposed, the scale of the carrier being transmitted to the scale via the franking machine so that the postage values can be determined according to a current tariff . The franking machine checks whether the carrier's tariff table data stored in the scale is still valid and automatically decides whether reloading or updating is necessary. After initialization, normal operation is only carried out if the tariff table data in the scale is up to date. The update takes place after switching on, preferably by means of a chip card, and is dependent on conditions, such as, for example, when called up at the beginning Data of a clock / date module changed over time can be determined by the microprocessor as relevant for a reloading requirement. As a result, communication is carried out, with the data center transmitting tariff table data and possibly further files to the franking machine on the basis of the transmitted request. The franking machine is equipped with a routine for displaying and automatically entering print data. The change is displayed as a clear representation of the print image. However, this requires a comfortable and therefore expensive user interface (keyboard and screen) at least in the franking machine.

All of the above-mentioned individual solutions for franking machines therefore require an expensive own user interface or a coupling with a personal computer in order to use its user interface (keyboard and screen).

A coupling to a personal computer has already been proposed in EP 493 948 A2 in order to use this as an input means. The postage fees are stored in different registers, which are assigned to different authorities. However, it cannot be inferred from this document whether and how these authorities are selected by the customer or how an assignment is made. This special solution for a franking machine stores the accounting data for various services. A disadvantage is the effort involved as a means of input due to a separate interface between the franking machine and the workstation. A separate printer is connected to the separate interface for printing accounting reports.

DE 39 03 718 A1 has furthermore proposed a coupling to a personal computer in order to provide department-related accounting data via a print out separate printer. A disadvantage is the required control unit, which has to be connected as a separate device between the individual devices such as scales, franking machine and personal computer. However, using manually inserted smart cards to enter accounting reports into the personal computer is a hindrance to automating the creation of accounting reports.

A mail processing machine with a barcode user interface is already known from EP 600 749 A2. Commands are entered via a barcode reader to control the mail processing machine. However, this requires a catalog with the list of barcode commands and their manual scanning. Manual positioning of a pen and scanning for command input on the one hand reduces the input security and on the other hand assumes a sense of responsibility on the part of the operator, i.e. one trusts that he would not manipulate with the intention of falsification. It is trusted that there are no such commands in the list that can be misused with the intention of forgery. Entering unlisted, counterfeiting commands, i.e. the correspondingly generated barcode cannot be prevented. It is not ensured that the order of the barcode entries can only be made in accordance with the order of the mail items supplied.

It has already been proposed in DE 40 18 166 C2 to carry out franking and / or address printing with a franking module integrated in a personal computer. For this purpose, the franking module is arranged in a slot of a drive insert of a personal computer. On the one hand, such a solution limits the universal use of the personal computer by occupying the slot in the drive slot and, on the other hand, has no other mail transport device for other envelope formats and is therefore for that reason alone mainly suitable for standard mail in offices with low to medium mail volumes. A large number of personal computers equipped in this way would have to be used in the office for a higher volume of mail. However, the integration of the franking module in the personal computer is more expensive than a solution in which a commercially available personal computer and a commercially available franking machine are coupled to one another via a data line.

A mail processing system with a large number of devices which work with the aid of a PC and which already have connected franking machines is described in US Pat. No. 4,800,506. The individual facilities perform functions for the new compilation of the letters in the order of the postcodes of their addresses. The aforementioned functions include opening a letter, scanning certain locations, possibly printing out the letter again or of notes, folding, inserting, postage calculation and orderly filing or bundling. Discounts are granted by some public postal carriers for mail items pre-sorted in this way. This process is expensive in that it may require the letter to be printed again. A powerful computer must be installed in the post office. The latter must be operated by appropriately trained staff.

DE OS 38 08 178 describes a mail handling system with a first computer that creates the documents on fanfold paper and that is in communication with a second computer that controls devices in the post office. Communication is achieved on the one hand by means of markings printed on the document and on the other hand by a communication link. The enveloping, addressing and franking of the mail is made indirect by means of a coding which identifies the respective piece of mail controllable. In a database, these identification codes are assigned parameter values which are used to control the inserting, addressing and franking of the mail. The database is connected to the second computer, to which the respective coding of the item of mail is transmitted via a coupled scanning device. Address printing in the post office is highlighted as an advantage, with regard to the easy subsequent change of, among other things, the addressing of filled envelopes and thus the avoidance of an invoice-like appearance of the envelopes, which adheres to window envelopes.

Such window envelopes are said not to be opened because bills are suspected. Apart from the fact that it would be nonsensical not to open window envelopes because bills are suspected because reminders are sent to such companies or persons, a prejudice comes to light here. This prejudice against addressing when creating letters and against the use of window envelopes leads to the aforementioned equipping of the post office with complicated technology. If settings have to be made in the post office in order to use cheap services from another private carrier, however, the aforementioned equipment of the post office with complicated technology is still inadequate, because now more highly qualified employees are required. Before mail items are dispatched, the weight and postage amount are determined. In connection with the increasing occurrence of private carriers, which are in competition with each other, cheaper special tariffs for transport and related services are increasingly being offered. A reduction in weight by reducing the number of times the envelope is used is often sufficient to meet the requirements for such special tariffs. Especially in direct marketing there is a lot of redundancy and scope in the information available. For example, the format, number of lines, font height etc. could be optimized in the interest of costs. So the number of pages could be reduced when creating letters. However, the employees of the post office are hardly able to make such entries or changes in the database. The employees of the post office would now have to notify the employees who are creating the letter contents or to make such changes. However, such a procedure would only lead to unnecessary delays in mail processing.

The invention has for its object to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and to create a more flexible mail processing system with a franking machine that can be expanded without prejudice to future services of various private mail carriers and ensures secure and largely automatic mail processing.

The occurrence of manual input errors in the post office franking machine is to be reduced. A method is therefore to be developed which, when a letter is created before the letter is printed, provides essential data for a subsequent accounting of the postage fee in a franking machine.

The arrangement for data processing in a franking machine is intended to allow an automatic system for setting essential data and an automatic system for billing postage fees according to cost centers, so that it is unnecessary to make manual franking machine entries.

Despite a large number of mail carriers, billing should be clear and understandable in the interest of the customer. An additional task consists of enabling the presentation of accounts on the one hand by cost center and on the other hand by public and private mail carriers by displaying and printing.

These objects are achieved with the features of claims 1, 2, 21, 25, 26, 27 and 28 or 29 and 31.

The invention is based on the idea of avoiding restrictions in the financing and implementation of mail processing as far as possible. Window envelopes, standard envelopes, as well as other forms of envelope, such as are sometimes preferred by private carriers, can be used to insert envelopes in the office. In addition, the postal items are already addressed in the office. Only the franking continues as before in the post office by means of a franking machine, for which the possibility has now been created to produce any type of imprints in the manner required by private carriers.

A mail carrier selected by means of the user interface of the personal computer is at least displayed or additionally printed out with the letter content as mail carrier information.

A letter created on the personal computer has a format with an area for a specific printed address. In a first solution variant, this information about the recipient address is additionally supplemented by cost center information and printed out together with the letter content.

Sub-variants of the first solution variant are based on the possibility of modern office printers to print a letter recipient address as well as the cost center and / or carrier information on an envelope.

The invention is further based on the consideration of scanning this information from the letter or envelope in the remote post office using a commercially available scanner (scanner) and automatically entering it into the franking machine. At least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that different formats are also scanned.

The franking machine automatically checks whether the selected services are available and otherwise starts communication with a remote data center, sending special request data and receiving the required data from the data center and loading the necessary data into its memory.

A solution is advantageously created in order for a mail carrier (USPS, UPS, Deutsche Post AG or others) to be able to call up at least the tariff table applicable to the location of the respective carrier in the system and load it if necessary.

The usual spatial separation of the post office from the modern office is assumed, with the letter contents and shipping information being created and department-related in the office, i.e. broken down by cost center number, managed. This is particularly advantageous if a large number of small companies work in one office, which operate a common post office, but have to invoice for the services of the carriers separately and independently of the other small companies. A separate cost center number is then assigned to each small company. In the post office, cost center or departmental billing takes place in the franking machine. And it is planned to create separate accounting reports for small companies or departments and for public or private mail carriers.

Those carried out in the personal computer in the office Operations include text creation and processing, entering the address and assigning a cost center number for cost center-related billing, and menu-driven selection of carriers.

The operations carried out in the post office include at least the scanning of the address field or a note with cost center and / or carrier information. After the aforementioned information from the letter or from the envelope has been scanned, this information is processed in the balance or franking machine and the franking of mail pieces.

Of course, such a preset carrier can of course still be changed manually in the post office if, for example, the entry was not made in the office or another carrier is cheaper. If it is intended to send a large number of letters created on the same day to the same postcode, it can usually be assumed that it will be cheaper if no different private carriers are used, but only the same carrier is used.

• Durchführen eines ersten Schrittes, umfassend eine Poststückdetektierung im Transportweg zur Frankiermaschine und ein Abtasten des Adreßfeldes und/oder des Vermerks bei der Poststückdetektierung zugeführter Poststücke im Transportweg zum Druckkopf der Frankiermaschine, wobei im Ergebnis eine Information betreff Beförderer oder Poststückversand und/oder Kostenstelle automatisch in die Frankiermaschine eingegeben wird, und wobei für eine automatische Druckdateneingabe in die Frankiermaschine mindestens ein Aufrufen von nichtflüchtig gespeicherten Einstelldaten erfolgt,
• Durchführen einer Verarbeitungs-Routine in einem zweiten Schritt, einschließlich mindestens einer Routine zur automatischen Änderung nichtflüchtig gespeicherter Einstelldaten, zum Erzeugen befördererspezifischer Druckbilder bei Selektion eines vorbestimmten Postbeförderers, zur automatischen Druckdateneingabe und -Prüfung sowie zur Anzeige, zur automatischen oder manuellen Eingabe, gegebenfalls enthaltend eine Subroutine zum Zuordnen einer Kostenstellen-Nummer zu einer Klischee-Nummer zur automatischen Eingabe der Klischee-Nummer bei Eingabe der Kostenstellen-Nummer sowie
• Verarbeiten der Daten im Frankiermodus mit einer kostenstellen- und/oder befördererbezogenen Abrechnung vor dem Frankieren.

The method for data processing in a mailing system comprises steps for printing out a document including the address field and note, for scanning the note in a post office and for processing the data and for franking with a franking machine. A document is to be understood as label prints, letters made of paper or other carriers. The note is a barcode or other form of marking. The method according to the invention is characterized by the following steps:

• Carrying out a first step, comprising a mail piece detection in the transport path to the franking machine and a scanning of the address field and / or the note in the mail piece detection Mail items in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine, with the result that information relating to the carrier or mail item dispatch and / or cost center is automatically entered into the franking machine, and at least one call of non-volatile stored setting data takes place for automatic printing data input into the franking machine,
• Carrying out a processing routine in a second step, including at least one routine for automatically changing non-volatile stored setting data, for generating carrier-specific print images when a predetermined mail carrier is selected, for automatically entering and checking the print data, and for displaying, for automatic or manual input, optionally containing one Subroutine for assigning a cost center number to a cliché number for automatically entering the cliché number when entering the cost center number and
• Processing the data in franking mode with cost center and / or carrier-related billing before franking.

In the second step with the routine for automatically changing non-volatile stored setting data, a routine is provided for forming request data for the reloading of selected carrier data and / or current carrier tariffs of the selected carrier. If the selected or missing data is missing, communication is carried out in a third step with a remote data center, with carrier-specific files comprising at least carrier-identifying image and current tariff files being transmitted from the data center to the franking machine on the basis of the aforementioned request data.

The improvements of the franking machine according to the invention are largely on the one hand automatic processing of the letter when using different tariff structures of different carriers and on the other hand in the creation of flexibility in terms of billing against different carriers. If the postal monopoly for mailing ceases to exist, an increase in postal delivery by regional, national or international private carriers is to be expected. It is already known from parcel shipping systems to provide invoices for different carriers. The billing for different carriers is usually done with a direct debit when using parcel shipping systems. However, with such billing, the customer has no automatic processing, postage calculation and security control available, as is the case, for example, with postal authorities for a franking machine into which a credit has been loaded. According to the invention, billing to various private carriers is now also provided in the postage meter module in a postage fee module on the basis of prepaid or credited credit.

• 1. Der Brief wird mittels eines Textverarbeitungssystems auf einem Personalcomputer erstellt. Dies entspricht dem heutigen Standardfall.
• 2. Der für den Versand dieses Briefes geeignetste Beförderer wird ausgewählt. Das kann für eine eilige Zustellung im Ort beispielsweise ein regionaler Kurrierdienst sein, für Standardpost aber auch die nationale (staatliche) Postagentur. Im Adreßfeld des Briefkopfes wird dazu ein Vermerk eingetragen. Dieser Vermerk kann aus einer Datei übernommen werden, in der der Benutzer menügeführt aus einem Angebot an Beförderern auswählt, es kann auch der Beförderer über die Tastatur direkt eingegeben werden. Weiterhin kann für jeden Beförderer auch ein maschinenlesbarer Code z.B ein Barcode gespeichert sein und oder ein grafisches Symbol.
• 3. Der Brief wird samt Adreßfeld und einem Vermerk ausgedruckt, der die Information betreff Beförderer und/oder Kostenstelle automatisch in die Frankiermaschine einzugeben gestattet.
• 4. Der Brief wird von Hand oder maschinell in einen Fensterumschlag kuvertiert. Alternativ zum Ausdruck des Beförderervermerkes in den Briefkopf kann auch ein entsprechender Aufkleber, der bedruckt wurde oder der diese Informationen vorgedruckt enthält, auf das Kuvert geklebt werden.
• 5. Das Adreßfeld mitsamt dem Beförderervermerk wird mit einer geeigneten Scanneinrichtung abgetastet. Diese Einrichtung ist entweder separat vorhanden oder vorzugsweise in der Frankiermaschine FM z.B. in einem automatischem Zuführer im Posttransportweg angeordnet.
• 6. Das gescannte Pixelbild wird in eine Verarbeitungseinrichtung übertragen. Dort wird der Beförderervermerk entschlüsselt. Diese Verarbeitungseinrichtung ist in der Frankiermaschine FM, in eine Waage oder in ein anderes zusätzliches peripheres Gerät, z.B. in einen automatischen Zuführer, integriert.
• 7. An einen Portorechner wird die Befördererinformation übertragen.
• 8. Der Portorechner enthält die dem Beförderer zugehörige gespeicherte Portotabelle. Falls ein Beförderer bzw. Dienst neu ausgewählt wurde und die Portotabelle für den gewählten Dienst bzw. Beförderer nicht verfügbar ist, oder aufgrund begrenzten Speicherplatzes nicht zu den ständig gespeicherten Portotabellen gehört, wird von der Frankiermaschine FM automatisch eine beispielsweise vom Frankiermaschinenhersteller betriebene Datenzentrale angewählt und die geforderte Portotabelle in die Speicher der Frankiermaschine FM geladen. Jeder Portotabelle kann ein Datum für das Inkraftreten und oder die Mindestgültigkeitsdauer zugeordnet sein. Die Frankiermaschine FM enthält eine Realzeituhr mit deren Datum die Mindestgültigkeitsdauer der entsprechenden Portotabelle verglichen wird, um ggf. über die Datenzentrale eine neue Tabelle anzufordern. Zur Kennzeichnung der verwandten Portotabelle kann ein entsprechendes Kennzeichen in das Frankierfeld mit abgedruckt werden.
• 9. Das spezielle Porto wird aufgrund von bereits vorhandenen Daten, wie Format und Versendungsart sowie aufgrund einer Wägung des Gewichts berechnet. Alternativ wäre es durch eine manuelle Eingabe zwar jederzeit möglich, den Portowert zu ändern. Dazu müßte eine spezielle Portotabelle dem Benutzer über ein Display visuell angezeigt werden und dieser wählt danach den Portobetrag aus, wie das bereits in der DE 42 17 478 Al vorgeschlagen wurde. Jedoch würde damit keine strenge Bindung an den Tarif und damit keine Abrechnungssicherheit erreicht.
• 10. Die Belastung des Benutzers mit dem speziellen Portobetrag wird auf dem ebenfalls automatisch eingestellten Portokonto des Beförderers verrechnet. Dies ist sowohl im Lastschriftverfahren möglich, als auch im Vorgabeverfahren. Beim Lastschriftverfahren wird ein Debitkonto abgelesen, wobei der gespeicherte Wert um den zu frankierenden Portowert erhöht wird. Beim Vorgabeverfahren wird ein vorausgezahlter Betrag als elektronisches Guthaben im Guthabenkonto der Frankiermaschine geführt. Eine weitere Verrechnungsvariante ist nun die Verrechnung auf einer mit der Frankiermaschine FM in Kontakt gebrachten speziellen Chipkarte (ähnlich Telefonkarte oder Wertkarte), die jeder Beförderer editiert hat. Durch die bereits vorgenommene Auswahl des Beförderers kann aber auch statt einer Wertkarte eine universelle Carrierkarte verwendet werden, in welcher für jeden Beförderer ein Speicherbereich reserviert ist, in dem die Abrechnungsdaten gespeichert werden.

The following process steps describe the solution:

• 1. The letter is created by means of a word processing system on a personal computer. This corresponds to today's standard case.
• 2. The most suitable carrier for sending this letter is selected. This can be, for example, a regional courier service for urgent delivery in town, but also the national (state) postal agency for standard mail. A note is entered in the address field of the letterhead. This note can be taken from a file in which the user selects from a range of carriers in a menu-driven manner; the carrier can also be entered directly via the keyboard. A machine-readable code can also be used for each carrier For example, a barcode can be saved and or a graphic symbol.
• 3. The letter is printed out together with the address field and a note which allows the information regarding the carrier and / or cost center to be entered automatically into the franking machine.
• 4. The letter is inserted into a window envelope by hand or by machine. As an alternative to printing the carrier's note in the letterhead, a corresponding sticker that has been printed on or that contains this information pre-printed can be stuck onto the envelope.
• 5. The address field together with the carrier note is scanned with a suitable scanner. This device is either present separately or preferably arranged in the franking machine FM, for example in an automatic feeder in the mail transport route.
• 6. The scanned pixel image is transferred to a processing device. The carrier note is decrypted there. This processing device is integrated in the franking machine FM, in a scale or in another additional peripheral device, for example in an automatic feeder.
• 7. The carrier information is transmitted to a postage calculator.
• 8. The postage calculator contains the stored postage table belonging to the carrier. If a carrier or service has been newly selected and the postage table is not available for the selected service or carrier, or is not one of the permanently stored postage tables due to limited storage space, the franking machine FM automatically becomes a data center operated, for example, by the franking machine manufacturer selected and the required postage table loaded into the memory of the franking machine FM. Each postage table can be assigned a date of entry into force and or the minimum period of validity. The franking machine FM contains a real-time clock with the date of which the minimum validity period of the corresponding postage table is compared in order to request a new table via the data center, if necessary. To identify the related postage table, a corresponding identifier can also be printed in the franking field.
• 9. The special postage is calculated on the basis of existing data, such as format and type of dispatch as well as weighing the weight. Alternatively, it would be possible to change the postage value at any time by entering it manually. For this purpose, a special postage table would have to be visually shown to the user via a display and the user then selects the postage amount, as has already been proposed in DE 42 17 478 A1. However, this would not result in a strict tariff binding and thus no billing security.
• 10. The user's debit with the special postage amount will be charged to the carrier's automatically set postage account. This is possible both in the direct debit procedure and in the default procedure. With the direct debit procedure, a debit account is read, the saved value being increased by the postage to be franked. In the default procedure, a prepaid amount is kept as electronic credit in the credit account of the franking machine. Another billing variant is now billing on a special chip card (similar to a telephone card or prepaid card) brought into contact with the franking machine FM, which each carrier has edited. Due to the selection of the carrier already made, it can also Instead of a prepaid card, a universal carrier card is used, in which a storage area is reserved for each carrier, in which the accounting data is stored.

When using a MODEM, billing data can be electronically transmitted to the remote data center at intervals, which carries out the billing with the carrier on behalf of the customer. Alternatively, the data center can grant the customer a credit and transmit a credit after a query to the customer bank regarding the creditworthiness. In connection with the selected carrier, there is information about the applicable billing type and the respective logo, which indicates the use of the current carrier tariff. The aforementioned information and its assignment are stored in the franking machine for each carrier that can be selected.

If necessary, a receipt can be printed out for each mail carrier with the print head of the franking machine, after the reloading has been carried out after each reloading. This is made possible by switching the franking machine to internal pressure. It is further provided that a listing of the entirety and / or individual financial reloading data within a period of time and other register or service data can be printed out as proof from the print head of the franking machine, if this is desired.

Figur 1,

Blockschaltbild für ein Postverarbeitungssystem mit einer Frankiermaschine,

Figur 2,

Blockschaltbild für eine Frankiermaschine mit automatischer Datenverarbeitung nach einer ersten Variante,

Figur 3,

Gesamtablaufplan für eine Frankiermaschine mit integrierter Portoberechnung und mit automatischer Datenverarbeitung nach der ersten Variante,

Figur 4a,

Blockschaltbild für eine Frankiermaschine mit externer Waage für eine Portoberechnung und mit automatischer Datenverarbeitung nach einer zweiten Variante,

Figur 4b,

Gesamtablaufplan für eine Frankiermaschine mit externer Waage für eine Portoberechnung, und mit automatischer Datenverarbeitung nach der zweiten Variante,

Figur 4c,

Blockschaltbild für eine Frankiermaschine gemäß einer dritten Variante mit Kostenstellen/Beförderer-Abtaster angeschlossen an der externen Waage für eine Portoberechnung,

Figur 4d,

Gesamtablaufplan für eine Frankiermaschine gemäß der dritten Variante nach Figur 4c,

Figur 5a bis 5c,

Auswertung einer Dateneingabe für die Frankiermaschine im Rahmen einer Eingabe/ Anzeigeroutine, nach der ersten Variante,

Figur 6,

Teilablaufplan für eine automatische Dateneingabe aufgrund der abgetasteten Kostenstellen- und/oder Befördererinformation,

Figur 7a,

Ablaufplan für den Frankiermodus mit einer beförderer- und kostenstellenbezogenen Verarbeitung von Abrechnungsdaten,

Figur 7b,

Teilablaufplan für die Abrechnungs- und Druckroutine im Frankiermodus mit beförderer-und kostenstellenbezogener Abrechnung,

Figur 7c,

Befördererbezogene Abrechnung in den Postregistern,

Figur 7d,

zweidimensionale Kostenstellen/Beförderer-Matrix,

Figur 8,

Flußdiagramm zur Bildung von Anforderungsdaten für eine Datenübertragung von einer Datenzentrale,

Figur 9,

Kommunikationsmodus für die Frankiermaschine, um eine Datenübertragung durchzuführen,

Figur 10,

Routine zum Empfang und Behandeln übermittelter Dienstleistungsdaten in der Frankiermaschine,

Figur 11,

Verfahren nach der ersten Variante des Postverarbeitungssystems,

Figur 12,

Verfahren nach der zweiten Variante des Postverarbeitungssystems,

Figur 13,

Verfahren nach der dritten Variante des Postverarbeitungssystems,

Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims or are shown in more detail below together with the description of the preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the figures. Show it:

Figure 1,

Block diagram for a mail processing system with a franking machine,

Figure 2,

Block diagram for a franking machine with automatic data processing according to a first variant,

Figure 3,

Overall schedule for a franking machine with integrated postage calculation and with automatic data processing according to the first variant,

Figure 4a,

Block diagram for a franking machine with external scales for postage calculation and with automatic data processing according to a second variant,

Figure 4b,

Overall flowchart for a franking machine with external scales for postage calculation, and with automatic data processing according to the second variant,

Figure 4c,

Block diagram for a franking machine according to a third variant with cost centers / carrier scanners connected to the external scale for postage calculation,

Figure 4d,

Overall flow chart for a franking machine according to the third variant according to FIG. 4c,

5a to 5c,

Evaluation of data input for the franking machine as part of an input / display routine, according to the first variant,

Figure 6,

Partial flow chart for automatic data entry based on the scanned cost center and / or carrier information,

Figure 7a,

Flowchart for franking mode with carrier and cost center-related processing of accounting data,

Figure 7b,

Partial flow chart for the accounting and printing routine in franking mode with carrier and cost center related accounting,

Figure 7c,

Carrier-related billing in the postal registers,

Figure 7d,

two-dimensional cost center / carrier matrix,

Figure 8,

Flow chart for the formation of request data for a data transmission from a data center,

Figure 9,

Communication mode for the franking machine to carry out data transmission

Figure 10,

Routine for receiving and handling transmitted service data in the franking machine,

Figure 11,

Procedure according to the first variant of the mail processing system,

Figure 12,

Procedure according to the second variant of the mail processing system,

Figure 13,

Method according to the third variant of the mail processing system,

The block diagram shown in FIG. 1 for a mail processing system with a franking machine shows the flow of mail from a modern office 21 to a post office. In at least one such office 21, letters are created on a large number of personal computers PCa, PCb, PCc, ..., with associated printers Da, Db, Dc, ... and possibly other peripheral devices.

A mail carrier is selected and at least displayed by means of a user interface of the personal computer. In the preferred sub-variant, the selected mail carrier information is additionally printed out with the letter content in the address area and a window envelope is used for inserting. Another sub-variant is based on an envelope. If necessary, the information about the selected mail carrier can be stuck on the envelope in the form of a sticker in the context of this manual envelope. A sub-variant is also possible, with pre-printed or prepared envelopes being used to identify a private carrier. The printer can in particular be a commercially available printer equipped for printing envelopes, which is connected to the personal computer. In the post office, at least one of the scanners scans the carrier and / or cost center information, which is printed at least in the address field or can be scanned through a window of a window envelope. The scanner is electrically connected to the franking machine via a data line 18. In addition, an additional scale can be arranged in the transport path to the franking machine in order to determine at least the weight data of the letter. The scanner 26 can be arranged, for example, in the feed to the scale 22. The scanners, possibly also the scale 22, can advantageously be part of an automatic feed station, which is arranged in the post office at the beginning of the letter transport route in front of the franking machine. The franking machine FM can establish communication with a data center DZ via a suitable communication means 17 if required.

The block diagram shown in FIG. 2 for a franking machine has a programmable processor system, which has at least one scanner 26 and a modem 23, a scale 22, one Chip card read / write unit 20 and / or other corresponding receiving means or input means is connected. The scanner is positioned at the beginning of the secure postal route in the post office. If the franking machine is equipped with an internal dynamic scale 22 and the internal mail route cannot be influenced from outside, the scanner 26 can also be arranged in a suitable place in the mail route in front of the franking machine. The latter position results from uniform postal regulations for the position of the address. Corresponding programs for the position of the address and the other information exist in memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc in the office 21, which together control a printer or separate printer correspondingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed. An additional line on the envelope or in the address field of the envelope is provided as the area to be printed. For different formats for envelopes, a correspondingly different positioning, if appropriate, of a further scanner 26.1 results. The scanners are connected to a first mail item sensor 16 with a register unit 19, which temporarily stores data and carries out a parallel / series conversion. The register unit 19 is electronically connected to an input / output control means 4 of the franking machine for serial data transmission via the data line 18.

In the franking machine housing there are input and output means 2, 3, 20 to 23 via the input / output control means 4, with a processor system 5 to 11, 14, 50, 80, 81 having a post-technical security area 50 directly or - in a manner not shown - connected via a BUS. The processor system consists of at least one memory means 5, a clock / date module 8 and a processing unit (CPU) as control means 6 and possibly a special circuit 80 and / or 81 for automating the loading of data from a data center via modem or chip card or one other suitable means of transmission. The special circuit and / or program means 80, 81 are preferably part of a battery-supported non-volatile memory (CMOS-NV-RAM) in the clock / date module. Further supporting programs can be stored inside a program memory PSP 11 and / or a non-volatile memory EEPROM in the memory means 5b. A pressure controller (DS) 14 is designed, for example, as an ASIC and is adapted to the respective preferably digital printing method.

In another variant, it is provided that an input / output control means 4 including a pressure control 14 is connected to the control means 6 of the franking machine via a bus and is designed, for example, as an ASIC. The print head 1 is connected to the print controller 14.

The storage means usually consist of several permanent and temporary non-volatile memories. Part of the memory, together with the CPU 6, forms a postage computer in a known manner and another part forms a protected postal area within the processor system. For billing, the non-volatile memories of the other part of the memory mentioned above are used. In particular, it is provided to equip the protected postal area 50 with a special accounting unit, which works in a completely forgery-proof manner and relieves the CPU 6 of this task. The protected postal area 50 of the processor system of the postage meter machine can advantageously be designed as a hardware-controlled billing unit in the form of a special circuit module or, for example, as an ASIC, so that the billing process cannot be manipulated without authorization, as already described under the postage meter machine in the German patent application 196 03 467.1 was proposed.

In addition, an area organized according to the carrier and cost centers can be provided in a special cost center memory 9 in order to carry out cost center-related operations. In this way, additional cost centers can be set up or deleted without reducing the security against manipulation. The protected postal area 50 within the processor system can only be read, but not overwritten. During the franking machine service life, data such as the number of items and the amount of consumption total are only increased, but never reduced, in accordance with the franking with a postage value. In particular, the postage computer can be formed from the CPU 6 and memory areas of the EEPROM 5b and / or other non-volatile memories. A part of the memory areas of the EEPROM 5b are intended to hold tariff tables of the individual carriers.

In contrast, in the cost center memory KSP 9, individual cost center data (number of pieces, amount of consumption total) can be reduced by a predetermined amount or set to zero at the beginning of a billing period. The correspondingly actuated keys on the keyboard 2 and / or other input means establish the connection to external memories in order to carry out cost center-related operations.

A permanent memory PSP 11 of the storage means of the franking machine has programs for communication via interfaces in the input / output control means 4 with the scanner 26 and with the input means 20 to 23. Other peripheral input / output means (not shown) can also be connected to the processor system of the franking machine. In the input / output control means 4, at least one parallel interface to the display unit 3 and, in connection with the print controller 14, at least one serial interface for print data control and data transmission can be arranged on the print head Control electronics may be provided. Another serial interface can be connected to a plurality of scanners or sensors via the aforementioned register unit 19. At least one scanner 26 is a pixel sensor with a higher resolution. Its data bits which are output in parallel are converted into data bits which can be called up in series by means of an associated sensor shift register of the register unit 19 which is controlled by the input / output control means 4. The input / output control means 4 is preferably designed such that a plurality of sensors or actuators with connected sensor or actuator shift registers can be connected to a single common shift register in an actuator / sensor controller via a common serial interface data line 18, as was explained in more detail in the German patent application entitled: Interface franking machine internal interface (official file number P 44 45 053.2).

The - not shown in more detail - the base of the franking machine consists of a print head 1 and a power electronics / sensor / actuator module 12, which contains a power supply and control for the drives (paper transport, printer, tape, strip dispenser) or including the required drive motor. These aforementioned means 1, 12 and an encoder 13 for detecting the mail piece transport speed are located in the base and are directly connected to the processor system 5, 8, 11, 14, 50, 80 and 81 and / or like the scale 22 and possibly other peripherals. I / O means coupled in the post office or in the office 21 via the input / output control means 4.

The franking machine has a receiving means or an external MODEM 23 and associated MODEM interface in the franking machine for the external MODEM or an internal MODEM. Communication with a remote data center is made possible via MODEM. Here Not only can an electronically stored credit be replenished in the franking machine, but current tariff table data and other data can also be transmitted.

In another variant, a telecommunication network is provided which contains an external memory with the data and / or flags that can be called up for reloading additional functions and information into the franking machine. The external memory is supplied with update data by the public postal authority and / or private carriers, preferably via the aforementioned data center.

Alternatively, an external memory with required update data can also be provided in a mobile radio communication network and addressed by a corresponding communication connection and communication means. Assuming intermediate storage in the transmission means, data packets are then transmitted under the control of the franking machine and, if necessary, automatic acceptance of the current tariff by the franking machine is thereby ensured. The tariffs are stored subsumed according to various public postal carriers or private carriers in separate storage areas of the aforementioned postage computer.

Special entries can be made with an alternative input means, in particular a chip card. This is brought into contact with the chip card read / write unit 20 serving as input means 20. The interface board of the chip card read / write unit is connected to a serial interface of the franking machine. The contacting device has at least 6 contacts and the data exchange between the unprotected and / or the protected card storage area and a non-volatile memory of the program storage means of the franking machine is carried out automatically as part of a communication protocol as soon as the chip card has been inserted into the slot.

Such a special post office chip card for the employees in the post office can be used advantageously for location entry. After approval of the new location or change of location, an appropriately programmed chip card is sent to the user. Before the machines of the post office are transported to a new location, they must be switched off. A location-specific initialization of the franking machine takes place automatically each time it is switched on. A standby mode is provided so that the franking machine does not often have to be switched on or off at the same location.

With the same chip card sent to the user, in addition to the setting, a corresponding postmark cliché text part for the changed place name and, if applicable, for the changed postal code is loaded into the franking machine in order to be able to modify the already stored print image data in accordance with the change of location, as already described in EP 566 225 A2 was proposed.

Each assignment of semi-variable print image data (window data) that fill a special window in the print image (frame data) is stored in special memory areas, for example the EEPROM 5b and / or another non-volatile memory of the franking machine.

It is envisaged that in the franking mode, before the franking image is printed out, the automatically or manually set postage value is billed according to the cost center, which is explained in more detail in FIGS. 7a to 7d. It is also envisaged that for cost center dependent billing by Franking machine a printout can be created, as has already been described in German Offenlegungsschrift DE 42 24 955. In the mail processing system according to the invention, when a sheet of paper is introduced into the printing area, a printing requirement is recognized by a customary second mail item sensor 16.1 and in response to a previous manual input action, including input of the cost center number in connection with a function key, a printout is then made by the franking machine. The used postage values are listed individually and cumulatively related to different carriers. The cost center printout is sent to the relevant department in the office 21 regularly or in response to a need report.

If necessary, data is also created for a carrier for whom the postage values of all the cost centers he serves are compiled. This makes sense if the departments are economically independent units, i.e. if there is a small company behind the cost center number, which an office 21 and the post office use together, but have to settle separately with the carrier.

In the personal computer of the office 21, the transmitted listing can also be compared with an internally stored listing. If the post office changes the attitude of the carrier, for example to take advantage of cheap offers or discounts from other carriers, this can be checked by means of such a comparison.

The overall flow chart for the franking machine shown in FIG. 3 shows a start and initialization routine, the latter including a sub-step 1011. After switching on, a communication requirement is formed in the aforementioned sub-step 1011 to enable automatic communication, for example via Modem 23 to initiate with the data center and to carry out a corresponding data transmission, in which the place name is changed in accordance with the current location in the date stamp.

The location-specific provision of data takes place optionally or in accordance with the type of franking machine present using a card-shaped transmission means or by means of appropriate receiving means from an external memory via a communication network (modem, mobile radio).

If a location is entered by means of a chip card via a chip card reading unit 20, approval must be obtained beforehand. Although this is more time-consuming, it also allows location registration for the respective mail handling system in the data center.

In another variant, instead of using remote data transmission or a chip card, the location is also entered, for example using a keyboard, when the franking machine is switched on by a new user, for example after a change of location. Such an input possibility exists after switching on in a sub-step 1011 to step 101 of initialization, by entering the postcode ZIP code in the franking machine.

During the initialization routine 101, in addition to entering the location, there is also the option of changing the previous carrier constellation by defining a new set of postal carriers, for example by entering a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the name of the postal carrier in sub-step 1012 of the step 101, as proposed in the European application (official file number 95 250 313.4): Methods and an arrangement for entering data into a balance. If someone later the carrier has been selected from the aforementioned set of postal carriers, only the carrier identification number (CIN) needs to be automatically transmitted to the franking machine and the data stored in non-volatile manner in sub-step 1012 under the carrier identification number (CIN).

After the initialization routine, a branch is made to a first step 201 in order to call at least non-volatile settings for the franking machine in sub-step 2040 if no mail item is detected in the mail feed path.

Until all manually required entries have been made in the second step 209, a mail piece that may have been fed in the meantime remains in a waiting position, preferably at the beginning of the feed path or, if appropriate, in the feed path on the scale 22. After having gone through further steps of the overall flowchart, the franking mode 400 is reached . It is recognized there that the manual input is completed by comparing the loop runs after the last input with a predetermined number of loop runs or a time period with a predetermined time period after the last input. It is now switched to the standby mode before returning to the system routine 200.

According to the invention, while the franking machine is in the operating or standby state, a scanner 26 positioned in the mail feed path to the franking machine can input data into the franking machine if a mail item is detected by a first postal item sensor 16 and is transported to the print head. A first flag is set. Even if the first mail item sensor 16 is actuated, a second flag is set. But if the second postal item sensor 16.1 is only alone or in front the first mail item sensor 16 is actuated, this can be ascertained in the query step 211, which then leads again to the error evaluation mode 213. If, for example, the franking machine is in the standby state and only the second postal item sensor 16.1 is activated, this does not result in franking. However, internal cost center printing or printing of service data or an advertising slogan can still be carried out.

The interfaces in the input / output control means 4 are selected in order to recognize the connected peripheral means and to switch the franking machine, if necessary, into a required preprogrammed operating mode which enables cooperation and communication with the aforementioned peripheral means. For example, detection of the scanned data can trigger a transport of the mail piece in the direction of the print head. The interface to the scanner 26 is selected in order to detect at least one cost center and / or carrier information in steps 2010 to 2017 in order to read valid data into the memory areas of the non-volatile memory of the postage meter machine provided for this purpose, so that the tamper-proof automatic setting which can thus be achieved is retained even in the event of an operating voltage failure. Now, in steps 2030 to 2035, the interface to the scale 22 is also selected, with a mode switchover taking place when a scale for weight entry is connected. The franking machine is then in the slave state in order to receive data from the peripheral means scanner 26 and scale 22. The new setting for the automatically entered weight value is also saved non-volatile, with the old setting data being overwritten.

In at least one subordinate step 202, a query is made as to whether the scanned data is meaningful Provide information or whether at least one limit value has been exceeded, ie whether a criterion has been met which, in a subsequent step, leads to a warning, for example to a display, which alerts the user or indicates the error. After a large number of queries in further steps 202, 209, 301, 211, 212 and 214 have been run according to the program, in the franking mode 400 the postage fee determined in the previous step 209 is booked or billed for a weighed mail item or according to the setting. Print data is now provided for printing from the pixel memory RAM 7.

In addition, the initialization routine 101 automatically generates print data with secured data for preparing for printing, as has been described in more detail in US application 08 / 525,923 (Method for improving the security of postage meter machines). In the at least one step 202, further security criteria can be queried and displayed in the associated step 203 or prepared for signaling. Even if no further entries are made, a stamp print can be generated and printed with the stored data in a tamper-proof manner. The subsequent second step 209 according to the invention relates to a special input and display routine. In the aforesaid second step 209, the input data of the franking machine can be used to overwrite or change the data stored so far in a non-volatile manner or to make and display other inputs manually. In addition, print data input for corresponding partial images (window pixel data) is provided. The transport of the mail piece in the direction of the print head may then be interrupted so that the entry can be completed. However, if there is no manual intervention, mail processing and franking are fully automated.

After the second step 209, the point u, ie the start of a communication mode 300, is reached and a third step 301 asks whether there is a transaction request. This is the case when request data has been created or an entry has been made for the purpose of reloading the credit. If this is not the case, communication mode 300 is exited and point v, ie the actual operating mode 290 of the franking machine, is reached. If relevant data were transmitted in communication mode, branch to step 213 for data evaluation. In step 213, a statistical and error evaluation is carried out in order to obtain further current data which, after branching to the system routine 200, can also be called up in the sub-step 2040 to the first step 201. Or otherwise, if the failure to transmit data is determined in step 211 following the communication mode in the third step 300, the next request in step 212 must be branched to. In step 212, a check is carried out to determine whether corresponding entries have been made in order to go to test mode 216 when a test is requested, or to go to display mode 215 when register status check 214 is intended. If this is not the case, point g, ie franking mode 400, is reached automatically. A number of security queries were provided in the franking mode and the cost center-related billing takes place only shortly before the franking image begins to be printed out, using memory address data which, due to the change in the cost center number, were formed beforehand after the input thereof. With the aforementioned series of queries, a higher security against manipulation is achieved. Thus, the program routine of the franking machine branches from franking mode 400 to point u when a number credit S has been used up. Communication with the data center is automatically started in order to continue franking. From franking mode 400 branched repeatedly to point t in order to enable data input in the second step 209 by means of the franking machine keyboard. Such manual entries are carried out in a practical manner if no signal for the printout request has yet been generated which is derived from a corresponding postal goods sensor signal. However, if a piece of mail has been recognized and the print output request has been generated after a predetermined time delay, cost center-dependent billing and franking of a piece of mail have been carried out according to the program, the process branches back to point s.

The block diagram shown in FIG. 4a for a franking machine differs from that shown in FIG. 2 by an external balance for postage calculation. The data of the carrier information is entered with at least one scanner 26 via a line 28, first into the scale 22, in contrast to the exemplary embodiment shown in FIG. 2. The external scale 22 transmits the calculated postage value via a line 25 to the franking machine, which is thus relieved of postage calculation. In principle, the data is entered according to the first variant of the mail processing system solely on the basis of the scanning, but no cost center information can be entered. For this purpose, an at least second scanner 27 is arranged separately positioned in the feed to the franking machine or arranged in the external scale 22 and electronically connected to the franking machine via a line 29. The idea of the invention is not limited to this embodiment, because the scale or other peripheral input / output means can of course be connected to a common serial interface via the register unit 19 and the data line 18.

For other envelope formats, corresponding scanners 26.1, 26.2 for carrier information are in the mail feed path the scale 22 is arranged or corresponding scanners 27.2, 27.2 are arranged for cost center information in the mail feed path of the franking machine FM, which was only shown in FIG. 4a for the sake of clarity.

The overall flowchart shown in FIG. 4b for a franking machine with an external scale for postage calculation includes automatic data entry according to a second variant. After the initialization in step 121, there is possibly an update mode (steps 128 to 135) and then a normal mode, as has already been proposed in principle in the European application (official file number 95 250 313.4), method and an arrangement for data input into a balance . In addition to sub-steps 2010 to 2017 to detect sensor signals, the first step 201 of a system routine 200 also includes sub-steps 2030 to 2035 for receiving data that are transmitted by the scale, and further sub-steps 2036 to 2037 for evaluation, as well as sub-step 2040 for calling of data etc. of scales input data, which include election pressure, postage fee and carrier type.

The aforementioned further sub-steps 2036 to 2037 for evaluation are necessary in order, if necessary, to update the tariff table data stored in the postage calculator of the scale 22 for individual carriers. Sub-step 2037 then switches to the update mode (steps 128 to 135). The corresponding verification data, which are transmitted to the franking machine to check the up-to-dateness of the carrier-related data stored in the external scale, are transmitted during the scale communication mode (sub-steps 2030 to 2035).

If the postage fee is calculated in the scale 22, carrier-specific data on the scale must be transmitted and stored there. As explained with reference to FIGS. 8, 9 and 10 and in principle already proposed in the European application (official file number 95 250 313.4), method and an arrangement for data entry in a balance, it is thus possible from an external memory for carrier data to transfer tariff table data of selected carriers to the scales via the franking machine, so that postage values can currently be determined according to the selected carrier. Steps 120 to 135 run in the update mode in order to check the timeliness of the tariff tables stored in the scale 22 and, if necessary, to restore them. In step 2036, the postage meter machine first checks in a sub-step 2361 (not shown) whether check data have been transmitted from the scale to the postage meter machine. Otherwise, if it is not transmitted, a sub-step 2060 branches back to the beginning for the error message. If the routine 2036 for evaluating the transmitted verification data is successfully started, the request data is formed in the franking machine, which has already been explained in connection with the first variant in FIG. 8. The determination as to whether the tariff table data of the selected carrier is still valid decides whether reloading or updating is necessary before going on to normal operation. If request data were formed in step 2036, new update data are to be loaded and the query step 2037 branches to steps 128 to 133 in order to change the mode of the franking machine to the master state and to load the required update data into the franking machine in accordance with the request data. In the subsequent step 134, those update data that are required by the scale are transmitted to the scale 22. A successful update of the data stored in the scale 22 is determined in step 135 and then branches back to the initialization routine, whereby the mode switch is undone. In steps 2010 to 2037, the franking machine is again in the slave state.

The scale input data transmitted to the franking machine in step 2033 relate to the selection pressure, carrier identification number CIN, possibly the minimum period of validity of the postage fee table associated with the CIN and the determined postage fee for a weighed item of mail and possibly the measured weight value. If the minimum validity period of the postage fee table associated with the CIN is stored in the franking machine assigned to the CIN, the minimum validity period need not be transmitted by the scale. After the selected CIN has been transmitted from the scale 22 to the franking machine FM, an updatable assignment table implemented in the storage means 5 or 8 is called up in order to determine the minimum validity period or the validity period, which in step 2036 by comparison with the currently set or in the clock / Date block 8 stored non-volatile stored date can be evaluated. After the query in step 2037, with no update data to be loaded, normal mode is reached.

According to the invention, at the beginning of the first step 201 of the system routine 200, sub-steps 2010 to 2017 are carried out for scanning the cost center information directly from the letter through the window of a window envelope or from the envelope, as will be explained in more detail in connection with FIG. 6, before the Balance communication mode (sub-steps 2030 to 2035) is reached.

In the embodiment variant according to FIG. 4b, the franking machine is operated in the slave state, in which waiting for another automatic input. Therefore, the serial interface to the scanner 27 is selected in the first step 201. After corresponding scanning, automatically entered data bits are evaluated with regard to the cost center information and the recognized cost center number is stored in a non-volatile manner and is also provided as further setting data in addition to the setting data that has already been stored in a non-volatile manner. If an unknown cost center number is read in or another malfunction is caused, this can be determined and displayed using steps 202 and 203 which have already been explained.

It is provided that the setting regarding the cliché, the mail carrier and their services or election prints is changed by entering an assigned number, the respective functions being called up by the actuating means of the input means 2 in the first sub-step 209-1 and in query steps 209 -7, 209-9, 209-11 are determined, and that the formation of request data with the aforementioned change in the setting of the mail carrier and / or in connection with such data called in the first step 201 but changed by the passage of time of the clock / date module 8 takes place, whereby the change can be determined by the microprocessor 6 in the third sub-step 209-3 (FIG. 5a). In the communication mode, the request data also result in the reloading of partial image or pixel image files, which are either embedded in the frame data as window pixel data or modify the frame data of the franking image itself in a customer-specific manner.

It is furthermore provided that the transmitted partial image files assigned to a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected mail carrier are stored in a non-volatile manner in the franking machine so that when a predetermined one is selected Generate postal carrier number or CIN specific print images, and that the transmitted partial image files, pixel image files and the change data generated by automatic or manual input are stored in non-volatile memory areas of read / write memory means 5 and / or 8.

In step 209, as already explained, the data can be overwritten or changed using the input means of the franking machine, or other inputs can be made and displayed manually.

Entering the cost center information in the first step 201 of the system routine 200 can, in the second step 209, additionally lead to a subroutine 209-28 for entering an advertising slogan number based on the cost center information, as will be explained in more detail in connection with FIG. 5b. Corresponding assignments of advertising slogan numbers to cost center information are stored in the franking machine in a non-volatile manner.

FIG. 4c shows a further block diagram for a franking machine according to a third variant, in contrast to the second variant according to FIG. 4a. The cost centers / carrier scanners are connected to the external scale 22. It is provided that the cost center scanner 27 or carrier scanner 26 have an electronic circuit for image evaluation. Such a marker reading device with subsequent image evaluation can be implemented as described, for example, in German Offenlegungsschrift DE 43 44 471 A1 under the title: Method and arrangement for generating and checking a security imprint.

In an alternative variant it is provided that the external scale 22 itself is an electronic circuit and has a program for image evaluation. While the cost center scanner 27 provides information which is only required in the franking machine FM, the carrier scanner 26 supplies the information required for postage calculation in the external balance 22. It goes without saying that such a balance with corresponding programs must be equipped for image evaluation in order to recognize the corresponding carrier information from a marking.

FIG. 4c shows a circuit with a serial interface and with an associated data division 18 to the register unit 19 in the base of the franking machine. Another variant where this register unit 19 has no letter sensor 16 was not shown. The latter is also connected to the external scale 22 in this further variant, not shown. Alternatively, all the data can be recorded by a common scanner, possibly processed in the scale 22 and thus evaluated or looped through the scale 22 to the franking machine.

FIG. 4d shows an overall flow chart for a franking machine according to the aforementioned third variant. The special feature compared to the overall flowchart for the second variant, shown in FIG. 4b, is that there is no evaluation of the cost center marking in the franking machine. In the first step 201, the sub-step 2017 is therefore omitted. The externally determined cost center and carrier number is transmitted together with further data, which are transmitted to check the up-to-dateness of the carrier-related data stored in the external balance, during the balance communication mode (sub-steps 2030 to 2035). .

• daß ein mindestens erster Abtaster 26 mit der externen Waage 22 oder mit der Frankiermaschine indirekt oder direkt verbunden ist, um eine Befördererinformation in die Waage oder in die Frankiermaschine automatisch einzugeben, welche für die befördererspezifische Gebührenberechnung erforderlich ist, und
• daß ein Prozessorsystem der Frankiermaschine einen Mikroprozessor 6 enthält, der mit einer in einem Speicherbereich 81 des Uhr/Datums-Moduls gespeicherten Routine programmiert ist, um bei Bedarf die Daten des automatisch eingestellten neuen Postbeförderers in automatischen Routinen entsprechend zu laden.

The arrangement for data input into a franking machine comprises input and output means, which are connected to a processor system. According to the invention,

• that an at least first scanner 26 is connected indirectly or directly to the external scale 22 or to the franking machine in order to automatically enter a carrier information into the scale or into the franking machine which is required for the carrier-specific fee calculation, and
• that a processor system of the franking machine contains a microprocessor 6 which is programmed with a routine stored in a memory area 81 of the clock / date module in order to load the data of the automatically set new mail carrier accordingly in automatic routines if required.

A processing device for the scanned information is placed in the franking machine FM, in a scale or in another additional peripheral device, e.g. in an automatic feeder, integrated to determine the carrier or / or the cost center. On the one hand, it is provided that the cost center scanners 27 or carrier scanners 26 have an electronic circuit for image evaluation. On the other hand, a variant is also provided that the electronic circuit in the scanner only supports an image evaluation carried out in a peripheral device or in the franking machine.

In addition, the microprocessor 6 is programmed with a further routine in order to initialize the franking machine in a location-specific manner after switching on and to load further data into the franking machine if necessary. This also includes essential franking image data specified or required by the carrier, analogous to the national emblem of the national state mail carrier, as has already been described in detail in the 195 49 305.2 German application.

This type of reloading is particularly intended for digital printing processes which allow programmable embedding of variable or semi-variable window pixel field data in constant frame pixel field data. Such a method for controlling the column-wise printing of a postage stamp image in a franking machine is described for example in EP 578 042 A2.

• a) daß die Frankiermaschine ein Ein/Ausgabemittel 4 aufweist, an welchem mindestens zur Gewichtseingabe eine interne oder externe Waage 22, eine Registereinheit 19 zur automatischen Eingabe von Daten und zur Steuerung angeschlossener Peripheriegeräte sowie Mittel, wie Chipkarten-Schreib/Leseeinheit 20 und/oder Modem 23 zur Kommunikation mit einer entfernten Datenzentrale DZ angeschlossen sind,
• b1) daß die Eingabemittel 2 erste Betätigungsmittel aufweisen, um die Frankiermaschine auf einen anderen Postbeförderer einzustellen,
• b2) daß die Eingabemittel 2 zweite Betätigungsmittel zur spezifischen Einstellung eines neuen Postbeförderers aufweisen, sowie
• c) daß ein Prozessorsystem einen Mikroprozessor 6 enthält, der mit einer Routine programmiert ist, um die Daten des eingestellten neuen Postbeförderers in automatischen Routinen 1000 des Kommunikationsmodus 300 entsprechend zu laden und um eine Änderung im Druckbild zu erzeugen, wobei die erzeugten Änderungsdaten nichtflüchtig unter einer Nummer und dem jeweiligen Postbeförderer zugeordnet bzw. einer dem jeweilig ausgewählten Postbeförderer entsprechenden Carrier-Identifikations-Nummer (CIN) zugeordnet nichtflüchtig gespeichert werden.

The arrangement for data input into a franking machine, with input means and output means, which are connected to a processor system, is characterized in that

• a) that the franking machine has an input / output means 4, on which, at least for weight input, an internal or external balance 22, a register unit 19 for the automatic input of data and for the control of connected peripheral devices as well as means such as chip card read / write unit 20 and / or Modem 23 are connected for communication with a remote data center DZ,
• b1) that the input means 2 have first actuating means in order to set the franking machine to another mail carrier,
• b2) that the input means 2 have second actuating means for the specific setting of a new mail carrier, and
• c) that a processor system contains a microprocessor 6 which is programmed with a routine to load the data of the set new mail carrier in automatic routines 1000 of the communication mode 300 accordingly and to generate a change in the printed image, the change data generated being non-volatile under one Assigned number and the respective postal carrier or assigned a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected postal carrier are stored in a non-volatile manner.

It is further provided that an at least first scanner 26 is connected to the external scale 22 in order to read a carrier information into the scale, which carries out the carrier-specific fee calculation and inputs the determined postage value into the franking machine via a data line 25 and the input / output means 4 , and that at least a second scanner 27 connected to the register unit 19 is connected to the franking machine via a data line 18 in order to automatically enter cost center information into the franking machine which is required for cost center-specific billing.

FIG. 5a shows a flow diagram of data input for the franking machine according to the first variant. In the second step 209 for an input and display routine, special query steps are used in addition to the usual ones. In the second step 209, for example, a pre-dating for future mail is to be overwritten and displayed by means of the input means of the franking machine, the date that was previously stored in a non-volatile manner. For this purpose, a date displayed in the second sub-step 209-2 is overwritten on the basis of a date entered in the first sub-step 209-1 by means of an input means, before a corresponding third sub-step 209-3 is reached for the query. If a different date was set than that specified by the clock / date module 8, this is determined in query step 209-3 and branched to fourth sub-step 209-4 in order to change to a pre-dated or current date. After branching back, the new date is displayed in the second sub-step 209-2. Such a method for setting the date for electronically controlled franking machines can be carried out in the usual way. The second step 209 for an input and display routine has been supplemented by special query steps. So from the fourth sub-step 209-4 for date changes over others Sub-steps, in particular a nineteenth sub-step 209-19 to form request data and via a twentieth sub-step 209-20 to reset the loop counter, branched back to point t at the input of the input and display routine (second step 209). A preferred method for entering data into a franking machine has been described in detail in German application 195 49 305.2.

If the query in the third sub-step 209-3 determines that no other date data has been selected, the next query in the fifth sub-step 209-5 is reached. It is queried whether a different value was selected during the entry. If so, i.e. a different value was selected when the entry was made, then the program branches to the sixth sub-step 209-6 in order to generate an encrypted verification code (MAC) for the selected value. A preferred method for securing data and program code has been described in detail in German application 195 34 530.4.

After the above-mentioned sub-step 209-6, the sub-step 209-20 branches back to point t at the input of the input and display routine (second step 209) in order to reset the loop counter. If this is not the case, further query steps 209-7 to 209-50 are carried out.

By means of the first sub-step 209-1, even if no scales are connected, for example for known tariffs, a direct value entry via the keyboard is possible. The basis for the form of representation of the respective carrier-specific stamp image is a carrier-specific control file, which is suitable for specifying or changing an assignment of partial images to other variable image data files (window image data) or variable image images (frame image data). In the European Application 95 114 057.3 shows such image data and control files in more detail in a method for generating a print image which is printed on a carrier in a franking machine.

In the seventh sub-step 209-7 it is checked whether a different cliché was selected when entering the first sub-step 209-1. In the ninth sub-step 209-9 it is checked whether another carrier (carrier) was automatically selected in step 201 (FIG. 4a) or when entering in the first sub-step 209-1. In the eleventh sub-step 209-11, it is checked whether a different election print was selected when entering the first sub-step 209-1, which of course only represents a carrier-specific service in addition to express delivery, air mail, printed matter, return receipt, etc. The setting of the services can be automatically transmitted to the franking machine as shipping data, as well as the carrier data and are preferably shown in the display field for the optional printing of the franking stamp and require further query steps for manual change, which are only shown in FIG. 5a for the sake of clarity have been.

It is advantageous if the user interface is continuously adapted to the operator, as has already been described in DE 42 17 478 A1 and if - by branching back to the display to the second subroutine 209-2 - a clear representation of the stamp to be printed in the display occurs. This makes it easy to monitor any changes made to the stamp image, in particular if changes to a different cliché, a different carrier or a different print are entered manually or automatically.

According to the invention, a query criterion for a carrier change is met in ninth sub-step 209-9 in FIG. 5a, if a corresponding one The mail has been scanned as part of the input routine (first step 201 in FIG. 3) or if the calculated postage value and associated data relating to the type of carrier are supplied by an external scale 22 (first step 201 in FIG. 4b) and thus automatically changed carrier information has been entered into the franking machine for billing purposes.

Assuming a corresponding automatic input in the first step 201 (FIGS. 3, 4b, 4d) or manual input in the first sub-step 209-1, when the sub-step for checking for carrier input (209-9) is reached, a branch is then made to an associated sub-step 209-10 , to check the availability of the data in the franking machine. With the latter check, a lack of concordance with regard to the data records stored in the personal computers PCa, PCb,... PCm in the office 21 for the individual carriers can be determined. The data of the missing or new carrier can be stored in the franking machine after it has been transmitted.

Correspondingly, a branch is made from sub-step (209-7) to check for cliché input or from sub-step (209-11) to check for print input on an associated sub-step 209-8 or 209-12, to check the availability of the data in the Franking machine. In the context of an automatic input of a cost center number in the first step 201 (FIGS. 3, 4b, 4d), an advertising slogan assigned to the cost center can also be selected automatically. It is therefore up to the employee in the post office to manually change the election pressure if this appears necessary in his view and falls within his area of responsibility.

With available data, the sub-steps 209-8, 209-10 and 209-12 change to cliché, carrier or Election pressure input verification branches to assigned security verification steps 209-16, 209-17, 209-18, automatic print data entry being carried out if valid. A data check using an encrypted check sum (MAC) prevents manipulation with the intention of forgery, as has already been described in detail in the German application entitled: Procedure for securing data and program code of an electronic franking machine (No. 195 34 530.4).

Otherwise, if the data are not available in the postage meter machine, a branch is made to a point k to a nineteenth sub-step 209-19 in order to form request data. If actuating means for a new entry of a carrier were actuated during the input routine (first sub-step 209-1), this is determined in a query step (thirteenth sub-step 209-13) and also branches to point k of the nineteenth sub-step 209-19 in order to form request data. The aforementioned nineteenth sub-step 209-19 is explained in more detail below in connection with FIG. 8.

A large number of query steps, not shown, can lie between the thirteenth query step 209-13 and a point h in order to further evaluate inputs, for example relating to services, shipping methods, shipping methods or mail classes. If it is now determined in a twenty-third query step 209-23 that the data required for postage calculation have been changed, a branch is made to a twenty-fourth sub-step 209-24 for calculating the postage value according to the tariff of the selected carrier for the selected services and other relevant inputs. The branch is then branched back to point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20. The postage value changed due to the postage calculation is again determined in the fifth sub-step 209-5 then branches to a sixth sub-step 209-6 for the purpose of generating an encrypted checksum (MAC) via the changed postage value. This postage value secured in this way can now be stored in a tamper-proof manner together with the MAC and can be used for billing in the course of the franking mode 400 which runs later in time (FIG. 7b). In such variants according to FIGS. 4a to 4d with external postage calculation, the twenty-third query step 209-23 and the associated twenty-fourth sub-step 209-24 are omitted for the internal postage calculation.

User-specific or department-specific billing requires so-called cost center information in order to allocate billing data to this. The cost center information scanned from the item of mail or also transmitted in the aforementioned manner by the personal computer can be used on the one hand for the automatic allocation of the accounting data depending on the cost center and on the other hand for the automatic setting of an advertising cliché in the franking image shown in FIG. 5b. This advantageously eliminates the otherwise required user-relevant settings of the cost center and the advertising slogan via the keyboard of the franking machine. Prerequisite is a possibility for the non-volatile storage of a large number of advertising clichés in the franking machine. On the one hand, a fixed number of advertising clichés can already be stored non-volatilely in an internal user memory ASP 10 (EEPROM) by the manufacturer. For this purpose, the franking machine is equipped with a non-volatile memory for a number of advertising clichés, with each advertising cliché being assigned to the cost center of the respective department. On the other hand, a number of advertising clichés can be loaded later. A chip card read / write unit enables a frequent change of cards for a large number of entries. A can thus be advantageous Advertising cliché can be reloaded into the franking machine. Another option is a password-protected function of deleting previous data for parts of the print image or assigning it to the cost center. The franking machine is therefore equipped with a corresponding program such as input and display means. In further circuit or program means, which are present in the program memory PSP 11 and in the non-volatile memory areas of the clock / date module 8 and / or the memory means 5, a corresponding sequence for loading data or for updating is stored in order to Areas of the memory for deleted predecessor data now load successor data and to redefine their assignment to the cost center, as is shown in more detail below in connection with FIG. 5b.

In FIG. 5b, according to the invention, in the twenty-fifth sub-step 209-25, a query criterion for a change in the cost center number is met if the mail has been scanned accordingly as part of the input routine in order to (first step 201 in FIGS. 3, 4b, 4d) automatically enter cost center information for billing purposes into the franking machine. As a result of the query in the twenty-fifth sub-step 209-25, if the cost center was changed, a twenty-sixth sub-step 209-26 is reached. The availability of the cost center number is checked here. It is possible that a cost center number has been deleted. Then, in a twenty-seventh sub-step 209-27, there is a corresponding error message and then a branch back to the point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20. Otherwise, the system branches from the twenty-sixth sub-step 209-26 to a twenty-eighth sub-step 209-28 if the cost center number is available. In the twenty-eighth sub-step 209-28, an advertising slogan assigned to the cost center number is automatically set.

In a thirtieth sub-step 209-30 a query is made for a desired change in the assignment between the cliché and the cost center number. If this is the case, a branch is made to a thirty-first sub-step 209-31 to display the currently entered cost center number and, after confirmation, to a thirty-second query step 209-32. If no confirmation has been made beforehand, then after the time has elapsed, a branch is automatically made back to point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20. Then, in the seventh sub-step 209-7, it is possible to select a different cliché by entering a cliché number before the aforementioned query steps are repeated until the query in the thirtieth sub-step 209-30. When confirming, for example, with a special acknowledgment key for the cost center number, a branch is made from query step 209-32 to the thirty-third sub-step 209-33. In the thirty-third sub-step 209-33, the previously assigned cliché number is displayed, which identifies the semi-variable window data for an advertising cliché to be embedded in carrier-dependent framework data. After confirmation, a thirty-fifth sub-step 209-35 is reached, unless it is not previously determined in the thirty-fourth query step 209-34 that a change has not been confirmed, which then automatically leads back to the branch via the twentieth sub-step 209-20 to point t . This again enables a different cliché to be selected in a seventh sub-step 209-7 (FIG. 5a). After passing through sub-steps 209-8, 209-16, 209-20, 209-1 to 209-23, which lead to points h and h in FIG. 5b, and after going through the twenty-fifth sub-step 209-25 with the query criterion for one Cost center number change, which of course is not fulfilled , the thirtieth sub-step 209-30 is reached again for the query for a desired change in the assignment between the cliché and the cost center number. After passing through the sub-steps 209-31, 209-32, 209-33 and 209-34, a thirty-fifth sub-step 209-35 comprising a password input routine is reached if the cliché setting in the thirty-third sub-step 209-33 has been confirmed after the cliché number has been displayed.

If an incorrect password was entered in the aforementioned thirty-fifth sub-step 209-35, then this is determined in the thirty-sixth query step 209-36 and, after an error message, a branch is returned to point t in a thirty-eighth query step 209-38. However, if it is determined in the thirty-sixth query step 209-36 that the password entry was correct, then a thirty-seventh sub-step 209-37 is reached, in order to then save the new assignment and then again for the cliché number display in the thirty-third sub-step 209-33 or for the cliché number display in a separate one - not shown - branch to sub-step 209-39, in order to then branch back to point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20 to reset the loop counter. The new assignment to the cost center number has thus been entered in the franking machine and is now still available.

Between the query steps 209-25 and 209-30 - shown in FIG. 5b - there are a large number of further query steps which are run through before the point u is reached, but for reasons of space in FIG. 5b only as a sub-step 209-29 were shown. A structure is provided in an area of the special cost center memory KSP 9, on the basis of which cost center-related operations can be carried out. So you can go to a basic cost center assigned to the respective carrier With the number zero, additional cost centers can also be set up or deleted under numbers other than zero. Values and quantities of individual cost centers other than the one with the number zero can be edited or deleted without affecting the security against manipulation. The carrier-related basic cost center with the number zero contains a sum over the values of cost centers.

Between the point h "of the query step 209-30 - shown in FIG. 5b - and the point u, a large number of further query steps are arranged, which are run through, but are shown in FIG. 5c as sub-steps 209-40 to 209-51 for reasons of space were.

For easier entry, numbers are assigned to the names of cost centers or carriers, which can also be seen in the legend in FIG. 7c. According to the invention, the name of the cost center that is common between the departments of the office 21 can be changed if this should be necessary. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the fortieth query step 209-40 and, after the assigned currently set number has been displayed, the system switches to the input routine of the new name (forty-first sub-step 209-41). The carrier name used between the carriers can also be changed if necessary. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the forty-second query step 209-42 and, after the assigned currently set number has been displayed, the system switches to the input routine of the new name (forty-third sub-step 209-43). The advantage is particularly noticeable when there are a large number of cost center and / or carrier names.

In the above-mentioned twenty-ninth sub-step 209-29 - in one not shown in FIG. 5b Wise - Requests related to operations related to cost centers. After registers have been selected, the stored values or quantities are displayed in display mode 215 (FIGS. 2, 3, 4b, 4d).

Furthermore, the display of all consumption totals for a single cost center can be useful to keep an overview of a large number of private carriers. In order to prepare the display in display mode 215, the listing is prepared. The list is based on a corresponding entry. For a printout internal to the postage meter machine, it is stored in the pixel memory RAM 7. The printout also takes place on the basis of a corresponding other input, which, however, will not be explained in more detail here.

A representation or display of all carrier-related consumption totals for the set cost center number is preceded by an appropriate entry. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the forty-fourth query step 209-44 and, after the assigned currently set cost center number has been displayed, the system switches to the listing routine for the selected register (forty-fifth sub-step 209-45).

A representation or display of all carrier-related quantities for the set cost center number is preceded by another corresponding entry. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the forty-sixth query step 209-46 and after the assigned currently set cost center number has been displayed, the system switches to the listing routine for the selected register (forty-seventh sub-step 209-47).

Likewise, all available cost center numbers a representation or display of all carrier-related consumption sums when a forty-eighth query step 209-48 and forty-ninth sub-step 209-49 are carried out, or a representation or display of all carrier-related quantities when a fiftieth query step 209-50 and fifty-first sub-step 209-51 are carried out , possible.

If a query criterion is met, further processing steps and the aforementioned sub-step 209-20 branch back to point t at the input of the second step 209. Subsequently, in the second sub-step 209-2, there is a display with an input option in the first sub-step 209-1, wherein a user interface can advantageously be used to enable a large number of different inputs. Such a suitable user interface is described in the aforementioned European application entitled: User Interface for a Postage Meter (No. 94 120 314.3).

FIG. 6 shows a partial flowchart for automatic data entry based on the scanned cost center and / or carrier information. The first step 201 of the franking machine system routine 200 can be divided into a multiplicity of communication modes. This can also include a chip card communication mode (not shown in FIG. 6) (sub-steps 2019 to 2027), the chip card being used, for example, as a key card. According to the first and second variants, at least the sub-steps 2010 to 2017 for a scanner communication mode and the sub-steps 2031 to 2035 for a balance communication mode are carried out in the first step 201.

First, a routine is carried out in sub-step 2010, which includes the cost center and / or shipping data Carrier data, stored non-volatile as previous data, so that they are available as comparison data when it is necessary to decide whether a change in individual data has been made by automatic data entry. This involves deleting the old data mentioned above in the working memory of the franking machine. In the subsequent sub-step 2011, a serial interface is selected in order to then receive data x1 from at least one of the scanners (mail item sensor 16) in the following sub-step 2012, before branching to a query step 2013. In the query step 2013, when data transmission has taken place, a branch is made to a sub-step 2014 in order to send a handshake signal to the aforementioned register unit 19, to which the aforementioned scanner is connected together with other sensors. From the query step 2013, a branch is made via the sub-step 2009 to the sub-step 2040 if no scanner data has been received. After sending the handshake signal to the above-mentioned scanner, a mail piece detection takes place in sub-step 2015. If the sensor 16 works according to a mechanical principle of operation, in the simplest case only the relevant bit needs to be stored. If the sensor 16 works according to the optical principle of action, this can be done by a relatively simple image evaluation. If a mail item present in the feed path has been recognized, a branch is made from the query step 2016 to a sub-step 2017 for evaluating the other scanned data (except for the variant according to FIGS. 4c and 4d, where the sub-step 2017 is omitted). When marking in the form of a barcode, it may be necessary to move the mail piece further forward before an evaluation is successful. In particular in the case of a variant with a complete or partial image evaluation (bar code) in the franking machine, the completeness of the scanning data must be ensured before an evaluation. If the data required for detection, ie for finding and evaluating, is incomplete What is ascertained in query step 2008, in response there is a branch back to step 2012 in order to await further data transmission from the scanners via register unit 19 and data line 18. Otherwise, the system branches directly to the next query step 2018.

In the first variant according to FIGS. 2 and 3, the detection of the remaining scanned data in sub-step 2017 includes finding out the cost center and the carrier information.

In the second variant according to FIGS. 4a and 4b, the detection of the remaining scanned data in sub-step 2017 only includes the detection of the cost center information.

If there is no recognition, that is to say if there is no mail item in the feed path, sub-step 2040 branches from query step 2016 to call up stored current data. Neither a smart card communication mode nor a scale communication mode is then run through. In addition, a sub-step 2009 is run through in order to switch off the feed drive (not shown), ie to control motors in the feed device (not shown) in such a way that they switch off if necessary if a mail item to be transported is not found in the feed path when the system routine 200 is run through again. Only the input / display routine with print data input is then active and now enables manual input or presetting of the franking machine. At the beginning of the first step 201 of the system routine 200, there are also a plurality of sub-steps 2001 to 2007 (not shown) so that the operation of the peripheral devices in the post office and of parts of the associated transport device in the base can be controlled by the franking machine.

In all of the aforementioned variants, sub-steps 2031 to 2035 for a balance communication mode are carried out if a balance coupling is determined in the preliminary query step 2030. In the sub-step 2031, a serial interface is selected, in order to then wait for a data transmission a from the scale 22 in the following sub-step 2032, before branching to a query step 2033. In the query step 2033, when data transmission has taken place, a branch is made to a sub-step 2034 in order to send a handshake signal to the aforementioned scale 22. Without the handshake signal, the scale 22 repeats the data transmission automatically. From the query step 2033, the process branches back to the sub-step 2032 to wait for the new data transmission. After the handshake signal has been sent to the aforementioned scale 22, the scale data is evaluated in sub-step 2035.

However, if the flowchart shown in FIG. 6 is to be used for automatic data entry in step 201 in accordance with one of the above-mentioned variants for a mail handling system which does not require a chip card, suitable commands must be used to ensure that the chip card communication mode is not run through. This can be done when the franking machine is initialized at the dealer. If, for example, no flag for a CC coupling is set when the franking machine is initialized, sub-steps 2019 to 2027 for the chip card communication mode are not carried out after the flag has been queried in step 2018. Instead, the scanner communication mode is immediately branched to the balance communication mode.

FIG. 7a shows a flowchart for the franking mode with a processing of accounting data related to the carrier and cost center. If no keyboard actuation or other input request is found in sub-step 401, a loop counter is incremented in sub-step 402 and a query step 404 is reached. If a predetermined limit number G is reached by the loop feeder, a standby flag is set.

The standby mode is reached when there is no input or print request for a predetermined time. The latter is the case if a letter sensor known per se - not shown in detail - does not determine the next envelope to be franked. The step 404 in the franking mode 400, shown in FIG. 7a, therefore includes a further query for a time lapse, which ultimately leads back to the point t and thus to the input routine according to step 209 if the time is exceeded. If the query criterion is met, a standby flag is set as in step 408 and branched back to point t without the billing and printing routine being carried out in step 406. The standby flag is queried later in step 211 (see, for example, FIG. 4d) and is reset in step 213 after the checksum check if no attempted manipulation is detected. The query criterion in step 211 is expanded to include the question of whether the standby flag is set, i.e. whether the standby mode is reached. In this case, step 213 is also branched to. The advantage of this method is that every attempt at manipulation is statistically recorded in step 213 before branching back to the system routine (point s).

This ensures that the last input values are retained even when the franking machine is switched off, so that after switching on the postage value in the value print is automatically specified in accordance with the last entry before the franking machine was switched off and the date in the day stamp is specified in accordance with the current date.

If a scale 22 is connected which calculates the postage value, the postage value is taken, for example, from a memory area D of the EEPROM 5b. In step 401 it is checked whether there is an input. If a new input request is made in step 401, the process branches back to step 209.

Otherwise, steps 402 and 404 to increase a loop counter and to check the number of passes to steps 405a and 405 in order to query the print output request, which is detected when a sheet of paper is inserted into the printing area, a printing requirement by a conventional mail item sensor 16.1. This mail item sensor 16.1, for example, is connected to the register unit 19 in the same way as the sensor 16, but is mechanically arranged in the vicinity of the printing area and is also queried later in the order of the method steps than the sensor 16. The above-mentioned mail item sensor 16.1 provides the letter to be franked detected and a print request triggered after the time has elapsed. It is thus possible to branch to the accounting and printing routine in step 406. If there is no print output request (step 405), the steps that are carried out at the beginning of the system routine, i.e. between the point s and the point t, branched back to the step 209 lying after the point t.

Before step 301 is reached, a communication request can be made at any time or another input can be made in accordance with the steps for data change 209, test request 212, register check 214 and input request 401. Steps 401 to 404 are again carried out, as shown in the variant according to FIG. 7a. In the case of a predetermined number of runs, a branch is made from step 404 to step 408. The alternative query criterion can be queried in step 404 to set a standby flag in step 408 if there is no print output request after a predetermined time. As already explained above, the standby flag can be queried in step 211 following communication mode 300. This does not branch to franking mode 400 until the checksum check has shown that all or at least selected programs are complete.

If a print output request is recognized in step 405, further queries are made in subsequent steps 407 to 420 and in step 406. For example, in step 409 the presence of authentic register values, in step 410 the achievement of a further quantity criterion and in step 406 the register data collected in the known manner for billing are queried. In addition, as already explained with reference to FIG. 5a, selected registers in the NVRAM of the franking machine are protected by MAC formation. If the number of items predetermined for franking had been used up in the previous franking, ie number of items equal to zero, step 410 automatically branches to point u in order to enter communication mode 300 so that a new predetermined number of items S is again credited by the data center. However, if the predetermined number of pieces had not yet been used, the process branches from step 410 to the billing and printing routine in step 406. A special sleeping mode counter is prompted in step 406, that is to say during the accounting routine which takes place immediately before printing, to continue counting. Likewise, the number of printed letters and the current values in the mail registers are registered in the non-volatile memories 5a, 5b of the franking machine in the accounting routine 406 in accordance with the entered cost center and are available for later evaluation Available.

If necessary, the register values can be queried in display mode 215. It is also provided that the register values or other service data are printed out with the print head of the franking machine for billing or control purposes. This can be done, for example, in the same way as the normal printing of the franking image, but another frame is initially selected for fixed image data, into which the variable data are inserted in accordance with the register values stored in the non-volatile memory NVM 5 or in the cost center memory, similar to that in FIG columns 1 to 2 or in claim 9, in the German patent application DE 42 24 955, for the formation and display in three multi-line information groups or for a required switchover to a corresponding mode is carried out in principle. If a rotated representation is required, contrary to the special explanations in German laid-open specification DE 42 24 955 A1, the data can be stored directly rotated in the volatile memory as it is required for printing. The time-consuming routine of rotating the print data is carried out only once for an additional pixel file when programming the EPROM at the manufacturer, which only requires more storage space but does not tie up any increased computing power in the franking machine.

In the franking mode 400 - shown in FIG. 7a - the carrier and cost center information are to be used for billing. If a print output request is detected in step 405, the carrier-specific memory area is selected (step 416) and then step 417 is reached to form subaddresses for the memory areas from firstly a cost center number zero and secondly the selected cost center number which are different was set to zero for departmental billing. The cost center number zero is used for billing without splitting into individual cost centers or departments for the sum of all cost centers for the selected individual carrier m (with m = 1 to 1).

Step 417, forming subaddresses, is required to control the memory areas during the billing. For each billing, a MAC security is placed over all the postal registers to be updated, which is required in order to decide in the query step 409, which is carried out further below, whether the register values are authentic. Since such a check is very time-consuming, in particular if the DES algorithm is used to encrypt the checksum, this check is only carried out for postal registers which must be updated for billing. This check is therefore carried out in the aforementioned query step 409, upstream steps comprising the step 420 for a debit register check, the step 422 for a credit register check or the step 407 for a credit register check. Such a credit register check has been described in the German application (No. 1995 34 530.4-53) under the title: Process for securing data and program code of an electronic franking machine. A further step (not shown) for checking the prepaid card register may also be included in the above-mentioned parallel steps.

Billing on a special chip card (similar to a phone card or prepaid card) that has been brought into contact with the FM franking machine and edited by a number of carriers is another billing variant. Here is a prepaid amount as electronic credit in the credit account the chip card and, in the case of intended franking, reduced by the postage to be franked. At the same time, the debited postage value is transferred to the accounting unit of the franking machine. Such a prepaid card, which functions as an electronic wallet, can be used until the electronic wallet is empty. The prepaid card is refilled up to a predetermined amount in special bank terminals in a remote bank. If the refilled value card is brought into plug contact with the read / write unit of the franking machine, communication takes place with a special program module of the franking machine. Both program module and prepaid card generate key codes which are exchanged. The key codes are transmitted from the franking machine via modem to a data center of the franking machine manufacturer. At the end of the day, preferably at night, both of the above-mentioned key codes and the data records for each individual booking are transmitted to an evidence center of the remote bank for checking.

Subsequent to the aforementioned step 417, the billing mode is checked in a step 418. If there is a settlement based on a debit credit, the query step 419 branches to a step 420 for checking the debit register. If there is a settlement on the basis of a credit balance, branching from query step 421 to step 422 for checking the credit register. However, if there is a customary settlement based on a prepaid credit, the query step 423 branches to step 407 for checking the credit register. Alternatively, if there is a settlement based on a prepaid credit in a prepaid card, then a corresponding query step 425 leads to a corresponding step 426 for checking the credit register branched accordingly in a prepaid card. A check is preferably carried out using the MAC stored with. Query step 409 is then reached and, if necessary, branched to error evaluation 413. Tampering can only be ruled out if the register data is authentic. Then step 406 is reached via step 410 with the billing and printing routine.

FIG. 7b shows the partial flowchart for the billing and printing routine in franking mode with carrier and cost center-related billing. A MAC-secured postage value can be checked in franking mode 400 at the beginning of the billing routine using the associated MAC (FIG. 7a). For this purpose, a checksum is formed about the postage value and its encryption. If the result is now equal to the MAC value, the validity of the postage value can be assumed and the actual billing process can thus be started. A register R2 is increased by the postage value and a different register R1 is decreased by the postage value in sub-step 4060 by a non-manipulable accounting unit. A comparable billing takes place with the quantity data. After billing, the MAC security is added in sub-step 4061. Then, in sub-step 4062, the data is saved under the selected carrier number and cost center number zero. The storage under the department-related selected cost center number n (with n = 1 to k) takes place in the sub-step 4063 additionally in the cost center memory KSP 9. Then the printing routine with the sub-steps 4064 and 4065 is reached.

FIG. 7c shows the result of the carrier-related billing carried out in the tamper-proof billing module in the postal registers. In the storage area there is a list of postal register values Ri (with i = 1 to h) for each carrier m (with m = 1 to 1). For example, if the franking machine operator has chosen a billing variant with a prepaid card, an amount from the prepaid card is transferred to one of the registers R80 and the number of items for the bookings in one of the registers R81 is counted from zero. Regardless of a selected cost center number, in addition to the prepaid card registers, a booking in registers R80 and R81 is then made for the carrier, whereby the amount from the prepaid card is reduced accordingly. If, however, the usual debiting of the credit loaded via the data center, for example by modem, is selected, billing is first performed in the registers R1 to R8, regardless of a selected cost center number, and related to the selected carrier. A group (not shown) from the large number of registers is assigned to the recording of paid transactions, including credit recharges. It can be queried periodically or at any time and provides an overview of the financial operations that have been carried out for individual carriers. The sum of these registers of all carriers can also be queried periodically or at any time and provides an overview of the current financial situation as a whole. Furthermore, if necessary, it is provided that a listing of the entirety and / or individual financial reloading data within a period of time and other register or service data are printed out as proof from the print head of the franking machine.

The carriers have a name to which a number is assigned so that they can be called up or set more easily at the push of a button. On the other hand, the carriers also have a reference to a carrier identification number (CIN), which has several digits for the exact automatic identification of the carrier is formed in particular during communication with a data center of the franking machine manufacturer. With this CIN it is possible to load a set of carrier data into the franking machine. Furthermore, a number is also provided for each cost center so that it can be called up or set independently of its name by pressing a key.

FIG. 7d shows a two-dimensional cost center / carrier matrix for the respective amount of consumption (postage consumption p) assigned to cost centers in the ascending register R2 and for the respective number of pieces z assigned to cost centers in the number register R4. Periodically or in freely chosen periods of time, after settlement and output of a list for a cost center, a reset to zero takes place both for postage consumption p and for the number of items. Such a list can be output, for example, as a cost center printout or as a carrier-related printout by the franking machine on a strip.

The routine 209-19 - shown in FIG. 5a - for checking stored data and for forming request data for data transmission of tariff table and additional data from a data center to the franking machine will now be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 8. In sub-step 1262 of FIG. 8, a comparison of predetermined data areas for checking data is carried out on the basis of corresponding predetermined comparison data stored in a non-volatile manner in order to be able to determine changes that have occurred or have been entered. In the subsequent sub-steps 2092-19, 2093-19 and 2094-19, specific queries take place in order to form specific request data in the associated sub-steps 2095-13 to 2097-13. If the location has been changed and the country, region and / or location has been re-entered, sub-step 2092-13 branched to sub-step 2095-13 in order to form and save request data together with the current date and carrier. In sub-step 2093-19, the exceeding of the validity date, which is assigned to each carrier-specific table, is checked in order to then form and save request data together with the current location and carrier. In sub-step 2094-19, a new entry of a field name is evaluated, with which tables and information are specifically identified, before branching to sub-step 2097-19 in order to form and store request data specifically. Only if no changes are detected in queries 2092-19 to 2094-19 will you branch directly to point 1.

Such request data can be generated automatically in a step 209 (FIG. 3 or 4b, 4d or 5) which is continuously executed before point t and are evaluated in step 301 according to FIGS. 3, 4b or 4d as a communication request in order to switch to a communication mode to enter.

FIG. 9 shows the communication mode for the postage meter machine, which is required to carry out a data transmission which largely runs automatically via MODEM. A recognized transaction request in the sub-step 301 of the step 300 leads to the display of the data and the status in the sub-step 332, and then after an initialization of the modem and dialing of the data center (telephone number) in the sub-step 333 to a sub-step 334 for establishing the connection to the data center . If the modem cannot be successfully initialized and dialed in sub-step 333, a branch is made back to sub-step 301 to display the status via a sub-step 310. The system also branches back to sub-step 301 if it is determined in a sub-step 335 located after sub-step 334 that the connection is not being established done properly and it is determined in sub-step 337 that the connection cannot be established even after the nth redial.

However, if the connection has been established properly and it is determined in sub-step 336 that one of the transactions has not yet ended, automatic reloading begins with data in sub-step 338. Reloading is now carried out in accordance with the change in the CIN, which is stored in the franking machine. If the CIN has not been changed, but the minimum validity period for the tariffs stored in the franking machine has been exceeded or another set of postal carriers has been defined, the data center is also automatically selected and an update is carried out.

In sub-step 338 it is determined whether an error condition has occurred which can be remedied by re-establishing a connection to the data center in order to branch back to sub-step 334 via q. In sub-step 338, it is further determined whether an error condition has occurred that cannot be remedied, in order to branch back to sub-step 310 via w for the purpose of displaying the status. If a transaction has been carried out, further transactions can be carried out, branching back to sub-step 335 via r. If the connection is still intact, it is checked in sub-step 336 whether all transactions have been carried out or the last transaction has ended, in order then to branch back to sub-step 301 via sub-step 310. The flag for a transaction request is reset in sub-step 338 when the last transaction has ended. It branches from sub-step 301 to step 211 in order to now store and evaluate the selected data transmitted to the franking machine. During the evaluation, the value of the transmitted CIN can be automatically classified in a predetermined manner (according to frequency or priority) will. The type of classification can be set. At least one actuating means is provided to set the type of classification. The automatic reloading with data in sub-step 338 includes at least one treatment routine, which is explained in more detail in connection with FIG. 10.

The routine 1000 shown in FIG. 10 for handling transmitted table data in the franking machine has a sub-step 1009 for sending request data to the data center. A sub-step 1010 is then carried out in order to select a non-volatile memory area in the postage meter machine in which the requested data can be buffered later. After sub-step 1010, a branch is made via sub-step 1011 to receive and decode the data packet transmitted by the data center to a sub-step 1012, in which a start processing status for data processing is set. The first processing of the data then takes place in sub-step 1013. The temporary storage of the data is advantageous if data is transmitted in several transactions or if a transaction has to be repeated. After leaving the communication mode 300, it is determined in the query step 211 - shown in FIGS. 3, 4b and 4d - that data has been transmitted and then branches to the statistics and error evaluation mode 213. If the transmitted data is free of errors and valid, the non-volatile storage takes place in the franking machine in the aforementioned evaluation mode. After intermediate storage and, if necessary, subsequent decompression in the case of packed data in sub-step 1013 and completion of further sub-steps 1014, 1015 and 1020, the data record is stored which belongs to a complete postage fee set by a mail carrier. Such a data record comprises a header, version information, partial table data and a data record end identifier (DEK).

In sub-step 1014 to check for complete receipt of the transmitted data packet, a branch is made to a sub-step 1015 when it is complete in order to set an end identifier as the processing status. Such identifiers are required in order to continue the program at this point after voltage recovery even if the program is terminated, for example as a result of an operating voltage interruption. Subsequent sub-step 1020 calls the next transaction or action and thus branches off to continue executing the sequence shown in FIG. 9, in order to save the temporarily stored update data in a non-volatile manner in a subsequent step 213.

If the course is not correct, which is determined in sub-step 1014, point q is reached. By pointing to sub-step 334 according to FIG. 9, a further attempt can be started in order to transfer the required subtable data. Sub-steps 335 to 336 are run through and point p according to FIG. 10 is then reached.

The automatic reloading with data in sub-step 338 includes special treatment routines which go beyond those explained in more detail in connection with FIG. 10. The further procedure explained in the German application with the official file number 195 49 305.2 provides, on the one hand, a location-specific provision of window data for the postmark or additional functions for the franking machine and, on the other hand, current information for permanent and / or temporary configuration of the franking machine through a communication network, which contains a memory with the retrievable data blocks for reloading additional functions and information into the franking machine as well as update data.

Schritt 501,

Anlegen eines Brieffiles im Rahmen eines Brieferstellungsprogramms,

Schritt 502,

erste Eingabemaske aufrufen,

Schritt 503,

Eingabe und Abspeichern der Empfängeradresse und des Datums,

Schritt 504,

Kostenstellen-Nummer eingeben und abspeichern,

Schritt 505,

zweite Eingabemaske aufrufen,

Schritt 506,

Befördererauswahl als Nummer abspeichern,

Schritt 507,

Erstellen und Abspeichern eines Briefinhalts,

Schritt 508,

Ausdrucken des Briefes und ggf. der Briefempfängeradresse auf dem Kuvert,

Schritt 509,

Markierung des Briefes oder Kuverts mit einem Vermerk,

Schritt 510,

Kuvertieren des Briefes.

FIG. 11 shows a method according to the first variant of the mail processing system. The method for data processing in a mailing system comprises a number of steps which are carried out on the personal computer in the office 21 in preparation for printing a letter, including the address field and note:

Step 501,

Creating a letter file as part of a letter creation program,

Step 502,

call up the first input mask,

Step 503,

Entry and storage of the recipient address and the date,

Step 504,

Enter and save cost center number,

Step 505,

call up the second input mask,

Step 506,

Save carrier selection as number,

Step 507,

Creating and saving the contents of a letter,

Step 508,

Print out the letter and, if applicable, the recipient's address on the envelope,

Step 509,

Marking the letter or envelope with a note,

Step 510,

Insert the letter.

It is provided in a sub-variant that in step 504 a program routine for automatically entering the cost center number runs in conjunction with the first input mask. In another sub variant, step 504 is completely omitted. Then only the carrier selection is saved as a number and applied as a mark on the document, label, letter or envelope.

Addressing takes place either on the letter when the letter is printed out in step 508 or in subsequent step 509. The marking in step 509 comprises the calling of programs for the position of the address and / or other information in accordance with the postal regulations for the position of the Address and / or other information.

Corresponding programs are loaded in the memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc, which are located in the office 21. In steps 508 and 509, a printer or separate printers are jointly controlled accordingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed.

In a sub-variant, it is provided that alternative preparation steps are carried out in order to enable the use of stickers or pre-printed envelopes.

A) Schritt 511,

Abtasten der Markierung,

B1)Schritt 512,

Beförderer-Nummer identifizieren,

B2)Schritt 513,

Kostenstellen-Nummer identifizieren,

C1)Schritt 515,

automatische Dateneingabe zur Verarbeitung in der Frankiermaschine umfassend Kostenstellen-und Befördererinformation sowie ein gemessenes Poststückgewicht,

C2)Schritt 516,

Portogebührentabelle des selektierten Beförderers zur Berechnung des Portowertes verwenden,

D) Schritt 517,

erste Abrechnung nach einem selektierten Beförderer m aus einer Vielzahl an Beförderern unter der Kostenstellennummer Null und abteilunsgweise Abrechnung geordnet nach selektierter Kostenstellennummer n.

When scanning the note in a post office and when processing the data and franking with a franking machine, the following steps are carried out:

A) step 511,

Scanning the marking,

B1) step 512,

Identify carrier number,

B2) step 513,

Identify cost center number,

C1) step 515,

automatic data entry for processing in the franking machine including cost center and carrier information as well as a measured mail piece weight,

C2) step 516,

Use the postage fee table of the selected carrier to calculate the postage value,

D) step 517,

first billing according to a selected carrier m from a large number of carriers under the cost center number zero and billing by department sorted according to the selected cost center number n.

Optionally, step 518 is provided to send accounting data to office 21 in response to a request.

Schritt 519,

Summatives Abspeichern der Gesamtgebühren und aufgelistet nach Beförderern für eine selektierte Kostenstelle,

Schritt 520,

Kummulatives Abspeichern der kostenstellenbezogenen Abrechnungsdaten für einen selektierten Beförderer.

The method for data processing in a mailing system further comprises a number of optional steps which are carried out on the personal computer in the office 21 at the end of a period or, if necessary, after franking a letter:

Step 519,

Summative storage of the total fees and listed by carrier for a selected cost center,

Step 520,

Cumulative storage of the cost center-related accounting data for a selected carrier.

A) Schritt 511,

Abtasten der Markierung,

B2)Schritt 513,

Kostenstellen-Nummer identifizieren,

C0)Schritt 515,

automatische Dateneingabe zur Verarbeitung in der Frankiermaschine umfassend Kostenstelleninformation und extern ermittelte Carrieridentifikationsnummer sowie den extern berechneten Portowert,

D) Schritt 517,

erste Abrechnung nach einem selektierten Beförderer m aus einer Vielzahl an Beförderern unter der Kostenstellennummer Null und abteilunsgweise Abrechnung geordnet nach selektierter Kostenstellennummer n.

FIG. 12 shows a method according to the second variant of the mail processing system. In this second variant with external postage calculation, as was described, for example, in the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 4a and 4b, the method for entering data in a mailing system again includes preparatory steps which are carried out on a personal computer in the office for preparing a letter, including the address field and note are carried out, as well as steps which take place when the note is scanned in a post office and when the data are processed and when franking with a franking machine. However, in the case of the latter, step 512 for identifying the carrier number and step 516 for using the franking machine internal postage meter table of the selected carrier are omitted because these are carried out in the external balance. Such a method is characterized by the steps:

A) step 511,

Scanning the marking,

B2) step 513,

Identify cost center number,

C0) step 515,

automatic data entry for processing in the franking machine including cost center information and externally determined carrier identification number as well as the externally calculated postage value,

D) step 517,

first billing after a selected one Carrier m from a large number of carriers under the cost center number zero and departmental billing sorted by selected cost center number n.

A1)Schritt 511a,

Abtasten der Markierung und Identifizierung extern von der Frankiermaschine,

C0)Schritt 515,

automatische Dateneingabe zur Verarbeitung in der Frankiermaschine umfassend die extern ermittelte Kostenstelleninformation, Carrieridentifikationsnummer und den extern berechneten Portowert,

D) Schritt 517,

erste Abrechnung nach einem selektierten Beförderer m aus einer Vielzahl an Beförderern unter der Kostenstellennummer Null und abteilunsgweise Abrechnung geordnet nach selektierter Kostenstellennummer n.

FIG. 13 shows a method according to the third variant of the mail processing system. In this third variant with external postage calculation, as was described, for example, in the exemplary embodiment in FIGS. 4c and 4d, step 512 for identifying the carrier number, step 513 for identifying the cost center number and step 516 for using the postage meter internal to the franking machine are omitted in the latter Postage fee table of the selected carrier because these steps are carried out in the external scale. Such a method is characterized by the steps:

A1) step 511a,

Scanning the marking and identification externally from the franking machine,

C0) step 515,

automatic data entry for processing in the franking machine comprising the externally determined cost center information, carrier identification number and the externally calculated postage value,

D) step 517,

first billing according to a selected carrier m from a large number of carriers under the cost center number zero and billing by department sorted according to the selected cost center number n.

An optional step 518 is also provided in order to send accounting data to a personal computer in the office 21 in response to a request, in which case in a further step 519 in the personal computer a total storage of the total fees and listed according to carriers for a selected cost center and / or in a further step 520 cumulative storage of the cost center-related accounting data for a selected carrier takes place.

The invention is not limited to the present embodiment, since it is evident that further other arrangements or implementations of the method can be developed or used, which, starting from the same basic idea of the invention, are covered by the appended claims.

Claims (43)

Process for data processing in a mailing system with steps for printing out a document including address field and note, scanning the note in a post office and for processing the data and for franking with a franking machine, characterized by the steps: - Carrying out a first step (201), comprising a mail piece detection in the transport path to the franking machine and a scanning of the address field and / or the note in the mail path detection of supplied mail pieces in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine, with the result that information relating to the selected carrier is automatically entered into the Franking machine is entered, and wherein for automatic printing data entry into the franking machine at least one call of non-volatile stored setting data takes place, - Carrying out a processing routine in a second step (209), including at least one routine for automatically changing non-volatile stored setting data, for generating carrier-specific print images when a predetermined mail carrier is selected, for automatic printing data input and checking, and for display, automatic or manual input such as - Processing the data in franking mode with carrier-related billing before franking. Process for data processing in a mailing system with steps for printing out a document including address field and note, scanning the note in a post office and for processing the data and for franking with a franking machine, characterized by the steps: - Carrying out a first step (201), comprising detection of mail pieces in the transport path to the franking machine and a scanning of the address field and / or the note in the case of mail piece detection of mail pieces fed in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine, with the result that information relating to the cost center is automatically entered into the franking machine, and wherein at least one call of non-volatile for automatic printing data input into the franking machine saved setting data takes place, - Execution of a processing routine in a second step (209), including at least one routine for automatically changing non-volatile stored setting data, for automatic printing data entry and checking, and for display, for automatic or manual entry, containing a subroutine for assigning cost center information to a cliché information for automatic entry of the cliché information when entering the cost center information and - Processing the data in franking mode with cost center-related billing before franking. Process for data processing in a mailing system with steps for printing out a document including address field and note, scanning the note in a post office and for processing the data and for franking with a franking machine, characterized by the steps: - Carrying out a first step (201), comprising a mail piece detection in the transport path to the franking machine and a scanning of the address field and / or the note in the mail path detection of supplied mail pieces in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine, the result being information relating to the carrier and the cost center automatically the franking machine is entered, and wherein at least one call of non-volatile for automatic printing data input into the franking machine saved setting data takes place, - Carrying out a processing routine in a second step (209), including at least one routine for automatically changing non-volatile stored setting data, for generating carrier-specific print images when a predetermined mail carrier is selected, for automatic printing data input and checking, and for display, automatic or manual input , optionally containing a subroutine for assigning cost center information to a cliché information for automatically entering the cliché information when entering the cost center information and - Processing the data in franking mode with cost center and carrier-related billing before franking. Process for data processing in a mailing system with steps for printing out a document including address field and note, scanning the note in a post office and for processing the data and for franking with a franking machine, characterized by the steps: - Carrying out a first step (201), comprising a detection of mail pieces in the transport path to the franking machine and a scanning of the address field and / or the note for the detection of mail pieces of mail pieces fed in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine, the result being information relating to mail piece dispatch and / or cost center automatically is entered into the franking machine, - Execution of a processing routine in a second step (209), including at least for the automatic change of non-volatile stored setting data, for automatic printing data entry and checking as well as for display, automatic or manual entry and - Processing the data in franking mode with a Carrier and cost center related billing before franking. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that in the first step (201) non-volatile stored settings for the franking machine (in sub-step 2040) are called up if no mail item is detected in the mail feed path, and that in the mail feed path to the franking machine positioned scanner (26) enters scanned data into the franking machine when a mail item is detected by a letter sensor and is transported to the print head, the new setting being stored non-volatile for the automatically entered carrier and the old setting data being overwritten. Method according to claims 4 or 5, characterized in that in the first step (201) substeps (2010 to 2017) for a scanner communication mode, substeps (2019 to 2027) for a chip card communication mode and / or substeps (2031 to 2035) for a balance communication mode. Method according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that preparatory steps are carried out in the personal computer and / or alternative preparatory steps for generating the document or memorandum in order to enable the use of stickers or pre-printed envelopes. Method according to one of claims 4 to 6, characterized in that due to the automatic input of the carrier information in sub-steps (2010 to 2017) of the scanner communication mode of the first step (201) now in the subsequent second step (209), non-volatile for automatic change stored setting data, a postage calculation is carried out in a postage calculator. Method according to one of the preceding claims 4 to 8, characterized in that - That the routine in the second step (209) in addition to input, formation of request data, automatic print data entry and display, a first sub-step (209-1) for making selective entries regarding the change in the automatically entered cost center and / or carrier information, wherein the availability of data is checked in query steps (209-8, 209-10, 209-12), with branching to further sub-steps (209-16, 209-17, 209-18) for checking the print data by means of an encrypted checksum, if the aforementioned Print data are available and branching to a nineteenth sub-step (209-19) to form request data relating to current or further mail carrier data if the aforementioned print data are not available, and - That a communication is carried out in a third step (300) with a remote data center, whereby carrier-specific partial image files and tariff and / or other current files (step 1000) are transmitted to the franking machine on the basis of transmitted aforementioned request data from the data center. Method according to claim 9, characterized in that the request data in the communication mode also result in the reloading of image files which are either embedded in the frame data as window pixel data or which modify the frame data of the franking image itself in a carrier-specific manner. Method according to claims 9 and 10, characterized in that the change in the setting with regard to the cliché, with regard to the mail carrier and their services or election printing is carried out by entering an assigned number, the respective functions being performed by the actuating means of the input means (2) called in the first sub-step (209-1) and determined in query steps (209-7, 209-9, 209-11), and that the formation of request data with the aforementioned change in the setting of the mail carrier and / or associated with those in the first step (201) called but changed by time of the clock / date module (8), the change can be determined by the microprocessor (6) in the third sub-step (209-3). Method according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized in that the routine in the second step (209) in addition to input, formation of request data, automatic print data input and display, additionally a subroutine for assigning a cost center number to a cliché number for automatic Enter the cliché number when entering the cost center number, whereby the assignment can be changed. Method according to one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that the transmitted partial image files assigned to a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected mail carrier are stored in a non-volatile manner in the franking machine in order to generate specific printed images when a predetermined postal carrier number or CIN is selected, and in that the transmitted partial image files , Pixel image files and the change data generated by automatic or manual input are stored in non-volatile memory areas of read / write memory means (5 and / or 8). Method according to one of Claims 9 to 10, characterized in that an assignment of numbers to the corresponding names of cost centers or carriers is stored for simple entry, the names of cost centers in sub-steps (209-40 and 209-41) and the names of carriers can be changed in sub-steps (209-42 and 209-43). Method according to one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that a representation or display of all carrier-related consumption totals for the set cost center number is provided upon a corresponding entry, which is recognized in the forty-fourth query step (209-44) and then after display to switch the assigned currently set cost center number to the list routine (forty-fifth sub-step 209-45) for the selected register. Method according to one of claims 9 to 10, characterized in that a representation or display of all carrier-related Number of pieces for the set cost center number is provided when a corresponding entry is made, which is recognized in the forty-sixth query step (209-46), in order then to switch to the listing routine (forty-seventh sub-step 209-47) for the selected register after the assigned currently set cost center number has been displayed . Method according to one of Claims 9 to 10, characterized in that a representation or display of all carrier-related consumption totals is provided for all available cost center numbers, a forty-eighth query step (209-48) and forty-ninth sub-step (209-49) being carried out . Method according to one of Claims 9 to 10, characterized in that a representation or display of all carrier-related quantities is provided for all available cost center numbers, a fiftieth query step (209-50) and fifty-first sub-step (209-51) being carried out. Method according to claims 17 or 18, characterized in that a two-dimensional cost center / carrier matrix is stored in a cost center memory KSP (9), at least comprising the respective amount of consumption (postage consumption p) assigned to the respective cost centers stored in the ascending register R2 and comprising the respective number of consumed items stored in the item number register R4 and assigned to respective cost centers, e.g. Method according to claim 19, characterized in that periodically or in freely selected periods after a settlement and output of a list for a cost center, a reset to zero takes place both for postage consumption p and for the number of items z, the output of such a list being Cost center printout or as a carrier-related printout by the franking machine on a strip or after retrieval by a personal computer in the office (21) on a connected printer, and that, if required, a listing of the entirety and / or individual financial reloading data within a period of time and other register or Service data can be printed out as a receipt from the print head of the franking machine. Method for data processing in a mailing system, comprising a number of steps, which are carried out on a personal computer in the office in preparation for printing a letter, including the address field and note, characterized by the steps: a) step 501, creating a letter file as part of a letter creation program, b) step 502, call up the first input mask, c) step 503, input and storage of the recipient address and the date, d) step 505, call up the second input mask, e) step 506, save carrier selection number, f) step 507, creating and saving a letter content, g) step 508, printing out the letter and, if applicable, the letter recipient's address on the envelope, h) step 509, marking the letter or envelope with a note, i) Step 510, insert the letter. Method according to claim 21, characterized in that between the steps (503) and (505) a step (504) with a program routine for the automatic input and storage of the cost center number runs in connection with the first input mask. Method according to Claim 21, characterized in that addressing takes place either on the letter when the letter is printed out in step (508) or in the subsequent step (509) for marking the letter or envelope with a note, the latter step (509) taking the Calling up programs for the position of the address and / or the other information in accordance with the postal regulations for the position of the address and / or the other information and corresponding programs are loaded into the memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc, which are located in the Office (21). Method according to claim 23, characterized in that in the aforementioned I steps (508) for printing and (509) for marking the letter and / or the envelope, a printer or separate printer is controlled accordingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed. Process for data processing in a mailing system comprising preparatory steps which are carried out on a personal computer in the office to prepare the printing of a letter, including the address field and note, and comprehensive steps which are involved in scanning the endorsement in a post office and in processing the data and in franking with a franking machine expire, marked through the steps: A) step 511, scanning the mark, B1) step 512, identify carrier number, B2) step 513, identify cost center number, C1) step 515, automatic data input for processing in the franking machine comprising cost center and carrier information and a measured mail piece weight, C2) step 516, use the postage fee table of the selected carrier to calculate the postage value, D) Step 517, first billing for a selected carrier m from a plurality of carriers under the cost center number zero and departmental billing according to the selected cost center number n. Process for data processing in a mailing system comprising preparatory steps which are carried out on a personal computer in the office to prepare the printing of a letter, including the address field and note, and comprehensive steps which are involved in scanning the endorsement in a post office and in processing the data and franking with a franking machine expire, characterized by the steps: A) step 511, scanning the mark, B2) step 513, identify cost center number, C0) step 515, automatic data entry for processing in the franking machine including cost center information and externally determined carrier identification number and the externally calculated postage value, D) Step 517, first billing for a selected carrier m from a plurality of carriers under the cost center number zero and billing by department sorted by selected cost center number n. Process for data processing in a mailing system comprising preparatory steps which are carried out on a personal computer in the office to prepare the printing of a letter, including the address field and note, and comprehensive steps which are involved in scanning the endorsement in a post office and in processing the data and franking with a franking machine expire, characterized by the steps: A1) step 511a, scanning the marking and identification externally from the franking machine, C0) step 515, automatic data input for processing in the franking machine comprising the externally determined cost center information, carrier identification number and the externally calculated postage value, D) Step 517, first billing for a selected carrier m from a plurality of carriers under the cost center number zero and billing by department sorted by selected cost center number n. Method according to one of Claims 25 to 27, characterized in that an optional step (518) is provided in order to send accounting data to a personal computer in the office (21) in response to a request, the step (519 ) a total storage of the total fees and listed by carrier for a selected cost center and / or in a step (520) a cumulative storage of the cost center-related billing data for a selected carrier. Method according to one of claims 25 to 28, characterized in that the marking on the letter in the address field or on the envelope in the note is generated in preparatory steps by means of a personal computer, after a first preparatory step (501) for creating a letter file as part of a letter creation program , further preparation steps (502 to 507) take place and an assignment of the printable letter to the aforementioned address is stored in the personal computer so that it can be called up. Method according to one of Claims 25 to 29, characterized in that in a preparation step (504) a program routine for automatically entering the cost center number runs in conjunction with a first input mask, which is followed by step (502) after the first preparation step (501) is called automatically. Process for data processing in a mailing system comprising preparatory steps which are carried out on a personal computer in the office to prepare the printing of a letter, including the address field and note, and comprehensive steps which are involved in scanning the endorsement in a post office and in processing the data and franking with a franking machine expire, characterized by the steps: A) step 511, scanning the mark, B1) step 512, identify carrier number, C1) step 515, automatic data input for processing in the franking machine comprising the carrier information and a measured mail piece weight, C2) Step 516, postage fee table of the selected one Use the carrier to calculate the postage value, D) Step 517, first settlement according to a selected carrier m from a plurality of carriers under the cost center number zero. Process for data processing in a mailing system comprising preparatory steps which are carried out on a personal computer in the office to prepare the printing of a letter, including the address field and note, and comprehensive steps which are involved in scanning the endorsement in a post office and in processing the data and franking with a franking machine expire, characterized by the steps: A1) step 511a, scanning the marking and identification externally from the franking machine, C0) step 515, automatic data input for processing in the franking machine comprising the externally determined carrier identification number and the externally calculated postage value, D) Step 517, first settlement according to a selected carrier m from a plurality of carriers under the cost center number zero. Method according to claims 31 or 32, characterized in that an optional step (518) is provided in order to send billing data in response to a request to a personal computer in the office (21), in which case in a step (519) in the personal computer a total storage of the total fees and listed by carrier is carried out. Arrangement for data processing in a franking machine, with input means and output means which are connected to a processor system, characterized in that a) that the franking machine has an input / output means (4) on which, at least for weight input, an internal or external scale (22), a register unit (19) for the automatic input of data and for controlling connected peripheral devices, and means (20, 23) are connected for communication with a remote data center, b1) that the input means (2) have first actuating means in order to set the franking machine to another mail carrier, b2) that the input means (2) have second actuating means for the specific setting of a new mail carrier, and c) that a processor system contains a microprocessor (6) which is programmed with a routine to load the data of the set new mail carrier in automatic routines (1000) of the communication mode (300) accordingly and to generate a change in the printed image, whereby the change data generated are assigned to a number and the respective mail carrier in a non-volatile manner or are stored in a non-volatile manner associated with a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected mail carrier. Arrangement according to claim 34, characterized in that an at least first scanner (26) is connected to the external balance (22) in order to read a carrier information into the balance, which carries out the carrier-specific fee calculation and the determined postage value into the franking machine via a data line (25) and the input / output means (4), and that at least a second scanner (27) connected to the register unit (19) with the franking machine via a Data line (18) is connected in order to automatically enter cost center information into the franking machine which is required for cost center-specific billing. Arrangement for data processing in a franking machine, with input means and output means which are connected to a processor system, characterized in that - That at least a first scanner (26) with the external scale (22) or with the franking machine is indirectly or directly connected to automatically enter a carrier information in the scale or in the franking machine, which is required for the carrier-specific fee calculation, and - That a processor system of the franking machine contains a microprocessor (6) which is programmed with a routine stored in a memory area (81) of the clock / date module in order to load the data of the automatically set new mail carrier in automatic routines if necessary. Arrangement according to claim 36, characterized in that at least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that different formats are also scanned. Arrangement according to claim 37, characterized in that programs corresponding to the postal regulations exist for the position of the address and the other information in memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc. Arrangement according to claim 36, characterized in that a processing device for the scanned information is integrated in the franking machine or in another additional peripheral device in order to determine the carrier and / or the cost center. Arrangement according to claim 36, characterized in that the scanner is connected together with a letter sensor (16) to a register unit (19) which temporarily stores data and carries out a parallel / series conversion, the register unit (19) for serial data transmission the data line (18) is electronically connected to an input / output control means (4) of the franking machine. Arrangement according to claim 36, characterized in that for other envelope formats, corresponding scanners (26.1, 26.2) for carrier information are arranged in the mail feed path of the scale 22 or that corresponding scanners (27.2, 27.2) for cost center information are arranged in the mail feed path of the franking machine FM. Arrangement according to claim 36, characterized in that both the cost center scanner (27) and the conveyor scanner (26) are coupled to the external balance. Arrangement according to claim 36, characterized in that the cost center scanners (27) or carrier scanners (26) have an electronic circuit for image evaluation.

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