EP1309459B1 - Centrally controlled device and method for mail printing and preparation - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a device and a process for centralized printing and mail packaging, packaging comprising for example folding operations and / or mailing.

Conventionally, in a processing system automated mail to be sent, we use separate machines on the one hand for printing documents and secondly for enveloping of these documents, possibly after folding. It is then necessary to independently pilot a printer and a packaging machine mail.

More recently, devices have appeared integrated which allow operations to be carried out printing and packaging of mail under control of a common user interface. These devices are controlled by a computer of the type personal computer (PC) through which data from configuration are entered by the user using a menu on the monitor screen. Printer, device mail and computer packaging can be physically joined or separated. Among the various conditioning parameters offered, there are in particular: the number of printed sheets to insert in the envelope, a choice of folding, envelope (to from a baccalaureate), etc. These different parameters selected are transmitted to the device of conditioning in the form of configuration data, for example by means of an internal link.

With such devices, the problem arises treatment and selective transmission of configuration data and print data to from the computer. At the monitor screen, print and configure commands are managed by a common software interface, often with the choices relating to printing (number of pages, presentation of copies, selection of tray, etc.) and configuration of the packaging device presented on the same screen page. However, print and configuration data must be specifically formatted and transmitted to their respective peripherals (printer or conditioning).

One solution would be to compartmentalize printing and configuration data from the software interface until their arrival at device concerned. However, this would require provide for each device (printer and mail conditioner) a link specific up to the computer, and therefore manage two output ports. This relatively cumbersome approach in material and use of resources the computer, is all the less justifiable as the configuration data flow is very low. In indeed, the conditioning apparatus, being able to store locally its configuration data, does not need to receive data from the computer every time configuration modification. Now in operation normal, configuration changes are spaced in time.

In a variant of this solution, the request French patent FR-A-2,775,932 proposes a controller of combined printing and mail conditioning in which the data of configuration are inserted into the data stream from a central computer. The combined data therefore come out of a common port of the computer. However, it should be planned to arrival a downstream controller who analyzed systematically the characteristics of all data so as to recognize the presence of data when they appear. These data is then sent to the device from packaging, and the remaining print data are sent to the printer.

This approach has the disadvantage of require a downstream controller who analyzes the content of all the data flow coming from the computer, to determine the device to which they are intended. In this case, the downstream controller is used 100%, in terms of resources, to sort types of information that change only very rarely, the fact that the data is overwhelmingly intended for the printer.

In fact, the downstream controller is implemented as if the configuration data appeared from unexpectedly in the data stream while these are developed in within the central management system.

• des moyens de commande de communication, en amont de la voie commune de communication, qui transmettent sélectivement sur celle-ci des commandes d'aiguillage avec le flux de données d'impression et de configuration ; et
• des moyens d'aiguillage qui acheminent les données d'impression et les données de configuration en aval de la voie commune de communication sélectivement vers l'imprimante ou vers l'appareil de conditionnement de courrier en fonction de ces commandes d'aiguillage.

In view of the above, the present invention provides a printing control and mail conditioning device in which printing data and configuration data relating to the packaging of mail are sent over a common communication channel which supplies respectively a printer and a mail packaging device, the device being characterized in that it comprises:

• communication control means, upstream of the common communication channel, which selectively transmit thereon routing commands with the flow of printing and configuration data; and
• routing means which route the print data and the configuration data downstream of the common communication channel selectively to the printer or to the mail conditioning apparatus as a function of these routing commands.

We note that the referral means have not a role of analyzing the content of data intended for devices, unlike the controller downstream of the request FR-A-2 775 932, but simply to switch electronically controlled that connects a peripheral previously designated to the common track in response to selection data. The selection will be made in downstream of this common way appropriately by depending on the transmission protocol chosen.

In fact, the referral according to the invention is controlled during the preparation of the configuration data, and therefore on the basis of a priori knowledge of the types of data transmitted on the common communication channel. No analysis of the data intended for the peripherals (print data or configuration data per se) is therefore necessary downstream to ensure their proper routing from the common channel.

Preferably, the packaging apparatus for mail includes a link module having a first port connected to the common communication channel and a second port to which the printer, the module is connected link ensuring said switch by connection selective of the first port either with the second port, either with an internal link (16) connected to means of enveloping.

The referral means are advantageously positioned by default to route data from the common channel of communication to the printer, switch commands whose function is to divert the data flow by means of referrals to the mail conditioner.

Means can then be provided for re-position the referral means at the fault position at the end of a configuration or group of commands from configuration.

Referral commands can take the form of a selection command added to the data configuration, for example upstream of these.

Preferably, the common way of communication establishes a link according to the IEEE standard 1284.3. The packaging device and the printer can then be connected to the common way of communication by concatenation, according to the "daisy" mode chain "of the IEEE 1284.3 standard. Advantageously, the printer is connected at the end of the chain in the said "daisy chain" connection.

For example, the configuration data allow to select an operating mode of the mail packaging device, in particular to establish: the number of sheets to insert in a envelope and a type of folding to perform.

In a preferred embodiment, the device includes means for establishing device configuration data from mail conditioning, allowing to select said commands by a man-machine interface.

The communication control means can understand ways to divert or collect print data from their source and order the retransmission of these to the printer. They may further comprise means for controlling the storage and replay of print data.

The communication control means can also include a buffer allowing to accommodate a temporary difference in rate of printing and rate data transmission input of these.

Means of scrutiny may also be provided to check the operating status of the printer and / or the mail packaging machine and to send data relating to this control to a central computer by the common route of communication.

The scanning means can be located in downstream of a common communication channel.

Preferably, these means are functionally integrated into a link module located in the mail conditioner and ensuring referrals.

The scanning means can transmit, and / or retransmit from the common communication channel, ancillary commands selectively to the printer or to the mail conditioner, these additional orders relating in particular to orders interruptions, maintenance cycles or other operational aspects.

At least some of the additional orders may come from means upstream of the common communication and are selectively referred to printer or packaging device mail by communication control means and referral means.

The device may further comprise means address data detection in data printing, processing, from this data printing, envelope printing file, and inserting this file into the data stream of printing transmitted on the common way of communication.

Depending on the implementation cases envisaged, the device can also control a postal franking device connected to the track common communication, the control means of communication transmitting to this device commands associated with referral data specific.

The communication control means can be functionally integrated into a computer which controls the printer and the packaging machine mail.

The mail conditioner can be housed in a housing physically separate from the computer. Alternatively, the mail and computer packaging are housed in a common box.

• on transmet sélectivement sur la voie commune de communication, et en amont de celle-ci, des commandes d'aiguillage avec le flux de données d'impression et de configuration ; et
• on achemine les données d'impression et les données de configuration en aval de la voie commune de communication sélectivement vers l'imprimante ou vers l'appareil de conditionnement de courrier en fonction de ces commandes d'aiguillage.

A subject of the invention is also a method of - printing and mail packaging control in which printing data and configuration data relating to the packaging of mail are sent over a common communication channel which supplies a printer respectively. and a mail conditioning apparatus, the device being characterized in that:

• it selectively transmits on the common communication channel, and upstream thereof, routing commands with the flow of printing and configuration data; and
• the print data and the configuration data are routed downstream of the common communication channel selectively to the printer or to the mail conditioning apparatus as a function of these routing commands.

The optional aspects presented more within the framework of the device apply mutatis mutandis to this process.

In what follows, a mode of preferred embodiment by way of example only.

The device uses a controller placed by example physically in a link module, located downstream of the communication route, which allows send the data to the printer or to the under cover (mail packaging machine). This controller also allows you to scan the module link itself, the printer, and the packaging of mail, and to trace back to faster state or error information to a user and / or communicate them to both modules (printer and packaging device mail) who must be notified.

The controller is divided into two parts separate: electronics and software.

The electronic part allows a selection of the communication port of the device to be addressed (printer, mail conditioner or link module). In this embodiment, the selection and communication protocol responds to IEEE 1284.3 specifications and therefore works on a parallel port, which is the classic port for printers. This avoids a controller which operates full time and discriminates against information to be sent to the components concerned (unlike the order according to request FR-A-2 775,932).

In addition, we remain completely compatible with the state of the art in the world of printers. We can also manage two-way communication and so raise statuses and errors.

The software part in this embodiment is divided into two parts: a configurator and a scrutineer. This software part is generally located on the control computer of such an assembly.

The configurator has an interface printer driver type user in a Windows-like microcomputer environment (Windows is a registered trademark), for example, and offers thus the possibility for the user to define his configuration (type of enclosure, type of application, etc.). Configurator interrupts data sent to the printer and, depending on the choices of user inserts other data into the stream (in addition to the page description printer data PCL type, for example). It returns the modified stream to destination of controller with order to transmit sometimes at the printer (address data, for example), sometimes at the mail packaging machine, sometimes to the link module.

The deputy returning officer analyzes at regular intervals, and according to an ad hoc logic, the different machines (i.e. printer, packaging device mail or module), and requires their status. The communication protocol is standard of the type PJL command, for example. Depending on the states of different machines, it warns simultaneously the user on his control computer, and two other machines which must be warned, by example to interrupt their operation, the resume, reprint a fold, or any other action suitable. In addition, the scrutineer sends to each module data enveloping (PCL files and configuration) if necessary.

• la figure 1 est un schéma bloc simplifié montrant l'architecture générale d'un dispositif d'impression et de conditionnement de courrier conforme à la présente invention ; et
• la figure 2 est un schéma bloc plus détaillé du dispositif de la figure 1 dans une mise en oeuvre monoposte.

Other advantages and characteristics of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the description which follows of the preferred embodiments, given purely by way of nonlimiting example with reference to the appended drawings in which:

• FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram showing the general architecture of a mail printing and packaging device according to the present invention; and
• Figure 2 is a more detailed block diagram of the device of Figure 1 in a single station implementation.

Figure 1 shows, in the form of blocks functional, the main elements of a device 1 mail printing and packaging centralized control according to the invention. We finds two devices, namely a printer 2 and a mail conditioning device 4, connected to a PC type computer (personal computer) 6. This the latter is the source of print data, and settings for printer 2 and the mail conditioner 4.

Print and configuration data are transmitted according to the IEEE 1284.3 protocol from computer parallel port PP1 6, conventionally used to connect a printer. This specification provides the ability to plug multiple devices from a parallel port common of a PC by concatenation of these peripherals. This connection mode is better known by the term Anglo-Saxon "daisy chain". In general, peripherals thus linked in "daisy chain" mode form the links of a chain in connection with the computer. The data that travels on the link include an indication of the device for which they are intended. An upstream device of the device receiving this data is only used while transmitting relay to its peripheral downstream in the chain.

The IEEE 1284.3 specification also establishes a bidirectional data transmission protocol, which allows a device to transmit data to another device or to the computer.

The embodiment which will be described exploits these two features of the IEEE specification 1284.3, i.e. the connection of several devices in daisy chain mode and communication bidirectional.

The methods for establishing a connection between a PC and peripherals according to the IEEE 1284.3 specification are known in the field of data processing and will therefore not be described here in detail for the sake of brevity. It should only be noted that there are several sources of detailed information on the IEEE 1284.3 specification useful in this regard, for example the website of the IEEE institute:
- http://www.IEEE.com

An interface 7 to the IEEE 1284.3 specification is integrated into computer 6 and the mail packaging 4, this being used as a relay device for printer 2. A To this end, the IEEE 1284.3 interface of the mail packaging 4 has a first port parallel PP2 which connects the parallel port PP1 of the computer via a common communication channel 10, and a second parallel port PP3 to which is connected printer 2 by a bidirectional link 8. On will understand that all data between computer 6 and the printer or between the computer and the packaging of mail 4 transit through this common link 10, which will thus be designated "route commun de communication "in what follows.

In accordance with the recommendations of the IEEE standard 1284.3, printer 2 is located at the end of the line and therefore does not have to serve as a relay; therefore, it has no need to have an IEEE 1284.3 interface. However, such an interface can be provided for the printer depending on the application, for example if was not at the end of the line.

The mail conditioner 4 is broken down into two functional blocks: a link 12 which incorporates the IEEE 1284.3 interface and a enveloping unit 14. The latter ensures the sheet folding and inserting functions envelope based on orders transmitted by the link module 12 via an internal bidirectional bus 16.

• l'aiguillage des données reçues par la voie commune de communication 10 soit vers l'imprimante 2, soit vers l'unité de mise sous pli 14, et
• la scrutation de l'état de chacun des périphériques 2, 4 et la gestion interne de l'ensemble de la liaison IEEE 1284.3, avec envoi, le cas échéant, de signaux d'interruption et de statut des périphériques.

As will appear later, the connection module 12 performs two functions:

• the routing of the data received by the common communication channel 10 either to the printer 2 or to the enveloping unit 14, and
• the scanning of the state of each of the peripherals 2, 4 and the internal management of the entire IEEE 1284.3 link, with sending, if necessary, interrupt signals and status of the peripherals.

The referral function is indicated in the Figure 1 by a switch 11 which connects selectively port PP1 of computer 6, either specific organs of the conditioning apparatus of mail via port PP2 and internal bus 16, i.e. printer 2. In the latter case, switch 11 directly connects port PP2 to port PP3, the bus internal 16 then being disconnected. Switch 11 is controlled by a line 13 coming from the module link 12.

The entire device 1 will now be described in more detail with reference to Figure 2. Computer 6 has a classical architecture which brings together all the basic functionalities: map mother, storage elements, interface cards (audio, video, ...), etc. in a designated block 19.

In the example, computer 6 uses a word processing software (eg Word) in a Windows environment (95, 98, NT, or other), but other software platforms may be used. (Word and Windows are trademarks filed).

According to Windows protocol, computer 6 includes a conventional printing chain which consists of a graphical display interface 18 (known by the English term "GDI" for "graphics display interface), a printer driver 20 and a print file generator 22.

The GDI 18 interface is a Windows layer which allows to have a fairly printing protocol simple and which allows especially to make the connection between application developers and developers of hardware drivers. This layer therefore serves to harmonize interfaces for data exchange according to Windows. Applications use this GDI layer and the latter uses the driver to everything related to dependent hardware.

Then the print file generator 22 creates files in print language (for example example in PCL language). These files are intercepted (collected) by the data transmission engine 34 and are recorded, under the latter's command, in a computer memory medium, for example on a hard drive. These files can then be read from this support at any time by the engine data transmission.

Regarding the order specific to application 24, GDI 18, printer driver 20 and file generator 22, interception of print files by the transmission engine data is transparent. Other said, the aforementioned assembly can be configured and controlled as if the print files were leaving normally from file generator 22 to printer 2. In the example, the interception of print files by the transmission engine data is symbolically represented by a link 35. It will be understood that various interception techniques files are possible depending on the architecture considered.

The computer 6 uses a set 26 comprising a keyboard 28 which incorporates a pointer to screen 28a, and a monitor screen 30 through which can be entered and checked configuration data for the device mail packaging 4. We will understand however, this data can be entered by any other means: media player, link on waiter, etc.

According to the invention, it is also provided a 32 device configuration tool mail packaging, hereinafter referred to as configuration 32. The configuration tool creates the configuration data for the packaging of mail 4 in response to commands entered by the user. To this end, the configuration tool 32 includes an interface software-based human machine control screen pages on the monitor so interactive. These pages contain menus presented in alphanumeric and / or graphic form (icons) allowing the user to select choices (type of folding, envelope used, selection and number of documents to insert, etc.) via his keyboard 28 and designation device on screen 28a. The configuration data produced by tool 32 in response to commands thus entered by the user can be in the form of files according to a protocol recognized by the device mail processing 4.

• les données d'impression, sous forme de fichiers d'impression créés par le générateur 22 et stockés sous commande du moteur 34 qui sont ainsi formatées de manière à pouvoir être exploités par l'imprimante 2, et
• les données de configuration issues de l'outil de configuration 32, qui sont formatés de manière à pouvoir être exploitées par l'appareil de conditionnement de courrier 4.

Thus, we have two data sources intended for peripherals:

• the print data, in the form of print files created by the generator 22 and stored under the control of the engine 34 which are thus formatted so that they can be used by the printer 2, and
• the configuration data from the configuration tool 32, which are formatted so that they can be used by the mail conditioning apparatus 4.

The transmission of this data is managed by a data transmission engine 34. The purpose of this engine is function of collecting and structuring data printing or configuration so they can be routed to the device to which they are destinies, and then send them to the path communication commune 10 according to the terms of the IEE 1284.3 standard.

Thus, when the device 1 is in mode simple printing, i.e. without using the inserter 14, or at least without modification of an initial configuration thereof, it works like a computer connected to a printer according to IEEE 1284.3 specification. The configuration tool 32 is then inactive.

In this case, the data transmission engine 34 loads print files into memory internal buffer (not shown). He performs this operation either by reading the print files from their storage medium, either by receiving directly from the file generator 22. In this case, the transmission also includes queue function print wait, also known by the term Anglo-Saxon "spooler".

Several possibilities can be considered to ensure that print data arrives expressly to printer 2. One can for example connect the printer according to the daisy chain of so that it is at the end of the line (cf. figure 1), i.e. no other device is connected to the computer via a connection to the printer. In this case, the print data can be transmitted as is, without having to specify a destination address. Indeed, in accordance with IEEE 1284.3, when none device is not specified in an address message which precedes data, these arrive automatically to the end device. In other words, the switch 11 in FIG. 1 is positioned by default to connect port PP2 to PP3.

We notice in this case that the motor data transmission 34 implicitly commands routing print data to the printer 2, this being selected as a peripheral recipient not default. In other words, the absence an explicit referral command to another device should be interpreted as a command to the printer 2.

Thus, under control of the application 24 via the GDI 18 interface, the PCL files intended for printing reach printer 2 depending on the IEEE 1284.3 specification protocol. We take note that assembly 1 is then configured as for a classic communication between a PC and a peripheral in accordance with this standard, and that no controller is not interposed between the buffer memory 22 and the printer to analyze the print data.

We will now consider the case of an order configuration of the packaging device mail 4. This command originates from a selection transmitted for example using the keyboard 28 and its screen pointing device 28a 30 under control of the specific human-machine interface of the configuration tool 32.

At monitor 30, the command is entered from the menu screen which presents, possibly in a combined manner, the choices relating to the parameters printing and mail processing.

The transformation of these orders configuration chosen by the man-machine interface in commands executed by the packaging device 4 is created by the configuration tool 32.

• recevoir ces commandes exécutables de configuration; et
• associer à ces commandes une commande de sélection permettant d'activer le commutateur 11 pour que la voie commune de communication 10 soit reliée à l'unité de mise sous pli 14 par le bus interne 16 (figure 1). La commande de sélection est ainsi un exemple de commande d'aiguillage. De manière générale, les commandes de sélection se présentent à la tête d'une trame qui comporte les commandes exécutables de configuration. Une commande de sélection peut comprendre un champ d'adresse qui permet de désigner le périphérique concerné, en l'occurrence l'appareil de conditionnement de courrier 4, dans le chaínage de périphériques. Une commande de sélection sert notamment à commander l'interrupteur 11 au sein de l'interface IEEE 1284.3 du module de liaison 12, de sorte qu'il connecte le port PP2, et donc la voie commune de communication 10, sur le bus interne 16 qui relie l'unité de mise sous pli 14. Bien entendu, si d'autres périphériques devaient se situer en amont de l'appareil de conditionnement de courrier, ils seraient désélectionnés par la commande de sélection conformément au protocole établi. Dans ce cas, des commutateurs au sein de leur(s) interface (s) IEEE 1284.3, analogues au commutateur 11 précité, seraient commandés pour relier leurs ports parallèles en amont et en aval.

The data transmission motor 34 is connected to the configuration tool 32 so as to:

• receive these executable configuration commands; and
• associating with these commands a selection command making it possible to activate the switch 11 so that the common communication channel 10 is connected to the enveloping unit 14 by the internal bus 16 (FIG. 1). The selection command is thus an example of a switch command. In general, the selection commands are presented at the head of a frame which includes the executable configuration commands. A selection command may include an address field which makes it possible to designate the peripheral concerned, in this case the mail conditioning apparatus 4, in the chain of peripherals. A selection command is used in particular to control the switch 11 within the IEEE 1284.3 interface of the link module 12, so that it connects the port PP2, and therefore the common communication channel 10, on the internal bus 16 which connects the enveloping unit 14. Of course, if other peripherals were to be located upstream of the mail conditioning apparatus, they would be deselected by the selection command in accordance with the established protocol. In this case, switches within their IEEE 1284.3 interface (s), similar to the aforementioned switch 11, would be controlled to connect their parallel ports upstream and downstream.

Once the order has been drawn up, it can be either transmitted directly or stored in the storage medium such as the hard drive, is still stored in an engine buffer data transmission 34.

When it is necessary to configure the device mail packaging 4, the engine of data transmission 34 suspends data flow printing during transmission. The engine of 34 data transmission can create interruption of smart way so that the operation of the printer experiences minimal disruption.

The executable order frame (s) configuration with their selection command are then transmitted on the common communication channel 10. The link module 12 detects the command to selection causes the tilting of the switch 11, so the common way of communication 10 is connected to the internal bus 16. The executable configuration commands are as well received by the enveloping unit 14, where they are executed in accordance with a pre-established protocol, by example to select a folding mode, the number sheets to insert per envelope, the choice envelope, etc.

At the end of the transmission of orders configuration executables the transmission engine 34 controls switch 11 in its normal state, so the common way of communication 10 is connected to the printer again 2.

In parallel, the transmission engine data 34 resumes transmission of data stream previously interrupted printing.

In this way, the executable commands of configuration are interleaved with the data without being necessary analyze the nature of the data used by peripheral devices. This is because an indication the destination of the data was given upstream, before the transmission of these.

• la commande de sélection précitée comporte en outre un champ qui indique le nombre de bits ou d'octets que comporte l'ensemble des commandes exécutables de configuration qui suivent. Le module de liaison 12 comptabilise alors les bits ou octets qui suivent la commande de sélection et commande le commutateur 11 pour rétablir la connexion (sur la ligne 8) entre l'imprimante 2 et le flot de données sur la voie commune de communication 10 dès que le nombre correspondant de bits ou d'octets a été transmis à l'unité de mise sous pli 14 ; ou
• les commandes exécutables de configuration sont structurées pour comprendre un nombre fixe prédéterminé de bits ou d'octets connu au niveau du module de liaison 12. Ainsi, ce dernier commande le commutateur 11 comme pour le cas précédent, mais en faisant référence à ce nombre (stocké en interne) plutôt qu'à un nombre extrait d'un champ spécifique ; ou
• l'outil de configuration 32 introduit en outre des données d'indication de la fin des commandes exécutables de configuration. Cette indication de fin des commandes exécutables de configuration peut être sous forme de trame qui suit la dernière donnée de configuration. A la détection de cette trame de fin de configuration, le module de liaison 12 commande le commutateur 11 pour rétablir la connexion (sur la ligne 8) entre l'imprimante 2 et le flot de données sur la voie commune de communication 10.

Several approaches can be envisaged to signal the end of the executable configuration commands and therefore the start or resumption of the flow of print data on the common communication channel 10. For example, it can be provided that:

• the aforementioned selection command also comprises a field which indicates the number of bits or bytes which comprises all of the executable configuration commands which follow. The link module 12 then counts the bits or bytes which follow the selection command and controls the switch 11 to re-establish the connection (on line 8) between the printer 2 and the data flow on the common communication channel 10 as soon as that the corresponding number of bits or bytes has been transmitted to the enveloping unit 14; or
• the executable configuration commands are structured to include a predetermined fixed number of bits or bytes known at the level of the link module 12. Thus, the latter controls the switch 11 as in the previous case, but with reference to this number ( stored internally) rather than a number extracted from a specific field; or
• the configuration tool 32 also introduces data indicating the end of the executable configuration commands. This indication of the end of the executable configuration commands can be in the form of a frame which follows the last configuration data item. When this end of configuration frame is detected, the link module 12 controls the switch 11 to re-establish the connection (on line 8) between the printer 2 and the data flow on the common communication channel 10.

In the example, the configuration tool 32 is with an additional management function printing envelopes. When this function is called - especially for processing mail with envelopes without window - it allows to locate in a mail print file the part that is the recipient's address. This part is then recorded and inserted into the flow of print data in association with commands specific printing on envelopes in a format selected.

To this end, the configuration tool 32 receives print files from the engine data transmission 34. These data are analyzed in order to identify in the flow those which correspond to the recipient's address field. In the example, the address is identified by a selection of the text in this file containing the address. The selection is made manually by the user using the classic selection functions of text by means of the keyboard 28 and / or the device for score 28a. This location can also be performed automatically either by identification of start and end of recipient addresses entered by the application, either by identifying the format and / or the position of the address in the layout. Through example, we will consider a text block as corresponding to an address if it is located on the upper right of the first page of the mail.

When a recipient address is thus identified, the data transmission engine 34 establishes an envelope printing file in compiling print data relating to the address with specific formatting commands of this address on an envelope: positioning on the face of the envelope as a function of the format thereof, types of characters to use etc.

The envelope printing file thus prepared by the configuration tool 32 is then introduced in the data stream transmitted on the common channel of communication 10. The envelope printing file is thus inserted in the PCL print file which comes from the flow intercepted by the engine of data transmission 34. The positioning of this envelope print file will be chosen for ensure optimal continuity in tasks performed jointly by printer 2 and the envelope 14.

The aforementioned lines 8, 16 and 10 which connect the computer peripherals according to standard IEEE 1284.3 being bidirectional, the module of link 12 also ensures a scrutineer, where he provides data feedback from a devices either to each other or to computer 6. In the latter case, the data go up by the common communication channel 10 to port 41 monitor and from there transit on a bus internal 44. This bus is notably connected to the configuration 32 and to the printer driver 20.

The connection module 12 can also dialogue directly with the computer using the protocol of the IEEE 1284.3 standard. This dialogue is bidirectional and is carried out via the common communication 10, the port monitor 41 and the bus internal 44. In his function as scrutineer, the link module 12 is constantly on standby or periodically on the operating status of devices 2 and 14 by controlling parameters such as that: rest / active state, tasks in progress (printing letter or envelope, folding, etc.), flow of incoming data, identification of messages sent by the device (paper jam, more media or print media, data corruption, and more incidents), quantification of work performed etc. This data acquired from the devices is then back to computer 6, possibly after shaping, to allow the latter to react accordingly.

The link module 12 can also manage certain aspects of the operation of peripherals locally, for example to order interruptions in case of overload or to execute routines of internal management.

The computer 6 can also control the module liaison 12 to execute, or to have executed by the peripherals, some specific tasks in addition to common printing and processing tasks mail, for example: reprogramming software or internal parameters, forward data specific, trigger a reset, a cycle of maintenance (head cleaning, calibration, etc.).

The embodiment just described allows many variations and modifications while remaining within the scope of the claimed invention.

For example, the device can include additionally a postage module which is also managed by the computer using a link according to the IEEE 1284.3 specification. In this case, means for inserting module configuration data postage (prices, printing, etc.) in the data flow on the common communication channel 10 and addressed to it, like the engine configuration 32.

The different components of device 1 can be physically located in a single box, forming an integrated and autonomous system, be separated. In the latter case, computer 6 can constitute a separate physical unit and the apparatus of mail packaging can either be integrated with the printer, or be in a separate box. We will realize such a configuration in particular when the device is intended to operate in a network. In in this case, a printer and / or a mail packaging are shared between several computer stations.

Whatever the architectures envisaged, it is clear that the different functional blocks described with reference to the figures can be organized differently, particularly with regard to their location in the different units. Through example, the connection module 12 can be a module hardware or software integrated into computer 6, and connected to switch 11 either by the common way of communication, or by another link.

Furthermore, it is conceivable to use a data link other than that based on the standard IEEE 1284.3, for example a data address bus according to different specifications.

Claims (38)

1. Control device (1) for printing and preparation of mail in which printing data and configuration data concerning preparation of the mail are routed on a common communication channel (10) which feeds respectively a printer (2) and a mail preparation apparatus (4), the device being characterized in that it comprises:

   communication control means (34), upstream of the common communication channel (10), which selectively transmit thereon switching commands with the flow of printing and configuration data; and

   switching means (11, 12) which selectively route the printing and configuration data downstream from the common communication channel towards the printer (2) or towards the mail preparation apparatus (4) on the basis of these switching commands.
2. Device according to Claim 1, characterized in that the mail preparation apparatus (4) comprises a link module (12) having a first port (PP2) connected to the common communication channel (10) and a second port (PP3) to which the printer (2) is connected, the link module performing the said switching via the selective connection of the first port either with the second port, or with an internal link (16) connected to enveloping means (14).
3. Device according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the switching means (11, 12) are positioned by default for routing the common communication channel (10) data to the printer (2), the switching commands having the function of diverting the flow of data via the switching means to the mail preparation apparatus (4).
4. Device according to Claim 3, characterized in that it comprises means (12, 34) for resetting the switching means (11, 12) to the said default position at the end of a configuration command or a group of configuration commands.
5. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the switching commands are positioned upstream of the configuration data.
6. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the common communication channel (10) sets up a link according to the standard IEEE 1284.3.
7. Device according to Claim 6, characterized in that the preparation apparatus (4) and the printer are connected to the common communication channel (10) by concatenation, in accordance with the "daisy chain" method of IEEE standard 1284.3.
8. Device according to Claim 7, characterized in that the printer (2) is connected at the end of the chain in the said "daisy chain" connection.
9. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the configuration data can be used to select an operating mode for the mail preparation apparatus (4), in particular for setting: the number of sheets to be inserted in an envelope and a type of folding to be performed.
10. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises means (26, 32) of establishing configuration data of the mail preparation apparatus (4), enabling the said commands to be selected via a man-machine interface (32).
11. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the means of communication control (34) comprise means for diverting or gathering printing data from their source (22) and ordering their retransmission to the printer (2).
12. Device according to Claim 11, characterized in that the means of communication control (34) comprise means of controlling the storage and reading back of printing data.
13. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the means of communication control (34) comprise a buffer memory for accommodating a temporary difference in print data transfer rate and their input rate.
14. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 13, characterized in that it further comprises scanning means (12) for monitoring the operating state of the printer (2) and/or the mail preparation apparatus (4) and for feeding back data relating to this monitoring to a central computer (6) via the common communication channel (10).
15. Device according to Claim 14, characterized in that the scanning means (12) are located downstream of the common communication channel (10).
16. Device according to Claim 15, characterized in that the scanning means (12) are functionally integrated into a link module located in the mail preparation apparatus (4) and ensuring the said switching.
17. Device according to any one of Claims 14 to 16, characterized in that the scanning means (12) selectively transmit, and/or retransmit from the common communication channel (10), ancillary commands to the printer (2) or mail preparation apparatus (4), these ancillary commands concerning in particular interrupt commands, maintenance cycles or other aspects of operation.
18. Device according to Claim 17, characterized in that at least some of the said ancillary commands originate from means (6) upstream of the common communication channel (10) and are selectively switched to the printer (2) or the mail preparation apparatus (4) by the said means of communication control (34) and the switching means (11, 12).
19. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 18, characterized in that it comprises means (32) of detecting address data in the printing data, of preparing an envelope printing file from these printing data, and of inserting this file into the print data stream transmitted over the common communication channel.
20. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 19, characterized in that it further controls a postal franking device connected onto the common communication channel (10), the means of communication control (34) transmitting to this device commands associated with specific switching data.
21. Device according to any one of Claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the means of communication control (34) are functionally integrated into a computer (6) which controls the printer (2) and the mail preparation apparatus (4).
22. Device according to Claim 21, characterized in that the mail preparation apparatus (4) is housed in a casing physically separated from the computer (6).
23. Device according to Claim 21, characterized in that the mail preparation apparatus (4) and the computer are housed in a common casing.
24. Method for controlling printing and preparation of mail wherein printing data and configuration data concerning mail preparation are routed on a common communication channel (10) which feeds respectively a printer (2) and a mail preparation apparatus (4), the device being characterized in that:

    switching commands are selectively transmitted (34) with the flow of printing and configuration data on the common communication channel (10), and upstream of it; and

    the printing and configuration data are selectively routed (11, 12) downstream from the common communication channel towards the printer (2) or the mail preparation apparatus (4) on the basis of these switching commands.
25. Method according to Claim 24, characterized in that the data are routed by default on the common communication channel (10) to the printer (2), the switching commands having the function of diverting the flow of data to the mail preparation apparatus (4).
26. Method according to Claim 24 or 25, characterized in that the switching commands are positioned upstream of the configuration data.
27. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 26, characterized in that the common communication channel (10) sets up a link according to the IEEE standard 1284.3.
28. Method according to Claim 27, characterized in that the preparation apparatus (4) and the printer are connected to the common communication channel (10) by concatenation, in accordance with the "daisy chain" method of IEEE standard 1284.3.
29. Method according to Claim 28, characterized in that the printer (2) is connected at the end of the chain in the said "daisy chain" connection.
30. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 29, characterized in that the configuration commands can be used to select an operating mode for the mail preparation apparatus (4), in particular for setting: the number of sheets to be inserted in an envelope and a type of folding to be performed.
31. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 30, characterized in that the configuration data of the mail preparation apparatus (4), are selected via a man-machine interface.
32. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 31, characterized in that the printing data are collected from a medium for storing them (19), for example a hard disk.
33. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 32, characterized in that it further comprises scanning steps (12) for monitoring the operating state of the printer (2) and/or the mail preparation apparatus (4) and for feeding back data relating to this monitoring to a central computer (6) via the common communication channel (10).
34. Method according to Claim 33, characterized in that the scanning (12) is carried out downstream of the common communication channel (10).
35. Method according to either of Claims 33 or 34, characterized in that at the time of scanning (12) ancillary commands are selectively transmitted, and/or retransmitted from the common communication channel (10), to the printer (2) or to the mail preparation apparatus (4), these ancillary commands in particular concerning interrupt commands, maintenance cycles or other aspects of operation.
36. Method according to Claim 35, characterized in that at least some of the said ancillary commands originate from means (6) upstream of the common communication channel (10) and are selectively switched to the printer (2) or the mail preparation apparatus (4) by the said means of communication control (34) and the switching means (11, 12).
37. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 36, characterized in that it further comprises steps of detecting address data in the printing data, of preparing an envelope printing file from these printing data, and of inserting this file into the print data stream transmitted on the common communication channel.
38. Method according to any one of Claims 24 to 37, characterized in that it further controls a postal franking device connected onto the common communication channel (10), by transmitting specific switching data.

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