EP1183154B1 - Franking machine - Google Patents

Franking machine Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1183154B1
EP1183154B1 EP01905558A EP01905558A EP1183154B1 EP 1183154 B1 EP1183154 B1 EP 1183154B1 EP 01905558 A EP01905558 A EP 01905558A EP 01905558 A EP01905558 A EP 01905558A EP 1183154 B1 EP1183154 B1 EP 1183154B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
counter
machine according
pressure
rollers
roller
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.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP01905558A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1183154A1 (en
Inventor
Werner Haug
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.)
Frama AG
Original Assignee
Frama AG
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 Frama AG filed Critical Frama AG
Publication of EP1183154A1 publication Critical patent/EP1183154A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1183154B1 publication Critical patent/EP1183154B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00459—Details relating to mailpieces in a franking system
    • G07B17/00661—Sensing or measuring mailpieces
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J11/00—Devices or arrangementsĀ  of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
    • B41J11/0045—Guides for printing material
    • B41J11/005—Guides in the printing zone, e.g. guides for preventing contact of conveyed sheets with printhead
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J11/00—Devices or arrangementsĀ  of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, for supporting or handling copy material in sheet or web form
    • B41J11/20—Platen adjustments for varying the strength of impression, for a varying number of papers, for wear or for alignment, or for print gap adjustment
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B41—PRINTING; LINING MACHINES; TYPEWRITERS; STAMPS
    • B41J—TYPEWRITERS; SELECTIVE PRINTING MECHANISMS, i.e. MECHANISMS PRINTING OTHERWISE THAN FROM A FORME; CORRECTION OF TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS
    • B41J13/00—Devices or arrangements of selective printing mechanisms, e.g. ink-jet printers or thermal printers, specially adapted for supporting or handling copy material in short lengths, e.g. sheets
    • B41J13/10—Sheet holders, retainers, movable guides, or stationary guides
    • B41J13/12—Sheet holders, retainers, movable guides, or stationary guides specially adapted for small cards, envelopes, or the like, e.g. credit cards, cut visiting cards
    • 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
    • G07B17/00467—Transporting mailpieces
    • 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
    • G07B17/00508—Printing or attaching on mailpieces
    • 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
    • G07B17/00508—Printing or attaching on mailpieces
    • G07B2017/00516—Details of printing apparatus
    • G07B2017/00524—Printheads
    • G07B2017/00532—Inkjet
    • 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
    • G07B17/00508—Printing or attaching on mailpieces
    • G07B2017/00516—Details of printing apparatus
    • G07B2017/00556—Ensuring quality of print
    • 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
    • G07B2017/00669—Sensing the position of mailpieces
    • 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
    • G07B2017/00693—Measuring the speed of mailpieces inside apparatus

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a franking machine with at least one print head Inkjet printing unit for printing on insertable or continuous flat Shipping objects such as letters or postcards, consisting of one around the print head and arranged above the nozzle orifice plane Guide part, which one the shipping objects between themselves and opposite, conveyor rollers rotating about axes arranged transversely to the conveying direction is assigned to the conveying device transporting objects, wherein the latter two with the guide part forming a conveyor line, drive-connected Has drive rollers, which is viewed in the conveying direction before and after Are arranged printhead and that opposite one against the other Drive role resp. a shipping object transported in between exerts pressure, Reversible counter pressure roller is arranged.
  • Inkjet or inkjet printheads have long been known and in particular are used in PC printers.
  • Insights gained cannot apply to the field of application here Franking machines are transmitted.
  • the reasons include in high speed the letters to be franked, their different formats and Thicknesses, as well as the significantly rougher environmental conditions, based on partly dirty surfaces of the shipping objects. They also have to Franking imprints meet the strict quality requirements of the post office, what high design effort and reliability required.
  • US-A-5 913 627 discloses a franking machine for means of transportation fed flat packages and for printing a postmark on them, whereby packages of counter pressure rollers with opposing conveyor rollers be transported.
  • the different thickness of the packages is in the conveyor channel through a spring-operated, height-adjustable guide surface of a guide element each balanced so that the printer has a constant distance opposite the top of a package to be printed.
  • US-A-4 821 049 relates to an apparatus for transporting envelopes, the serves to position envelopes precisely regardless of the thickness differences to lead a path with a read or write head.
  • the arranged in a triangle Rollers are mounted on swiveling arms and the rotating conveyor belts are tensioned by a spring connected to the roller, such that the funding strand resp. the envelopes against the bottom of the guide plate be pressed.
  • the object of the present invention is a franking machine like this to design that they are equipped with an inkjet printhead when franking Shipping objects such as letters, cards or the like.
  • franking Shipping objects such as letters, cards or the like.
  • Different thickness, different Formats and materials allow largely trouble-free printing and produces a clearly identifiable print image.
  • this object is achieved in that between the counter pressure rollers one connected to at least one of the removable counter-pressure rollers, adjustable support roller is arranged with respect to the distance from the guide part.
  • the description is mainly limited to the technical measures for printing the shipping objects during transport in the franking machine.
  • the counter pressure consists of three counter pressure rollers. Two roles are under the right and left drive rollers. The third, middle role has the task of Bring letter under the printheads to the required level without press the letter against the faces of the printheads so that the printed image remains unsmeared.
  • the counter pressure rollers move after franking back down and open the gap for inserting a new envelope.
  • a plurality of control cams 1A, 1B and 2A, 2B are arranged on the main shaft 3, the control levers 7A, 7B and 9A, 9B via the control rollers 29 about the axis 10 pivoting, raise or lower more or less depending on the required position.
  • the basic position of the main shaft 3 is by a control cam 27 switched microswitch 28 found.
  • the worm gear is driven by the motor 31 23/24 driven and the main shaft in the "insert letter" position, "Franking" or ā€œService positionā€ rotated.
  • the exact position is determined by a Fork light barrier 25 and the slotted disc 26 on the motor shaft per electronic control - achieved by the number of triggered pulses.
  • the counter pressure levers right and left 6A, 6B and 8A, 8B are connected to the control levers 7A, 7B and 9A, 9B attached tension springs 30 upward about the axis 10 pivoted until the counter pressure rollers 13, 15 on the upper drive rollers 32, 33 issue.
  • the control levers 7A, 7B and 9A, 9B reach their end positions via the Control curves 1A, 1B and 2A, 2B, with the result that the tension springs 36 are still be biased a little further.
  • the rocker arm 22 seated on the axis of rotation of support roller 14 is in axis 34 the right counter pressure rollers 13 hooked in and must be when lowering the right counter pressure lever 6A, 6B forcibly move down with and reaches the level of the right counter pressure roller.
  • the rocker arm 22 is supported from the stop 35 against the support roller carrier 21 from left turning rigid.
  • the rocker arm 22 can rotate clockwise against the force of the tension spring 36 turn away from the stop 35. This is because of the mutual scanning between right and left counter pressure roller required and will be more precise later described.
  • the counter pressure levers 6A, 6B; 8A, 8B are in the basic position for inserting a Single letter ready. Once the letter is in its exact back and right on Table position is created, the postage meter is activated via a reflex light barrier activated. First, the main shaft 3 rotates about 1/3 of a turn clockwise. The control levers 7, 9 are on the control rollers 29 through the Control curves 1, 2 pivoted upwards. The counter pressure levers are over the Tension springs 30 also moved upward until the counter pressure rollers 13, 15 on the drive rollers 32, 33 abut. The control levers move a little continue until the control curve has reached its peak. The possible overstroke the control lever is balanced by the spring-loaded coupling of the counter pressure lever.
  • the support roller 14 has the rocker arm 22 to the same level set.
  • the letter is now between the drive rollers and the counter pressure rollers trapped.
  • the drive motor 40 (see FIG. 8) drives via the transmission 41 on the drive rollers 31, 33 and moves the letter from right to left.
  • the Speed and position detection is carried out via the incremental encoder 42 and the feeler wheel 38.
  • the feeler wheel is rubbed by the moving envelope driven and thus records the exact speed of the letter surface.
  • the letter is pressed onto the feeler wheel via a separate counterpressure, which will be described separately later.
  • the inkjet print heads inject corresponding patterns into cells from which lead to the desired print image.
  • the hold-down plate respectively.
  • the guide part 39 holds the letter at an exact distance from the print head end side in order to obtain a clean print image with regard to resolution and also to prevent the printed lines from moving when the Envelopes are smeared.
  • the thick letter is also below the left Drive roller driven.
  • the left counter pressure lever had to be against spring force also move down and has the same height level as the right counter pressure roller or the middle support role assumed.
  • the stop 37 of the left The counterpressure lever has contact with the push arm of the support roller support 21 added.

Abstract

The invention relates to a franking machine, comprising a print head of an ink-jet printing mechanism for printing flat postal items such as letters or postcards, which can be introduced into said mechanism or which pass through the same. Said franking machine consists of a guiding part which is located around the print head and projects in relation to the nozzle opening plane of said print head, and with which a conveying device is associated, said conveying device transporting the postal items between itself and conveying rollers lying opposite and rotating about axes that are located crosswise to the conveying direction. Said conveying device has two drive-connected driving rollers which together with the guiding part, form a path of travel. The driving rollers are located in front of and behind the print head in relation to the conveying direction. A reversibly liftable counter pressure roller located opposite exerts a pressure on each driving roller, respectively, or on a postal item being transported in-between. A roller feeler (39, 119) which is driven by the passing postal item and which is associated with an encoder device (122) is located between the driving rollers (13, 15; 127, 113) in order to monitor the speed and position of a postal item being transported or for controlling the pressure on a postal item.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Frankiermaschine mit wenigstens einem Druckkopf eines Inkjet-Druckwerkes zum Bedrucken von einlegbaren oder durchlaufenden flachen Versandobjekten wie Briefe oder Postkarten, bestehend aus einem um den Druckkopf und gegenĆ¼ber dessen DĆ¼senmĆ¼ndungsebene vorstehend angeordneter FĆ¼hrungsteil, dem eine die Versandobjekte zwischen sich und gegenĆ¼berliegenden, um quer zur Fƶrderrichtung angeordnete Achsen rotierende Fƶrderrollen einer die Versandobjekte transportierenden Fƶrdereinrichtung zugeordnet ist, wobei letztere zwei mit dem FĆ¼hrungsteil eine Fƶrderstrecke bildende, antriebsverbundene Antriebsrollen aufweist, die in Fƶrderrichtung betrachtet vor und hinter dem Druckkopf angeordnet sind und dass gegenĆ¼berliegend jeweils eine gegen eine Antriebsrolle resp. ein dazwischen transportiertes Versandobjekt einen Druck ausĆ¼bende, reversierbar anhebbare Gegendruckrolle angeordnet ist.The invention relates to a franking machine with at least one print head Inkjet printing unit for printing on insertable or continuous flat Shipping objects such as letters or postcards, consisting of one around the print head and arranged above the nozzle orifice plane Guide part, which one the shipping objects between themselves and opposite, conveyor rollers rotating about axes arranged transversely to the conveying direction is assigned to the conveying device transporting objects, wherein the latter two with the guide part forming a conveyor line, drive-connected Has drive rollers, which is viewed in the conveying direction before and after Are arranged printhead and that opposite one against the other Drive role resp. a shipping object transported in between exerts pressure, Reversible counter pressure roller is arranged.

Bei Frankiermaschinen werden heute nebst der klassischen Rotationstechnik vermehrt neue Stempelaufbringverfahren, u.a. auf Thermo- und Inkjetbasis, eingesetzt.In franking machines, in addition to the classic rotation technology, there is a growing number today new stamp application processes, e.g. based on thermal and inkjet.

Die Erfahrung zeigt, dass dabei nicht nur der Druckkopf ersetzt werden muss, sondern je nach Drucktechnik der gesamte Frankiermaschinenaufbau grƶsseren und sehr aufwendigen, d.h. auch entsprechend kostspieligen Ƅnderungen und Anpassungen unterworfen ist.Experience shows that not only the printhead has to be replaced, Depending on the printing technology, the entire franking machine structure is larger and very complex, i.e. also corresponding to expensive changes and Is subject to adjustments.

Inkjet- oder Tintenstrahldruckkƶpfe sind seit lƤngerem bekannt und werden insbesondere bei PC-Druckern eingesetzt. Die dort beim Einsatz solcher Druckkƶpfe gewonnenen Erkenntnisse kƶnnen nicht auf das hier vorliegende Einsatzgebiet in Frankiermaschinen Ć¼bertragen werden. Die GrĆ¼nde liegen u.a. in der hohen Geschwindigkeit der zu frankierenden Briefe, deren unterschiedlichsten Formate und Dicken, sowie den bedeutend rauheren Umgebungsbedingungen, beruhend auf zumTeil verschmutzten OberflƤchen der Versandobjekte. Zudem mĆ¼ssen diese Frankieraufdrucke strenge QualitƤtsanforderungen der Poststellen erfĆ¼llen, was hohen Konstruktionsaufwand und ZuverlƤssigkeit verlangt.Inkjet or inkjet printheads have long been known and in particular are used in PC printers. The one there when using such printheads Insights gained cannot apply to the field of application here Franking machines are transmitted. The reasons include in high speed the letters to be franked, their different formats and Thicknesses, as well as the significantly rougher environmental conditions, based on partly dirty surfaces of the shipping objects. They also have to Franking imprints meet the strict quality requirements of the post office, what high design effort and reliability required.

Die US-A-5 913 627 offenbart eine Frankiermaschine fĆ¼r mittels Transporteinrichtung zugefĆ¼hrte flache VersandstĆ¼cke und zum Druck eines Poststempels darauf, wobei VersandstĆ¼cke von Gegendruckrollen mit gegenĆ¼berstehenden Fƶrderrollen transportiert werden. Die unterschiedliche Dicke der VersandstĆ¼cke wird im Fƶrderkanal durch eine federbetƤtigte hƶhenverstellbare FĆ¼hrungsflƤche eines FĆ¼hrungselementes jeweils ausgeglichen, so dass der Drucker einen konstanten Abstand gegenĆ¼ber der zu bedruckenden Oberseite eines VersandstĆ¼cks einnimmt.US-A-5 913 627 discloses a franking machine for means of transportation fed flat packages and for printing a postmark on them, whereby packages of counter pressure rollers with opposing conveyor rollers be transported. The different thickness of the packages is in the conveyor channel through a spring-operated, height-adjustable guide surface of a guide element each balanced so that the printer has a constant distance opposite the top of a package to be printed.

Die US-A-4 821 049 betrifft eine Vorrichtung zum Transport von UmschlƤgen, die dazu dient, UmschlƤge ungeachtet der Dickenunterschiede genau positioniert auf einem Pfad mit einem Lese- oder Schreibkopf zu fĆ¼hren. Die im Dreieck angeordneten Rollen sind an schwenkbaren Armen gelagert und die umlaufenden FƶrderbƤnder werden von einer mit der Rolle verbundenen Feder gespannt, derart, dass das Fƶrdertrum resp. die UmschlƤge gegen die Unterseite der FĆ¼hrungsplatte gedrĆ¼ckt werden.US-A-4 821 049 relates to an apparatus for transporting envelopes, the serves to position envelopes precisely regardless of the thickness differences to lead a path with a read or write head. The arranged in a triangle Rollers are mounted on swiveling arms and the rotating conveyor belts are tensioned by a spring connected to the roller, such that the funding strand resp. the envelopes against the bottom of the guide plate be pressed.

Die Aufgabe der vorliegenden Erfindung besteht darin, eine Frankiermaschine so zu gestalten, dass sie ausgerĆ¼stet mit einem Inkjet-Druckkopf beim Frankieren von Versandobjekten wie Briefe, Karten oder dgl. unterschiedlicher Dicke, verschiedener Formate und Materialien ein weitestgehend stƶrungsfreies Bedrucken erlaubt und ein eindeutig identifizierbares Druckbilder produziert.The object of the present invention is a franking machine like this to design that they are equipped with an inkjet printhead when franking Shipping objects such as letters, cards or the like. Different thickness, different Formats and materials allow largely trouble-free printing and produces a clearly identifiable print image.

Da heutzutage derartige Maschinen hohe DurchsƤtze ermƶglichen mĆ¼ssen, wird auch ein vollautomatischer Betrieb verlangt.Since nowadays such machines have to enable high throughputs fully automatic operation is also required.

Eine besondere Bedeutung hat deshalb die FĆ¼hrung der Versandobjekte im Bereich des Druckkopfes. Da von dĆ¼nnsten Objekten (quasi Einzelblatt) bis zu dicken Briefen ein breites Vorkommen an Versandobjekten mit unterschiedlichsten mechanischen Eigenschaften -beispielsweise durch das Biegeverhalten- und auf verschiedensten Formaten gedruckt bzw. frankiert werden soll, muss wƤhrend der gesamten Druckphase der Abstand der zu bedruckenden ObjektoberflƤche gegenĆ¼ber der DĆ¼senmĆ¼ndungsebene des Inkjetdruckkopfes konstant sein.The management of shipping objects in the area is therefore of particular importance of the printhead. Because from the thinnest objects (quasi single sheet) to thick Letters a wide range of shipping objects with different mechanical Properties - for example due to the bending behavior - and on various Formats to be printed or franked must be during the entire distance from the distance of the object surface to be printed the nozzle orifice plane of the inkjet printhead.

Daneben sind Voraussetzungen zu schaffen, die eine robuste AusfĆ¼hrung, ZuverlƤssigkeit und wartungsarme Konstruktion gewƤhrleisten.In addition, conditions must be created that are robust, reliable and guarantee low-maintenance construction.

Nebst diesen Anforderungen sind eine robuste Ausstattung, ZuverlƤssigkeit, wartungsarme Konstruktion und hohe QualitƤt des Druckbildes zu erfĆ¼llen.In addition to these requirements, robust equipment, reliability and low maintenance Construction and high quality of the printed image.

ErfindungsgemƤss wird diese Aufgabe dadurch gelƶst, dass zwischen den Gegendruckrollen eine mit wenigstens einer der abhebbaren Gegendruckrollen verbundene, hinsichtlich Abstand zum FĆ¼hrungsteil verstellbare StĆ¼tzrolle angeordnet ist. Damit lassen sich bei einer erfindungsgemƤssen Frankiermaschine eine hohe PrƤzision beim Bedrucken der Versandobjekte und eine anspruchsvolle wirtschaftliche Herstellung sowie einfache Bedienung erzielen.According to the invention, this object is achieved in that between the counter pressure rollers one connected to at least one of the removable counter-pressure rollers, adjustable support roller is arranged with respect to the distance from the guide part. This allows high precision in a franking machine according to the invention when printing on the shipping items and a sophisticated economical Achieve manufacturing and ease of use.

Nachfolgend sind die Funktionen und die Ausbildung sowie Vorteile einer AusfĆ¼hrung der erfindungsgemƤssen Frankiermaschine mit Tintenstrahldrucktechnologie beschrieben.The following are the functions and the training as well as the advantages of an implementation the franking machine according to the invention with inkjet printing technology described.

Die Beschreibung beschrƤnkt sich dabei vorwiegend auf die technischen Massnahmen zum Druck der Versandobjekte wƤhrend dem Transport in der Frankiermaschine. The description is mainly limited to the technical measures for printing the shipping objects during transport in the franking machine.

FĆ¼r ein besseres VerstƤndnis wird auf die Bezugszeichen und Figuren, in denen AusfĆ¼hrungsformen der Erfindung dargestellt sind, Bezug genommen.

1A
vordere Steuerkurve fĆ¼r rechte Gegendruckrolle
1B
hintere Steuerkurve fĆ¼r rechte Gegendruckrolle
2A
vordere Steuerkurve fĆ¼r linke Gegendruckrolle
2B
hintere Steuerkurve fĆ¼r linke Gegedruckrolle
3
Hauptwelle
4
hintere Seitenwand
5
vordere Seitenwand
6A
Gegendruckhebel, links, vorne
6B
Gegendruckhebel, links, hinten
7A
Steuerhebel, links, vorne
7B
Steuerhebel, links, hinten
8A
Gegendruckhebel, rechts. vorne
8B
Gegendruckhebel, rechts, hinten
9A
Steuerhebel, rechts, vorne
9B
Steuerhebel, rechts, hinten
10
Achse fĆ¼r Gegedruckhebel und Steuerhebel
11
Anschlagbolzen fĆ¼r Gegendruckhebel rechts
12
Anschlabbolzen fĆ¼r Gegendruckhebel links
13
Gegendruckrolle rechts
14
StĆ¼tzrolle
15
Gegendruckrolle links
16A
Schwinge, vorne fĆ¼r StĆ¼tzrolle
16B
Schwinge, hinten fĆ¼r StĆ¼tzrolle
17
Achse fĆ¼r Schwinge
18
FedereinhƤngestange
19
FedereinhƤngung
20
Zugfeder fĆ¼r Steuerhebel
21
StĆ¼tzrollentrƤger mit Tastausleger
22
Schlepphebel
23
Schneckenwelle
24
Schneckenrad
25
Gabellichtschranke
26
Schlitzscheibe
27
Schaltnocke fĆ¼r Hauptwellengrundstellung
28
Mikroschalter
29
Steuerrolle
30
Zugfeder fĆ¼r Gegedruckhebel
31
Gleichstrommotor
32
Antriebswalze rechts
33
Antriebswalze links
34
Achse fĆ¼r Gegendruckrolle rechts
35
Anschlag fĆ¼r Schlepphebel
36
Zugfeder fĆ¼r Schlepphebel
37
Anschlag fĆ¼r Tastausleger
38
Tastrad fĆ¼r Inkrementalgeber
39
Niederhalteplatte resp. FĆ¼hrungsteil
40
Antriebsmotor fĆ¼r Vorschub
41
Getriebe fĆ¼r Antriebsrollen
42
Inkrementalgeber, Encoder
43
Ausleger am StĆ¼tzrollentrƤger
For a better understanding, reference is made to the reference numerals and figures in which embodiments of the invention are shown.
1A
front cam for right counter pressure roller
1B
rear cam for right counter pressure roller
2A
Front cam for left counter pressure roller
2 B
rear cam for left counter pressure roller
3
main shaft
4
rear side wall
5
front side wall
6A
Counter pressure lever, left, front
6B
Counter pressure lever, left, rear
7A
Control lever, left, front
7B
Control lever, left, rear
8A
Counter pressure lever, right. ahead
8B
Counter pressure lever, right, rear
9A
Control lever, right, front
9B
Control lever, right, rear
10
Axle for counter pressure lever and control lever
11
Stop bolt for counter pressure lever on the right
12
Connecting bolt for counter pressure lever on the left
13
Counter pressure roller on the right
14
supporting role
15
Counter pressure roller on the left
16A
Swingarm, front for support roller
16B
Swing arm, rear for support roller
17
Swingarm axle
18
FedereinhƤngestange
19
spring suspension
20
Tension spring for control lever
21
Support roller carrier with push arm
22
cam follower
23
worm shaft
24
worm
25
Light barrier
26
slotted disc
27
Switch cam for main shaft basic position
28
microswitch
29
control roller
30
Tension spring for counter pressure lever
31
DC motor
32
Drive roller on the right
33
Drive roller on the left
34
Axle for counter pressure roller right
35
Stop for rocker arm
36
Tension spring for rocker arm
37
Stop for push arm
38
Touch wheel for incremental encoders
39
Hold-down plate resp. guide part
40
Drive motor for feed
41
Gear for drive rollers
42
Incremental encoder, encoder
43
Boom on the support roller support

Beschreibung der Zeichnungsinhalte bei folgenden Figuren:Description of the contents of the drawing for the following figures:

Figur 1Figure 1
Frontansicht der kompletten Gegendruckmechanik, einschliesslich Antrieb, Tastrad und Hauptwellenantrieb,Front view of the complete counter pressure mechanism, including Drive, feeler wheel and main shaft drive,
Figur 2Figure 2
Draufsicht auf Gegendruckmechanik gemƤss Fig. 1,Top view of the counter pressure mechanism according to FIG. 1,
Figur 3Figure 3
Frontansicht der kompletten Gegendruckmechanik in Frankierstellung, Gegendruck in oberer Stellung,Front view of the complete counter pressure mechanism in franking position, Counter pressure in the upper position,
Figur 4Figure 4
Frontansicht der kompletten Gegendruckmechanik in Servicestellung, Gegendruck in unterster Stellung,Front view of the complete counter pressure mechanism in service position, Back pressure in the lowest position,
Figur 5Figure 5
Frontansicht, Stellung der Gegedruckhebel/-rollen bei eingelegtem, dickerem Kurzbrief oder von der automatischen ZufĆ¼hrung von rechts einlaufender Brief unter die rechte Antriebsrolle,Front view, position of the counter pressure levers / rollers with the thicker short letter or from the automatic feed from the right incoming letter under the right drive roller,
Figur 6Figure 6
Frontansicht, dicker Brief unter allen Antriebsrollen und dem Tastrad,Front view, thick letter under all drive rollers and the feeler wheel,
Figur 7Figure 7
Frontansicht, dicker Brief hat die rechte Rolle verlassen, die rechte Gegendruckrolle kommt automatisch in die obere Position, mittlere StĆ¼tzrolle bleibt auf ursprĆ¼nglichem Hƶhenniveau. Die linke Gegendruckrolle hat die Hƶhenabtastung Ć¼bernommen undFront view, thick letter has left the right role, the right one Counter pressure roller automatically comes to the upper position, middle one The support roller remains at the original level. The left counter pressure roller has taken over the height sensing and
Figur 8Figure 8
Daufsicht, Antriebswalzen mit Vorschubgetriebe.Top view, drive rollers with feed gear.

Bei der Einzelbrieffrankierung wird der Brief manuell in die sich in der Ausgangsstellung befindenden Frankiermaschine eingelegt. Fotozellen starten bei exakter Kuvertposition den Frankiervorgang. Die beim Einlegen des Kuverts sich in einer unteren Position befindenden Gegendruckrollen werden Ć¼ber Steuerkurven an der Hauptwelle nach oben bewegt und drĆ¼cken das Briefgut gegen die oberen Antriebswalzen. Der Brieftansport resp. der Frankiervorgang kann nun ausgelƶst werden.In the case of single letter franking, the letter is manually moved into the starting position franking machine located. Photocells start with more exact Envelope position the franking process. The one when inserting the envelope in one Counter pressure rollers located in the lower position are via control cams on the Main shaft moves upwards and press the mail item against the upper drive rollers. The letter transport resp. the franking process can now be triggered become.

Der Gegendruck besteht aus drei Gegendruckrollen. Zwei Rollen liegen unter den rechten und linken Antriebswalzen. Die dritte, mittlere Rolle hat die Aufgabe den Brief unter den Druckkƶpfen auf das erforderliche Hƶhenniveau zu bringen, ohne den Brief gegen die StirnflƤchen der Druckƶpfe zu drĆ¼cken, damit das Druckbild unverschmiert bleibt. Nach dem Frankieren bewegen sich die Gegendruckrollen wieder nach unten und geben den Spalt fĆ¼r das Einlegen eines neuen Kuverts frei.The counter pressure consists of three counter pressure rollers. Two roles are under the right and left drive rollers. The third, middle role has the task of Bring letter under the printheads to the required level without press the letter against the faces of the printheads so that the printed image remains unsmeared. The counter pressure rollers move after franking back down and open the gap for inserting a new envelope.

Ausser der Einlege- und Frankierstellung der Gegendruckrollen gibt es noch eine Stellung "Service". In dieser Stellung sind die Gegendruckrollen noch weiter nach unten gefahren um fĆ¼r die Servicestation Platz zu schaffen. Die Servicestation reinigt und verschliesst bei lƤngerer Arbeitspause oder beim Transport der Frankiermaschine die Druckkƶpfe. Ausserdem ist sie fĆ¼r das FĆ¼llen der Druckƶpfe beim Wechsel des Tintenbeutels erforderlich.In addition to the insertion and franking position of the counter pressure rollers, there is another Position "service". In this position, the counter pressure rollers are still after driven down to make room for the service station. The service station cleans and closes during long breaks or when transporting the franking machine the printheads. It is also used for filling the print heads Ink bag change required.

Konstruktions- und Funktionsbeschreibung der FƶrdereinrichtungConstruction and functional description of the conveyor

Auf der Hauptwelle 3 sind mehrere Steuerkurven 1A, 1B und 2A, 2B angeordnet, die die Steuerhebel 7A, 7B und 9A, 9B Ć¼ber die Steuerrollen 29 um die Achse 10 schwenkend, je nach notwendiger Position mehr oder weniger anheben bzw. absenken. Die Grundpostion der Hauptwelle 3 wird durch einen Ć¼ber die Steuemocke 27 geschalteten Mikroschalter 28 gefunden. Durch den Motor 31 wird das Schnekkengetriebe 23/24 angetrieben und die Hauptwelle in die Position "Briefeinlegen", "Frankieren" oder "Servicestellung" gedreht. Die genaue Position wird Ć¼ber eine Gabellichtschranke 25 und die auf der Motorwelle sitzende Schlitzscheibe 26 per elektronischer Steuerung -durch Anzahl ausgelƶste Impulse- erreicht. Die Gegendruckhebel rechts und links 6A, 6B bzw. 8A,8B werden durch die an die Steuerhebel 7A, 7B und 9A, 9B angehƤngten Zugfedern 30 nach oben um die Achse 10 geschwenkt, bis die Gegendruckrollen 13, 15 an den oberen Antriebswalzen 32, 33 anliegen. Die Steuerhebel 7A, 7B und 9A, 9B erreichen ihre Endlagen Ć¼ber die Steuerkurven 1A, 1B und 2A, 2B, was zur Folge hat, dass die Zugfedern 36 noch etwas weiter vorgespannt werden. Die sichere Auflage zwischen den Steuerrollen 29 und den Steuerkurven 1A, 1B und 2A, 2B wird durch die an der FedereinhƤngestange 18 angehƤngten Zugfedern 29 erreicht. Die exakte untere Position der Gegendruckhebel 6A, 6B bzw. 8A, 8B wird durch die an den Steuerhebeln befindlichen Anschlagbolzen 11, 12 erreicht, die sich auf den Gegendruckhebeln nach einem geringen Leerhub abstĆ¼tzen und sie nach unten mitschleppen. Die entsprechenden Positionen sind in den Figuren detailliert dargestellt.A plurality of control cams 1A, 1B and 2A, 2B are arranged on the main shaft 3, the control levers 7A, 7B and 9A, 9B via the control rollers 29 about the axis 10 pivoting, raise or lower more or less depending on the required position. The basic position of the main shaft 3 is by a control cam 27 switched microswitch 28 found. The worm gear is driven by the motor 31 23/24 driven and the main shaft in the "insert letter" position, "Franking" or "Service position" rotated. The exact position is determined by a Fork light barrier 25 and the slotted disc 26 on the motor shaft per electronic control - achieved by the number of triggered pulses. The counter pressure levers right and left 6A, 6B and 8A, 8B are connected to the control levers 7A, 7B and 9A, 9B attached tension springs 30 upward about the axis 10 pivoted until the counter pressure rollers 13, 15 on the upper drive rollers 32, 33 issue. The control levers 7A, 7B and 9A, 9B reach their end positions via the Control curves 1A, 1B and 2A, 2B, with the result that the tension springs 36 are still be biased a little further. The secure support between the steering rollers 29 and the control curves 1A, 1B and 2A, 2B by the on the spring suspension rod 18 attached tension springs 29 reached. The exact bottom position of the Counter pressure lever 6A, 6B or 8A, 8B is by the on the control levers Reaching stop bolts 11, 12, which are on the counter-pressure levers support a low idle stroke and drag them down. The corresponding Positions are shown in detail in the figures.

Die in der Mitte befindliche StĆ¼tzrolle 14, die den Brief auf exakten Abstand zu den Tintenstrahldruckkƶpfen bringt, sitzt drehgelagert auf zwei StĆ¼tzrollentrƤgem 21, die wiederum Ć¼ber zwei Parellelogramm-Schwingen 16A, 16B gelagert sind. Der auf der Drehachse der StĆ¼tzrolle 14 sitzende Schlepphebel 22 ist in der Achse 34 der rechten Gegendruckrollen 13 eingehƤngt und muss sich beim Absenken des rechten Gegendruckhebels 6A, 6B zwangsweise mit nach unten bewegen und erreicht das Niveau der rechten Gegendruckrolle. Der Schlepphebel 22 stĆ¼tzt sich Ć¼ber den Anschlag 35 gegen den StĆ¼tzrollentrƤger 21 linksdrehend starr ab. Rechtsdrehend kann sich der Schlepphebel 22 gegen die Kraft der Zugfeder 36 vom Anschlag 35 wegdrehen. Dies ist wegen der gegenseitigen Abtastung zwischen rechter und linker Gegendruckrolle erforderlich und wird spƤter noch genauer beschrieben. The center support roller 14, which the letter at an exact distance to the Brings inkjet printheads, is rotatably mounted on two support roller supports 21, which in turn are supported by two parallelogram arms 16A, 16B. The rocker arm 22 seated on the axis of rotation of support roller 14 is in axis 34 the right counter pressure rollers 13 hooked in and must be when lowering the right counter pressure lever 6A, 6B forcibly move down with and reaches the level of the right counter pressure roller. The rocker arm 22 is supported from the stop 35 against the support roller carrier 21 from left turning rigid. The rocker arm 22 can rotate clockwise against the force of the tension spring 36 turn away from the stop 35. This is because of the mutual scanning between right and left counter pressure roller required and will be more precise later described.

Beschreibung zu den Figuren 1 bis 8:Description of Figures 1 to 8:

Die Gegendruckhebel 6A, 6B; 8A, 8B sind in der Grundstellung zum Einlegen eines Einzelbriefes bereit. Sobald der Brief in seiner exakten hinteren und rechts am Tischanschlag angelegten Position ist, wird Ć¼ber eine Reflexlichtschranke die Frankiermaschine aktiviert. Zuerst dreht sich die Hauptwelle 3 um ca. 1/3 Umdrehung im Uhrzeigersinn. Die Steuerhebel 7, 9 werden Ć¼ber die Steuerrollen 29 durch die Steuerkurven 1, 2 nach oben geschwenkt. Die Gegendruckhebel werden Ć¼ber die Zugfedern 30 ebenfalls nach oben mitgewegt, bis die Gegendruckrollen 13, 15 an den Antriebswalzen 32, 33 anliegen. Die Steuerhebel bewegen sich noch etwas weiter, bis die Steuerkurve ihren Hƶchstpunkt erreicht hat. Der mƶgliche Ɯberhub der Steuerhebel wird durch die gefederte Ankopplung der Gegendruckhebel ausgeglichen. Die StĆ¼tzrolle 14 hat sich Ć¼ber den Schlepphebel 22 auf dasselbe Niveau eingestellt. Der Brief ist nun zwischen den Antriebswalzen und den Gegendruckrollen eingeklemmt. Der Antriebsmotor 40 (siehe Figur 8) treibt Ć¼ber das Getriebe 41 die Antriebswalzen 31, 33 an und bewegt den Brief von rechts nach links. Die Geschwindigkeits- und Positionsdetektierung erfolgt Ć¼ber den Inkrementalgeber 42 und dasTastrad 38. DasTastrad wird Ć¼ber Reibung vom sich bewegenden Briefumschlag angetrieben und erfasst so die exakte Geschwindigkeit der BriefoberflƤche. Der Andruck des Briefes an dasTastrad erfolgt Ć¼ber einen separaten Gegendruck, der spƤter noch gesondert beschrieben ist. In AbhƤngigkeit von der Briefposition spritzen die Tintenstrahldruckkƶpfe zellenweise entsprechende Muster ab, die in Folge zu dem gewĆ¼nschten Druckbild fĆ¼hren. Die Niederhalteplatte resp. der FĆ¼hrungsteil 39 hƤlt den Brief auf einen exakten Abstand zu der Druckkopfstimseite um bezĆ¼glich Auflƶsung ein sauberes Druckbild erhalten zu kƶnnen und ausserdem zu verhindern, dass die gedruckten Zeilen bei der Bewegung des Kuverts verschmiert werden. Nach Beendigung des Frankiervorganges schaltet der Antriebsmotor ab und die Hauptwelle dreht sich wieder in ihre Grundstellung zurĆ¼ck, die Gegendruckhebel nehmen wieder ihre Ausgangsstellung ein. Ein neuer Brief kann eingelegt werden. Die Hauptwelle 3 dreht sich zwischen der Position The counter pressure levers 6A, 6B; 8A, 8B are in the basic position for inserting a Single letter ready. Once the letter is in its exact back and right on Table position is created, the postage meter is activated via a reflex light barrier activated. First, the main shaft 3 rotates about 1/3 of a turn clockwise. The control levers 7, 9 are on the control rollers 29 through the Control curves 1, 2 pivoted upwards. The counter pressure levers are over the Tension springs 30 also moved upward until the counter pressure rollers 13, 15 on the drive rollers 32, 33 abut. The control levers move a little continue until the control curve has reached its peak. The possible overstroke the control lever is balanced by the spring-loaded coupling of the counter pressure lever. The support roller 14 has the rocker arm 22 to the same level set. The letter is now between the drive rollers and the counter pressure rollers trapped. The drive motor 40 (see FIG. 8) drives via the transmission 41 on the drive rollers 31, 33 and moves the letter from right to left. The Speed and position detection is carried out via the incremental encoder 42 and the feeler wheel 38. The feeler wheel is rubbed by the moving envelope driven and thus records the exact speed of the letter surface. The letter is pressed onto the feeler wheel via a separate counterpressure, which will be described separately later. Depending on the In the letter position, the inkjet print heads inject corresponding patterns into cells from which lead to the desired print image. The hold-down plate respectively. the guide part 39 holds the letter at an exact distance from the print head end side in order to obtain a clean print image with regard to resolution and also to prevent the printed lines from moving when the Envelopes are smeared. After the franking process has ended, the Drive motor off and the main shaft turns back to its basic position, the counter pressure levers return to their starting position. A new Letter can be inserted. The main shaft 3 rotates between the position

"Einlegen" und "Frankieren" immer nur ca. 1/3 Umdrehung vor bzw. zurĆ¼ck, was einen erheblichen Zeitvorteil mit sich bringt und ausserdem die Mechanik schont. Nach einer weiteren 1/3 Umdrehung haben die Gegendruckrollen ihre absolut tiefste Position erreicht, wie sie in der Serviceposition (siehe Figur 4) notwendig ist. ZurĆ¼ck in die Grundstellung "Einlegen" ist ebenfalls wieder nur 1/3 Umdrehung erforderlich."Insert" and "franking" always only about 1/3 of a turn forward or back, what brings a considerable time advantage and also protects the mechanics. After a further 1/3 turn, the counter pressure rollers have their absolutely lowest Position reached as it is necessary in the service position (see Figure 4). Back to the basic position "insert" is again only 1/3 turn required.

In Figur 5 ist die Funktion der Schlepphebel 22 in Verbindung mit der rechten Gegendruckrolle 13 dargestellt. Die Notwendigkeit dieser Funktion ist nachfolgend beschrieben. Ausgangslage ist ein relativ dicker Kurzbrief der manuell eingelegt wird. Die Frankiermaschine lƶst den Frankiervorgang aus. Die Gegendruckhebel bewegen sich wie beschrieben nach oben. Die Dicke des Kurzbriefes begrenzt den Hub der rechten Gegendruckrolle nach oben. Der Brief wird Ć¼ber die sich aufbauende Federkraft der Zugfeder 19 zwischen oberer, rechter Antriebsrolle 32 und Gegendruckrolle 13 eingeklemmt. Dies ist erforderlich um einen schlupffreien Antrieb gewƤhrleisten zu kƶnnen. WĆ¼rde die StĆ¼tzrolle 14 nicht automatisch Ć¼ber den Schlepphebel 22 auf gleiches Hƶhenniveau gebracht, kƶnnte das dicke Kuvert zwischen der oben feststehenden Niederhalteplatte resp. des FĆ¼hrungsteils 39 und der StĆ¼tzrolle eingeklemmt werden, was zu Transportproblemen und DruckqualitƤtsverlust fĆ¼hrt. Ɯber den bereits beschriebenen Schlepphebel 22 wird jedoch der StĆ¼tzrollentrƤger mit StĆ¼tzrolle auf das Hƶhenniveau der rechten Gegendruckrolle gebracht. Der StĆ¼tzrollentrƤger bewegt sich parallelogrammfƶrmig synchron mit der rechten Gegendruckrolle nach unten und das Kuvert kann reibungsfrei die Druckstation passieren.In Figure 5, the function of the rocker arm 22 is in connection with the right counter pressure roller 13 shown. The need for this function is as follows described. The starting point is a relatively thick short letter that is inserted manually becomes. The franking machine triggers the franking process. The counter pressure levers move up as described. The thickness of the short letter limits the Lift the right counter pressure roller upwards. The letter is about to build up Spring force of the tension spring 19 between the upper, right drive roller 32 and Counter pressure roller 13 clamped. This is necessary for a slip-free drive to be able to guarantee. Would the support roller 14 not automatically over the The rocker arm 22 brought to the same level, could be the thick envelope between the hold-down plate fixed above. of the guide part 39 and the support roller can be pinched, leading to transport problems and loss of print quality leads. About the rocker arm 22 already described, however Support roller carrier with support roller to the level of the right counter pressure roller brought. The support roller carrier moves in a parallelogram in synchronism with the right counter pressure roller down and the envelope can smoothly move the printing station happen.

In der nach Figur 6 gezeigten Darstellung ist der dicke Brief auch unter die linke Antriebsrolle gefahren. Der linke Gegendruckhebel musste sich gegen Federkraft ebenfalls nach unten bewegen und hat gleiches Hƶhenniveau wie die rechte Gegendruckrolle bzw. die mittlere StĆ¼tzrolle angenommen. Der Anschlag 37 des linken Gegendruckhebels hat mit dem Tastausleger des StĆ¼tzrollentrƤgers 21 BerĆ¼hrung aufgenommen.In the illustration shown in Figure 6, the thick letter is also below the left Drive roller driven. The left counter pressure lever had to be against spring force also move down and has the same height level as the right counter pressure roller or the middle support role assumed. The stop 37 of the left The counterpressure lever has contact with the push arm of the support roller support 21 added.

In Figur 7 hat der Brief die rechte Antriebsrolle verlassen und der rechte Gegendruckhebel bewegt sich wieder nach oben, bis die Gegendruckrolle die obere Antriebsrolle berĆ¼hrt. Der Anschlag 37 des linken Gegendruckhebels liegt auf dem Ausleger 43 des StĆ¼tzrollentrƤgers 21 auf und hƤlt diesen jetzt auf dem ursprĆ¼nglichen Hƶhenniveau. Der rechte Schlepphebel 22 kann linksdrehend ausklappen und der EinhƤngepunkt der rechten Gegendruckrolle folgen, bis die Gegendruckrolle an der oberen, rechten Antriebsrolle anliegt. Die Hƶhenabtastung der StĆ¼tzrolle geschieht im Wechsel zwischen rechter und linker Gegendruckrolle und garantiert so Ć¼ber die gesamte BrieflƤnge den optimalen, reibungsfreien Durchlauf gegenĆ¼ber den Druckkƶpfen und einen reibungsoptimierten Abstand gegenĆ¼ber der Niederhalteplatte resp. des FĆ¼hrungsteils.In Figure 7, the letter has left the right drive roller and the right counter pressure lever moves up again until the counter pressure roller is the top drive roller touched. The stop 37 of the left counter pressure lever lies on the Cantilever 43 of the support roller carrier 21 and now holds it on the original Height level. The right rocker arm 22 can fold out counterclockwise and follow the hook point of the right counter pressure roller until the counter pressure roller rests on the upper right drive roller. The height sensing of the support roller happens alternately between right and left counter pressure roller and guaranteed so the optimal, smooth flow through the entire letter length compared to the printheads and a friction-optimized distance the hold-down plate resp. of the guide part.

Claims (14)

  1. Franking machine comprising at least one print head of an ink-jet printing unit for printing flat postal items, such as letter or postcards, which can be inserted into or pass through the machine, consisting of a guide part (39) which is arranged around the print head in such a manner that it projects with respect to its nozzle orifice plane and with which a conveying device transporting the postal items between itself and opposing conveying rollers rotating about axes arranged transversely to the conveying direction is associated, the conveying device having two operatively connected drive rollers (32, 33) forming a conveying section together with the guide part (39) and arranged upstream and downstream of the print head as viewed in the conveying direction, and respective reversibly liftable counter-pressure rollers (13, 15) exerting pressure on a drive roller (32, 33) and on a postal item transported therebetween being arranged opposite thereto, characterised in that a supporting roller (14) connected to at least one of the liftable counter-pressure rollers (13, 15) and situated at an adjustable distance from the guide part (39) is arranged between the counter-pressure rollers (13, 15).
  2. Machine according to claim 1, characterised in that at least one of the counter-pressure rollers (13, 15) and the supporting roller (14) can be moved into an insertion position, a franking position or a service position.
  3. Machine according to claim 2, characterised in that the counter-pressure rollers (13, 15) are each mounted on controlled counter-pressure lever pairs (6A, 6B; 8A, 8B) having a common pivot axis (10).
  4. Machine according to claim 3, characterised in that the supporting roller (14) is connected by means of a cam follower pair (22) to at least one of the counter-pressure lever pairs (6A, 6B; 8A, 8B).
  5. Machine according to claim 3, characterised in that the counter-pressure lever pairs (6A, 6B; 8A, 8B) are operatively connected to respective control cam pairs (1A, 1B; 2A, 2B) arranged on a motor-driven main shaft (3) and can be moved into an active conveying position.
  6. Machine according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that the counter-pressure rollers (13, 15) and the supporting roller (14) are controlled in such a manner that they can be lowered together.
  7. Machine according to claim 6, characterised in that the counter-pressure lever pairs (6A, 6B; 8A, 8B) are connected by means of tension springs (36) to respective control lever pairs (7A, 7B; 9A, 9B) supported on the control cam pairs (1A, 1B; 2A, 2B).
  8. Machine according to claim 7, characterised in that the control lever pairs (7A, 7B; 9A, 9B) are mounted on the pivot axis (10).
  9. Machine according to claim 8, characterised in that the control lever pairs (7A, 7B; 9A, 9B) are supported on the control cams (1A, 1B; 2A, 2B) against spring force by means of control rollers (29).
  10. Machine according to one of claims 7 to 9, characterised in that the lower position of the counter-pressure roller pairs (6A, 6B; 8A, 8B) is formed by a stop (11, 12) secured to the control lever pairs (7A, 7B; 9A, 9B).
  11. Machine according to one of claims 4 to 10, characterised in that the supporting roller (14) is mounted on a supporting roller carrier pair (21) connected to the control lever pair (7A, 7B).
  12. Machine according to claim 11, characterised in that the supporting roller carrier pair (21) is connected at its end remote from the supporting roller (14) to a parallelogram rocker pair (16A, 16B) and at the supporting roller end to the counter-pressure roller (13) by means of the cam follower pair (22).
  13. Machine according to claim 12, characterised in that the cam follower pair (22) is connected by means of tension springs to the free end of the parallelogram rocker pair (16A, 16B).
  14. Machine according to claim 13, characterised in that the counter-pressure lever pair (6A, 6B) is supported on the parallelogram rocker pair (16A, 16B) in the region of the counter-pressure roller (15).
EP01905558A 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine Expired - Lifetime EP1183154B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (3)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH345002000 2000-02-23
CH3452000 2000-02-23
PCT/CH2001/000115 WO2001062503A1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP1183154A1 EP1183154A1 (en) 2002-03-06
EP1183154B1 true EP1183154B1 (en) 2004-08-11

Family

ID=4507168

Family Applications (4)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01905559A Expired - Lifetime EP1183155B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine
EP01905560A Expired - Lifetime EP1183156B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine
EP01905558A Expired - Lifetime EP1183154B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine
EP01905564A Expired - Lifetime EP1200268B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-23 Franking machine

Family Applications Before (2)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01905559A Expired - Lifetime EP1183155B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine
EP01905560A Expired - Lifetime EP1183156B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-22 Franking machine

Family Applications After (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP01905564A Expired - Lifetime EP1200268B1 (en) 2000-02-23 2001-02-23 Franking machine

Country Status (7)

Country Link
US (4) US6910766B2 (en)
EP (4) EP1183155B1 (en)
AT (4) ATE277770T1 (en)
AU (4) AU782071B2 (en)
CA (4) CA2368358A1 (en)
DE (4) DE50103192D1 (en)
WO (4) WO2001062503A1 (en)

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3489022A1 (en) 2017-11-22 2019-05-29 Frama AG Device for printing on mail items fed individually to a printing unit

Families Citing this family (14)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
WO2002073541A1 (en) 2001-03-13 2002-09-19 Frama Ag Franking machine
JP4460875B2 (en) * 2003-11-05 2010-05-12 ć‚ŖćƒŖćƒ³ćƒ‘ć‚¹ę Ŗ式会ē¤¾ Image forming apparatus
FR2881375B1 (en) * 2005-01-31 2007-05-11 Neopost Ind Sa DISPLAY MACHINE FOR OPTIMIZING THE QUALITY OF PRINTING SENSITIVE DATA ON A MAIL PRODUCT
JP2006212927A (en) * 2005-02-03 2006-08-17 Olympus Corp Positioning structure of image forming device
US7811016B2 (en) * 2005-05-25 2010-10-12 Agfa Graphics Nv Flatbed printing machine
JP5160749B2 (en) * 2005-06-01 2013-03-13 ć‚­ćƒ¤ćƒŽćƒ³ćƒ•ć‚”ć‚¤ćƒ³ćƒ†ćƒƒć‚Æę Ŗ式会ē¤¾ Information processing apparatus, printing system, printing method, and program
KR100790125B1 (en) * 2005-06-22 2008-01-02 ģ‚¼ģ„±ģ „ģžģ£¼ģ‹ķšŒģ‚¬ Method and transmitting apparatus for allocating resourses for the uplink transmission in orthogonal frequency division multiplexing system
ATE486333T1 (en) * 2007-09-07 2010-11-15 Frama Ag METHOD FOR FRANKING, PRINTING AND IMAGING FLAT SHIPPING OBJECTS
FR2938208A1 (en) * 2008-11-07 2010-05-14 Neopost Technologies POSTAGE ENTRY MACHINE
US8162468B2 (en) * 2008-12-15 2012-04-24 Pitney Bowes Inc. System and method for registering color ink jet printing in a mailing machine
CN105539958A (en) * 2015-12-26 2016-05-04 åŒ—ęµ·å…‰åˆ©å½©č‰²å°åˆ·ęœ‰é™å…¬åø Automatic medicine box conveying and code jet printing device
WO2018174875A1 (en) 2017-03-22 2018-09-27 Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. Service stations with removable service modules
US11597263B2 (en) * 2019-10-25 2023-03-07 Petelka Investments, Inc. Modular corner uplift assembly
EP3859688A1 (en) 2020-01-29 2021-08-04 Neopost Technologies Envelope printing device

Family Cites Families (27)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3869986A (en) * 1974-01-16 1975-03-11 Pitney Bowes Inc Ink jet postage printing apparatus
US4168533A (en) * 1976-01-14 1979-09-18 Pitney-Bowes, Inc. Microcomputerized miniature postage meter
US4089608A (en) * 1976-10-21 1978-05-16 Hoadley Howard W Non-contact digital contour generator
US5166883A (en) 1987-06-17 1992-11-24 Alcatel Business Systems Limited Franking machine
US4821049A (en) 1987-12-02 1989-04-11 Pitney Bowes Inc. Substrate transport apparatus, especially for mail handling
GB8830421D0 (en) * 1988-12-30 1989-03-01 Alcatel Business Systems Postage stamp machine
GB8830422D0 (en) * 1988-12-30 1989-03-01 Alcatel Business Systems Postage stamp and dispensing system therefor
US5270560A (en) * 1989-05-26 1993-12-14 Ann F. Koo Method and apparatus for measuring workpiece surface topography
US5648811A (en) * 1992-08-28 1997-07-15 Francotyp-Postalia Aktiengesellschaft & Co. Postage meter
GB9224016D0 (en) 1992-11-16 1993-01-06 Z Mark Int Inc Mail stamping apparatus and method
JPH07181022A (en) * 1993-12-22 1995-07-18 Nikon Corp Three-dimensional profile measuring apparatus
FR2723339B1 (en) * 1994-08-08 1996-10-31 Neopost Ind POSTAGE MACHINE COMPRISING AN INK JET PRINTHEAD
US5757387A (en) * 1994-12-12 1998-05-26 Pitney Bowes Inc. Print head cleaning and ink drying apparatus for mailing machine
US5848401A (en) * 1995-12-22 1998-12-08 Goldberg; Robert M. Hand-held portable postage meter that uses pre-printed tape
FR2744060B1 (en) * 1996-01-26 1998-04-30 Neopost Ind CLEANING DEVICE OF INK JET POSTAGE MACHINE
US6106094A (en) * 1996-01-30 2000-08-22 Neopt Corporation Printer apparatus and printed matter inspecting apparatus
US6007178A (en) * 1996-08-23 1999-12-28 Pitney Bowes Inc. Drive gear system using a single motor for a priming operation and driving a platen in a postage meter
US5765475A (en) * 1996-12-18 1998-06-16 Pitney Bowes Inc. Hybrid printing postage printer
FR2758762B1 (en) * 1997-01-24 1999-04-16 Neopost Ind POSTAL PRINTHEAD WITH AN ALIGNMENT ADJUSTMENT DEVICE
FR2768078B1 (en) * 1997-09-10 1999-11-26 Neopost Ind MAINTENANCE STATION FOR INK JET PRINTING MACHINE
US5806994A (en) * 1997-10-15 1998-09-15 Pitney Bowes Inc. Mailing machine having ink jet printing and maintenance system
DE59800807D1 (en) * 1997-11-10 2001-07-05 Oce Printing Systems Gmbh METHOD AND DEVICE FOR TRANSPORTING A PRINTED, TRAIN-SHAPED RECORDING MEDIUM IN A PRINTING DEVICE
US5913627A (en) * 1997-12-11 1999-06-22 Pitney Bowes Inc. Guide and support structure for a mailing machine
US6224280B1 (en) 1998-05-06 2001-05-01 Pitney Bowes Inc. Tape storing and feeding mechanism for mailing machines
FR2785427B1 (en) * 1998-10-28 2001-04-20 Neopost Ind EASY READING POSTAL PRINTING DEVICE
US6499020B1 (en) * 1999-06-07 2002-12-24 Pitney Bowes Inc. Method and device for improving the efficiency of a postage meter
JP2003246167A (en) * 2002-02-26 2003-09-02 Asahi Kasei Corp Printing cloth and laminated postal matter using the same

Cited By (2)

* Cited by examiner, ā€  Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP3489022A1 (en) 2017-11-22 2019-05-29 Frama AG Device for printing on mail items fed individually to a printing unit
US10815085B2 (en) 2017-11-22 2020-10-27 Frama Ag Device for printing packages which are fed individually to a printing unit

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU8156101A (en) 2002-02-28
US20020161728A1 (en) 2002-10-31
AU782070B2 (en) 2005-06-30
DE50102191D1 (en) 2004-06-09
US6910766B2 (en) 2005-06-28
CA2368358A1 (en) 2001-08-30
DE50103845D1 (en) 2004-11-04
DE50102184D1 (en) 2004-06-09
EP1183156B1 (en) 2004-09-29
EP1183155A1 (en) 2002-03-06
US6973433B2 (en) 2005-12-06
US20030016981A1 (en) 2003-01-23
WO2001062504A1 (en) 2001-08-30
ATE265934T1 (en) 2004-05-15
AU8156301A (en) 2002-02-28
AU8156401A (en) 2002-02-28
AU782071B2 (en) 2005-06-30
WO2001062503A1 (en) 2001-08-30
EP1200268A1 (en) 2002-05-02
ATE277770T1 (en) 2004-10-15
CA2368360A1 (en) 2001-08-30
CA2368351A1 (en) 2001-08-30
EP1183156A1 (en) 2002-03-06
WO2001062506A1 (en) 2001-08-30
US7255422B2 (en) 2007-08-14
DE50103192D1 (en) 2004-09-16
ATE265935T1 (en) 2004-05-15
AU8156201A (en) 2002-02-28
US8341094B2 (en) 2012-12-25
AU782136B2 (en) 2005-07-07
AU782076B2 (en) 2005-06-30
US20030158825A1 (en) 2003-08-21
WO2001062505A1 (en) 2001-08-30
EP1183154A1 (en) 2002-03-06
EP1200268B1 (en) 2004-05-06
EP1183155B1 (en) 2004-05-06
US20030007820A1 (en) 2003-01-09
CA2368355A1 (en) 2001-08-30
ATE273138T1 (en) 2004-08-15

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP1183154B1 (en) Franking machine
DE69530664T2 (en) Franking machine with inkjet printer
EP0472677B1 (en) Device for actuating a franking machine
DE3734268C2 (en) Device for aligning envelopes in a franking machine
DE3811539C2 (en) Franking machine with letter feed
EP1170141B1 (en) Device for printing on a printing medium
DE19609659C1 (en) Arrangement for coupling print head in printing device with print material roll
EP0903244B1 (en) Printing Device and Method for the Printout on a Printing Medium
DE19740397A1 (en) Mail processing system with a franking and addressing machine and method for combined franking and address printing
EP0910509B1 (en) Printing mechanism
DE2010964C2 (en) Ejection device for documents in a processing unit
EP0585676B1 (en) Franking machine
DE10032856A1 (en) Device for transporting recording medium or carrier e.g. for digital ink-jet printer, has transport roller operating with spring-loaded counter print roller
DE4345333C2 (en) Inkjet printer
DE3642715A1 (en) Sheet aligning apparatus
DE2114350A1 (en) Conveyor device for recording media
DD153347A1 (en) DEVICE FOR ASSEMBLING STACKED CARDS OR PORTIONS OF HIGHER PAPER WEIGHT
DEA0022577MA (en)

Legal Events

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

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20011112

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

AX Request for extension of the european patent

Free format text: AL;LT;LV;MK;RO;SI

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20030304

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

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

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20040811

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20040811

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20040811

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: GB

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: GERMAN

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 50103192

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20040916

Kind code of ref document: P

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

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20041111

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20041111

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

Ref country code: ES

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20041122

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: TRGR

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

Effective date: 20041116

LTIE Lt: invalidation of european patent or patent extension

Effective date: 20040811

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

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20050222

Ref country code: LU

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

Effective date: 20050222

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

Ref country code: MC

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

Effective date: 20050228

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: WERNER FENNER PATENTANWALT

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FD4D

ET Fr: translation filed
PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

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

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

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20050512

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

Ref country code: PT

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

Effective date: 20050111

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

Ref country code: BE

Payment date: 20100222

Year of fee payment: 10

Ref country code: AT

Payment date: 20100217

Year of fee payment: 10

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

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20100216

Year of fee payment: 10

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

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20110228

Year of fee payment: 11

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

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20110421

Year of fee payment: 11

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: *FRAMA A.G.

Effective date: 20110228

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: EUG

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

Ref country code: BE

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

Effective date: 20110228

Ref country code: AT

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

Effective date: 20110222

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

Ref country code: IT

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

Effective date: 20120222

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R119

Ref document number: 50103192

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20120901

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

Ref country code: SE

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

Effective date: 20110223

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

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20130201

Year of fee payment: 13

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20130221

Year of fee payment: 13

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

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20130221

Year of fee payment: 13

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

Ref country code: DE

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

Effective date: 20120901

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

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20130522

Year of fee payment: 13

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: V1

Effective date: 20140901

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

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

Effective date: 20140222

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

Ref country code: CH

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

Effective date: 20140228

Ref country code: LI

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

Effective date: 20140228

Ref country code: NL

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

Effective date: 20140901

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: ST

Effective date: 20141031

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

Ref country code: FR

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

Effective date: 20140228

Ref country code: GB

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

Effective date: 20140222