EP0805420A2 - Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement - Google Patents

Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0805420A2
EP0805420A2 EP97250133A EP97250133A EP0805420A2 EP 0805420 A2 EP0805420 A2 EP 0805420A2 EP 97250133 A EP97250133 A EP 97250133A EP 97250133 A EP97250133 A EP 97250133A EP 0805420 A2 EP0805420 A2 EP 0805420A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
data
franking machine
carrier
letter
franking
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP97250133A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP0805420A3 (fr
EP0805420B1 (fr
Inventor
Ralf Kubatzki
Wolfgang Dr. Thiel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Original Assignee
Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Francotyp Postalia GmbH filed Critical Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Publication of EP0805420A2 publication Critical patent/EP0805420A2/fr
Publication of EP0805420A3 publication Critical patent/EP0805420A3/fr
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0805420B1 publication Critical patent/EP0805420B1/fr
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00459—Details relating to mailpieces in a franking system
    • G07B17/00661—Sensing or measuring mailpieces
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00314—Communication within apparatus, personal computer [PC] system, or server, e.g. between printhead and central unit in a franking machine
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00314—Communication within apparatus, personal computer [PC] system, or server, e.g. between printhead and central unit in a franking machine
    • G07B2017/00322—Communication between components/modules/parts, e.g. printer, printhead, keyboard, conveyor or central unit
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00459—Details relating to mailpieces in a franking system
    • G07B17/00661—Sensing or measuring mailpieces
    • G07B2017/00709—Scanning mailpieces

Definitions

  • 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, 3, 4, 21, 25, 26, 30, 31 and 32 and an arrangement for data processing according to the type mentioned in the preamble of claim 34 specified Art.
  • 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.
  • a fixed print head prints the franking imprint column by column with simultaneous letter transport. A print width of approximately 1 inch is achieved.
  • the postage meter contains a postage calculator, weight information is entered by the scale.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • the postage values determined in the balance are transmitted from the balance to the franking machine.
  • 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 data of a clock / date module called up at the beginning but changed by the passage of time from Microprocessor can be determined as relevant for a reloading requirement.
  • 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.
  • this requires a comfortable and therefore expensive user interface (keyboard and screen) at least in the franking machine.
  • 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.
  • 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 can be controlled indirectly by means of a printed coding which characterizes the respective mail item. These coding codes Parameter values are assigned in a database, 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.
  • window envelopes are said not to be opened because bills are suspected.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • an automatic system for setting essential data and for billing postage fees is to be created according to cost centers, so that it is unnecessary to make manual franking machine entries.
  • An additional task is to display the accounts on the one hand according to cost centers and on the other hand according to enable public and private mail carriers by displaying and printing.
  • 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, whereby an envelope must be carried out in the office.
  • the postal items are already addressed in the office.
  • An optimization program runs on the personal computer, which makes suggestions for low mail transport costs. This has the advantage that changes in the letter content, in the number of pages or in the addressing can be made and monitored directly by the responsible person.
  • a letter created on the personal computer has a format with an area for a specific printed sender address and recipient address.
  • the relevant information for automatic data entry into the franking machine can now be derived from the sender address and recipient address.
  • at least the recipient address printed out together with the letter content and visible in the window of a window envelope is scanned in the post office.
  • the plain text recognition (OCR) takes place in the scanner itself or in the franking machine, which is then electronically Data converted recipient address as search request data transmitted electronically via a communication means to the personal computer.
  • the personal computer searches all files (letter files) to which a letter content is assigned for the recipient address and transmits the assigned cost center and carrier information to the franking machine electronically via the communication means.
  • a mail carrier selected using the keyboard / display unit of the personal computer is assigned to the letter recipient address as mail carrier information in each letter creation, but is not printed out with the letter content.
  • the assigned carrier information can thus later be determined again via the recipient address as a search request and can be transmitted electronically from the personal computer via the communication means to the franking machine.
  • Another alternative solution variant is based on the possibility of modern office printers to print both a letter recipient address and a sender address on an envelope. Some mail carriers require a barcode to be printed in addition to the plain text address in order to make machine-readability of the addresses easier.
  • the invention is further based on the consideration of scanning the addresses of the letter or envelope in the remote post office using a commercially available scanner (scanner) and automatically entering them 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. After the plain text recognition (OCR) or barcode recognition, search request data is formed in the postage meter machine and is transmitted electronically to the personal computer via a communication means. The assigned address is the search request via the recipient address Carrier information can be determined again and can be transmitted electronically from the personal computer to the franking machine via the communication means.
  • the invention is further based on measures which produce a correlation of the departmental billing in the personal computer for departmental billing of postage fees according to cost centers in the franking machine with little effort.
  • a sender address selected using the user interface of the personal computer is automatically assigned to a corresponding cost center or department each time a letter is created.
  • the letter file is supplemented by cost center information before it is saved.
  • the routine in the second step, for the automatic change of non-volatile setting data includes the formation of request data for the reloading of current carrier data and / or carrier tariffs. After the cost center and / or carrier information has been transmitted from the personal computer to the franking machine, the latter automatically checks whether the selected carrier is available in its memory or whether the tariff table data of the selected carrier is current. Otherwise, communication with the remote data center is started. In the process, special request data are sent and the required data is received from the data center and is loaded into the memories of the franking machine.
  • step c) processing the data in the franking mode, communication is then 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.
  • a sub-variant is possible that assumes that the personal computers in the office belong to a common cost center.
  • the same cost center number is then called up and, as a result, the same advertising cliché is printed out when franking.
  • the mail recipient addresses and the letter files created at different times are different. Selected different carriers can now be assigned to these as a carrier identification number (CIN).
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • the query of the letter files by the franking machine using the scanned address enables the changes in a carrier commissioned to transport the mail piece to be taken into account automatically.
  • a variable carrier-related logo can therefore be printed out when franking.
  • Another possible sub-variant assumes that the personal computers in the office do not belong to a common cost center, but always choose the same carrier.
  • the same carrier number or CIN is then called up.
  • Querying the letter files created at different times by means of the scanned address by the franking machine enables the different cost centers to be taken into account automatically.
  • the routine in the second step, for automatically changing non-volatile setting data advantageously contains a subroutine for assigning a cost center number to a plate number for automatically entering the plate number when entering the cost center number. It is therefore possible that the variable specific advertising cliché for each cost center (department or small company) is automatically set using the cliché number assigned in this way and printed out when franking.
  • the combination of the aforementioned sub-variants enables the franking machine to automatically take into account the different cost center and carrier selection by means of the scanned address.
  • the procedure is not limited to the selection of cost centers and carriers. Likewise, types of printing (e.g. air mail, return receipt, etc.) or other settings can be queried by the franking machine.
  • types of printing e.g. air mail, return receipt, etc.
  • other settings can be queried by the franking machine.
  • the solution according to the invention is based on a relationship between the address of the printed letter and an associated information in the letter files of the personal computer, whereby after scanning the address, formation and transmission of search request data and research in the memories of the personal computer, the result is an additional one required for automatic data entry
  • Information on the aforementioned address is transmitted electronically, for example via a data line, to the franking machine.
  • the assignment of the information to the address is stored in the personal computer, for example in order of time, in order to enable access to the most current file with the same address.
  • the information is assigned in the personal computer to the addresses which are printed out with the letter content.
  • the associated information relating to the cost center and the carrier stored in the personal computer in the office can be called up electronically from the device in the post office via the data line.
  • the aforementioned associated information stored in the office is used for the automatic setting of the franking machine, which essentially makes manual operation superfluous.
  • 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.
  • the transmission of the required setting information to the remote franking machine is initiated via a data line on request of the franking machine, whereupon the franking machine is loaded with data by the aforementioned personal computer.
  • the operations performed in the personal computer in the office include text creation and processing, entry of the address and assignment of a cost center number for cost center-related billing, menu-driven selection of the shipping methods, shipping methods or other or other information, to determine the cheapest carrier, the formation of a carrier information and the assignment of all information to the aforementioned address and the storage of the assignment. If required, or periodically, billing reports can be printed out via a commonly connected printer, which are correlated with the cost center-related billing in the franking machine.
  • Another variant enables scanning of the sender address as well as the letter recipient address and / or the corresponding note in the case of mail piece detection of mail pieces fed in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine.
  • the franking machine then asks again a personal computer for assigned stored information.
  • An advantage of this variant is the determination of the personal computer responsible for storing the letter file on the basis of the sender address. This significantly shortens the search process for the relevant letter file for a large number of personal computers in the office.
  • 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.
  • the data center can grant the customer a credit and transmit a credit after a query to the customer bank regarding the creditworthiness.
  • the aforementioned information and its assignment are stored in the franking machine for each carrier that can be selected. If necessary, a document of the reloading that has been carried out can be printed out for each mail carrier after each reloading from the print head of the franking machine. This is made possible by switching the franking machine to internal pressure. It is also provided that a listing of 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.
  • FIG. 1 for a mail processing system, which has a franking machine with data input according to a first variant, shows the flow of mail from a modern office 21 to a post office.
  • 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.
  • the selected mail carrier information is stored in a special section of the letter file that is not to be printed with the letter content.
  • a window envelope is used for inserting.
  • Another sub-variant is based on an envelope.
  • the printer can in particular be a commercially available printer equipped for printing envelopes, which is connected to the personal computer. Address printing can also be carried out on self-adhesive labels which are stuck onto the envelope.
  • At least one of the scanners scans the letter recipient's address, which is printed in the address field or can be scanned through a window of a window envelope or stuck onto the envelope as a self-adhesive label.
  • the scanner is electrically connected to the franking machine via a data line 18.
  • 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 then also be arranged in the feed to the scale 22.
  • the franking machine FM can establish communication with a data center DZ via a suitable communication means 17 if required.
  • a scanner connected to the franking machine FM scans the address data of the mail recipient in the post office. From this, the franking machine can form request data in order to additionally request data in the office 21, which are sent from the respective personal computer PCa, PCb or PCc via a data line 24 directly to the franking machine be transmitted.
  • the scanners, if appropriate also the scales 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 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 addresses 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 barcode line can be provided on the envelope or in the address field of the envelope. For different formats for envelopes, a correspondingly different positioning, if appropriate, of a further scanner 26.1 results.
  • the scanner together with a first mail item sensor 16, is connected to 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.
  • the block diagram shown in FIG. 2 for a franking machine has a programmable processor system which is equipped with at least one scanner 26 and a modem 23, a scale 22, a chip card read / write unit 20 and / or other corresponding receiving means or input means for communicating with the Office 21 is connected.
  • the scanner for the address is also positioned at the beginning of the secure postal route in the post office.
  • a large number of personal computers PCa, PCb,... PCn to PCm in the office 21 can communicate with a single franking machine if, for example, they are asked to do so, for example, one after the other, to save their files stored under time data according to a relevant letter recipient address and assigned cost center and / or carrier information search. Files with the same recipient address in the address data area are not relevant if they were not saved on the same day. For example, the requested carrier and / or cost center information is then transmitted electronically to the franking machine via a data line.
  • 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 another 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.
  • CMOS-NV-RAM battery-supported non-volatile memory
  • a pressure controller (DS) 14 is designed, for example, as an ASIC and is adapted to the respective preferably digital printing method.
  • an input / output control means including a pressure control 14 4 is in circuit connection with 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 above other part of the memory worked. 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • the postage computer from the CPU 6 and Memory areas of the EEPROM 5b and / or other non-volatile memories are formed. A part of the memory areas of the EEPROM 5b are intended to hold tariff tables of the individual carriers.
  • 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, with the input means 20 to 23 and via a data line 24 with at least one personal computer in the office 21.
  • a personal computer (PC) including monitor and associated keyboard can be regarded as a peripheral input / output means for searching and entering data.
  • Other peripheral input / output means can also be connected to the processor system of the franking machine. For example, a connection to an existing computer network can be made possible by a separate device 29.
  • 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 to the control electronics arranged on the print head can 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 are delivered in parallel converted by means of an associated sensor shift register of the register unit 19 controlled by the input / output control means 4 into serially retrievable data bits.
  • 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 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. Not only can electronically stored credit be replenished in the franking machine, but current tariff table data and other data can also be transmitted.
  • Another variant is a telecommunication network provided that externally contains a memory with the retrievable data and / or flags 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.
  • 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 memory 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 insertion slot.
  • Such a special post office chip card for the employees in the post office can be used to enter the location be used to advantage. 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 further provided that a printout can be created for the cost center-dependent billing by the franking machine, as has already been described in the German laid-open specification DE 42 24 955.
  • 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.
  • receipts for subsequent reloads with credit, tariff, image and other data are printed out by post using the print head of the franking machine.
  • a proof of the reloading can be created separately for each mail carrier after each reloading, if the franking machine is switched over to internal printing. Then a self-adhesive franking strip is preferably printed. It is further provided that a listing of 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.
  • the cost center number is automatically entered into the franking machine via data line 24 and stored in connection with a special one in the program memory PSP 11 Program performed a data transfer to the personal computer in the office 21 relating to the listing of the cost center-related billing.
  • the cost center can now be printed out by the department in question in the office 21 itself using a printer connected to the personal computer.
  • 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 in order to initiate automatic communication, for example via modem 23, 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).
  • a communication network modem, mobile radio
  • 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.
  • a keyboard for example, a keyboard
  • 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.
  • 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 one of the carriers is later selected from the aforementioned set of postal carriers, only the carrier identification number (CIN) need 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) will.
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • 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.
  • a piece of mail that may have been fed in the meantime remains in a waiting position, preferably at the beginning of the feed path or possibly in the feed path on the scale 22.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • a second flag is set. If, however, the second mail item sensor 16.1 is actuated only on its own or in front of the first mail item sensor 16, this can be determined 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 register and service data or an advertising slogan can still be carried out.
  • the overall flow chart shown in FIG. 3 for a franking machine with integrated postage calculation has, after the initialization in step 101 in a first step 201 according to the invention, several sub-steps 2010 to 2017, 2018 to 2029 and 2030 to 2035 for automatic data entry into the franking machine after the first variant of the mail processing system and the aforementioned sub-step 2040 for calling up non-volatile stored settings.
  • 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 piece of address information in steps 2010 to 2016, in order to read valid data as a result into the memory areas of the non-volatile memory of the franking machine provided for this purpose, so that the tamper-proof automatic setting which can thus be achieved can also be achieved in the event of an operating voltage failure preserved.
  • communication is carried out with one of the remote personal computers, which has already been explained in connection with the data line 24 in FIGS. 1 and 2.
  • This communication includes at least the transmission of request data to the personal computer in the office 21 and the retrieval of cost center and carrier data stored in the personal computer in the office 21.
  • 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.
  • a query is made as to whether the scanned data provide useful information or whether at least one limit value has been exceeded, i.e. 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.
  • 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.
  • 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).
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • print data input for corresponding partial images 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.
  • mail processing and franking are fully automated.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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 is entered according to the first variant of the mail processing system, but a carrier information must be entered in the postage computer of the external scale 22.
  • the external scale 22 transmits the calculated postage value via a data line 25 to the franking machine, which is thus relieved of postage calculation.
  • At least one scanner 26 is connected to the register unit 19. It is provided that at least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that different formats are also scanned. Corresponding scanners 26.1, 26.2 for address scanning are arranged for other envelope formats in the mail feed path of the scale 22 or in the mail feed path of the franking machine FM, which was not shown in FIG. 4a for the sake of clarity.
  • a processing device for the scanned information is preferably integrated in the franking machine FM in order to determine address data.
  • 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 via the data line 18 being electronically connected to the input / output Control means 4 of the franking machine is connected.
  • the scanner 26 have an electronic circuit for image evaluation.
  • 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.
  • the scanner 26 have an electronic circuit for image evaluation.
  • the electronic circuit in the scanner only supports an image evaluation carried out in the franking machine. Using the determined addresses, it is possible to determine the carrier or / or the cost center in the personal computer.
  • a carrier information is entered into the scale, which is required for the carrier-specific fee calculation, and a carrier information is automatically entered into the franking machine, which is required for a carrier-specific logo print data input.
  • the 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.
  • 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.
  • the arrangement for data entry into a franking machine has input and output means which are connected to a processor system. It is provided that the input means 2 have first actuating means in order to set the franking machine to another mail carrier. It is further provided that the input means 2 have second actuating means for the specific setting of a new mail carrier, and that the processor system contains a microprocessor 6, which is programmed with a routine in order to match the data of the set new mail carrier in automatic routines 1000 of the communication mode 300 to load and to generate a change in the print image, the change data generated being assigned non-volatile under a number and the respective mail carrier or stored non-volatile associated with a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected mail carrier.
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • the overall flowchart shown in FIG. 4b for a franking machine with an external scale for postage calculation shows an automatic data input modified compared to the first variant according to a second variant of the mail processing system.
  • Update mode steps 128 to 135
  • a normal mode as has already been proposed in the European application (official file number 95 250 313.4), method and an arrangement for data input into a balance, in a similar manner.
  • the first step 201 of a system routine 200 comprises, in addition to sub-steps 2010 to 2017 to detect sensor signals, also sub-steps 2018 to 2029 for communication with a personal computer and search for the information associated with the address, further also sub-steps 2030 to 2035 for receiving data from transmitted to the scale, and further sub-steps 2036 to 2037 for evaluation, as well as sub-step 2040 for calling up data, inter alia, of scale input data, which include the choice 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).
  • 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.
  • 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 is explained in more detail 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.
  • step 2036 If request data were formed in step 2036, then new update data are to be loaded and branching from query step 2037 to steps 128 to 133 in order to switch the franking machine to the master state and to load the required update data into the postage meter machine in accordance with the request data .
  • steps 128 to 133 those update data that are required by the scale are transmitted to the scale 22.
  • 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 branched back to the initialization routine, the mode changeover being reversed.
  • steps 2010 to 2017 and 2032 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 dialing pressure, carrier identification number CIN, if applicable the minimum period of validity of the postage fee table belonging to the CIN and the determined postage fee for a weighed mail item 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.
  • 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.
  • step 2037 After the query in step 2037, with no update data to be loaded, normal mode is reached.
  • 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 takes place with the aforementioned change in the setting of the mail carrier and / or in connection with such data of the clock / date module 8 called in the first step 201 but changed by the passage of time , the change being ascertainable by the microprocessor 6 in the third sub-step 209-3 (FIG. 5a).
  • the result of the request data in the communication mode is also the reloading of partial image files 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.
  • 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 print images when a predetermined mail carrier number or CIN is selected, and that the transmitted sub-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.
  • step 209a the data can be overwritten or changed using the input means of the franking machine, or other inputs can be made and displayed manually.
  • FIG. 4b the overall flowchart for a franking machine with an external scale for postage calculation according to the second variant, shown in FIG. 4b, there is now no postage calculation internally in the franking machine, in contrast to step 209 according to the first variant shown in FIG.
  • FIG. 5a shows a flow chart of data entry for the franking machine.
  • special query steps are used in addition to the usual ones.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • MAC encrypted verification code
  • 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.
  • 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).
  • window image data variable image data files
  • variable image images frame image data.
  • image data and control files are shown in more detail in a method for generating a print image which is printed on a carrier in a franking machine.
  • the seventh sub-step 209-7 it is checked whether a different cliché was selected when entering the first sub-step 209-1.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • the user interface is continuously adapted to the operator, as has already been described in DE 42 17 478 A1, and if - to display the second subroutine 209-2 is branched back - the stamp to be printed is clearly shown in the display. 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.
  • a query criterion for a carrier change is met if the mail has been scanned accordingly as part of the input routine (first step 201 in FIG. 3) and then the carrier 21 Type is transmitted on the basis of a request (first step 201 in FIG. 3), and thus changed carrier information has been automatically entered into the franking machine for billing purposes.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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).
  • a branch is made to a point k to a nineteenth sub-step 209-19 in order to form request data. If actuation 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.
  • the postage value changed due to the postage calculation is again determined in the fifth sub-step 209-5 and 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).
  • the twenty-third query step 209-23 and the associated twenty-fourth sub-step 209-24 are omitted for the internal postage calculation.
  • 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.
  • Prerequisite is a possibility for the non-volatile storage of a large number of advertising clichés in the franking machine.
  • a fixed number of advertising clichés can already be stored non-volatilely in an internal user memory ASP 10 (EEPROM) by the manufacturer.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • An advertising slogan can thus advantageously 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.
  • a corresponding program such as input and display means.
  • 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.
  • a query criterion for a change in the cost center number is met if the mail has been scanned accordingly as part of the inbound routine in order to (first step 201 in FIGS. 3a, 4b, 4d) or indirectly (first step 201 in FIG. 3b) automatically enter cost center information for billing purposes in the franking machine.
  • first step 201 in FIGS. 3a, 4b, 4d or indirectly
  • cost center information for billing purposes in the franking machine 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • a branch is made from query step 209-32 to 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.
  • 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).
  • sub-steps 209-8, 209-16, 209-20, 209-1 to 209-23 which lead to points h and h in FIG. 5b
  • the thirtieth sub-step 209-30 for querying for a desired change in the assignment between the cliché and cost center number is reached again.
  • 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.
  • 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 - to branch to sub-step 209-39 and then to 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • numbers are assigned to the names of cost centers or carriers, which can also be seen in the legend in FIG. 7c.
  • the name of the cost center that is common between the departments of the office 21 can be changed if this should be necessary. He follows a corresponding input, this is recognized in the fortieth query step 209-40 and after the assigned currently set number is 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.
  • 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.
  • the listing is prepared. The list is based on a corresponding entry.
  • 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 will be done in Forty-fourth query step 209-44 recognized and after displaying the assigned currently set cost center number is then switched 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).
  • 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, which is not shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b, the chip card being used, for example, as a key card. According to the variant of the mail processing system shown in FIGS. 2, 3 and 4a, 4b, there is a communication connection to the personal computer PC.
  • substeps 2010 to 2016 for a scanner communication mode substeps 2019 to 2029 for an office computer communication mode and substeps 2031 to 2035 for a balance communication mode are carried out.
  • sub-step 2010 there is a routine that stores the cost center and / or shipping data, including carrier data, in a non-volatile manner as previous data so that they are available as comparison data when it is necessary to decide whether individual data has been changed by automatic data entry .
  • a serial interface is selected, in order to then receive data xl from at least one of the scanners (mail item sensor 16) in the following sub-step 2012, before branching to a query step 2013.
  • 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.
  • a branch is made via the sub-step 2009 to the sub-step 2040 if no scanner data has been received.
  • a mail piece detection takes place in sub-step 2015. If the sensor 16 according to a mechanical principle works, in the simplest case only the relevant bit needs to be saved. If the sensor 16 works according to the optical principle of action, this can be done by a relatively simple image evaluation.
  • a branch is made from the query step 2016 to a sub-step 2017 for evaluating the other scanned data.
  • marking in the form of a barcode it may be necessary to move the mail piece further forward before an evaluation is successful.
  • the completeness of the scanning data must be ensured before an evaluation.
  • the data required for detection ie for finding and evaluating
  • this is ascertained in a query step 2008 (not shown) and, in response, branches back to step 2012 for further data transmission from the scanners Wait for register unit 19 and data line 18. Otherwise, the system branches directly to the next query step 2018.
  • the evaluation that takes place in sub-step 2017 includes the detection of the mail recipient address.
  • sub-step 2040 branches from query step 2016 to call up stored current data. Neither a scale communication mode nor an office computer communication mode is then run through.
  • a sub-step 2009 is run through in order to control motors (not shown) in the feed device in such a way that they may switch off 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 Entry or presetting of the franking machine.
  • an office computer communication mode (sub-steps 2019 to 2027) is run through.
  • a corresponding query step 2018 precedes the aforementioned office computer communication mode.
  • sub-steps 2031 to 2035 for a balance communication mode are also run through if a balance coupling is determined in the preliminary query step 2030.
  • a serial interface is selected in sub-step 2031 in order to then carry out a data transmission y1 from the franking machine to the balance 22 in the following sub-step 2031a.
  • This data transmission y1 includes the transmission of the carrier identification number CIN.
  • a handshake signal y2 sent by the scale 22 is received and then branched to the sub-step 2031c in order to issue an error message in the following sub-step 2031d and to branch back to the sub-step 2031a if no handshake signal was received by the scale 22.
  • a data transmission a from the scale 22 is awaited before branching to a query step 2033.
  • this data transmission contains the postage value which was determined externally by the franking machine in accordance with the CIN transmission.
  • the sub-steps 2031a to 2031d can be omitted.
  • Query step 2033 is then reached.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • the mail handling system which contains a franking machine that is in communication with at least one personal computer PCa, PCb,..., PCn, PCm in the office 21, carries out the automatic data entry relating to the cost center and / or carrier information online via the aforementioned communication link in the first step 201 , if corresponding request data are previously formed on the basis of the scanned letter recipient address.
  • the flow chart shown in Figure 6b for a automatic data entry in step 201 illustrates the office computer communication mode.
  • the sub-step 2018 leads to a sub-step 2019 to select a serial interface to the personal computer in the office.
  • a data transmission to the computer in the office 21 then takes place in sub-step 2020.
  • a handshake signal is waited for by the computer in the office 21 and the process branches to query step 2022. If a handshake signal was not received by the computer in the office 21, a branch is made to the query step 2030. Such a case can occur when the office computer is switched off. On the other hand, a branch is made to sub-step 2023 to await data transmission from the computer in the office 21. If this has taken place (sub-step 2024), a handshake signal is sent to the computer in the office 21 (sub-step 2025). On the other hand, branching back to sub-step 2023. If the handshake signal was sent to the computer in the office 21 (sub-step 2025), the data is evaluated in sub-step 2026. If the data transmission was not completed or possibly incomplete, sub-step 2020a may result in an error message in sub-step 2020 for data transfer of requests -Data branched back to the computer in the office 21. The query is made in sub-step 2027.
  • sub-steps 2019 to 2027 for an office computer communication mode can be extended by further sub-steps 2028 and 2029, which carry out the answering of an electronic demand report after a listing for department-related billing.
  • sub-step 2028 a check is made to determine whether a corresponding request in the form of an electronic request message was made by the personal computer in the office when evaluating the data in sub-step 2026, before the request was processed in sub-step 2029. The process then branches back to sub-step 2020 in order to carry out renewed communication until the need message is given accordingly has been processed.
  • 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 ascertained 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.
  • step 4d 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, ie whether the standby mode has been reached.
  • 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).
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • Step 301 Before step 301 is reached, one can at any time Requests for communication are made or another input is 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 in order to set a standby flag in step 408 if there is still 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.
  • step 405 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.
  • step 410 the process branches from step 410 to the billing and printing routine in step 406.
  • a special sleeping mode counter is in the step 406, that is to say during the accounting routine which takes place immediately before printing, causes a counting step to be continued.
  • the number of printed letters and the current values in the postal 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.
  • 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.
  • the carrier and cost center information should 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 of firstly a cost center number zero and secondly the selected cost center number that is different from zero for departmental billing has been set.
  • Step 417 forming subaddresses, is required to control the memory areas during the 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 carried out by the above-mentioned parallel steps locked in.
  • 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.
  • a prepaid amount is kept as electronic credit in the credit card's credit account and, in the case of intended franking, reduced by the postage to be franked.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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, the query step 421 changes to a step 422 for the credit register check branches. 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. If, alternatively, there is a settlement on the basis of a prepaid credit in a prepaid card, then a corresponding query step 425 branches to a corresponding step 426 for checking the credit register in a prepaid card.
  • 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.
  • the MAC security is added in sub-step 4061.
  • FIG. 7c shows the result of the carrier-related billing carried out in the tamper-proof billing module in the postal registers.
  • 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.
  • the carriers also have a reference to a carrier identification number (CIN), which has multiple digits for the precise automatic identification of the carriers, 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.
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • 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.
  • postage consumption p the respective amount of consumption assigned to cost centers in the ascending register R2
  • pieces z assigned to cost centers in the number register R4.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • specific queries take place in order to form specific request data in the associated sub-steps 2095-13 to 2097-13.
  • sub-step 2092-13 branching from sub-step 2092-13 to sub-step 2095-13 in order to form and save request data together with the current date and carrier.
  • 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.
  • a new entry is made in sub-step 2094-19 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, which is continuously carried out before the point t, and are evaluated in step 301 according to FIGS. 3 or 4b as a communication request in order to enter a communication mode.
  • 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 properly and it is determined in sub-step 337 that the connection cannot be established even after the nth redial.
  • an automatic reloading begins with data in sub-step 338. According to the change in the CIN, which is in the Postage meter machine is saved, reloading is now carried out. 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.
  • 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). 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.
  • 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.
  • the data record After leaving communication mode 300, it is determined in query step 211 - shown in FIGS. 3 and 4b - that data has been transmitted and then branches to 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).
  • DEK data record end identifier
  • 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 the next transaction or action is called and thus branched off for further execution of 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.
  • 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.
  • a step 504 for entering and storing the cost center number is preferably arranged after the step 503 for entering and storing the recipient address and the date and before the step 505 for calling up the second input mask in the automatic sequence of an operator prompting. 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. Addressing takes place either on the letter when the letter is printed out in step 508 or alternatively in the form of a note or marking in the subsequent step 509 before inserting (in step 510).
  • the marking in step 509 comprises the calling of 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.
  • the postal regulation can, for example, prescribe a marking with a barcode for the address or the associated postcode, which must be attached to the mail piece (or letter or envelope) in the form of a separate note.
  • Corresponding programs are loaded in the memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc, which are located in the office 21.
  • steps 508 and 509 a printer or separate printers are jointly controlled accordingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed. Addresses can also be printed on self-adhesive strips, which can be used for letters or envelopes.
  • steps 503, 504 and 506 according to the first variant run according to the invention in such a way that when the data is saved, the data is automatically assigned to the recipient address and the date by a program routine in conjunction with the first and second input screens and that no selected cost center number and no selected one Carrier information can be printed on the letter or on the envelope.
  • the note on the letter or envelope to be evaluated in the post office only contains the recipient address. If it is ensured that the personal computer in the office is only used by the same department, then in step 504 a program routine can be run in connection with the first input mask for the automatic input of the cost center number.
  • step 518 is provided to send accounting data to office 21 in response to a request.
  • step 518 is again provided to send accounting data to the office on request.
  • the method for entering data in a mailing system further includes the aforementioned optional steps 519 and 520, 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.
  • the communication takes place via the communication means, preferably the data line 24, via which the memory of the personal computer is also accessed in step 514 in order to identify the letter file.
  • the communication means preferably the data line 24, via which the memory of the personal computer is also accessed in step 514 in order to identify the letter file.
  • wireless communication is also considered as an alternative when there is talk of a means of communication.
  • the relevant personal computer with the relevant letter file is determined via the communication means, which abbreviates the search in the database for letter files distributed over a large number of hard disks of the respective personal computer.
  • a program routine for automatically entering the cost center number in connection with a first one Input mask runs which is automatically called in the step 502 downstream of the first preparation step 501.
  • a PC number for identifying a personal computer can advantageously be stored assigned to a separate sender address or cost center number. Then the relevant personal computer with the relevant letter file can be determined via the sender address or with the PC number.
  • the relevant personal computer in the office 21 can be determined indirectly via the department or company name of the sender or directly if the marking in the note has an identifier (PC no .) for the personal computer in the office 21 which contains the relevant letter file in its memories.
  • a prerequisite is a method in which 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 preparatory steps 502 to 507 and one Assignment of the data required for the marking of the printable letter to the aforementioned address is stored in the personal computer so that it can be called up.
  • the scanning of the sender address as well as the letter recipient address and / or the corresponding note to the sender address is carried out with a single scanner 26 or with a plurality of separate scanners (shown schematically in FIGS. 11 to 13), which together with a letter sensor 16 with the register unit 19 are connected. It is provided that at least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that endorsements are scanned on different mailpiece formats.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Hardware Design (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Devices For Checking Fares Or Tickets At Control Points (AREA)
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EP97250133A 1996-05-02 1997-04-22 Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement Expired - Lifetime EP0805420B1 (fr)

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DE19617473A DE19617473A1 (de) 1996-05-02 1996-05-02 Verfahren und Anordnung zur Datenverarbeitung in einem Postverarbeitungssystem mit einer Frankiermaschine

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US6298337B1 (en) 2001-10-02
DE59712949D1 (de) 2008-08-07
EP0805420A3 (fr) 2000-06-28
US6064994A (en) 2000-05-16
EP0805420B1 (fr) 2008-06-25
DE19617473A1 (de) 1997-11-06

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