WO1997020695A1

WO1997020695A1 - Journal printer paper feed fault detection system for automated teller machine

Info

Publication number: WO1997020695A1
Application number: PCT/US1996/017818
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jeffrey A. Brannan; Kim R. Lewis; Kenneth J. Schanz
Original assignee: Interbold
Priority date: 1995-12-07
Filing date: 1996-11-07
Publication date: 1997-06-12
Also published as: DE69627889T2; US5879092A; EP0873244A1; RU2152311C1; CN1079052C; EP0873244A4; BR9610762A; CA2230345A1; DE69627889D1; US5725321A; ES2196188T3; CA2230345C; CN1200082A; EP0873244B1; MX9801249A

Abstract

A system indicates fault conditions in an automated banking machine journal printer (12, 106). The journal printer is supplied with paper from a paper supply (16, 112). Movement of paper by the printer is sensed by a detector (70, 124). An amount of paper remaining in the paper supply is sensed by a second detector (78, 122). The detectors are connected to an electronic circuit (74, 118) including a processor (76, 120). Fault signals are generated by said electronic circuit responsive to said detectors sensing conditions representative of paper jam, paper low and paper out conditions.

Description

JOURNAL PRINTER PAPER FEED FAULT DETECTION SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINE

DESCRIPTION

TECHNICAL FIELD

This invention relates to automated banking machines. Specifically, this invention relates to a system and method for detecting fault conditions which occur in the feeding of paper through a journal printer mechanism in an automated teller machine.

BACKGROUND ART Automated banking machines are well known in the prior art. In many types of automated banking machines, including automated teller

machines (ATMs), it is common to include a journal printer inside the machine. The function of the journal printer is to make a paper record of each transaction that has been conducted at the ATM. This enables the institution that operates the ATM to verify its electronic records and to reconstruct them in the event of a failure.

Journal printers typically involve recording transaction information on paper that is supplied from a paper roll. The paper from the roll is passed through the printer where the data is printed on the paper. After printing, the paper is rewound onto a take-up roll. As transactions are recorded, blank paper on the supply roll is used and the diameter of the supply roll decreases. As paper upon which data has been recorded is

transferred to the take-up roll, the take-up roll increases in diameter. Eventually, when the amount of paper remaining on the supply roll is nearly

depleted, the supply roll must be replaced and the paper on the take-up roll removed. The process is then repeated with additional transactions being recorded on the paper from a new supply roll.

The reliable operation of the journal printer is important to insure

that the institution operating the ATM has a hardcopy record of all the transactions that have been conducted. It is undesirable for the supply roll of the journal printer to be depleted, as this results in transactions for which there may be no hardcopy record. In some existing ATMs, the need to replace the supply roll is determined electronically by storing in the memory of the machine the number of data lines printed by the journal printer since

the last roll change. Such systems require for their operation that all replacement rolls be identical. This is not always the case. If the roll is either "too short" or "too long" a paper out condition may arise or excess paper may be unnecessarily discarded.

A person servicing the ATM to replace the supply roll may forget to reset the system when the paper is replaced. This can result in the automated teller machine indicating that it is in a paper low condition when in fact no such problem exists. Also, a problem such as a paper jam may

occur in the middle of a roll. In this situation the technician must start a new roll and reset the machine. This may waste a significant amount of

paper.

Journal printers sometimes experience paper jams. Paper jams usually result in the paper no longer moving through the printer. The printer mechanism prints data concerning a multitude of transactions on the

same spot. As a result, the hardcopy record of these transactions is lost. Only the most severe paper jams that trigger signals indicating a malfunction in other components are generally detected by existing automated teller machines. For example, if the paper jam condition is

sufficient to prevent the printer mechanism from moving as required to produce characters on paper, a printer fault indication may be given. However in most circumstances, paper jams are not sufficiently severe to impact the operation of other components. Such paper jams go undetected

until a visual inspection is made by a service technician. Other types of fault conditions may arise with regard to a journal printer. A technician may remove a spent roll and forget to put in a new one even though the machine has been reset. Paper rolls may also have

breaks at splices. In either case the journal printer will become inoperative and this condition may go undetected for some time. Problems may also result when a replacement roll has not been properly installed. The ATM may be run for an extended time before it is discovered that paper is not feeding through the journal printer. Thus there exists a need for a system and method for indicating fault conditions with paper feeding to a journal printer in an automated banking machine.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating a fault condition in a system in which a printer is supplied with

paper from a paper supply.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating a paper jam condition with a journal printer in an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating a paper low condition for a supply roll supplying a journal

printer in an automated banking machine.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating fault conditions in a system including a journal printer in an automated banking machine which is supplied by a paper roll and which

prevents overrunning of the roll.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating fault conditions in a system including a journal printer in an automated banking machine which detects the movement of journal printer

paper and which determines that such paper is moving in coordination with a journal printer. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus

for indicating fault conditions in a system including a journal printer in an automated banking machine which detects the movement of a journal printer supply roll and which determines that such roll is moving in coordination with a journal printer.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for detecting proper movement of a journal printer paper which enables readily changing the supply roll.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus

for detecting the proper movement of a journal printer supply roll which apparatus is engaged with said supply roll so as to indicate the movement thereof but which is readily disengagable from said supply roll to enable the replacement thereof.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating fault conditions with a paper feed from a roll to a printer, which apparatus may be used with rolls of varying size.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for indicating improper loading or a failure to load, a paper supply to a printer. It is a further object of the present invention to provide an apparatus for detecting severance of paper from a paper supply to a printer. It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for indicating a fault condition in a system in which a journal printer is supplied with paper from a paper supply.

Further objects of the present invention will be made apparent in the following Best Modes for Carrying Out Invention and the appended claims.

The foregoing objects are accomplished in preferred embodiments of the present invention by an apparatus for indicating fault conditions in a

transaction recording system within an automated banking machine. The system includes a journal printer that is supplied with paper from a paper supply. The printer operates to move paper from the supply and to print transaction data thereon. The paper with the printed data is rewound on to

a take-up roll.

In a first embodiment the paper supply roll is supported on a spindle. A wire spring extending from the spindle serves as a connecting member and connects the spindle to the supply roll. As a result, the spindle is rotatably engaged with the roll so as to move therewith. An encoder member is supported on one end of the spindle. The encoder member

includes a plurality of uniformly spaced indicia which in the preferred form of this embodiment is a plurality of slotted openings. An optical detector is positioned adjacent to the encoder member.

The detector operates to detect rotation of the encoder member which is

indicative of rotation of the paper roll. A drag mechanism is associated with the spindle which prevents overrunning of the supply roll as paper is removed therefrom by the printer.

In a second embodiment of the invention paper is supplied to the printer from a roll or other type paper supply. The printer includes a printer drive mechanism which engages the paper and moves it through the printer in coordination with the printing on the paper. The paper with the printed data is rewound onto a take-up roll. The take-up roll is moved by a

take-up roll drive mechanism.

Between an area of engagement of the paper with the printer drive mechanism and the take-up roll the paper passes through a gap. The paper is movable in the gap both in a direction of paper movement from the

printer to the take-up roll, as well as in a direction that is generally peφendicular to the direction of paper movement.

The operations of the printer drive mechanism and the take-up roll drive mechanism are coordinated. The printer drive preferably first moves

the paper towards the take-up roll and a time thereafter the take-up roll drive mechanism moves the take-up roll to take up the slack in the paper.

This causes the paper to move back and forth in the peφendicular direction in the gap.

An optical detector is positioned adjacent to the gap. The optical detector is positioned to detect movement of the paper in the peφendicular direction. In this manner the detector operates to detect movement of the paper in a manner indicative of the proper operation of the printer drive and take-up roll drive mechanisms.

Both embodiments of the system further include a second detector adjacent to the paper supply. The second detector serves as a paper low detector and preferably senses a side face portion of the paper roll, stack or

other form of supply. The second detector is operative to provide a signal when the diameter or size of the supply has fallen to a predetermined level.

An electronic circuit, which includes a processor, is in operative connection with the printer and the first and second detectors. The

processor is programmed to provide fault signals when a combination of certain conditions are detected in accordance with the programming of the processor.

In operation, a first fault signal representative of a paper jam condition is generated by the electronic circuit if the second detector senses sufficient paper, but the first detector has failed to sense movement of the paper after the printer has operated to print a number of lines. This may be a failure to sense rotation of the spindle shaft or cyclic movement of the paper in the peφendicular direction in the gap. This first fault signal is indicative that the printer is attempting to print several lines of data on the

paper but that the paper is not moving. The first fault signal is also generated in conditions where the paper has broken, such as at a splice, or when a replacement roll or stack has not been properly installed. The electronic circuit provides a paper low signal when the second detector senses that the paper supply has been reduced to a sufficiently small size that replacement is warranted. The paper low signal is given if the first detector is continuing to sense that the paper is still moving. This is indicative that the journal printer is still operating despite the paper running low.

The electronic circuit further provides a paper out signal when the

printer has printed the number of lines during which time movement of the paper should have been sensed, and if at the same time the second detector does not sense the presence of paper. This is indicative that the paper supply has been depleted and that a hardcopy record of transaction data is

not being retained. This second fault signal indicative of a paper out condition is also given in circumstances when a replacement roll or other supply was not installed or was improperly installed due to a mistake by a service technician.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Figure 1 is an isometric view of a journal printer including a first embodiment of the fault indicating apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 2 is a schematic view of a journal printer including the first embodiment of the fault indicating apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 3 is a sectional side view of a paper supply roll, spindle and spindle rotation detector of the first embodiment of the present invention with the inside diameter of the paper roll core exaggerated to show the

action of a pair of spring arms connecting the roll and the spindle.

Figure 4 is an isometric view of the spindle of the first embodiment of the present invention shown with the spring arms extended. Figure 5 is an isometric view showing the spindle partially inserted

into a paper supply roll.

Figure 6 is a flow chart of the computer program executed by the processor of the electronic circuit used in the fault indicating apparatus of the present invention.

Figure 7 is a schematic view of a journal printer including a second embodiment of the fault indicating system of the present invention.

Figure 8 is an enlarged cross sectional view of an optical detector of the second embodiment with paper in a first position adjacent the detector. Figure 9 is an enlarged cross sectional view similar to Figure 8 but with the paper in a second position disposed from the detector.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION Referring now to the drawings and particularly to Figure 1 , there is shown therein a first embodiment of the fault indicating apparatus of the

present invention generally indicated 10. The apparatus includes a journal printer generally indicated 12. Journal printer 12 includes mechanisms known in the prior art for producing printed data on paper in a conventional manner. Paper generally indicated 14, is fed from a paper supply roll 16 to printer 12. As schematically indicated in Figure 2, paper that has been printed on by the journal printer 12 is stored on a take-up roll 18. Printer

12 includes a conventional type drive schematically indicated 20 for moving the paper 14 therethrough after each line of data has been printed thereon.

Take-up roll 18 is also driven by a conventional mechanism so as to rewind and store on the take-up roll the paper that has been printed on by journal

printer 12.

Paper supply roll 16 is supported on a spindle generally indicated 22. The spindle is shown in detail in Figures 4 and 5. Spindle 22 is supported on a first side by a first vertically extending wall 24. Spindle 22 is

supported at an opposed side by a second vertically extending wall 26. First wall 24 includes a first slot 28 therein. First slot 28 includes an open end and a closed end. The spindle is supported at the closed end of slot 28 when in the operative position as shown in Figure 3. However, the spindle

may be removed from the slot 28 through the open end to enable replacement of the supply roll and then reinstalled in a manner later

discussed.

Second wall 26 includes a second slot 30. Second slot 30 has open and closed ends. The spindle is supported at the closed end of the second slot when in the operative position as shown in Figure 3. Similarly, the spindle may be removed through the open end of the slot when the supply roll is depleted and reinstalled after the roll is replenished. Spindle 22 is shown in detail in Figure 4. Spindle 22 includes a

spindle shaft portion 32. A flange portion 34 is located at a first end of spindle shaft portion 32. A flange portion 34 includes a flat circular face 36, the puφose of which is later discussed. An encoder support shaft portion 38 extends axially outward from

flange portion 34. Encoder support shaft portion 38 supports an encoder member 40. In the preferred form of the first embodiment of the invention,

encoder member 40 is an encoder wheel with a plurality of radially extending slotted openings positioned at a plurality of uniformly spaced radial increments thereon.

A retainer member 42 is movably positioned between flange portion 34 and encoder member 40. Retainer member 42 is a generally hollow member with an opening (not shown) through which shaft portion 38 extends. The retainer member is enabled to move in an axial direction on the encoder support shaft portion 38. Retainer member 42 includes

externally a cylindrical portion 44 and a generally frustoconical portion 46. Generally frustoconical portion 46 includes the opening therethrough that enables retainer member 42 to move relative to shaft portion 38.

A compression spring 48 is housed in a generally cylindrical pocket

inside retainer member 42. Compression spring 48 is a coil spring that extends coaxially with encoder support shaft portion 38. Spring 48 biases the generally frustoconical portion 46 of the retainer towards face 36 of the flange portion 34. However, in response to a separating force, the

frustoconical portion 46 may be moved away from face 36.

A guide shaft portion 50 is positioned at an opposite end of spindle

shaft 32 from flange 34. Guide shaft portion 50 is smaller in diameter than spindle shaft portion 32. A radially extending step 52 extends between

guide shaft portion 50 and spindle shaft portion 32.

Spindle shaft portion 32 includes a diametrically extending opening 54 therethrough. A second opening 56 in spindle shaft portion 32 is axially disposed from opening 54 in the direction of flange portion 34. A generally

u-shaped wire spring 58 extends between openings 54 and 56. Spring 58 includes a pair of outwardly biased spring arms 60 which extend from a spring base 62. Spring base 62 extends through opening 54 in shaft portion 32 as shown in Figure 4. Spring arms 60 each include free ends generally indicated 64 which each have radially in-turned portions 66. In-turned portions 66 extend into opening 56 in spindle shaft portion 32.

As shown in Figure 5, when paper supply roll 16 is installed on spindle 22, spindle shaft portion 32 is inserted into a core 68 at the center of the paper roll 16. As the spindle shaft is inserted into the core, the engagement of the core with the spring arms moves the spring arms against the biasing force of the wire spring so that the in-turned portions 66 are moved further into opening 56 in the spindle shaft portion. The outward biasing force of the spring arms maintains engagement between the spindle 22 and the core 68 of the paper roll 16. As a result, the spring arms 60 serve as connecting members for connecting the spindle to the paper roll so

that the spindle is rotatably engaged therewith. This enables the encoder

member 40 to move in response to movement of the paper roll. This enables the detection of fault conditions in a manner hereinafter discussed. The spindle 22 is installed in the roll 16 by movement of the spindle in the direction of arrow I as shown in Figure 5 until flange portion 34

engages a side face of the core and paper roll. The spindle 22 is then installed in supported connection with walls 24 and 26. Installation into supported connection with the walls is accomplished by engaging guide shaft portion 50 in second slot 30 and engaging the encoder support shaft portion

38 in the slot 28. Engaging encoder support shaft portion 38 in slot 28 necessitates the movement of retainer member 42 away from flange portion 34 a sufficient distance to enable wall 24 to extend therebetween. This is accomplished by engaging the tapered generally frustoconical portion 46 of the retainer in the open end of slot 28 and moving spindle 22 downward.

This downward movement biases the retainer member 42 axially outward against the biasing force of compression spring 48. This enables spindle 22

to be moved so that shaft portion 38 is supported at the closed end of slot 28 as shown in Figure 3. When the spindle 22 is supported in slots 28 and 30 as shown in

Figure 3, retainer member 42 applies a biasing force against the outer

surface of first wall 24. This biasing force causes wall 24 to be in compressed sandwiched relation between flange portion 34 and retainer member 42. The frictional forces that are applied by face 36 of flange

portion 34 on the inside of wall 24 combined with the frictional force of the retainer member 42 engaging the outer surface of wall 24, act to resist rotation of spindle 22. Because spindle 22 is connected to paper roll 16

through the spring arms 60, these structures act as a drag mechanism to prevent spindle 22 from freely rolling in response to forces applied thereto. As a result, when roll 16 is moved in response to printing operations being conducted by journal printer 12, roll 16 is prevented from overrunning by

the drag mechanism. The apparatus of the first embodiment of the present invention further includes a detector 70. In the preferred form of the invention detector 70 is an op to- interrupter sensor. Detector 70 is operable to detect the passage of a beam of light through the openings 72 in the encoder member 40 as the openings are aligned with the sensor. As spindle 22 rotates, detector 70 sequentially senses the passage and blockage of light as openings 72 are aligned in the sensor.

As schematically shown in Figure 2, detector 70 is electrically connected through an appropriate interface to an electronic circuit schematically indicated 74. Electronic circuit 74 includes a processor 76 which operates in accordance with the steps of a computer program hereinafter described. Electronic circuit 74 is also connected to journal printer 12 for puφoses that are later discussed. The apparatus of the present invention further includes a second detector 78. Second detector 78 is also preferably an opto-electric detector.

Second detector 78 is positioned between the spindle and the journal printer. Second detector 78 preferably operates to direct a light beam against a side face portion of paper supply roll 16 and to detect the light reflected from such surface. As a result, when the diameter of roll 16 has decreased so that the side face surface is no longer present in the area adjacent second detector 78, this condition may be sensed as shown in Figure 2. In other embodiments other types of detectors may be used instead of electro-optical detectors. Second detector 78 is electrically connected through an appropriate interface to the electronic circuit 74. Electronic circuit 74 operates as schematically indicated in Figure 2 to output electrical signals on a line schematically indicated 80.

Electronic circuit 74 operates to output fault indication signals in response to a determination that there is a paper jam or a comparable condition, that the paper on the supply roll is low, or that the paper on the

supply roll is out or a comparable condition. These signals are given in response to processor 76 which executes generally the computer program steps indicated in Figure 6. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that because the diameter of paper supply roll 16 varies as paper is used, the amount that the spindle will rotate in response to printer 12 removing a predetermined amount of paper from the roll will vary. The spindle will rotate a lesser amount for a given length of paper when the roll is new. The roll will gradually increase the angular displacement for a given amount of paper as the roll approaches depletion.

Printer mechanisms are generally set up such that each line of

printed data occupies a predetermined width on the paper. This width extends in a transverse band. Each time the printer is instructed by the printer driver control to move to the position to print the next line of data, the drive 20 of the printer operates to attempt to move the paper forward a predetermined distance. Because the printer advance for each line of data is constant, but the amount of associated rotation of the spindle and the attached encoder member 40 varies, the processor of the present invention is

programmed so as to prevent the generation of fault signals in circumstances where the encoder member has only moved slightly due to the large diameter of the roll. As shown in Figure 6, the processor 76 is connected to printer 12 so

as to enable the printing of a line of data on the paper at a step 82. A counter is then incremented at a step 84 to note that an additional line has been printed. At a step 86, the counter is checked to determine if the number of lines that have been printed is equal to a set number. This set

number is preprogrammed so that for the largest roll to be installed on spindle 22 the encoder member must have moved sufficiently so as to produce a change in signal at detector 70 after the preset number of lines is printed. If the counter has not yet reached this preset limit, the program

returns to print the next line. If it has, the program moves on.

At a step 88, the processor checks to determine if there has been a change in signal from detector 70. This would indicate that the spindle has rotated enough to indicate at least one change from "dark" to "light" or vice

versa. At a step 90, a decision is made as to whether such a change in signal from detector 70 has occurred. If at least one change in signal has occurred, the counter is reset at a step 92. A step 94 is then executed to check if paper is sensed by second detector 78. If paper is present adjacent the second detector, then the processor enables the program to return. The printer will then print the next line. However if paper is not sensed adjacent to second detector 78, a "paper low" signal is generated at step 96. Because it is desirable to operate the journal printer as long as possible,

even if the paper is low, the processor continues to operate the printer. If in executing the computer program, it is determined in step 90 that

the encoder has not changed condition since the last check, this is representative of a problem. The processor then executes step 98 wherein

the processor seeks to determine if paper is sensed adjacent to second detector 78. If paper is present, but the spindle is not moving, the processor indicates a first fault detection signal representative of a paper jam or a comparable fault condition at a step 100. As it is often not desirable to operate the ATM without a journal printer, in addition to giving a paper jam signal, the processor or the paper jam signal may also operate to stop further operation of the ATM after it has completed the pending transaction.

The first fault detection signal may be generated in response to conditions other than paper jams. For example, the signal will also be

given if the paper is severed or broken. This may be due to a break at a splice in the roll. The first fault detection signal will also be generated if the supply roll has not been properly installed and seated in the slots in the side walls. This will cause the roll to bind and not unwind. In each case the first fault detection signal indicates that ample paper is present but paper is not being fed in response to the printer.

Alternatively, if at step 98 it is determined that no paper is present adjacent to second sensor 78 and the encoder is not moving, then a "paper out" signal is generated at a step 102. Further, as previously discussed, in addition to generating the paper out signal, which is a second fault signal, the processor or the fault signal may operate to discontinue operation of the

ATM after completing the then pending transaction.

The "paper out" signal may also be given in other comparable situations. These would include situations in which a technician has taken out a spent roll and forgotten to put in a new roll, or when a new roll has been installed so improperly that its presence cannot be sensed. In these situations, the transaction information is not being recorded due to absence of paper. The force applied by the drag mechanism on the spindle insures that

the encoder member accurately reflects the movement of paper through the journal printer. In the event of even a minor paper jam or paper feeding problem which prevents the proper operation of the printer, a fault indication signal is given. In addition, the present invention enables giving accurate signals representative of paper low and paper out conditions. This is superior to basing replacement of the paper supply roll on estimates on the amount of paper remaining. It is also not necessary to replace the roll and reset a paper counter after a paper or printer problem is corrected.

An additional advantage is that while the apparatus of the present invention is highly reliable, it does not interfere with the replacement of the paper rolls or complicate the threading of the paper through the journal printer.

It will be understood by those skilled in the art that while an opto- interrupter type sensor has been used as the detector for detecting rotation of the spindle in the preferred form of the first embodiment of the

invention, other rotation sensors may be successfully used in other embodiments. These include those detectors that sense other types of indicia or features on a member that is in connection with the spindle. While the spring arms of the wire spring serve as the connecting members in the preferred form of the first embodiment, other types of connecting members may be used to connect the paper roll and the spindle shaft. These include other types of spring members as well as ridges or other contours which serve to provide a rigid rotational connection between

the spindle and the roll.

While a reflective type detector is used for the second detector in the preferred embodiment, other types of detectors may be used. These other detectors include detectors which sense the paper between the spindle and

the journal printer by way of sensing the side surface of the supply roll or other paper feature.

An alternative embodiment of a fault indicating apparatus generally indicated 104 is shown in Figure 7. The second embodiment is similar to

the first embodiment and includes a journal printer 106. Printer 106 includes a printer drive mechanism schematically indicated 108. The printer drive mechanism 108 moves paper 110 through the printer in coordination with the printing of lines of characters thereon.

As in the first described embodiment the printer drive mechanism 108 causes paper to be pulled from a paper supply roll 112. Roll 112 rotates in the direction indicated by Arrow F responsive to movement of the paper by the printer drive mechanism. In this second embodiment the paper supply roll may be rotatably supported on a spindle or in another suitable manner. Alternatively in this second embodiment another form of paper supply such as a stack of fanfold paper may be used instead of a supply

roll.

Paper 110 that is moved by the printer drive mechanism is rewound on a take-up roll 114. The take-up roll is moved in the direction indicated by the Arrow T by a take-up roll drive mechanism schematically indicated 116.

As in the first described embodiment, the second described

embodiment includes an electronic circuit 118 similar to electronic circuit 74 except as otherwise described. Electronic circuit 118 includes a processor 120. The second embodiment also includes a second detector 122 similar to detector 78, which is positioned adjacent the paper supply and is in communication with the electronic circuit 118.

Unlike the first embodiment a detector 124 is positioned between an area where said printer drive mechanism 108 engages the paper and where the paper engages the take-up roll. The detector 124 is mounted adjacent to a gap 126. The paper 110 extends in the gap and is freely movable therein between the printer drive mechanism and the take-up roll. Gap 126 is

preferably sized so that the paper is movable in the gap in a direction that is generally peφendicular to a plane of the paper and the direction of movement of the paper through the gap toward the take-up roll.

Gap 126 is bounded at a first side by a first guide 128. Guide 128 includes a paper engaging surface that is preferably angled in a direction generally toward the take-up roll 114 as shown. The relative orientation of take-up roll 114 and guide 128 is such that the paper will generally be positioned adjacent to guide 128 when the paper is relatively taut between

the printer drive mechanism and the take-up roll. This is preferably true for all diameters of the take-up roll. However, in other embodiments other paper guiding mechanisms may be positioned between guide 128 and the

take-up roll to maintain the paper generally adjacent thereto when the paper is taut.

Gap 126 is bounded at a side opposed from guide 128 by a guide 130. Guide 130 has a paper engaging surface that is preferably angled

similar to guide 128. Guide 130 in the preferred embodiment is a tear bar which includes a seπated edge 132 at its upper surface (see Figure 8). Edge 132 facilitates cutting the paper when that is desirable, such as when manually preparing a free end of the paper to engage take-up roll 114.

Detector 124 preferably extends in an opening in guide 130. In this embodiment detector 124 is preferably of the electro-optical detector type previously discussed. In other embodiments other types of suitable detectors may be used.

The apparatus of the second embodiment operates in a manner similar to the first embodiment except as otherwise explained. The printer

106 operates under the control of circuit 118 and processor 120 to print lines of characters on the paper 110. The printer drive mechanism 108 moves the paper, generally one line width at a time, as printing is conducted. The take-up roll drive mechanism 116 is also operated responsive to the control of the electronic circuit 118 and the processor. In the second embodiment the operations of the printer drive mechanism 108 and the take- up roll drive mechanism 116 are coordinated so they operate in sequence. Specifically, the drive mechanisms are operated so that the printer drive

mechanism moves the paper toward the gap 126 and the take-up roll 114, while the take-up roll remains stationary. This results in slack in the paper

between the area where the printer drive mechanism engages the paper and the take-up roll. After the printer drive has moved the paper, the take-up roll drive mechanism 116 moves the take-up roll 114 to remove the slack from the paper in the area between the printer drive mechanism and the take-up roll.

The coordinated movement of the printer drive mechanism 108 and the take-up roll drive mechanism 116 causes the paper 110 to move in the gap 126 between the positions shown in Figures 8 and 9. In the preferred form of the second embodiment, when the printer drive mechanism 108 has moved the paper 110, and the take-up roll drive mechanism 116 has not yet

moved, the paper extends in the gap generally as shown in Figure 8. The slack in the paper and the orientation of guides 128 and 130 causes the paper to move adjacent to guide 130 and detector 124.

When the take-up roll drive mechanism 116 moves the paper a time increment after the printer drive mechanism, the paper moves in the peφendicular direction in gap 126. As the take-up roll drive mechanism takes the slack out of the paper, the paper moves adjacent to guide 128 as shown in Figure 9. The paper remains in this position until the printer

drive mechanism 108 again moves the paper to the position shown in Figure 8. The cyclical sequential back and forth movement of the paper in the

gap is sensed by detector 124. The detector 124 is operative to output signals in a manner similar to detector 70 of the first embodiment responsive to paper movement. These signals from detector 124 are delivered to circuit 118.

In the preferred form of this embodiment, circuit 118 includes a self- calibrating triggering sub-circuit 134. Sub-circuit 134 is operative to provide a trigger signal to circuit 118 each time the paper moves between generally the positions shown in Figures 9 and 8.

Sub-circuit 134 is operative to compensate for changes in signals from detector 124 due to changes in conditions such as paper color, paper weight, the diameter of the take-up roll, accumulation of dirt and other

factors which may affect the level of sensed reflectance as the paper moves or the amount of paper movement. In an embodiment of the invention, sub- circuit 134 is operative to adjust how much light must be sensed as reflected from the paper before it generates its signal during each cycle. This is accomplished based on the amount of light that is reflected from the paper in the area adjacent the detector.

The detector 124 is preferably oriented so that when the paper moves in each cycle from generally the position shown in Figure 9 to generally the position shown in Figure 8, the area of the paper sensed by the detector when the paper was disposed from the detector is generally the same area that is sensed when the paper is moved closer to the detector. As a result, the generation of the trigger signal from sub-circuit 134 is based on a

difference in the signals from detector 124 as generally the same area of the paper is moved between the two positions. Sub-circuit 134 operates so that

the threshold level at which the sub-circuit will trigger is appropriately adjusted each time the paper drives move the paper to the position shown in

Figure 9. The threshold level for generating the signal is determined as a function of the delta or change in reflectance detected from the paper when the paper is disposed away from the detector. In various embodiments the threshold may be established as a percentage change in reflectance. However in other embodiments it may be a complex function. This depends on the printing and paper types used in the particular system. Of course while in this embodiment the threshold level for generating a signal is adjusted based on reflectance when the paper is disposed the extreme distances from the detector, in alternative embodiments the adjustment to the level may be based on the signals from the detector when the paper is in other positions.

Through the use of self-calibrating sub-circuit 134 a signal is more reliably provided each time paper moves between generally the positions

shown in Figures 9 and 8. This enables detector 124 to be positioned adjacent areas where the reflectance of the paper varies due to printing thereon. The sub-circuit also compensates for differences in reflectance

during paper movement cycles due to paper color, weight and other factors, while indicating a failure condition through lack of a paper movement signal when the drives operate in a manner which should cause the paper to move

in the gap but no movement occurs.

In operation of this embodiment signals are generated by sub-circuit 134 responsive to the cyclical paper movement in coordination with movement of the printer and take-up roll drive mechanisms. These signals

are indicative of proper paper movement like those produced by detector 70 and encoder 40 of the first embodiment

The processor 120 executes a computer program which includes the steps described in connection with Figure 6 to detect and indicate fault

conditions generally in the manner previously discussed. It should be understood however that the set number used for comparison in step 86 is set to a number of lines that would be printed to produce at least one change of condition of the paper in the gap.

The second embodiment of the invention avoids the need to employ a spindle in connection with the supply roll 112. Rather a supply roll can be supported in a cradle or other manner. Further, the second embodiment may be used with fanfold paper or another type of paper supply other than a roll. Of course when an alternative form of paper supply is used, detector 122 must be appropriately positioned to detect when the paper supply is

low.

Although the take-up roll drive mechanism 116 is schematically shown in Figure 7 as electrically operated by the electronic circuit, it should be understood that in embodiments of the invention it may be mechanically operated. For example, the take-up roll drive may be mechanically

connected with the printer drive mechanism. Such connection may include mechanical linkages which provide the coordinated operation of the printer

drive and the take-up roll previously described. In this manner the take-up roll drive operates responsive to the signals by the control circuit to the printer drive.

While the preferred form of the second embodiment provides for

moving the paper in the gap adjacent to a detector in response to paper being fed, and away from the detector when slack is removed, alternative embodiments may work in a different manner. For example, the signals indicative of paper movement could be based on movement away from a detector or a detector may be placed in connection with guide 128. Alternatively, the detector could be positioned adjacent a location of the

paper where no printing occurs to simplify or eliminate the need for the self-calibrating sub-circuit. Alternatively, other paper guiding mechanisms may be used for positioning the paper in a manner which confirms proper paper movement. Those skilled in the art may devise numerous

embodiments employing the teachings of the present invention.

Thus the new fault indicating apparatus of the present invention achieves the above stated objectives, eliminates difficulties encountered in the use of prior devices and systems, solves problems and attains the

desirable results described herein. In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used for

brevity, clarity and understanding. However no unnecessary limitations are to be implied therefrom because such terms are for descriptive puφoses and are intended to be broadly construed. Moreover, the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of examples and the invention is not limited

to the details shown and described.

In the following claims, any feature described as a means for performing a function shall be construed as encompassing any means capable of performing the recited function, and shall not be limited to the particular means used for performing the function in the foregoing description, or mere equivalents.

Having described the features, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated and the

advantages and useful results attained; the new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods, processes and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims

CLAIMS We claim:

1. An apparatus for indicating a fault condition in a system having a

printer supplied with paper from a paper supply, comprising:

a printer, wherein said printer moves paper from said supply therethrough and prints thereon;

a detector, wherein said detector detects movement of said paper;

an electronic circuit in connection with said printer and said detector, wherein a first fault signal is generated responsive to failure of said detector to detect movement of said paper after said printer has operated to move said paper a distance therethrough.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a take-up mechamsm, wherein said take-up mechanism receives paper moved through said printer, wherein said printer is operative to move paper to a first position and said take-up mechanism is operative to move said paper to a second position, wherein said detector is operative to detect movement of said paper between said first and second positions.

3. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said take-up mechanism

includes a take-up drive, and wherein said printer is operative to move said

paper to the first position and said take-up drive is operative to move said paper to the second position.

4. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said apparatus comprises

a gap disposed between said printer and said take-up mechanism, and wherein said paper extends through said gap and is movable therein in a direction of movement toward said take-up mechanism, and wherein said paper is further movable in said gap in a direction generally transverse to

said direction of movement, and wherein said first and second positions are transversely disposed from one another in said gap.

5. The apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said printer includes a printer drive, wherein said printer drive moves said paper through said printer, and wherein said printer drive and said take-up drive operate in coordinated relation to move said paper cyclically between said first and

second positions.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5 wherein said printer drive moves said paper to the first position and thereafter said take-up drive moves said

paper to the second position.

7. The apparatus according to claim 3 wherein said take-up mechanism includes a take-up roll, wherein paper moved through said printer is wound on said take-up roll, and a take-up roll drive, wherein said take-up roll drive is operative to rotate said take-up roll.

8. The apparatus according to claim 7 wherein said printer includes a printer drive, and wherein said printer drive and said take-up roll drive are operated in coordinated relation to move said paper cyclically between said first and second positions.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8 wherein said apparatus comprises a gap, wherein said gap is disposed between said printer drive mechanism and the take-up roll, and wherein said paper moves between said first and second positions in said gap.

10. The apparatus according to claim 9 wherein said paper in said gap has a generally planar face, and wherein said first and second positions are disposed from one another in a direction generally peφendicular to said planar face.

11. The apparatus according to claim 11 wherein said gap is bounded by a pair of disposed guide surfaces and wherein said detector is positioned adjacent one of said surfaces.

12. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said detector generates

detector signals responsive to said paper movement, said circuit is operative to generate a trigger signal responsive to said detector signal reaching a level, and wherein said circuit is operative to adjust said level responsive to a first detector signal generated when said paper is in said first position.

13. The apparatus according to claim 2 wherein said electronic circuit is operative to generate said fault signal after said printer has moved said paper a set number of printing lines and said detector has failed to detect

movement of said paper between the first and second positions.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1 and further comprising a second detector in connection with said electronic circuit, wherein said second

detector senses an amount of said paper in said supply, and wherein said electronic circuit produces a second fault signal responsive to both a failure of said first detector to detect movement of said paper and a failure of said second detector to sense said amount.

15. The apparatus according to claim 1 wherein said paper supply comprises a paper roll, and further comprising a spindle supporting said roll, and a connecting member connecting said spindle and said spindle and

said roll in rotatably engaged relation, a drag mechanism in connection with said spindle, wherein said drag mechanism prevents overrunning of said roll the distance said printer moves said paper, and an encoder member in connection with said spindle, wherein said detector detects movement of said encoder member.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15 and further comprising at least one wall, wherein said wall is in supporting relation with said spindle, and wherein said drag mechanism comprises a flange portion supported on said

spindle adjacent said wall and a spring biasing said flange portion to engage said wall.

17. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said wall comprises a slot having an open end, and wherein said spindle is supported in said slot, and wherein said spindle is removable from said slot through said open end, and wherein said spring and said flange portion are disposed on opposed sides of said wall.

18. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said spring and said

flange portion are on opposed sides of said wall.

19. The apparatus according to claim 18 wherein said spring extends between said encoder member and said wall.

20. The apparatus according to claim 19 and further comprising a retainer member, wherein said spring biases said retainer member to engage said wall on a side opposed of said side in engagement with said flange

portion.

21. The apparatus according to claim 20 wherein said wall comprises a slot, whereby said spindle is movable in said slot, and wherein said retainer member includes a generally frustoconical portion adjacent said slot.

22. The apparatus according to claim 21 wherein said retainer member includes a cylindrical portion, and wherein said cylindrical portion extends axially between said frustoconical portion and said encoder member.

23. The apparatus according to claim 22 and further comprising an encoder support shaft portion extending between said encoder member and said flange portion, and wherein said spring is a compression spring, and wherein said spring is coaxial with said support shaft portion and wherein said retainer member is in surrounding relation of said spring.

24. The apparatus according to claim 17 and further comprising a second wall extending generally parallel to said first wall, and wherein said second wall includes a second slot having a second open end, and wherein an axial first end of said spindle is supported in said first slot, and a second end of said spindle generally opposed of said first end is supported in said second slot, whereby said spindle is removable from supported engagement with said walls by movement through said open ends of said first and second slots.

25. The apparatus according to claim 24 and further comprising a guide shaft portion on said spindle, said guide shaft portion extending at an axial end of said spindle opposed of said encoder support shaft portion, and wherein a radially outward step extends adjacent said guide shaft portion, and wherein said spindle is supported on said first and second side walls by said encoder support shaft portion and said guide shaft portion respectively.

26. The apparatus according to claim 15 wherein said encoder member has a plurality of openings therethrough, and wherein said detector is an opto-electrical detector.

27. The apparatus according to claim 15 and further comprising a second detector in connection with said electronic circuit, and wherein said second detector detects said paper between said spindle and said printer, and wherein said electronic circuit produces a second fault signal responsive to both a failure of said first detector to detect movement of said encoder member after said printer has moved the paper said distance therethrough and a failure of said second detector to detect said paper.

28. The apparatus according to claim 27 wherein said second detector

detects a portion of a side face of said paper roll.

29. The apparatus according to claim 27 wherein said second detector is an opto-electrical detector, and wherein said second detector detects said

paper in a position generally parallel and radially disposed from an axis of rotation of said spindle.

30. The apparatus according to claim 15 wherein said connecting

member comprises a spring arm extending from said spindle.

31. The apparatus according to claim 15 wherein said connecting member comprises a wire spring having a generally u-shaped configuration,

said wire spring extending through an opening in said spindle.

32. The apparatus according to claim 31 wherein said wire spring has at least one free end with a radially in-turned portion, and wherein as said free

end moves from a non-deformed position to a deformed position wherein said spring is in operative connection with said roll, said in-turned portion moves radially inward in a second opening in said spindle shaft.

33. The apparatus according to claim 16 wherein said flange portion has a side engaging said wall and a side opposed of said wall engaging face, and wherein said opposed side engages a side face of said paper roll.

34. The apparatus according to claim 15 wherein said electronic circuit includes a processor, and wherein said processor is operable to execute a

series of steps wherein said first fault signal is generated responsive to detection of said printer operating to move said paper and said detector not detecting rotatable movement of said encoder member.

35. The apparatus according to claim 27 wherein said electronic circuit comprises a processor and wherein said processor is operable to execute a series of steps wherein said second fault signal is generated responsive to

said printer operating to move said paper said distance, said first detector not detecting movement of said encoder member and said second detector failing to detect said paper.

36. A method for indicating a fault condition in a system including a printer supplied with paper from a paper supply, comprising the steps of;

moving said paper with said printer;

sensing movement of said paper with a first detector; generating a first fault signal with an electronic circuit in

connection with said printer and said first detector, wherein said first fault signal is generated when said printer has

operated to move said paper a distance and said first detector has failed to sense movement of said paper.

37. The method according to claim 36 wherein said printer moves said

paper to a first position, and further comprising the step of further moving said paper to a second position by a take-up mechanism, and wherein said sensing step comprises sensing movement with said first detector of said paper between said first and second positions.

38. The method according to claim 37 wherein said moving and further moving steps are carried out sequentially, wherein said paper is caused to move cyclically between said first and second positions.

39. The method according to claim 37 wherein said paper extends

through a gap positioned between said printer and said take-up mechanism, wherein said gap is bounded by generally opposed surfaces, and wherein

said sensing step comprises sensing movement of said paper between first and second positions, each of said positions adjacent one of said opposed

surfaces.

40. The method according to claim 37 and further comprising the steps

of:

sensing an amount of said paper in said supply with a second detector, wherein said second detector is connected to said electronic circuit; and

generating a second fault signal with said electronic circuit, wherein said second fault signal is generated when said

printer has operated to move said paper a distance, said first detector has failed to sense movement of said paper and said second detector fails to detect said amount of paper.

41. The method according to claim 36 wherein said paper supply comprises a roll and further comprising the steps of:

connecting said paper roll to a spindle, wherein said spindle is rotatably engaged with said paper roll;

applying a drag force to said spindle, wherein said drag force prevents overrunning of said roll beyond the distance said paper is moved by said printer; and wherein said sensing step comprises sensing rotation of said spindle with said first detector.

42. The method according to claim 41 wherein said system comprises a wall in supporting relation with said spindle and said paper roll, and wherein said drag applying step comprises biasing a flange portion in connection with said spindle against said wall.

43. The method according to claim 42 wherein said wall comprises a slot having an open end, and wherein in the operative condition said spindle is supported in said slot, and prior to the step of moving said paper through

said printer, further comprising the step of moving said spindle and said paper roll into supported connection with said wall by moving said spindle

through the open end of said slot.

44. The method according to claim 42 wherein said wall comprises a slot and wherein said spindle is movable along said slot and rotatable therein, and wherein said biasing step comprises biasing a retainer with a spring to engage a side of said wall opposed of said side in engagement with said flange portion.

45. The method according to claim 44 and wherein said slot has an open end, and wherein said retainer has a generally frustoconical portion adjacent said wall, and prior to the step of moving said paper through said printer further comprising the step of moving said spindle into said open end of said slot with said frustoconical portion of said retainer in engagement with said wall.

46. The method according to claim 41 wherein said sensing step comprises sensing rotation of an encoder on said spindle.

47. The method according to claim 41 wherein said step of connecting said paper roll to said spindle comprises biasingly engaging a spring arm extending from said spindle with said paper roll.