EP1814086A1 - Demonetization system for value token - Google Patents

Abstract

The system has a data reader (22) for reading of data stored in a data inscription, and a cancellation unit (24) for cancellation of the value-token. A data memory (34) is provided for storage of the read data and arranged in a server (32), where the value-token is formed through a bar-code and the data is transmitted to a personal computer (36). The data memory is formed through a memory and/or multimedia card e.g. flash-memory-smart card. An independent claim is also included for a method for storage of data and for cancellation of value-token.

Description

The present invention relates to a value-bon validation system and method for invalidating value-bons and storage of data. In particular, the invention relates to value vouchers issued by personal access systems.

Such an access system has the purpose of granting access to persons only if they have previously deposited a sufficient amount of money at the payment machine. The terms payment or numbers do not refer exclusively to money, but rather to all conceivable means of payment. For example, in addition to coins and banknotes, the payment machine can accept credit or other payment cards as well as vouchers of all kinds. The use of a transponder is conceivable. Such a transponder transmits data via an inserted antenna.

Sufficient payment by the user at the payment machine releases the access lock allowing the user to pass through the otherwise restricted area. Turnstiles, turnstiles or revolving doors are particularly suitable as access barriers, but are also conceivable all other types of access barrier. For example, a standard door, which is otherwise locked, can be released via the payment machine.

Essential in such access systems is that by the sufficient Payment not only released the passage, but also a value receipt is issued. The value-receipt can itself be used again as a means of payment. In particular, it has proved to be advantageous if the value receipt can be used in the immediate vicinity of the access system, for example for the purchase of food or drinks in a shop or kiosk. The advantage is that although the users of the access system have to make a certain payment, it is transferable to other services. For example, such a system can be used for public toilet access, even if the request for payment is not possible or desirable for legal or moral reasons. The user pays in such a case, although a certain amount, but this entitles him not only to use the toilet, but also allows the purchase of food, drinks or the like on presentation of a value vouchers.

Among other things, the system described above is used by companies that use access systems with the issue of value vouchers at various locations. For various reasons, for example, to achieve increased customer loyalty, but also to be customer-oriented or customer-friendly, it is possible to redeem the received value vouchers at all locations, regardless of whether the value bonuses paid previously at this location has been. This means that users can collect value vouchers over a longer period of time and then redeem them at one of the company's locations. However, this results in the problem that the payment of the value-Bon took place at a different location, as the exchange for goods. The operator of the first location has then received the payment, the operator of the second site, however, must issue the goods without having received the appropriate payment. In such a case, a subsequent offsetting of the value vouchers and a settlement of the cash flows is necessary.

The redeemed value vouchers must be canceled in order to be able to prevent a renewed, inadmissible submission of the value voucher sustainably. Otherwise, there is a risk that already redeemed value vouchers may be stolen or misappropriated and reused as a means of payment.

Currently, the devaluation of the value bonus is going through several phases. The customer uses the value coupon (s) as payment at a cash register of the respective company. The cashier checks the authenticity of the value receipt when accepting the value coupons on the basis of recognition features. As recognition features, for example, holograms or watermarks have prevailed. After this check, the cashier calculates the value of the value voucher (s) on the invoice amount as a credit note. In order to prevent further use or misuse, the cashier is obliged to devaluate the value receipt immediately after acceptance. To validate the value-Bon example is crossed, punched or stamped. For devaluation but any other method is suitable that leaves irreversible traces on or at the value-Bon.

After completion of the checkout process, all received and depreciated value vouchers are stored in a container until the change of shift. The cashier is responsible for ensuring that no strangers have access to the value vouchers. When changing shifts, the cashier has to count the value-bons manually, this counting process also serves as a check for the own cash-desk closing.

After the change of shift, the value vouchers with a corresponding note are added to the change. The note includes, for example, the number of value vouchers, the period of receipt, the name of the cashier, and so on. Usually, the registered, counted, and annotated value vouchers are checked by the employer or tenant as part of the cashier's daily statement.

The canceled value vouchers are then packaged in cartons for storage. For companies that issue value coupons at several locations and accept them as means of payment, payment flows are settled in regular cycles, preferably on a monthly basis. For example, if a tenant has issued more value bons in a location than he has earned, the difference will be repaid to him by the company. In the opposite case, the farmer is obliged to pay the overpaid amount to the company so that the amount is distributed to those tenants may have spent more value-bons than assumed.

The described method is associated with a number of disadvantages. It is very expensive and error-prone. For example, the cashier can count on rechecking the value vouchers and the value vouchers to be retained can be lost or destroyed. A major disadvantage is also that the entire process of accepting the value voucher, the devaluation and set off at the box office takes a relatively long period of time. This is particularly at high-traffic places, such as motorway service areas or shopping malls, disadvantageous, since the risk of unwanted queuing at the cashier increases. Also, the financial compensation of the cash flows for a company that operates multiple sites, relatively expensive. The company must trust the lessee or even carry out a renewed inspection of the stored value vouchers before the lessee can, for example, be credited with money. Finally, an increased space requirement for the storage of the value voucher is necessary. Since the value vouchers are vouchers or devalued means of payment, there is a statutory retention period of several years, which means that storage space must be created that must be inaccessible to unauthorized persons.

The object of the present invention is to provide a value-bon-validation system and a method for debiting value-tickets and storing data which reduces or even avoids the above mentioned disadvantages. With the help of the value-bon-validation system, it should be possible to reduce the processing time when accepting the value vouchers at the cash registers, to carry out the collection of relevant data quickly and easily and to manage the data as well as the value vouchers themselves simplify.

• einem Datenlesegerät zum Einlesen von auf den Wert-Bons im Datenaufdruck gespeicherten Daten,
• einem Entwerter für eine Entwertung der Wert-Bons,
• einem Datenspeicher zur Speicherung der ausgelesenen Daten.

According to the invention, the object is accompanied by a value-receipt validation system for storing data and for invalidating value-tickets, which have a machine-readable data imprint

• a data reader for reading in data stored on the value bons in the data print,
• a validator for a devaluation of the value vouchers,
• a data memory for storing the read-out data.

• Einlesen der im Datenaufdruck gespeicherten Daten durch ein Datenlesegerät,
• Speichern der eingelesenen Daten in einen Datenspeicher,
• Entwerten der Wert-Bons durch einen Entwerter.

Furthermore, the object is achieved by a method for storing data and for debiting value tickets, which have a machine-readable data imprint, with the method steps:

• Reading the data stored in the data imprint through a data reader,
• Storing the read data in a data memory,
• Devalued the value-Bons by a validator.

The inventive value-Bon-validation system and the inventive method are used to optimize the process flow both at the cash registers and the subsequent evaluation of the data and the associated compensation of Zahlensströmen. The validation system is particularly suitable for use at various locations within a company. In this case, the invention will be described below, but it is not limited to this application. The debiting system according to the invention or the method according to the invention are just as suitable for a company that issues and receives value vouchers only at a single location.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, all cash desks are equipped at all locations with the appropriate components (data readers, validators and data storage). The data reader and the validator are preferably arranged in a single housing and each arranged directly on or next to the cash registers. Alternatively, a separate arrangement of the data reader and the validator is possible. In the following, the preferred embodiment of the combined device with data reader and validators will be referred to as invalidation device.

Before the beginning of each shift, the cashier preferably activates the validation device of each device with an associated shift map. Such a shift card is personal and enables the recording of the data associated with the respective person in connection with the receipt of value-bons. The shift card can be designed as a transponder card, but other suitable cards or identification means are also suitable. The shift card thus serves to enable the operator of the location (lessee) or the company to track and check how many value bons have been redeemed by which cashier at which cash desk location.

The value vouchers are provided according to the invention with a machine-readable data imprint. This can be formed for example by a bar code (EAN code), a magnetic strip or the like. The printed data include, for example, the origin of the value ticket, the time of production and the affiliation to a specific receipt role. Additionally, the value tag may include a non-machine readable verification item, such as a hologram. Preferably also machine-readable elements can be provided, which allow a machine authenticity check. For example, bright color, profiles or metal strips are suitable. It can be taken over elements of banknotes.

Instead of the bar code according to the invention, a so-called I-code can also be used. As a result, a contactless transponder is created, which usually consists of a silicon chip with an external antenna. There is a read / write memory of, for example, 48 bytes. The reading distance between two readers / writers can be up to one meter. Due to the used frequency of 13.56 MHz, the antenna can be made very flat, so that the entire transponder can be integrated wafer-thin into the value receipt. The transponders used preferably correspond to the ISO 15693 standard. Such I-codes are virtually tamper-proof and can additionally be secured by an extremely long, for example 64-digit PIN.

The cashier accepts the value-Bon and introduces him after the authenticity control via a slot in the validator. The validation device reads the data imprint, checks the value receipt for authenticity, saves the printed data and then invalidates the value receipt.

The devaluation of the value can be done by many different methods, For example, only the data imprint can be destroyed. This can be done mechanically or by electromagnetic methods depending on the nature of the imprint. In a particularly preferred embodiment of the value-Bon is completely destroyed, for example, crushed or cut. This has the advantage that the value-receipt is then completely useless and also a storage does not have to be made.

In addition to the data saved on the value receipt, data relating to the acceptance process of the value receipt can also be stored. These include, for example, the date of redemption, the time interval (for example 0-23) or the time of redemption, the cashier / shift identifier, the cash desk of the redemption and whether it is a separate or a foreign voucher. It is thus preferably automatically detected whether the value receipt was paid and spent at the same location or whether it is only redeemed at this location.

The data is stored on a data memory. It has proved to be particularly advantageous if the data storage is housed in an external server. The read and / or collected data can be transmitted via cable or wireless. For example, the server may have one or more multimedia cards on which or which the data is stored. A file system is installed on the server and it is operated via a so-called firmware, so it has no common operating system (such as LINUX ^® or WINDOWS ^® ). The electronics are based on controllers (embedded controller unit).

The server can continue to receive data from the access system that issues value vouchers locally. Thus, all essential data is present on the server.

Multimedia cards are particularly good because they also have no operating system installed on them and because they have no moving parts. The latter also applies to the server, so it is a total of a "solid-state system" guaranteed. To prevent data loss, the stored data is mirrored and backed up to a back-up system. In freely selectable Time intervals will erase the data so that the memory capacity of the multimedia cards can not be reached.

In addition, all data is transferred to another computer (PC) of the tenant and stored there in another database. This database does not have to be deleted regularly because its storage capacity can be almost any size.

On the PC of the tenant, the data can be processed and evaluated. According to the invention, it can be provided that data is transmitted from the value-receipt device, that is to say from the device which issues the value tickets to this location, to the same PC. Thus it can be determined immediately on the lessee's PC, how many of the redeemed value tickets originate from the same operation or location.

In the event that the value-bon-validation system is used by a company that uses different locations, the collected and retrieved data is transferred daily as possible to a central database of the entrepreneur, which also in another location, even in another city can be accommodated. The data is either transferred directly from the server or the lessee's PC, possibly already processed, to the external database. The advantage of a direct transfer from the server is that the data can no longer be manipulated on the PC.

On the basis of the data received on the central database, on the one hand a control of the tenants is possible, on the other hand, within the scope of a clearing, differences between received payments and issued value vouchers can be compensated. In hindsight, it is understandable in which operation value vouchers originating from another company were redeemed. Accordingly, the associated cash flows can be compensated.

Basically, the data transmission can be done in all cases wired or wireless.

In its basic function, the method according to the invention essentially has the three method steps of reading in the data, storing the data and validating the value ticket. As already stated, however, further method steps can also be integrated.

The data transmission can also be done by using the multimedia card, the tenant can take these out of the server and connect via an appropriate interface to his PC.

On the PC of the tenant also prepared evaluation programs can be installed, which convert the transmitted data directly into so-called reports. These predefined reports are displayed on the screen and can be printed directly by the tenant or exported to Excel. For example, a shift report can automatically summarize all relevant data associated with a cashier's shift.

The value-for-money devaluation system according to the invention not only benefits the tenant or the company by optimizing the devaluation, but also significantly improves the later evaluation of the data. For example, the transfer of the data to the lessee's PC can take place immediately after the respective shift, but weekly reports or monthly reports can also be issued without problems. By connecting the value-Bon-output devices, such as the turnstile, eliminates for the tenant of the statistical expression of the data of the turnstile, as these data (issued value vouchers, cash hold of the turnstiles) transferred directly to his PC and stored there.

The manual counting, sorting and storage of the value vouchers is eliminated. The administrative and storage costs are minimized and the increased transparency of the entire system makes controlling easier.

In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the access system issuing the value vouchers is connected to the Internet or radio network. This makes it possible that payments can be made in advance. To the For example, a bus driver may make a large number of payments even before reaching a motorway service area (eg for 50 persons). The payments are registered on his transponder card so that with this single card he can give access to all passengers on the bus.

Fig.1:

Eine vereinfachte Darstellung eines erfindungsgemäßen Wert-Bon-Entwertungssystems,

Fig.2:

eine schematische Darstellung des erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens zur Entwertung von Wert-Bons und zur Speicherung von Daten.

Based on the following figures, the invention will be explained in more detail. Show it:

Fig.1:

A simplified representation of a value-bon-validation system according to the invention,

Figure 2:

a schematic representation of the method according to the invention for the validation of value Bons and for storing data.

FIG. 1 shows an inventive value-voucher validation system 20. This has a data-reading device 22 and a validator 24, which in the exemplary embodiment shown are combined to form a validation device. The invalidation device has a receiving slot 26 for accepting a value receipt 28. The value receipt 28 is provided with a machine-readable data imprint 30 and a visually easily recognizable symbol of authenticity (e.g., a hologram).

The invalidation device is connected to a server 32, which is preferably located at the same location as the invalidation device itself. The server 32 is used for storing data and has at least one data memory 24 for this purpose. The data memory 34 may be formed, for example, by a memory or multimedia card, for example a flash memory memory card (MMC, RS-MMC S-MMC, SD card).

The server is connected to the server 32 and / or a computer or PC 36 in connection. Also on the PC 36 is a turnstile 38 is connected, which accept cash in the illustrated embodiment and can issue value tickets 28. Finally, the PC 36 is connected to a central database 40, which may also be located in another location, such as another city.

The components shown are wirelessly or wired connected with each other in such a way that between them data can be transmitted.

From Fig. 2, the function and also the method, according to which the value-Bon-Verwertungsystem 20 operates. First, the receipt of the value receipt 28 is carried out by the cashier who visually or tactually checks the authenticity of the value receipt 28. The value Bon 28 is inserted through the receiving slot 26 into the data reader 22 and the data stored on the value Bon 28 or in the data imprint 30 data are read. Subsequently, these data are transmitted to the server 32 and stored. The value receipt 28 is immediately canceled following the reading in of the data and then disposed of (represented by the symbol of the wastebasket 42 in FIG. 1).

In addition to the data read, other data related to the acceptance process (e.g., time of acceptance, personal data, cashier, etc.) is also stored on the server 32. Preferably, the server 32 is also connected to the device that outputs the value ticket 28 locally, in the present case with the turnstile 38, in connection. From this value-Bon output device relevant data are transmitted directly to the server 32. The stored data is regularly backed up.

From the server 32, the data is transmitted to the PC 36 and / or the central database 40. Data is also transmitted from the turnstile 38 to the PC 36. There is an evaluation of the data, such as the production of statistics or shift reports. Finally, the data can be transferred from the PC to the company's central database 40.

With the aid of the data transmitted by several tenants to the central database 40, the clearing takes place at the company, that is to say the compensation of the value coupons 28 which are too much or too little accepted by the tenants in relation to the self-sold value coupons 28.

The invention is not limited to the illustrated embodiment, but includes all other suitable embodiments. For example, the use of a turnstile is to be understood as exemplary only, it is Other devices conceivable that spend a value Bon 28 due to a payment. It should also be noted that the described data streams can not only occur in one, but between the components in both directions. It can be useful, for example, if data is also transmitted from the central database 40 to the PC 36 or from the PC 36 to the turnstile 38. It is also conceivable that the data of the value-Bon output device (here turnstile 38) are transmitted directly to the central database 40.

Claims (16)

A value-bon-validation system (20) for storing data and for debiting value-tickets (28) having a machine-readable data imprint (30) a data reader (22) for reading data stored in the data imprint (30), - a validator (24) for invalidating the value vouchers (28), - A data memory (34) for storing the read data. Value-Bon-Verwertung system (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that the data imprint (30) is formed by a bar code. The value-bon-validation system (20) of claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the value receipt (28) is shredded by the validator (24). Value-Bon-Verification system (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that in the data memory (34) further, with the acceptance of the value ticket (28) related data are stored. Value-Bon-Verwertung system (20) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that in the data imprint (30) data are stored, from which the origin of the value ticket (28) results. Value-Bon-Verification system (20) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that data memory (34) is accommodated on an external server (32). Value-Bon-Verwertung system (20) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the data memory (34) is formed by a multimedia card. Value-Bon-Verification system (20) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the read-in data to a PC (36) and / or the server (32) are transmitted. Value-Bon-Verification system (20) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the read data and / or data from the PC (36) are transmitted to a central database (40). After 9.), d.d.d. On the basis of the central database (40) transmitted data of several tenants clearing takes place Method for storing data and for debiting value tickets (28) having a machine-readable data imprint (30), comprising the method steps: Reading the data stored in the data imprint (30) by a data reader (22), Storing the read-in data in a data memory (34), - Devalued value coupons by a validator (24). A method according to claim 11, characterized in that in the data memory (24) further, with the acceptance of the value ticket (28) related data are stored. A method according to claim 11 or claim 12, characterized in that the read data is transmitted to a PC (36). A method according to claim 11 or claim 12, characterized in that the read data and / or data from the PC (36) to a central database (40) are transmitted. Method according to one of claims 11 to 14, characterized in that the data memory (34) in a server (32) is arranged. A method according to claim 15, characterized in that the server (32) also receives data from a value receipt device and transmits all received data to the central database (40).

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