EP0805421A2 - Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement - Google Patents

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

Info

Publication number
EP0805421A2
EP0805421A2 EP97250134A EP97250134A EP0805421A2 EP 0805421 A2 EP0805421 A2 EP 0805421A2 EP 97250134 A EP97250134 A EP 97250134A EP 97250134 A EP97250134 A EP 97250134A EP 0805421 A2 EP0805421 A2 EP 0805421A2
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
data
carrier
franking machine
letter
sub
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP97250134A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP0805421A3 (fr
Inventor
Wolfgang Dr. Thiel
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Original Assignee
Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Francotyp Postalia GmbH filed Critical Francotyp Postalia GmbH
Publication of EP0805421A2 publication Critical patent/EP0805421A2/fr
Publication of EP0805421A3 publication Critical patent/EP0805421A3/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00362—Calculation or computing within apparatus, e.g. calculation of postage value
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00459—Details relating to mailpieces in a franking system
    • G07B17/00467—Transporting mailpieces
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00733—Cryptography or similar special procedures in a franking system
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00185—Details internally of apparatus in a franking system, e.g. franking machine at customer or apparatus at post office
    • G07B17/00362—Calculation or computing within apparatus, e.g. calculation of postage value
    • G07B2017/00379—Calculation of different sending options for a mail piece
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00459—Details relating to mailpieces in a franking system
    • G07B17/00467—Transporting mailpieces
    • G07B2017/00491—Mail/envelope/insert handling system
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B17/00—Franking apparatus
    • G07B17/00733—Cryptography or similar special procedures in a franking system
    • G07B2017/00741—Cryptography or similar special procedures in a franking system using specific cryptographic algorithms or functions
    • G07B2017/00774—MAC (Message Authentication Code), e.g. DES-MAC

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a method for data processing in a mail processing system with a franking machine according to the type specified in the preamble of claims 1, 21, 27, 30 and 33 and an arrangement for data processing according to the type specified in the preamble of claim 39.
  • Letters are created in modern offices on the personal computer.
  • the printed letters are enveloped by hand in the office or automatically inserted using an inserting system.
  • the field of application of the invention is the automatic determination of postage fees in a franking machine for letters which are created before inserting with a word processing program.
  • a franking machine is used for franking mail in a post office and can be equipped with a control unit, a storage means, an input means, a MODEM or other data receiving means, an input / output control means, a display means and a printer. For example, prints a fixed print head columns the franking imprint with simultaneous letter transport. A print width of approximately 1 inch is achieved.
  • the postage is now often calculated automatically on the basis of stored postage fee tables. All sizes determining the postage, such as weight, format and type of dispatch, must be made available to the postage calculation module. The weight is determined by a postage scale, while the format and shipping method are entered manually.
  • High-performance franking systems have a dynamic scale. This measures the weight of the letter, the transport movement of the letter from a feed point (separating machine) to the franking machine not being interrupted. The determined weight value is converted into a postage value and leads to the appropriate setting of the postage printing device in the franking machine. These systems no longer have the disadvantage of additional processing time, but are very expensive to buy and require intensive maintenance. In addition, changes to the type of dispatch must still be entered manually, which interrupts the automatic process each time.
  • weight information is entered by the scale.
  • a method for data entry into a franking machine is already known for such a system, which uses chip cards or a cellular communication network to enter tariff changes.
  • chip cards which have a plurality of non-volatile memories or separately accessible memory areas and a microprocessor, are successively converted into a single read / write unit inserted in order to serially transmit data representing different information into the franking machine. This data stored in the franking machine can then be accessed during its operation.
  • the franking machine checks whether the stored tariff table data of the carrier is still valid and automatically decides whether reloading or updating is necessary.
  • the update is preferably carried out using a chip card after each switch-on, depending on conditions. Such are present if, for example, data of a clock / date module called up at the beginning but changed due to the passage of time are determined by the microprocessor to be relevant for a reloading requirement. However, reloading or updating is only carried out for one postal carrier and there is no choice between competing postal carriers.
  • Such a franking machine is a stand-alone franking machine and is also not intended to be integrated into a mail processing system with a large number of devices.
  • the mail piece must first be placed on the scales before it is fed to the franking machine. A lot of manual work is still required in the post office. When it is operated, a clear and therefore expensive user interface (keyboard and screen) in the franking machine is required to display the print image clearly.
  • the determined postage amount is either displayed and manually entered into the franking machine or entered electronically into the franking machine as a data record.
  • the postage scale represents an additional investment for the user, and handling it takes additional time.
  • a mail processing machine with a barcode user interface is already known from EP 600 749 A2. Commands are entered via a barcode reader to control the mail processing machine. However, this requires a catalog with the list of barcode commands and their manual scanning. Manual positioning of a pen and scanning for command input on the one hand reduces the security of input and on the other hand presupposes a sense of responsibility on the part of the operator, ie one trusts that he would not manipulate with the intention of forgery. It is trusted that there are no such commands in the list that can be misused with the intention of forgery. It is not possible to prevent the entry of unlisted commands that cause counterfeiting, ie the correspondingly generated barcode. It is not ensured that the order of the barcode entries only corresponds to the Row of the mail items fed can take place.
  • the integration of the franking module in the personal computer is more expensive than a solution in which a commercially available personal computer and a commercially available franking machine are coupled to one another via a data line.
  • a franking program would be called up relatively rarely if each personal computer is assigned its franking machine.
  • An office is usually not equipped with the same equipment as a post office. Otherwise, qualified employees would also be required.
  • a mail processing system with a large number of devices which work with the aid of a PC and which already have connected franking machines is described in US Pat. No. 4,800,506.
  • the individual facilities perform functions for the new compilation of the letters in the order of the postcodes of their addresses.
  • the aforementioned functions include opening a letter, scanning certain locations, possibly printing out the letter again or of notes, folding, inserting, postage calculation and orderly filing or bundling. Discounts are granted by some public postal carriers for mail items pre-sorted in this way. This procedure is so far time-consuming, as it may be necessary to print the letter again.
  • a powerful computer must be installed in the post office. The latter must be operated by appropriately trained staff.
  • DE OS 38 08 178 describes a mail handling system with a first computer that creates the documents on fanfold paper and that is in communication with a second computer that controls devices in the post office. Communication is achieved on the one hand by means of markings printed on the document and on the other hand by a communication link.
  • the enveloping, addressing and franking of the mail can be controlled indirectly by means of a printed coding which characterizes the respective mail item.
  • these identification codes are assigned parameter values which are used to control the inserting, addressing and franking of the mail.
  • the database is connected to the second computer, to which the respective coding of the item of mail is transmitted via a coupled scanning device. Address printing in the post office is highlighted as an advantage, with regard to the easy subsequent change, among other things. the addressing of filled envelopes and thus the avoidance of an invoice-like appearance of the envelopes, which adheres to window envelopes.
  • window envelopes are said not to be opened because bills are suspected.
  • a prejudice comes to light here.
  • This prejudice against addressing when creating letters and against the use of window envelopes leads to the aforementioned equipment of the post office complicated technology. If settings have to be made in the post office in order to use cheap services from another private carrier, however, the aforementioned equipment of the post office with complicated technology is still inadequate, because now more highly qualified employees are required.
  • the weight and postage amount are determined. In connection with the increasing occurrence of private carriers, which are in competition with each other, cheaper special tariffs for transport and related services are increasingly being offered.
  • the invention has for its object to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a method and an arrangement with a franking machine, by means of which an automatic postage fee determination with changing data determining the postage and by means of which a drastic reduction in the expenditure of equipment for a mail processing system becomes possible.
  • a more flexible mailing system to develop with a franking machine in a post office that can be expanded without prejudice to future services of various private mail carriers.
  • the post office should be able to dispense with more highly qualified operators and, in the case of largely automatic post processing, the equipment expenditure in the post office should be minimized.
  • a low-noise, maintenance-free and reliable mode of operation should also be achieved.
  • an automatic system for setting essential data and for billing postage fees is to be created according to cost centers, so that no manual franking machine input is required during operation.
  • An additional task is to enable the display of accounts on the one hand by cost center and on the other hand by public and private mail carriers by displaying and printing.
  • the invention can also avoid restrictions on the execution of mail processing.
  • Window envelopes, standard envelopes, as well as other forms of envelope, such as are sometimes preferred by private carriers, can be used, whereby an envelope must be carried out in the office.
  • the postal items are already addressed in the office.
  • An optimization program runs on the personal computer, which makes suggestions for low mail transport costs. This has the advantage that changes in the letter content, in the number of pages or in the addressing can be made and monitored directly by the responsible person.
  • a mail carrier selected using the user interface of the personal computer, the number of sheets of the letter created and further shipping information, such as the type of shipping, and the cost center are at least displayed and, in a first solution variant, are additionally printed out with the letter content as shipping and cost center information.
  • a letter created on the personal computer has a specific format with an area for a specific printed address.
  • the aforementioned shipping information is based on the recipient's address.
  • at least the shipping information supplemented with cost center information is printed out together with the letter content.
  • Sub-variants of the first solution variant are based on the possibility of modern office printers to print a letter recipient's address as well as at least the number of sheets, cost center and / or carrier information on an envelope or adhesive tape.
  • the printing can advantageously also take the form of a marking, for example in the form of a bar code.
  • the invention is further based on the consideration of scanning this information from the letter or envelope in the remote post office using a commercially available scanner (scanner) and automatically entering it into the franking machine.
  • scanner scanner
  • At least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream so that different envelope formats are also scanned.
  • the franking machine automatically checks whether the selected services are available and otherwise starts communication with a remote data center, with special request data being sent and the required data is received from the data center and loads the required data into its memory.
  • a solution is advantageously created in order for a mail carrier (USPS, UPS, Deutsche Post AG or others) to be able to call up at least the tariff table applicable to the location of the respective carrier in the system and load it if necessary.
  • a mail carrier USPS, UPS, Deutsche Post AG or others
  • cost center number The usual spatial separation of the post office from the modern office is assumed, with the letter contents and shipping information being created and department-related in the office, i.e. broken down by cost center number, managed. This is particularly advantageous if a large number of small companies work in one office, which operate a common post office, but have to invoice for the services of the carriers separately and independently of the other small companies. A separate cost center number is then assigned to each small company. In the post office, cost center or departmental billing takes place in the franking machine. And it is planned to create separate accounting reports for small companies or departments and for public or private mail carriers.
  • the operations performed in the personal computer in the office include text creation and processing, entry of the address and assignment of a cost center number for cost center-related billing, as well as menu-driven selection of carriers and other shipping information.
  • the operations carried out in the post office include at least the scanning of the address field or a note with cost center and / or shipping information. After the aforementioned information from the letter or from the envelope has been scanned, the further processing takes place fully automatically Information in the franking machine up to the franking of the mail pieces.
  • the routine in the second step, for the automatic change of non-volatile setting data includes the formation of request data for the reloading of current carrier data and / or carrier tariffs. After submitting the cost center and Shipping information from the personal computer to the franking machine automatically checks whether the selected carrier is available in its memory or whether the tariff table data of the selected carrier is up to date. Otherwise, communication with the remote data center is started. In the process, special request data are sent and the required data is received from the data center and is loaded into the memories of the franking machine.
  • step c) processing the data in the franking mode
  • communication is then carried out in a third step with a remote data center, with carrier-specific files, including at least carrier-identifying current tariff files, being transmitted from the data center to the franking machine on the basis of the aforementioned request data.
  • carrier data identifying image data can be transmitted.
  • files are provided in the personal computer which are assigned to each mail item or letter.
  • a franking machine with automatic data processing according to a second solution variant only scans the address and then searches for the assigned files in the personal computers.
  • the files are also referred to as letter files below.
  • These letter files with the stored letter contents, addresses and shipping data are stored in order according to the current creation date.
  • the storage means, for example hard disks, of all personal computers connected to the franking machine via a communication means are part of a distributed database. The advantage here can be seen particularly in the fact that no separate database is required from which data is transmitted to the franking machine.
  • the one printed out together with the letter content and in the Window of a window envelope scanned visible recipient address is provided.
  • the plain text recognition (OCR) takes place in the scanner itself or in the franking machine, which then transmits the recipient address thus converted into electronic data as search request data electronically via a communication means to a personal computer in the office.
  • the personal computer searches all currently created files (letter files), to which a letter content is assigned, for the recipient address and transmits the assigned cost center and shipping information to the franking machine electronically via the communication means.
  • a mail carrier selected by means of the user interface of the personal computer is assigned to the letter recipient address as mail carrier information in each letter creation, but is not printed out with the letter content.
  • the assigned carrier information can thus later be determined again via the recipient address as a search request and can be transmitted electronically from the personal computer via the communication means to the franking machine.
  • the number of sheets for the letter content is automatically determined and transferred.
  • Another sub-variant of the second solution variant is based on the option of modern office printers to print a recipient's address and a sender's address on an envelope.
  • a letter created for this purpose on the personal computer has a format with an area for a specific printed sender address and recipient address if, alternatively, a window envelope is used.
  • the relevant information for automatic data entry into the franking machine can now be derived from the sender address and the recipient address.
  • Some mail carriers require a barcode to be printed in addition to the plain text address in order to make machine-readability of the addresses easier.
  • This requires the addresses of the letter or envelope to be scanned in the remote post office with a commercially available scanner (scanner) and automatically entered into the franking machine. At least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that different formats are also scanned.
  • OCR plain text recognition
  • search request data is formed in the postage meter machine and is transmitted electronically to the personal computer via a communication means.
  • the assigned carrier information can be determined again via the recipient address as a search request and can be transmitted electronically from the personal computer via the communication means to the franking machine.
  • the second solution variant has the advantage over the first solution variant that no additional information has to be printed in the address field of the letter. However, it is possible to further shorten the search in the distributed database with a single additional information. This is used to particular advantage in the case of a large number of personal computers in the offices, which all send mail pieces or letters to a franking machine.
  • the additional information is advantageously the date and time when the letter is stored.
  • the required shipping information is saved on a hard disk of the personal computer according to the date and time on which the letter text was written.
  • Another additional piece of information is a code for identifying the personal computer.
  • an identification code contains at least one character, for example a letter for identifying the personal computer or such text files with the same addressee. This code can be generated automatically by an extended text program.
  • Another advantage of the second solution variant is that the mode of dispatch is redefined between the time the letter text is created and franked in the post office could. For example, an express standard delivery can still be made from an original standard letter, or a return receipt may also appear to be necessary for registered mail.
  • the franking machine reports the completion of the franking to the corresponding personal computer and triggers an "ok" note in the corresponding text file. This enables the letter writer to always check on his personal computer whether his letter has already been processed in-house.
  • the determined postage fee can also be transmitted from the franking machine to the personal computer in question and stored cumulatively in the personal computer. This makes it possible to check at any time how much postage has been caused by letter post created on this personal computer. This makes particular sense if the personal computer represents a personal computer cost center, i.e. if exactly one cost center is assigned to each personal computer.
  • the invention also makes it possible to produce a correlation of department-related billing in the personal computer for department-related billing of postage fees according to cost centers in the franking machine with little effort.
  • a sub-variant is possible which assumes that a number of personal computers in the office belong to a common cost center and send mail to the same franking machine.
  • the same cost center number is then called up and, as a result, the same advertising cliché is printed out when franking.
  • the mail recipient addresses and the letter files created at different times are different. Selected ones can now be added to these Carrier assigned to be stored as a carrier identification number (CIN).
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • the query of the letter files by the franking machine using the scanned address enables the changes in a carrier commissioned to transport the mail piece to be taken into account automatically.
  • a variable carrier-related logo can therefore be printed out when franking.
  • Another possible sub-variant assumes that the personal computers in the office do not belong to a common cost center, but always choose the same carrier.
  • the same carrier number or CIN is then called up.
  • Querying the letter files created at different times by means of the scanned address by the franking machine enables the different cost centers to be taken into account automatically.
  • the routine in the second step, for the automatic change of non-volatile setting data advantageously contains a subroutine for assigning a cost center number to a plate number for automatically entering the plate number when the cost center number is entered. It is therefore possible that the variable specific advertising cliché for each cost center (department or small company) is automatically set using the cliché number assigned in this way and printed out when franking.
  • the combination of the aforementioned sub-variants enables the franking machine to automatically take into account the different cost center and carrier selection in connection with the scanned address in connection with the number of sheets transmitted for postage calculation in the franking machine.
  • types of printing or shipping e.g. airmail, return receipt, etc.
  • other settings can be made by the franking machine be queried.
  • the transmission of the required setting information to the remote franking machine is initiated via a data line on request of the franking machine, whereupon the franking machine is loaded with data by the aforementioned personal computer.
  • the operations carried out in the personal computer in the office include text creation and processing, including determining the number of sheets, entering the address and assigning a cost center number for cost center-related billing, menu-driven selection of the shipping methods, forms of shipping or other or other information to the cheapest carrier to determine, the formation of a carrier information and the assignment of all information to the aforementioned address and the storage of the assignment. If required, or periodically, billing reports can be printed out via a commonly connected printer, which are correlated with the cost center-related billing in the franking machine.
  • the improvements of the franking machine according to the invention lie on the one hand in a largely automatic processing of the letter when using different tariff structures of different carriers and on the other hand in the creation of flexibility in terms of billing for different carriers.
  • the postal monopoly for mailing ceases to exist, an increase in postal delivery by regional, national or international private carriers is to be expected.
  • the billing for different carriers takes place when using parcel shipping systems usually with a direct debit.
  • the customer has no automatic processing, postage calculation and security control available, as is the case, for example, with postal authorities for a franking machine into which a credit has been loaded.
  • billing to various private carriers is now also provided in the postage meter module in a postage fee module on the basis of prepaid or credited credit.
  • the postage calculator contains the stored postage table belonging to the carrier. If a carrier or service has been newly selected and the postage table for the selected service or carrier is not available or is not one of the permanently stored postage tables due to limited storage space, the franking machine FM automatically selects a data center operated, for example, by the franking machine manufacturer and the required postage table loaded into the memory of the franking machine FM. Each postage table can be assigned a date of entry into force and or the minimum period of validity.
  • the franking machine FM contains a real-time clock with the date of which the minimum validity period of the corresponding postage table is compared in order to request a new table via the data center, if necessary. To identify the related postage table, a corresponding identifier can also be printed in the franking field.
  • the special postage is calculated based on existing data such as format and type of dispatch as well as on the number of sheets and the average sheet weight.
  • the user's debit with the special postage amount will be charged to the carrier's postage account, which is also automatically set.
  • billing data can be electronically transmitted to the remote data center at intervals, which carries out the billing with the carrier on behalf of the customer.
  • the data center can grant the customer a credit and transmit a credit after a query to the customer bank regarding the creditworthiness.
  • the aforementioned information and its assignment are stored in the franking machine for each carrier that can be selected. If necessary, a document of the reloading that has been carried out can be printed out for each mail carrier after each reloading from the print head of the franking machine. This is made possible by switching the franking machine to internal pressure. It is also provided that a listing of individual financial reloading data within a period and other register or service data as a document from Print head of the franking machine can be printed out if this is desired.
  • FIG. 1a for a mail processing system, which has a franking machine FM with data processing according to a first variant, shows the flow of mail from a modern office 21 to a post office.
  • a modern office 21 In at least one such office 21, letters or inserts for mail items are created on a multiplicity of personal computers PCa, PCb, PCc, ... with associated printers Da, Db, Dc, ... and possibly other peripheral devices.
  • a mail carrier is selected and at least displayed by means of a user interface of the personal computer. It is provided that the selected mail carrier information is stored in a special section of the letter file that is not to be printed with the letter content.
  • a window envelope or a pre-addressed envelope is used for inserting.
  • the printer can in particular be a commercially available printer equipped for printing envelopes, which is connected to the personal computer. Address printing can also be carried out on self-adhesive labels which are glued to the envelope will.
  • At least one of the scanners scans the information printed on the number of sheets and carrier or cost center, which is printed in the address field or can be scanned through a window of a window envelope or stuck onto the envelope as a self-adhesive label.
  • At least one letter sensor 16 and one scanner 26 are electrically connected to the franking machine via a register unit 19 and a data line 18, as shown in FIG. 2a.
  • the scanners are preferably arranged in a scanning and feeding station AZ to the franking machine FM. If required, a means 17 establishes a communication connection to the remote data center DZ.
  • FIG. 1b for a mail processing system with a franking machine, according to a second variant, additionally has a communication link 24 between the franking machine and at least one personal computer in the office 21.
  • At least one of the scanners scans the letter recipient's address, which is printed in the address field or can be scanned through a window of a window envelope or stuck onto the envelope as a self-adhesive label.
  • the scanner is electrically connected to the franking machine via a data line 18. It is provided that the printed information includes the number of sheets that are transmitted to the franking machine in order to determine at least the weight data of the letter in the franking machine.
  • the franking machine FM can establish communication with a data center DZ via a suitable communication means 17 if required.
  • the mailing machine can form address data for the mail recipient in order to request additional data in the office 21, which are transmitted directly from the respective personal computer PCa, PCb or PCc via a data line 24 to the franking machine.
  • the scanners can again advantageously be part of an automatic scanning and feeding station which is arranged in the post office at the beginning of the letter transport route in front of the franking machine.
  • the arrangement of the scanner 26 are positioned in the mail path in front of the franking machine at a suitable location.
  • the latter position results from uniform postal regulations for the position of the address.
  • Corresponding programs for the position of the addresses exist in memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc in the office 21, which together control a printer or separate printer correspondingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed.
  • an additional barcode line can be provided on the envelope or in the address field of the envelope.
  • a correspondingly different positioning, if appropriate, of a further scanner 26.1 results.
  • the scanner, together with a first mail item sensor 16, is connected to a register unit 19, which temporarily stores data and carries out a parallel / series conversion.
  • the register unit 19 is connected electronically to an input / output control means 4 of the postage meter machine for serial data transmission via the data line 18, as shown in FIG. 2b.
  • the solution according to the invention is based on a relationship between the address of the printed letter and an associated information in the letter files in one of a large number of personal computers, whereby after scanning the address, formation and transmission of Search request data and research in the memories of the personal computers, as a result of which additional information required for automatic data entry to the aforementioned address is transmitted electronically, for example via a data line, to the franking machine.
  • the assignment of the information to the address is stored in the personal computer, for example in order of time, in order to enable access to the most current file with the same address.
  • the information is assigned in the personal computer to the addresses which are printed out with the letter content.
  • this additional information includes the number of sheets of the letter created.
  • the sender address When the sender address is scanned, the corresponding cost center or department can be ascertained using an analogous method to that found for the carrier information.
  • the personal computers in the office are queried by the franking machine in the post office for a cost center number assigned to the sender address.
  • Such a method for data processing in a mailing system comprises known steps for printing out a document including address field and note, scanning the note in a post office and for processing the data and franking with a franking machine, the result of the implementation of a first step including the Scanning the sender address and / or the note on the sender address and querying the personal computer for a for the aforementioned sender address stored assignment according to the invention the cost center number is automatically entered into the franking machine, combined with an automatic entry of the cliché number based on the input of the cost center number for automatic printing data entry in a second step and for cost center-related billing before franking.
  • An advantageous variant enables scanning of the sender address as well as the letter recipient address and / or the corresponding note when detecting mail pieces of mail pieces fed in the transport path to the print head of the franking machine.
  • the franking machine then asks again a personal computer for assigned stored information.
  • An advantage of this variant is the determination of the personal computer responsible for storing the letter file on the basis of the sender address. This significantly shortens the search process for the relevant letter file for a large number of personal computers in the office.
  • the associated information relating to the cost center and the number of sheets stored in the personal computer in the office as well as further shipping data including the carrier identification number (CIN) can be called up electronically from the device in the post office.
  • the aforementioned associated information stored in the office is used for the automatic setting of the franking machine, which essentially makes manual operation superfluous.
  • Such a preset carrier can of course still be changed manually in the post office if, for example, the entry was not made in the office or another carrier is cheaper. Is sending a large number of same day provided letters to the same zip code is usually assumed that it is cheaper if no different private carriers are used, but only the same carrier is used. Complete automation can be achieved if the cheapest carrier is determined in the office 21, which is proposed in a parallel German application entitled: Post processing system with personal computer and method for determining the cheapest carrier. A franking machine that can be operated for a large number of carriers is also used.
  • FIG. 2a The block diagram shown in FIG. 2a for a franking machine has a programmable processor system which is connected to at least one scanner 26 and a modem 23, a prepaid card reader / writer 20 and / or other corresponding receiving means or input means.
  • the scanner is positioned at a suitable point in the post office in front of the franking machine at the beginning of the secure postal route. The latter position results from uniform postal regulations for the position of the address.
  • Corresponding programs for the position of the address and the other information exist in memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc in the office 21, which together control a printer or separate printer correspondingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed.
  • An additional line on the envelope or in the address field of the envelope is provided as the area to be printed.
  • a correspondingly different positioning, if appropriate, of a further scanner 26.1 results.
  • the scanner together with a first mail item sensor 16, is connected to a register unit 19, which temporarily stores data and carries out a parallel / series conversion.
  • the register unit 19 is electronic for serial data transmission via the data line 18 with an input / output control means 4 connected to the franking machine.
  • the processor system consists of at least one memory means 5, a clock / date module 8 and a processing unit (CPU) as control means 6 and possibly a special circuit 80 and / or 81 for automating the loading of data from a data center via modem or chip card or another suitable means of transmission.
  • the special circuit and / or program means 80, 81 are preferably part of a battery-supported non-volatile memory (CMOS-NV-RAM) in the clock / date module.
  • CMOS-NV-RAM battery-supported non-volatile memory
  • a pressure controller (DS) 14 is designed, for example, as an ASIC and is adapted to the respective preferably digital printing method.
  • an input / output control means 4 including a pressure control 14 is connected to the control means 6 of the franking machine via a bus and is designed, for example, as an ASIC.
  • the print head 1 is connected to the print controller 14.
  • the storage means usually consist of several permanent and temporary non-volatile memories. Part of the memory, together with the CPU 6, forms a postage computer in a known manner and another part forms a protected postal area within the processor system. For billing, the non-volatile memories of the other part of the memory mentioned above are used. In particular, it is provided that to protect the protected postal area 50 with a special accounting unit, which works in a completely forgery-proof manner and relieves the CPU 6 of this task.
  • the protected postal area 50 of the processor system of the postage meter machine can advantageously be designed as a hardware-controlled billing unit in the form of a special circuit module or, for example, as an ASIC, so that the billing process cannot be manipulated without authorization, as already described under the postage meter machine in the German patent application 196 03 467.1 was proposed.
  • an area organized according to the carrier and cost centers can be provided in a special cost center memory 9 in order to carry out cost center-related operations. In this way, additional cost centers can be set up or deleted without reducing the security against manipulation.
  • the protected postal area 50 within the processor system can only be read, but not overwritten.
  • the postage computer can be formed from the CPU 6 and memory areas of the EEPROM 5b and / or other non-volatile memories. A part of the memory areas of the EEPROM 5b are intended to hold tariff tables of the individual carriers.
  • cost center memory KSP 9 individual cost center data (number of pieces, amount of consumption total) can be reduced by a predetermined amount or set to zero at the beginning of a billing period.
  • the correspondingly actuated keys on the keyboard 2 and / or other input means establish the connection to external memories in order to carry out cost center-related operations.
  • a permanent memory PSP 11 of the storage means of the franking machine has programs for communication via interfaces in the input / output control means 4 with the scanner 26 and with the input means 20 to 23. Further peripheral input / output means can also be connected to the processor system of the franking machine - not shown in FIG. 2a.
  • the input / output control means 4 at least one parallel interface to the display unit 3 and in connection with the print controller 14 at least one serial interface for print data control and data transmission to the control electronics arranged on the print head can be provided.
  • Another serial interface can be connected to a plurality of scanners or sensors via the aforementioned register unit 19. At least one scanner 26 is a pixel sensor with a higher resolution.
  • the input / output control means 4 is preferably designed such that a plurality of sensors or actuators with connected sensor or actuator shift registers can be connected to a single common shift register in an actuator / sensor controller via a common serial interface data line 18, as was explained in more detail in the German patent application entitled: Interface franking machine internal interface (official file number P 44 45 053.2).
  • the base of the franking machine consists of a print head 1 and a power electronics / sensor / actuator module 12, which contains a power supply and control for the drives (paper transport, printer, tape, strip dispenser) or including the required drive motor.
  • These aforementioned means 1, 12 and an encoder 13 for detecting the mail piece transport speed are located in the base and are direct with the processor system 5, 8, 11, 14, 50, 80 and 81 and, if appropriate, other peripheral I / O means are in the Post office or office 21 coupled via the input / output control means 4.
  • the franking machine has a receiving means or an external MODEM 23 and associated MODEM interface in the franking machine for the external MODEM or an internal MODEM. Communication with a remote data center is made possible via MODEM. Not only can electronically stored credit be replenished in the franking machine, but current tariff table data and other data can also be transmitted.
  • a telecommunication network which contains an external memory with the data and / or flags that can be called up for reloading additional functions and information into the franking machine.
  • the external memory is supplied with update data by the public postal authority and / or private carriers, preferably via the aforementioned data center.
  • an external memory with required update data can also be provided in a mobile radio communication network and addressed by a corresponding communication connection and communication means. Assuming intermediate storage in the transmission means, data packets are then transmitted under the control of the franking machine and, if necessary, automatic acceptance of the current tariff by the franking machine is thereby ensured.
  • the tariffs are subsumed according to different public mail carriers or private carriers in separate ones Storage areas of the aforementioned postage computer.
  • Special entries can be made with an alternative input means, in particular a chip card.
  • This is brought into contact with the chip card read / write unit 20 serving as input means 20.
  • the interface board of the chip card read / write unit is connected to a serial interface of the franking machine.
  • the contacting device has at least 6 contacts and the data exchange between the unprotected and / or the protected card memory area and a non-volatile memory of the program storage means of the franking machine is carried out automatically as part of a communication protocol as soon as the chip card has been inserted into the insertion slot.
  • Such a special post office chip card for the employees in the post office can be used advantageously for location entry. After approval of the new location or change of location, an appropriately programmed chip card is sent to the user. Before the machines of the post office are transported to a new location, they must be switched off. A location-specific initialization of the franking machine takes place automatically each time it is switched on. A standby mode is provided so that the franking machine does not often have to be switched on or off at the same location.
  • Each assignment of semi-variable print image data (window data) that fill a special window in the print image (frame data) is stored in special memory areas, for example the EEPROM 5b and / or another non-volatile memory of the franking machine.
  • the automatically or manually set postage value is billed according to the cost center, which is explained in more detail in FIGS. 7a to 7d. It is further provided that a printout can be created for the cost center-dependent billing by the franking machine, as has already been described in the German laid-open specification DE 42 24 955.
  • a printout is then made by the franking machine.
  • the used postage values are listed individually and cumulatively related to different carriers.
  • the cost center printout is sent to the relevant department in the office 21 regularly or in response to a need report.
  • FIG. 2b The block diagram shown in FIG. 2b for a franking machine has a programmable processor system which is connected to at least one scanner 26 and a modem 23, a prepaid card reader / writer 20 and / or other corresponding receiving means or communication means for communicating with the office 21 .
  • the scanner for the address is also positioned at the beginning of the secure postal route in the post office.
  • a variety of personal computers PCa, PCb, ... PCn to PCm in the office 21 communicate with a single franking machine if, for example, they are asked to search their files stored under time data for a relevant letter recipient address and assigned cost center and / or shipping information. Files with the same recipient address in the address data area are not relevant if they were not saved on the same day. For example, the requested carrier and / or cost center information is then transmitted electronically to the franking machine via a data line.
  • input and output means 2, 3, 20 to 23 are via the input / output control means 4, with a processor system 5 to 11, 14, 50 having a post-technical security area 50, 80, 81 connected.
  • a permanent memory PSP 11 of the storage means of the franking machine has programs for communication via interfaces in the input / output control means 4 with the scanner 26, with the input means 20 to 23 and via a data line 24 with at least one personal computer in the office 21.
  • a personal computer (PC) including monitor and associated keyboard can be regarded as a peripheral input / output means for searching and entering data.
  • a connection to an existing computer network can be made possible by means of a separate device 29 via the data line 24.
  • peripheral input / output means can also be connected to the processor system of the franking machine.
  • Billing information is transmitted to the relevant department in the office 21 regularly or in response to a need message via the aforementioned data line 24.
  • receipts for subsequent reloads with credit, tariff, image and other data are printed out by post using the print head of the franking machine. If necessary, for For each post carrier, proof of the subsequent reloading must be created separately after each reloading, if the franking machine is switched to internal printing. Then a self-adhesive franking strip is preferably printed.
  • a listing of individual financial reloading data within a period of time and other register or service data can be printed out as proof from the print head of the franking machine, if this is desired.
  • the documents can now also be printed in the office 21 after electronic transmission. If necessary, data is also created for a carrier for whom the postage values of all the cost centers he serves are compiled. This makes sense if the departments are economically independent units, ie if there is a small company behind the cost center number, which an office 21 and the post office use together, but have to invoice the carriers separately.
  • the cost center number is automatically entered into the franking machine via the data line 24 and stored in connection with a special one in the program memory PSP 11 Program performed a data transfer to the personal computer in the office 21 relating to the listing of the cost center-related billing.
  • the cost center can now be printed out by the department in question in the office 21 itself using a printer connected to the personal computer.
  • the transmitted listing can also be compared with an internally stored listing. Be from the post office Changes made to the attitude of the carrier, for example to take advantage of cheap offers or discounts from other carriers, can be checked by such a comparison.
  • the overall flow chart for the franking machine of a system according to the first variant shown in FIG. 3a shows a start and initialization routine, the latter including a sub-step 1011. After switching on, a communication requirement is formed in the aforementioned sub-step 1011 in order to initiate automatic communication, for example via modem 23, with the data center and to carry out a corresponding data transmission in which the place name is changed in accordance with the current location in the date stamp.
  • the location-specific provision of data takes place optionally or in accordance with the type of franking machine present using a card-shaped transmission means or by means of appropriate receiving means from an external memory via a communication network (modem, mobile radio).
  • a communication network modem, mobile radio
  • the location is also entered, for example using a keyboard, when the franking machine is switched on by a new user, for example after a change of location.
  • a keyboard for example, a keyboard
  • Such an input possibility exists after switching on in a sub-step 1011 to step 101 of initialization, by entering the postcode ZIP code in the franking machine.
  • the initialization routine 101 in addition to entering the location, there is also the option of changing the previous carrier constellation by defining a new set of postal carriers, for example by entering a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the name of the postal carrier and loading the associated data in sub-step 1012 of step 101.
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • a branch is made to a first step 201 in order to call up non-volatile settings at least in sub-step 2040 of the first step 201 even if no mail item is detected in the mail feed path.
  • the subsequent second step 209 there is the possibility of changing the aforementioned setting by manual input.
  • One of the above settings also affects the average deposits or sheet weight, which can be changed if necessary.
  • a mail piece that may have been fed in the meantime remains in a waiting position, preferably at the beginning of the feed path.
  • a waiting position preferably at the beginning of the feed path.
  • a scanner 26 positioned in the mail feed path to the franking machine can input data into the franking machine if a mail item is detected by a first postal item sensor 16 and is transported to the print head.
  • a first flag is set.
  • a second flag is set. If, however, the second mail item sensor 16.1 is actuated only on its own or in front of the first mail item sensor 16, this can be determined in the query step 211, which then leads again to the error evaluation mode 213. If, for example, the franking machine is in the standby state and only the second postal item sensor 16.1 is activated, this does not result in franking. However, internal cost center printing or printing of service data or an advertising slogan can still be carried out.
  • the interfaces in the input / output control means 4 are selected in order to recognize the connected peripheral means and to switch the franking machine, if necessary, into a required preprogrammed operating mode which enables cooperation and communication with the aforementioned peripheral means. For example, detection of the scanned data can trigger a transport of the mail piece in the direction of the print head.
  • the interface to the scanner 26 is selected in order to have at least one cost center and / or to detect shipping information in steps 2010 to 2017 in order to read valid data into the memory areas of the non-volatile memory of the postage meter machine provided for this purpose, so that the tamper-proof automatic setting which can thus be achieved is retained even in the event of an operating voltage failure.
  • an interface to the prepaid card reader / writer 20 is also selected in steps 2030 to 2035, a mode switchover taking place if one is connected for inputting cash values.
  • the franking machine is then in the slave state in order to receive data from the peripheral means scanner 26 and prepaid card read / write unit.
  • the new setting for the automatically entered available monetary value is also saved in a non-volatile manner, the old setting data being overwritten.
  • a query is made as to whether the scanned data provide useful information or whether at least one limit value has been exceeded, i.e. whether a criterion has been met which, in a subsequent step, leads to a warning, for example to a display which alerts the user or indicates the error.
  • the postage determined in the previous step 209 for a mail piece with an entered number of inserts or for a letter with an entered number of sheets is corresponding to the Hiring booked or billed.
  • Print data is now provided for printing from the pixel memory RAM 7.
  • the initialization routine 101 automatically generates print data with saved data in preparation for printing, as is described in US application 08 / 525,923 (Method for improving the security of postage meter machines).
  • further security criteria can be queried and displayed in the associated step 203 or prepared for signaling. Even if no further entries are made, a stamp print can be generated and printed with the stored data in a tamper-proof manner.
  • the subsequent second step 209 according to the invention relates to a special input and display routine.
  • the input data of the franking machine can be used to overwrite or change the data stored so far in a non-volatile manner or to make and display other inputs manually.
  • print data input for corresponding partial images is provided.
  • the transport of the mail piece in the direction of the print head may then be interrupted so that the entry can be completed.
  • mail processing and franking are fully automated.
  • a third step 301 asks whether there is a transaction request. This is the case when request data has been created or an entry has been made for the purpose of reloading the credit. If this is not the case, communication mode 300 is exited and point v, ie the actual operating mode 290 of the franking machine, is reached. If relevant data were transmitted in communication mode, branch to step 213 for data evaluation. In step 213, a statistical and error evaluation is carried out in order to obtain further current data which, after branching to the system routine 200, can also be called up in the sub-step 2040 to the first step 201.
  • step 211 if in step 211 following the communication mode in the third step 300 If no transmission of data is found, branching to the next request in step 212.
  • step 212 a check is carried out to determine whether corresponding entries have been made in order to go to test mode 216 when a test is requested, or to go to display mode 215 when register status check 214 is intended. If this is not the case, point g, ie franking mode 400, is reached automatically.
  • a number of security queries were provided in the franking mode and the cost center-related billing takes place only shortly before the franking image begins to be printed out, using memory address data which, due to the change in the cost center number, were formed beforehand after the input thereof. With the aforementioned series of queries, a higher security against manipulation is achieved.
  • the program routine of the franking machine branches from franking mode 400 to point u when a number credit S has been used up. Communication with the data center is automatically started in order to continue franking. From the franking mode 400, there is a repeated branching to the point t in order to enable data input in the second step 209 using the franking machine keyboard.
  • Such manual entries are carried out in a practical manner if no signal for the printout request has yet been generated which is derived from a corresponding postal goods sensor signal. However, if a piece of mail has been recognized and the print output request has been generated after a predetermined time delay, cost center-dependent billing and franking of a piece of mail have been carried out according to the program, the process branches back to point s.
  • the stored carrier constellation can be coordinated with one another via the data line 24 to the personal computers.
  • a communication requirement is formed in the aforementioned sub-steps 1011 and 1012 in order to initiate automatic communication, for example via modem 23, with the data center and to carry out a corresponding data transmission for updating the data stock as required.
  • a branch is made to a first step 201 in order to call at least non-volatile settings for the franking machine in sub-step 2040 if no mail item is detected in the mail feed path.
  • One of the above settings again affects the average leaf weight.
  • the setting of the sheet weight for letters or the deposit weight for other mail items can be saved and assigned to the cost center and changed again if the cost center wants to send other deposits in the future.
  • the interfaces in the input / output control means 4 are selected in order to recognize the connected peripheral means and to switch the franking machine, if necessary, into a required preprogrammed operating mode which enables cooperation and communication with the aforementioned peripheral means. For example, detection of the scanned Data trigger a transport of the mail piece in the direction of the print head.
  • the interface to the scanner 26 is selected in order to detect at least one piece of address information in steps 2010 to 2016, in order to read valid data as a result into the memory areas of the non-volatile memory of the franking machine provided for this purpose, so that the tamper-proof automatic setting which can thus be achieved can also be achieved in the event of an operating voltage failure preserved.
  • communication is carried out with one of the remote personal computers, which has already been explained in connection with the data line 24 in FIGS. 1b and 2b.
  • This communication includes at least the transmission of request data to the personal computer in the office 21 and the retrieval of cost center and carrier data stored in the personal computer in the office 21.
  • the interface to the prepaid card read / write unit 20 is also selected in steps 2030 to 2035.
  • the new setting for the automatically entered available monetary value is again stored non-volatile, the old setting data being overwritten.
  • the further queries take place in the same way as has already been described for FIG. 3a.
  • the overall flowchart shown in FIG. 3b for a franking machine with integrated postage calculation thus has, in a first step 201, several sub-steps for automatic data processing according to the second variant of the mail processing system.
  • the first step 201 comprises the sub-steps 2010 to 2017 for a scanner communication mode, as it is described in more detail in FIG. 6a, several sub-steps 2018 to 2029 for an office computer communication mode, as it is described in more detail in FIG. 6b, and optionally several sub-steps 2030 until 2035 for a prepaid card communication mode, as described in more detail in FIG. 6a, and sub-step 2040 for automatic data entry.
  • a personal computer transmits the number of sheets via the data line 24 to the franking machine, which first calculates the weight value required for postage calculation in a second step 209, as is explained in more detail in connection with FIGS. 4b and 5a.
  • the data determining the postage such as format, number of sheets and, if applicable, the type of dispatch, are determined when the letter is created.
  • the word processing program with which the letter is created in a step 507 by default on a personal computer e.g. WORD under WINDOWS, supplemented by a special sheet counting program as part of step 507, which calculates the number of sheets as letter-specific data.
  • a number of further sub-steps in preparation and determination of the number of sheets are inserted in a sub-step 5070 to the aforementioned step 507 and before printing in step 508.
  • a first sub-step 5071 is carried out for formatting the text, then in the second sub-step 5072 the last page or last processed insert is activated and in a third sub-step 5073 the number of pages or inserts is displayed.
  • a fourth sub-step 5074 the possibility is given for a manual entry in order to make changes and continue the text editing or insert editing.
  • a fifth sub-step 5075 checks whether the processing has ended in order to branch to a sixth sub-step 5076.
  • the number of pages is stored on the basis of the number of pages that can be displayed on the last page, or the number of inserts in that particular section of the letter file that is not to be printed with the letter content, in which the selected mail carrier information is also stored.
  • step 508 When printing in step 508, the number of sheets or number of inserts is automatically inserted into the print image of the letter such that it is visible in the clear window of the envelope after inserting it.
  • the number of pages or deposits shown in the third sub-step 5073 can additionally be supplemented by the display of the type of deposits.
  • the additional shipping information for the type of deposit is printed out, assigned to the number of deposits, in order to transmit this information to the franking machine for controlling the weight calculation.
  • a simplified embodiment does not require a sheet counting program. To do this, the information determining the postage must be entered manually. The number of sheets is visible in the text after formatting and can be entered manually by the author of the letter in the address field that should appear under the transparent window. In the alternative, an additional input mask is automatically called up to support manual input. The program will only trigger the print command after this entry.
  • the imprint of the above sheet number information in the The address field of the letter can either be in plain text or in the form of one- or two-dimensional codes. The latter have the advantage of better machine readability.
  • the conversion into a barcode is preferably carried out by a special subroutine 5081 of the personal computer in step 508 for printing out the letter.
  • the franking machine is equipped or connected to an optical recognition device which detects the number of sheets of information printed in the address field.
  • the content is determined using an OCR method.
  • standard software with recognition rates of almost 100% can be used.
  • the recognized postage information is forwarded to the computing unit of the franking machine. According to the invention, this carries out the weight determination without a scale and then carries out the poro calculation in a known manner and takes a corresponding franking imprint on the upper right corner of the envelope.
  • the weight of a letter is calculated by the franking machine on the basis of the standard weight of a letter page, which is stored in the franking machine.
  • the letter weight is determined by the weight of a sheet and the number of sheets.
  • solution variants for parcels should also be included.
  • Mail items can also have CD-ROM or chip card inserts.
  • Such insoles also have a typical insole weight. If several such inserts are dispatched, their number is required to determine the weight of the insole. In the case of mixed deposits, such as paper and plastic, the type and number of deposits must be clearly determinable.
  • Such information carriers made of plastic and / or information carriers made of paper and packaging inserts form inserts, the number of which is automatically determined and transmitted to the franking machine in accordance with the two basic solution variants.
  • the type of deposits is also automatically determined in addition to their number and transmitted to the franking machine in accordance with the two basic solution variants.
  • the inlays taken into account in the franking machine for weight calculation are preferably sheets of the same type in a letter or document or disks or cards of an electronic information carrier.
  • the type of deposits is also transmitted and identified in the franking machine.
  • the weight is calculated from the sum of all stack weights of the insert types and the weight of the packaging (envelope). Each stack weight results from the number of deposits multiplied by the average deposit weight separately for each type of deposit.
  • the respective department always uses the same type of paper for printing the letter, so that the sheet weight is only determined and entered once.
  • the sheet weight can be easily determined by dividing the total weight of a complete stack of paper by the number of sheets. Both information can generally be found on the packaging. Otherwise the sheet weight must also be requested from the manufacturer. Only in cases where the paper type is changed may the sheet weight have to be re-entered into the franking machine.
  • a selective entry regarding the change in the automatically entered cost center and / or shipping information, including the average deposit weights, can be made.
  • the weight of a window envelope is also taken into account like an insert weight.
  • the weight of a window envelope is practically independent of the make and only needs to be entered once in the franking machine. Type and copy variations can be neglected.
  • FIG. 4b shows a flow chart for the sequence in the franking machine with a processing routine for stored data, each for the calculation of the weight value and the postage value.
  • the stored data for the calculation include the number of sheets (or number and type of deposits), the average sheet weight (or deposit weight) and other shipping information, such as shipping method (letter, parcel, printed matter, etc.), such as shipping method (registered mail, express) , Airmail, etc.), such as the destination (Germany, Europe, abroad) and the selected carrier.
  • the stored data for the calculation are called in sub-step 2040 of the first step 201 before reaching the second step 209, in which it is checked in a sub-step 209-23 whether relevant data for the proto-calculation have changed before the weight calculation in one Sub-step 209-24a and then the Postage calculation is carried out in a sub-step 209-24b.
  • the aforementioned sub-step 209-23 for checking includes a plurality of partial queries regarding a change in each of the aforementioned stored data for the calculation.
  • the previous data is compared with the following stored data for the calculation. If the comparison also reveals only a change in a single parameter relevant for the calculation, a branch is made to sub-step 209-24a and / or to sub-step 209-24b for the calculation.
  • both calculation sub-steps 209-24a and 209-24b are carried out sequentially each time.
  • a first group (sub-step 209-23a) only includes queries regarding a change in each of the aforementioned stored data for the calculation of the weight. But a second group (sub-step 209-23b) only includes queries regarding a change in each of the aforementioned stored data for the calculation of the postage value based on a specific weight. If the parameters for the calculation of the weight remain unchanged, the sub-step 209-24a for calculating the weight is not carried out, but the sub-step 209-24b for calculating the postage value is carried out. In this case, the weight value is used, which was determined in the last franking and is stored non-volatilely stored in the sub-step 2040 of the first step 201 under the stored data.
  • the second solution variant differs from the first solution variant in that the number of sheets and, if applicable, the type of deposit and the shipping method are no longer printed in the address field of the letter will. This information is stored in the personal computer assigned to the letter file or its address, sublimed and sublimed according to time data.
  • the address field of the letter is scanned in a station of the post office.
  • the address is determined as plain text or code.
  • the address determined in this way is transmitted from the franking machine to the personal computer connected to it.
  • the personal computer program determines the stored postage-relevant information at the specified address and transmits it to the franking machine.
  • the latter determines the postage associated with the letter in question in a second step 209 on the basis of the information transmitted and the postage tables stored in the franking machine.
  • At least one scanner 26 is connected to the register unit 19. It is provided that at least one scanner is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that different formats are also scanned. Corresponding scanners 26.1, 26.2 for address scanning are arranged in the mail feed path of the franking machine FM for other envelope formats, which was only not shown in FIGS. 3a and 3b for the sake of clarity.
  • a processing device for the scanned information is preferably integrated in the franking machine FM in order to determine address data.
  • the scanner is connected together with a letter sensor 16 to a register unit 19 which temporarily stores data and carries out a parallel / series conversion, the register unit 19 for serial data transmission via the data line 18 being electronically connected to the input / output Control means 4 of the franking machine is connected.
  • optical recognition device is not necessarily linked to the franking machine.
  • peripheral Input / output means can be switched to a common serial interface via the register unit 19 and the data line 18.
  • the scanner 26 have an electronic circuit for image evaluation.
  • a marker reading device with subsequent image evaluation can be implemented as described, for example, in German Offenlegungsschrift DE 43 44 471 A1 under the title: Method and arrangement for generating and checking a security imprint.
  • the scanner 26 have an electronic circuit for image evaluation.
  • the electronic circuit in the scanner only supports an image evaluation carried out in the franking machine. Using the determined addresses, it is possible to determine the carrier or / or the cost center in the personal computer.
  • the processor system of the franking machine contains a microprocessor 6, which is programmed with a routine stored in a memory area 81 of the clock / date module, in order to load the data of the automatically set new mail carrier accordingly in automatic routines if required.
  • microprocessor 6 is programmed with a further routine in order to initialize the franking machine in a location-specific manner after switching on and to load further data into the franking machine if necessary.
  • This also includes essential franking image data specified or required by the carrier, analogous to the national emblem of the national state mail carrier, as has already been described in detail in the 195 49 305.2 German application.
  • This type of reloading is particularly intended for digital printing processes which allow programmable embedding of variable or semi-variable window pixel field data in constant frame pixel field data.
  • Such a method for controlling the column-wise printing of a postage stamp image in a franking machine is described for example in EP 578 042 A2.
  • the arrangement for data entry into a franking machine has input and output means which are connected to a processor system. It is provided that the input means 2 have first actuating means in order to set the franking machine to another mail carrier. It is further provided that the input means 2 have second actuating means for the specific setting of a new mail carrier, and that the processor system contains a microprocessor 6, which is programmed with a routine in order to match the data of the set new mail carrier in automatic routines 1000 of the communication mode 300 to load and to generate a change in the print image, the change data generated being assigned non-volatile under a number and the respective mail carrier or stored non-volatile associated with a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected mail carrier.
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • the transmitted partial image files assigned to a carrier identification number (CIN) corresponding to the respectively selected mail carrier are stored in a non-volatile manner in the franking machine in order to be able to select a predetermined mail carrier number or CIN generate specific print images, and that the transmitted partial image files, pixel image files and the change data generated by automatic or manual input are stored in non-volatile memory areas of read / write memory means 5 and / or 8.
  • a query criterion for a carrier change is met if the mail has been scanned appropriately as part of the input routine (first step 201 in FIGS. 3a, 3b) and then by the office 21
  • Carrier type is transmitted on the basis of a request (first step 201 in FIG. 3b), and thus changed carrier information has been automatically entered into the franking machine for billing purposes.
  • a corresponding automatic input in the first step 201 (FIGS. 3a and b) or, if appropriate, manual input in the first sub-step 209-1, is then branched to an associated sub-step 209-10 when the sub-step for checking for carrier input (209-9) is reached , to check the availability of the carrier-related data in the franking machine.
  • a lack of concordance with regard to the data records stored in the personal computers PCa, PCb,... PCm in the office 21 for the individual carriers can be determined.
  • the data of the missing or new carrier can be stored in the franking machine after it has been transmitted.
  • a branch is made from sub-step (209-7) to check for cliché input or from sub-step (209-11) to check for print input on an associated sub-step 209-8 or 209-12, to check the availability of the data in the Franking machine.
  • an advertising slogan assigned to the cost center can also be selected automatically. It is also possible to change the election printout if these change data are transmitted to the postage meter machine, for example according to the second solution variant, via a data line 24.
  • a data check using an encrypted check sum (MAC) prevents manipulation with the intention of forgery, as has already been described in detail in the German application entitled: Procedure for securing data and program code of an electronic franking machine (No. 195 34 530.4).
  • a branch is made to a point k to a nineteenth sub-step 209-19 in order to form request data.
  • Actuating means for the new entry of a carrier and the associated routine are optionally provided. If actuating means for a new entry of a carrier were actuated during the input routine (first sub-step 209-1), this is determined in a query step (thirteenth sub-step 209-13) and also branches to point k of the nineteenth sub-step 209-19 in order to form request data.
  • the aforementioned nineteenth sub-step 209-19 is explained in more detail below in connection with FIG. 8.
  • a plurality of query steps may lie between the thirteenth query step 209-13 and a point h for inputs such as further evaluate services, modes of dispatch, forms of dispatch or mail classes or another type of deposits for the mail item.
  • a branch is made to a twenty-fourth sub-step 209-24. The latter is divided into a sub-step 209-24a for calculating the weight value and in a sub-step 209-24b for calculating the postage value based on the weight according to the tariff of the selected carrier for the selected services and other relevant entries relating to the shipping.
  • the branch is then branched back to point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20.
  • the postage value changed due to the postage calculation is again determined in the fifth sub-step 209-5 and then branches to a sixth sub-step 209-6 for the purpose of generating an encrypted checksum (MAC) via the changed postage value.
  • MAC encrypted checksum
  • Cost center information in order to allocate billing data to this.
  • the cost center information scanned from the item of mail or also transmitted in the aforementioned manner by the personal computer can be used on the one hand for the automatic allocation of the accounting data depending on the cost center and on the other hand for the automatic setting of an advertising cliché in the franking image shown in FIG. 5b.
  • Prerequisite is one Possibility of non-volatile storage of a large number of advertising clichés in the franking machine.
  • a fixed number of advertising clichés can already be stored non-volatilely in an internal user memory ASP 10 (EEPROM) by the manufacturer.
  • the franking machine is equipped with a non-volatile memory for a number of advertising clichés, with each advertising cliché being assigned to the cost center of the respective department.
  • a number of advertising clichés can be loaded later.
  • a chip card read / write unit enables a frequent change of cards for a large number of entries.
  • An advertising slogan can thus advantageously be reloaded into the franking machine.
  • Another option is a password-protected function of deleting previous data for parts of the print image or assigning it to the cost center.
  • the franking machine is therefore equipped with a corresponding program such as input and display means.
  • a corresponding program such as input and display means.
  • circuit or program means which are present in the program memory PSP 11 and in the non-volatile memory areas of the clock / date module 8 and / or the memory means 5, a corresponding sequence for loading data or for updating is stored in order to Areas of the memory for deleted predecessor data now load successor data and to redefine their assignment to the cost center, as is shown in more detail below in connection with FIG. 5b.
  • a query criterion for a change in the cost center number is met if the mail has been scanned accordingly as part of the input routine in order to directly (first step 201 in FIG. 3a) or indirectly ( first step 201 in FIG. 3b) automatically includes cost center information for billing purposes enter the franking machine.
  • first step 201 in FIG. 3a directly or indirectly
  • first step 201 in FIG. 3b automatically includes cost center information for billing purposes enter the franking machine.
  • a twenty-seventh sub-step 209-27 there is a corresponding error message and then a branch back to the point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20. Otherwise, the system branches from the twenty-sixth sub-step 209-26 to a twenty-eighth sub-step 209-28 if the cost center number is available. In the twenty-eighth sub-step 209-28, an advertising slogan assigned to the cost center number is automatically set.
  • a query is made for a desired change in the assignment between the cliché and the cost center number. If this is the case, a branch is made to a thirty-first sub-step 209-31 to display the currently entered cost center number and, after confirmation, to a thirty-second query step 209-32. If no confirmation has been made beforehand, then after the time has elapsed, a branch is automatically made back to point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20. Then, in the seventh sub-step 209-7, it is possible to select a different cliché by entering a cliché number before the aforementioned query steps are repeated until the query in the thirtieth sub-step 209-30.
  • a branch is made from query step 209-32 to the thirty-third sub-step 209-33.
  • the previously assigned plate number is displayed, which is the name of the semi-variable window data for a frame data dependent on the carrier advertising slogan to be embedded.
  • a thirty-fifth sub-step 209-35 is reached, unless it is not previously determined in the thirty-fourth query step 209-34 that a change has not been confirmed, which then automatically leads back to the branch via the twentieth sub-step 209-20 to point t . This again enables a different cliché to be selected in a seventh sub-step 209-7 (FIG. 5a).
  • the thirtieth sub-step 209-30 is again reached for querying for a desired change in the assignment between the cliché and the cost center number.
  • a thirty-fifth sub-step 209-35 comprising a password input routine is reached if the cliché setting in the thirty-third sub-step 209-33 has been confirmed after the cliché number has been displayed.
  • a thirty-seventh sub-step 209-37 is reached, in order to then save the new assignment and then again for the cliché number display in the thirty-third sub-step 209-33 or for the cliché number display in a separate one - not shown - branch to sub-step 209-39, in order to then return to point t via the twentieth sub-step 209-20 to reset the loop counter branch.
  • the new assignment to the cost center number has thus been entered in the franking machine and is now still available.
  • a structure is provided in an area of the special cost center memory KSP 9, on the basis of which cost center-related operations can be carried out.
  • additional cost centers can also be set up or deleted under numbers other than zero. Values and quantities of individual cost centers other than the one with the number zero can be edited or deleted without affecting the security against manipulation.
  • the carrier-related basic cost center with the number zero contains a sum over the values of cost centers.
  • numbers are assigned to the names of cost centers or carriers, which can also be seen in the legend in FIG. 7c.
  • the name of the cost center that is common between the departments of the office 21 can be changed if this should be necessary. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the fortieth query step 209-40 and, after the assigned currently set number has been displayed, then becomes Input routine of the new name switched (forty-first sub-step 209-41).
  • the carrier name used between the carriers can also be changed if necessary.
  • inputs relating to operations related to cost centers can be queried in a manner not shown in FIG. 5b. If a selective entry regarding cost center-related shipping information, including the average deposit weights, is made in the first sub-step 209-1 of the second step 209, a routine for querying and storing the change in the average deposit weights is provided in the twenty-ninth sub-step 209-29 in accordance with the selective entry made.
  • the display of all consumption totals for a single cost center can be useful to keep an overview of a large number of private carriers.
  • the listing is prepared. The list is based on a corresponding entry. For a postage meter internal printout, it is stored in the pixel memory RAM 7. The Printout also takes place on the basis of a corresponding other input, which, however, will not be explained in more detail here.
  • a representation or display of all carrier-related consumption totals for the set cost center number is preceded by an appropriate entry. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the forty-fourth query step 209-44 and, after the assigned currently set cost center number has been displayed, the system switches to the listing routine for the selected register (forty-fifth sub-step 209-45).
  • a representation or display of all carrier-related quantities for the set cost center number is preceded by another corresponding entry. If a corresponding entry is made, this is recognized in the forty-sixth query step 209-46 and after the assigned currently set cost center number has been displayed, the system switches to the listing routine for the selected register (forty-seventh sub-step 209-47).
  • FIGS. 6a and 6b show partial flowcharts for automatic data entry based on the scanned letter recipient address.
  • the first step 201 of the franking machine system routine 200 can be divided into a multiplicity of communication modes. This can also include a chip card communication mode, shown in FIGS. 6a and 6b, the chip card being used, for example, as a prepaid card. According to the variant of the mail processing system shown in FIGS. 2b and 3b, there is a communication connection to the personal computer PC.
  • substeps 2010 to 2016 for a scanner communication mode substeps 2019 to 2029 for an office computer communication mode and substeps 2031 to 2035 for a prepaid card communication mode are carried out.
  • a routine takes place in sub-step 2010, which stores the cost center and / or shipping data, including sheet number and carrier data, non-volatile as previous data, so that they are available as comparison data when it is necessary to decide whether an automatic change of individual data is necessary Data has been entered. This involves deleting the old data mentioned above in the working memory of the franking machine.
  • a serial interface is selected, in order to then receive data xl from at least one of the scanners (mail item sensor 16) in the following sub-step 2012, before branching to a query step 2013.
  • a branch is made to a sub-step 2014 in order to send a handshake signal to the aforementioned register unit 19, to which the aforementioned scanner is connected together with other sensors. From the query step 2013, a branch is made via the sub-step 2009 to the sub-step 2040 if no scanner data has been received. After sending the handshake signal to the above-mentioned scanner, a mail piece detection takes place in sub-step 2015. If the sensor 16 works according to a mechanical principle of operation, in the simplest case only the relevant bit needs to be stored. If the sensor 16 works according to the optical principle of action, this can be done by a relatively simple image evaluation.
  • a branch is made from the query step 2016 to a sub-step 2017 for evaluating the other scanned data.
  • a marking in the form of a barcode it may be necessary to move the mail piece forward before an evaluation is successful.
  • the completeness of the scanning data must be ensured before an evaluation.
  • this is ascertained in a query step 2008 and, in response, branches back to step 2012 for further data transmission from the scanners via register unit 19 and data line 18 to be seen. Otherwise, the system branches directly to the next query step 2018.
  • the evaluation that takes place in sub-step 2017 includes the detection of the mail recipient address.
  • Detection that is, if there is no mail item in the feed path to sub-step 2040 for the purpose of calling up stored current data. Neither a prepaid card communication mode nor an office computer communication mode is then run through.
  • a sub-step 2009 is run through in order to control motors (not shown) in the feed device in such a way that they may switch off if a mail item to be transported is not found in the feed path when the system routine 200 is run through again. Only the input / display routine with print data input is then active and now enables manual input or presetting of the franking machine.
  • an office computer communication mode (sub-steps 2019 to 2027) is run through.
  • a corresponding query step 2018 precedes the aforementioned office computer communication mode.
  • sub-steps 2031 to 2035 for a prepaid card communication mode are run through if prepaid card coupling is determined in the preliminary query step 2030.
  • a serial interface is selected in sub-step 2031, in order to then carry out a data transmission y1 from the postage meter machine to the prepaid card read / write unit 20 in the following sub-step 2031a.
  • the following sub-step 2031b when done Data transmission received a handshake signal y2 sent by the prepaid card read / write unit 20 and then branched to sub-step 2031c in order to issue an error message in the following sub-step 2031d and to branch back to sub-step 2031a if no handshake signal from the prepaid card read / write unit 20 was received.
  • a data transfer a is waited for by the prepaid card read / write unit 20 before branching to a query step 2033. This data transfer includes at least the credit in the prepaid card.
  • the query step 2033 branches to a sub-step 2034 in order to send a handshake signal to the aforementioned prepaid card read / write unit 20. Without the handshake signal, the prepaid card read / write unit 20 automatically repeats the data transmission. From the query step 2033, the process branches back to the sub-step 2032 to wait for the new data transmission. After the handshake signal has been sent to the aforementioned prepaid card read / write unit 20, the prepaid card data is evaluated in sub-step 2035.
  • the mail processing system which contains a franking machine which is in communication with at least one personal computer PCa, PCb, ..., PCn, PCm in the office 21, performs the automatic data entry relating to the cost center and / or carrier information online via the aforementioned in the first step 201 Communication connection through if corresponding request data are previously formed on the basis of the scanned letter recipient address.
  • the flow chart shown in FIG. 6b for automatic data entry in step 201 illustrates the office computer communication mode.
  • the sub-step 2018 leads to a sub-step 2019 to a serial interface to select the personal computer. Subsequently, a data transmission to the personal computer takes place in sub-step 2020.
  • a handshake signal from the personal computer in the office 21 is waited for and the process branches to query step 2022. If a handshake signal was not received by the personal computer in office 21, a branch is made to query step 2030. Such a case can occur when the personal computer is switched off. On the other hand, a branch is made to sub-step 2023 to await data transmission from the personal computer in the office 21. If the latter has taken place (sub-step 2024), a handshake signal is sent to the personal computer in the office 21 (sub-step 2025). On the other hand, branching back to sub-step 2023. If the handshake signal was sent to the personal computer (sub-step 2025), the data is evaluated in sub-step 2026. If the data transmission was not completed or possibly incomplete, sub-step 2020a may result in an error message in sub-step 2020 for data transfer of request data to the personal computer branched back. The query is made in sub-step 2027.
  • the sub-steps 2019 to 2027 for an office computer communication mode can be expanded by further sub-steps 2028 and 2029, which carry out the answering of an electronic demand report after a listing for department-related billing.
  • sub-step 2028 a check is carried out to determine whether a corresponding request in the form of an electronic request message was made by the personal computer in the office 21 when evaluating the data in sub-step 2026 before the request was processed in sub-step 2029.
  • the system then branches back to sub-step 2020 in order to carry out a new communication until the request message has been processed accordingly.
  • Figure 7a is a flow chart for the Franking mode shown with a carrier and cost center-related processing of accounting data. If no keyboard actuation or other input request is ascertained in sub-step 401, a loop counter is incremented in sub-step 402 and a query step 404 is reached. If a predetermined limit number G is reached by the loop feeder, a standby flag is set.
  • the standby mode is reached when there is no input or print request for a predetermined time. The latter is the case if a letter sensor known per se - not shown in detail - does not determine the next envelope to be franked.
  • the step 404 in the franking mode 400, shown in FIG. 7a therefore includes a further query for a time lapse, which ultimately leads back to the point t and thus to the input routine according to step 209 if the time is exceeded. If the query criterion is met, a standby flag is set as in step 408 and branched back to point t without the billing and printing routine being carried out in step 406. The standby flag is queried later in step 211 (see, for example, FIG.
  • step 4d is reset in step 213 after the checksum check if no attempted manipulation is detected.
  • the query criterion in step 211 is expanded to include the question of whether the standby flag is set, i.e. whether the standby mode is reached.
  • step 213 is also branched to. The advantage of this method is that every attempt at manipulation is statistically recorded in step 213 before branching back to the system routine (point s).
  • step 401 it is checked whether there is an input. If a new input request is made in step 401, the process branches back to step 209.
  • This mail item sensor 16.1 for example, is connected to the register unit 19 in the same way as the sensor 16, but is mechanically arranged in the vicinity of the printing area and is also queried later in the order of the method steps than the sensor 16.
  • the above-mentioned mail item sensor 16.1 provides the letter to be franked detected and a print request triggered after the time has elapsed. It is thus possible to branch to the accounting and printing routine in step 406. If there is no print output request (step 405), the steps that are carried out at the beginning of the system routine, i.e. between the point s and the point t, branched back to the step 209 lying after the point t.
  • a communication request can be made at any time or another input can be made in accordance with the steps for data change 209, test request 212, register check 214 and input request 401. It will go through steps 401 to 404 again, as shown in the variant according to FIG. 7a.
  • a branch is made from step 404 to step 408.
  • the alternative query criterion can be queried in step 404 in order to set a standby flag in step 408 if there is still no print output request after a predetermined time.
  • the standby flag can be queried in step 211 following communication mode 300. This does not branch to franking mode 400 until the checksum check has shown that all or at least selected programs are complete.
  • step 405 If a print output request is recognized in step 405, further queries are made in subsequent steps 407 to 420 and in step 406. For example, in step 409 the presence of authentic register values, in step 410 the achievement of a further quantity criterion and in step 406 the register data collected in the known manner for billing are queried. In addition, as already explained with reference to FIG. 5a, selected registers in the NVRAM of the franking machine are protected by MAC formation. If the number of items predetermined for franking had been used up in the previous franking, ie number of items equal to zero, step 410 automatically branches to point u in order to enter communication mode 300 so that a new predetermined number of items S is again credited by the data center.
  • step 410 the process branches from step 410 to the billing and printing routine in step 406.
  • a special sleeping mode counter is prompted in step 406, that is to say during the accounting routine which takes place immediately before printing, to continue counting.
  • the number of letters printed, and the current values in the Postal registers are registered in the non-volatile memories 5a, 5b of the franking machine in the accounting routine 406 in accordance with the entered cost center and are available for later evaluation.
  • the register values can be queried in display mode 215. It is also provided that the register values or other service data are printed out with the print head of the franking machine for billing or control purposes. This can be done, for example, in the same way as the normal printing of the franking image, but another frame is initially selected for fixed image data, into which the variable data are inserted in accordance with the register values stored in the non-volatile memory NVM 5 or in the cost center memory, similar to that in FIG columns 1 to 2 or in claim 9, in the German patent application DE 42 24 955, for the formation and display in three multi-line information groups or for a required switchover to a corresponding mode is carried out in principle.
  • the carrier and cost center information are to be used for billing. If a print output request is recognized in step 405, the carrier-specific memory area is selected (Step 416) and then step 417 is reached to form subaddresses for the memory areas of firstly a cost center number zero and secondly the selected cost center number which has been set different from zero for the departmental billing.
  • Step 417 forming subaddresses, is required to control the memory areas during the billing.
  • a MAC security is placed over all the postal registers to be updated, which is required in order to decide in the query step 409, which is carried out further below, whether the register values are authentic. Since such a check is very time-consuming, in particular if the DES algorithm is used to encrypt the checksum, this check is only carried out for postal registers which must be updated for billing.
  • This check is therefore carried out in the aforementioned query step 409, upstream steps comprising the step 420 for a debit register check, the step 422 for a credit register check or the step 407 for a credit register check.
  • Such a credit register check has been described in the German application (No. 1995 34 530.4-53) under the title: Process for securing data and program code of an electronic franking machine.
  • a further step (not shown) for checking the prepaid card register may also be included in the above-mentioned parallel steps.
  • a prepaid amount is kept as electronic credit in the credit card's credit account and, in the case of intended franking, reduced by the postage to be franked.
  • the debited postage value is transferred to the accounting unit of the franking machine.
  • Such a prepaid card which functions as an electronic wallet, can be used until the electronic wallet is empty. The prepaid card is refilled up to a predetermined amount in special bank terminals in a remote bank.
  • both of the above-mentioned key codes and the data records for each individual booking are transmitted to an evidence center of the remote bank for checking.
  • the billing mode is checked in a step 418. If there is a settlement based on a debit credit, the query step 419 branches to a step 420 for checking the debit register. If there is a settlement based on a credit balance, the query step 421 branches to a step 422 for checking the credit register. However, if there is a customary settlement based on a prepaid credit, the query step 423 branches to step 407 for checking the credit register.
  • a corresponding query step 425 branches to a corresponding step 426 for checking the credit register in a prepaid card.
  • a check is preferably carried out using the MAC stored with.
  • Query step 409 is then reached and, if necessary, branched to error evaluation 413. Tampering can only be ruled out if the register data is authentic.
  • step 406 is reached via step 410 with the billing and printing routine.
  • FIG. 7b shows the partial flowchart for the billing and printing routine in franking mode with carrier and cost center-related billing.
  • a MAC-secured postage value can be checked in franking mode 400 at the beginning of the billing routine using the associated MAC (FIG. 7a). For this purpose, a checksum is formed about the postage value and its encryption. If the result is now equal to the MAC value, the validity of the postage value can be assumed and the actual billing process can thus be started.
  • a register R2 is increased by the postage value and a different register R1 is decreased by the postage value in sub-step 4060 by a non-manipulable accounting unit.
  • a comparable billing takes place with the quantity data.
  • the MAC security is added in sub-step 4061.
  • sub-step 4062 the data is saved under the selected carrier number and cost center number zero.
  • FIG. 7c shows the result of the carrier-related billing carried out in the tamper-proof billing module in the postal registers.
  • the carriers have a name to which a number is assigned so that they can be called up or set more easily at the push of a button.
  • the carriers also have a reference to a carrier identification number (CIN), which has multiple digits for the precise automatic identification of the carriers, in particular during communication with a data center of the franking machine manufacturer. With this CIN it is possible to load a set of carrier data into the franking machine. Furthermore, a number is also provided for each cost center so that it can be called up or set independently of its name by pressing a key.
  • CIN carrier identification number
  • FIG. 7d shows a two-dimensional cost center / carrier matrix for the respective amount of consumption (postage consumption p) assigned to each cost center in the Ascending Register R2 and for the shown in the piece number register R4, each of the respective used piece numbers z allocated to cost centers.
  • postage consumption p the respective amount of consumption assigned to each cost center in the Ascending Register R2 and for the shown in the piece number register R4, each of the respective used piece numbers z allocated to cost centers.
  • a reset to zero takes place both for postage consumption p and for the number of items.
  • Such a list can be output, for example, as a cost center printout or as a carrier-related printout by the franking machine on a strip.
  • the routine 209-19 - shown in FIG. 5a - for checking stored data and for forming request data for data transmission of tariff table and additional data from a data center to the franking machine will now be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 8.
  • a comparison of predetermined data areas for checking data is carried out on the basis of corresponding predetermined comparison data stored in a non-volatile manner in order to be able to determine changes that have occurred or have been entered.
  • specific queries take place in order to form specific request data in the associated sub-steps 2095-13 to 2097-13.
  • sub-step 2092-13 branching from sub-step 2092-13 to sub-step 2095-13 in order to form and save request data together with the current date and carrier.
  • sub-step 2093-19 the exceeding of the validity date, which is assigned to each carrier-specific table, is checked in order to then form and save request data together with the current location and carrier.
  • sub-step 2094-19 a new entry of a field name is evaluated, with which tables and information are specifically identified, before branching to sub-step 2097-19 in order to form and store request data specifically. Only if none If changes in queries 2092-19 to 2094-19 are detected, the system branches directly to point 1.
  • Such request data can be generated automatically in a step 209, which is continuously carried out before the point t, and are evaluated in step 301 according to FIGS. 3 or 4b as a communication request in order to enter a communication mode.
  • FIG. 9 shows the communication mode for the postage meter machine, which is required to carry out a data transmission which largely runs automatically via MODEM.
  • a recognized transaction request in the sub-step 301 of the step 300 leads to the display of the data and the status in the sub-step 332, and then after an initialization of the modem and dialing of the data center (telephone number) in the sub-step 333 to a sub-step 334 for establishing the connection to the data center . If the modem cannot be successfully initialized and dialed in sub-step 333, a branch is made back to sub-step 301 to display the status via a sub-step 310.
  • the system also branches back to sub-step 301 if it is determined in a sub-step 335 located after sub-step 334 that the connection is not being established properly and it is determined in sub-step 337 that the connection cannot be established even after the nth redial.
  • sub-step 338 it is determined whether an error condition has occurred which can be remedied by re-establishing a connection to the data center in order to branch back to sub-step 334 via q. In sub-step 338, it is further determined whether an error condition has occurred that cannot be remedied, in order to branch back to sub-step 310 via w for the purpose of displaying the status. If a transaction has been carried out, further transactions can be carried out, branching back to sub-step 335 via r. If the connection is still intact, it is checked in sub-step 336 whether all transactions have been carried out or the last transaction has ended, in order then to branch back to sub-step 301 via sub-step 310.
  • the flag for a transaction request is reset in sub-step 338 when the last transaction has ended. It branches from sub-step 301 to step 211 in order to now store and evaluate the selected data transmitted to the franking machine. During the evaluation, the value of the transmitted CIN can be automatically classified in a predetermined manner (according to frequency or priority). The type of classification can be set. At least one actuating means is provided to set the type of classification.
  • the automatic reloading with data in sub-step 338 includes at least one treatment routine, which is explained in more detail in connection with FIG. 10.
  • the routine 1000 shown in FIG. 10 for handling transmitted table data in the franking machine has a sub-step 1009 for sending request data to the data center.
  • Sub-step 1010 is then carried out in order to select a non-volatile memory area in the postage meter machine, in which the requested data can be buffered later.
  • a branch is made via sub-step 1011 to receive and decode the data packet transmitted by the data center to a sub-step 1012, in which a start processing status for data processing is set.
  • the first processing of the data then takes place in sub-step 1013.
  • the temporary storage of the data is advantageous if data is transmitted in several transactions or if a transaction has to be repeated.
  • the data record After leaving communication mode 300, it is determined in query step 211 - shown in FIGS. 3 and 4b - that data has been transmitted and then branches to statistics and error evaluation mode 213. If the transmitted data is free of errors and valid, the non-volatile storage takes place in the franking machine in the aforementioned evaluation mode. After intermediate storage and, if necessary, subsequent decompression in the case of packed data in sub-step 1013 and completion of further sub-steps 1014, 1015 and 1020, the data record is stored which belongs to a complete postage fee set by a mail carrier. Such a data record comprises a header, version information, partial table data and a data record end identifier (DEK).
  • DEK data record end identifier
  • sub-step 1014 to check for complete receipt of the transmitted data packet, a branch is made to a sub-step 1015 when it is complete in order to set an end identifier as the processing status. Such identifiers are required in order to continue the program at this point after voltage recovery even if the program is terminated, for example as a result of an operating voltage interruption.
  • sub-step 1020 the next transaction or action is called and thus branched out for further execution of the sequence shown in FIG Step 213 to store the cached update data in a non-volatile manner.
  • the automatic reloading with data in sub-step 338 includes special treatment routines which go beyond those explained in more detail in connection with FIG. 10.
  • the further procedure explained in the German application with the official file number 195 49 305.2 provides on the one hand a location-specific provision of window data for the postmark or additional functions for the franking machine and on the other hand current information for permanent and / or temporary configuration of the franking machine through a communication network, which contains a memory with the retrievable data blocks for reloading additional functions and information into the franking machine as well as update data.
  • step 504 with a program routine for the automatic input and storage of the cost center number runs in connection with the first input mask.
  • step 504 is completely omitted. Then only the carrier selection is saved as a number and applied as a mark on the document, label, letter or envelope. All of the aforementioned sub-variants have in common the printing of the determined number of sheets.
  • a subsequent optional step 509 for marking the letter or envelope with a note including shipping information takes place.
  • the addressing takes place either on the letter when the letter is printed out in step 508 or in the subsequent optional step 509.
  • the marking in optional step 509 comprises the calling of programs for the position of the address and / or the other shipping information in accordance with the postal regulations for the Location of the address and / or other shipping information.
  • steps 508 and 509 are loaded in the memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc, which are located in the office 21.
  • steps 508 and 509 a printer or separate printers are jointly controlled accordingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed.
  • the marking optionally contains only part of the shipping information, while another part is permanently set in the franking machine.
  • step 512a to identify the deposit number, step 512 to identify the carrier number, or step 513 to identify the account number are then performed.
  • the automatic data entry takes place accordingly in step 515.
  • the inserts used for weight calculation in step 516a are preferably sheets of the same type in a letter or disks or cards of an electronic information carrier.
  • the type of deposits is also transmitted and identified in step 512a.
  • the weight is calculated from the number of inserts multiplied by the average insole weight separately for each type of insert, in order to first determine a stack weight and then to form a sum over all stack weights of the insert types and over the weight of the packaging (envelope),
  • step 518 is provided to send accounting data to office 21 in response to a request.
  • An optional step 504 is arranged in the automatic sequence or an operator prompt, preferably after step 503 for entering and storing the recipient address and the date and before step 505 for calling up the second input mask, in order to enter and save the cost center number. It is provided in a sub-variant that in connection with the first input mask in optional step 504 a program routine for the automatic input of the cost center number runs.
  • the marking in optional step 509 includes the calling of programs for the position of the address and / or the other shipping information in accordance with the postal regulations for the position of the address and / or the other shipping information.
  • the postal regulation can, for example, prescribe a marking with a barcode for the address or the associated postcode, which must be attached to the mail piece (or letter or envelope) in the form of a separate note.
  • Corresponding programs are loaded in the memories of the respective personal computers PCa, PCb or PCc, which are located in the office 21.
  • steps 508 and 509 a printer or separate printers are jointly controlled accordingly for the aforementioned areas to be printed.
  • steps 503, 504 and 506 according to the second variant of the solution run according to the invention in such a way that when the data is stored, the data is automatically assigned to the recipient address and the date by a program routine in conjunction with the first and second input mask.
  • no selected cost center number, no number of deposits and no selected carrier information have to be printed on the letter or on the envelope.
  • the note on the letter or envelope to be evaluated in the post office only contains the recipient address.
  • a program routine can continue to run in connection with the first input mask for the automatic input of the cost center number if it is ensured that the personal computer in the office is only used by the same department.
  • the type of deposits is also called up in step 514 to identify the address and to call up data from the letter file of the personal computer, and in step 516a the weight is calculated from the number of deposits multiplied by the average insert weight separately for each insert type in order to first determine a stack weight and then to form a sum over all stack weights of the insert types and over the weight of the packaging (envelope).
  • Step 514 is modified in a sub-variant in order to identify the recipient address and evaluate the date and to provide access to the memory of the personal computer, to identify the letter file and to query at least part of the shipping information, while another part is fixed in the franking machine is set. Alternatively, the automatic data entry then takes place accordingly in step 515.
  • step 518 is again provided in order to send billing data to the office 21 in response to a request.
  • the communication takes place via the communication means, preferably the data line 24, via which the memory of the personal computer is also accessed in step 514 in order to identify the letter file.
  • the communication means preferably the data line 24, via which the memory of the personal computer is also accessed in step 514 in order to identify the letter file.
  • wireless communication is also considered as an alternative when there is talk of a means of communication.
  • the relevant personal computer with the relevant letter file is determined via the communication means, which abbreviates the search in the database for letter files distributed over a large number of hard disks of the respective personal computer.
  • a third solution variant includes a combination with scanning the sender address and the recipient address in the context of the second solution variant. It is provided that in a preparation step 504 a program routine for automatically entering the cost center number runs in conjunction with a first input mask, which is automatically called in step 502, which is a subordinate to the first preparation step 501.
  • a PC number for identification of a personal computer can advantageously be stored assigned to a separate sender address or cost center number. Then the relevant personal computer with the relevant letter file can be determined via the sender address or with the PC number.
  • the relevant personal computer in office 21 can be determined indirectly via the department or company name of the sender.
  • a fourth solution variant includes a combination of the first and second solution variants.
  • the relevant personal computer with the relevant letter file is determined directly, the marking in the note now including an identifier (PC number) for the personal computer in the office 21 which contains the relevant letter file in its memories.
  • a routine for forming request data for the reloading of selected carrier data and / or current carrier tariffs of the selected carrier as a result of the selection of a predetermined postal carrier number (CIN), for automatic printing data input and checking and for display, for automatic or manual input, optionally containing a subroutine for assigning a cost center number to a cliché number for automatically entering the cliché number as a result of the input of the cost center number.
  • the processing of the data in franking mode is preferably carried out with cost center and carrier-related billing before franking.
  • a prerequisite is a method in which the marking on the letter in the address field or on the envelope in the note is generated in preparatory steps by means of a personal computer, after a first preparatory step 501 for creating a letter file as part of a letter creation program, further preparatory steps 502 to 507 and one Assignment of the data required for the marking of the printable letter to the aforementioned address is stored in the personal computer so that it can be called up.
  • the scanning of the sender address as well as the letter recipient address and / or the corresponding note on the sender address is carried out with a single or with separate scanners 26, 26.1, 26.2 or 27, 27.1, 27.2, which are connected to the register unit 19 together with a letter sensor 16 . It is provided that at least one scanner 27, 27.1, 27.2 is arranged in the mail feed stream in such a way that notes on different mailpiece formats are scanned.
  • Sub-variants are conceivable for both the first and the second solution variant, with only part of the information, i.e. Cost center or shipping information is transmitted to the franking machine and another part of the information is permanently set in the franking machine or is stored in a non-volatile manner. Combinations are also possible, a cost center number, a number of deposits or a selected carrier information not being printed on the letter or on the envelope, but can be queried from the distributed database via a data line 24.

Landscapes

  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mathematical Physics (AREA)
  • Devices For Checking Fares Or Tickets At Control Points (AREA)
  • Management, Administration, Business Operations System, And Electronic Commerce (AREA)
EP97250134A 1996-05-02 1997-04-22 Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement Withdrawn EP0805421A3 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE19617476A DE19617476A1 (de) 1996-05-02 1996-05-02 Verfahren und Anordnung zur Datenverarbeitung in einem Postverarbeitungssystem mit einer Frankiermaschine
DE19617476 1996-05-02

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0805421A2 true EP0805421A2 (fr) 1997-11-05
EP0805421A3 EP0805421A3 (fr) 2000-06-28

Family

ID=7793014

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP97250134A Withdrawn EP0805421A3 (fr) 1996-05-02 1997-04-22 Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (1) US6226626B1 (fr)
EP (1) EP0805421A3 (fr)
DE (1) DE19617476A1 (fr)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1063619A1 (fr) * 1999-06-15 2000-12-27 Francotyp-Postalia Aktiengesellschaft & Co. Module de sécurité et procédé pour protection du registre postal contre la manipulation
EP1073018A1 (fr) * 1999-07-30 2001-01-31 Francotyp-Postalia AG & Co. Machine d'affranchissement à pré-paiement et post-paiement
US7130813B2 (en) * 2002-11-13 2006-10-31 Epco Llc Process for optimal economic efficiency in postal operations
CN111121943A (zh) * 2019-12-13 2020-05-08 湖南师范大学 零点故障检测方法、装置、计算机设备和可读存储介质

Families Citing this family (29)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6718053B1 (en) * 1996-11-27 2004-04-06 Chromavision Medical Systems, Inc. Method and apparatus for automated image analysis of biological specimens
US6795813B2 (en) * 1998-12-30 2004-09-21 Pitney Bowes Inc. System and method for linking an indicium with address information of a mailpiece in a closed system postage meter
SE9903553D0 (sv) * 1999-01-27 1999-10-01 Lars Liljeryd Enhancing percepptual performance of SBR and related coding methods by adaptive noise addition (ANA) and noise substitution limiting (NSL)
DE19925381A1 (de) * 1999-06-02 2000-12-07 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Anordnung zum Tariftabellenladen
DE19936989A1 (de) * 1999-07-30 2001-02-01 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Verfahren zur automatischen Portoermittlung von Massenbriefsendungen und Anordnung zur Durchführung des Verfahrens
AU2001251195A1 (en) * 2000-03-30 2001-10-15 Cygent, Inc. System and method for establishing electronic business systems for supporting communications services commerce
AU2002240173B2 (en) * 2001-01-31 2006-12-14 United States Postal Service Automated accounting for business reply mail
US7693942B2 (en) * 2001-09-10 2010-04-06 Nale David S Method and system for postal service mail delivery via electronic mail
US20030115160A1 (en) * 2001-12-19 2003-06-19 First Data Corporation Weight measuring systems and methods for weighing items
US20030208439A1 (en) * 2002-05-03 2003-11-06 Rast Rodger H. Automated soft limit control of electronic transaction accounts
US6769228B1 (en) * 2002-07-26 2004-08-03 Express Scripts, Inc. Prescription order packaging system and method
US7769700B1 (en) * 2002-08-15 2010-08-03 Pitney Bowes Inc. Method and apparatus for transferring post meter data
US20040236707A1 (en) * 2003-05-21 2004-11-25 Pitney Bowes Incorporated Portable mailing system
JP4305634B2 (ja) * 2003-05-22 2009-07-29 株式会社沖データ 画像印刷システム、画像入力装置及び印刷装置
US7852856B2 (en) * 2003-08-29 2010-12-14 Broadcom Corp. System and method for providing pooling or dynamic allocation of connection context data
US8250000B2 (en) * 2003-10-02 2012-08-21 Stamps.Com Inc. System and method for high-speed postage application management
US7962355B2 (en) * 2004-06-30 2011-06-14 First Data Corporation Presentation instrument production equipment and methods
US9165411B2 (en) * 2005-12-16 2015-10-20 Pitney Bowes Inc. Method and system for embedding mailer specified mailing instructions on a mail piece to automate mail processing
US8285651B1 (en) 2005-12-30 2012-10-09 Stamps.Com Inc. High speed printing
US20070179913A1 (en) * 2006-01-31 2007-08-02 Mark Ferraro Intelligent indicia for document handling apparatus and method of use
US8606670B2 (en) * 2007-01-02 2013-12-10 First Data Corporation Integrated communication solution
US20100169242A1 (en) * 2008-12-29 2010-07-01 Salazar Edilberto I Multiple carrier mail sorting system
US8160974B2 (en) * 2008-12-29 2012-04-17 Pitney Bowes Inc. Multiple carrier mailing machine
US20140189018A1 (en) * 2012-12-28 2014-07-03 Pitney Bowes Inc. System and method for electronic and physical delivery of mail
EP2808845A1 (fr) 2013-05-31 2014-12-03 Francotyp-Postalia GmbH Procédé et système de traitement de données relatives à des articles de courrier à expédier
US9286558B1 (en) * 2013-10-08 2016-03-15 Isaac S. Daniel Apparatus, system and method of transmitting multimedia communications using printed stamps
US9878825B1 (en) 2015-06-02 2018-01-30 Ecoenvelopes, Llc Reusable top flap envelope with dual opposing seal flaps
JP2017119387A (ja) * 2015-12-28 2017-07-06 富士ゼロックス株式会社 情報処理装置およびプログラム
US10821769B2 (en) * 2018-12-13 2020-11-03 Dmt Solutions Global Corporation Mail-piece insertion system heavies rotary feeder double detect system and method

Family Cites Families (26)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4122532A (en) 1977-01-31 1978-10-24 Pitney-Bowes, Inc. System for updating postal rate information utilized by remote mail processing apparatus
US4511793A (en) * 1983-04-04 1985-04-16 Sylvester Racanelli Mail metering process and machine
US4639873A (en) * 1984-02-03 1987-01-27 Bell & Howell Company Insertion machine with postage categorization and selective merchandising
US4839813A (en) * 1985-10-24 1989-06-13 Pitney Bowes Inc. Computerized parcel shipping system
US4800506A (en) * 1987-03-13 1989-01-24 Pitney Bowes Inc. Apparatus for preparing mail pieces
US4800505A (en) * 1987-03-13 1989-01-24 Pitney Bowes Inc. Mail preparation system
CA1328927C (fr) 1988-02-08 1994-04-26 Glynn M. Brasington Systeme de comptabilite d'affranchissement postal
US5111030A (en) 1988-02-08 1992-05-05 Pitney Bowes Inc. Postal charge accounting system
US4821493A (en) * 1988-02-29 1989-04-18 Pitney Bowes Inc. Method for computerized postage determination
US5190210A (en) * 1989-09-13 1993-03-02 Walz Postal Solutions, Inc. Continuous mailing forms and mailing preparation system
US5117364A (en) * 1990-03-02 1992-05-26 Barns Slavin Ileana D Carrier management method and system having auto-rate shopping
DE4018166C2 (de) 1990-06-01 1994-12-01 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Frankiermodul
GB2251211B (en) 1990-12-31 1994-08-24 Alcatel Business Systems Franking machine
DE4101440A1 (de) 1991-01-17 1992-07-23 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Verfahren zum versenden elektronisch gespeicherter briefinhalte
US5392216A (en) * 1991-11-22 1995-02-21 Pitney Bowes Inc. Automatic selection of postage meter print element based on mail class selection
DE4213278C2 (de) 1992-04-16 1998-02-19 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Anordnung zum Frankieren von Postgut
CA2110474C (fr) 1992-12-03 1998-07-07 Kevin D. Hunter Systeme de traitement du courrier a interface utilisateur pour codes a barres
US5490077A (en) 1993-01-20 1996-02-06 Francotyp-Postalia Gmbh Method for data input into a postage meter machine, arrangement for franking postal matter and for producing an advert mark respectively allocated to a cost allocation account
US5445367A (en) * 1993-04-19 1995-08-29 Long; John A. System and method for preparing letters for mailing
US5905232A (en) * 1993-10-14 1999-05-18 Ascom Hasler Mailing Systems, Inc. Electronic postage scale system and method
US5419440A (en) * 1993-11-15 1995-05-30 Pitney Bowes Inc. Intelligent traying for inserter systems
US5493500A (en) * 1994-03-15 1996-02-20 Hadewe B.V. Method and a system for preparing franked postal items
DE4419430A1 (de) * 1994-06-03 1995-12-07 Licentia Gmbh Verfahren zur Steuerung der Eingabestation für eine Briefsortieranlage
DE4422263A1 (de) * 1994-06-24 1996-01-04 Francotyp Postalia Gmbh Verfahren zum Abstimmen des Datenbestandes zwischen einer elektronischen Frankiermaschine und einem Datenzentrum
US5684706A (en) * 1995-05-31 1997-11-04 Pitney Bowes Inc. System having multiple user input stations and multiple mail preparation apparatus for preparing and franking a mail piece
US5801944A (en) * 1995-10-11 1998-09-01 E-Stamp Corporation System and method for printing postage indicia directly on documents

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP1063619A1 (fr) * 1999-06-15 2000-12-27 Francotyp-Postalia Aktiengesellschaft & Co. Module de sécurité et procédé pour protection du registre postal contre la manipulation
US6362724B1 (en) 1999-06-15 2002-03-26 Francotyp-Postalia Ag & Co. Security module and method for securing computerized postal registers against manipulation
EP1073018A1 (fr) * 1999-07-30 2001-01-31 Francotyp-Postalia AG & Co. Machine d'affranchissement à pré-paiement et post-paiement
US6853990B1 (en) 1999-07-30 2005-02-08 Wolfgang Thiel Franking and prepayment machine
US7130813B2 (en) * 2002-11-13 2006-10-31 Epco Llc Process for optimal economic efficiency in postal operations
CN111121943A (zh) * 2019-12-13 2020-05-08 湖南师范大学 零点故障检测方法、装置、计算机设备和可读存储介质
CN111121943B (zh) * 2019-12-13 2021-05-18 湖南师范大学 零点故障检测方法、装置、计算机设备和可读存储介质

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0805421A3 (fr) 2000-06-28
US6226626B1 (en) 2001-05-01
DE19617476A1 (de) 1997-11-06

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP0805420B1 (fr) Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement
EP0805421A2 (fr) Procédé et arrangement pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement
EP0805422A2 (fr) Procédé pour déterminer le tranporteur le plus économique
EP0805419A2 (fr) Procédé pour le traitement de l'information dans un système de traitement de courrier avec une machine d'affranchissement et un arrangement
DE4447404C2 (de) Verfahren zur Dateneingabe in eine Waage und Anordnung zur Durchführung des Verfahrens
DE19549613B4 (de) Speichern, Abrufen und automatisches Drucken von Porto auf Poststücke
EP0780803B1 (fr) Procédé et dispositif d'entrée de données dans une machine d'affranchissement
EP0660270B1 (fr) Procédé et dispositif pour générer et vérifier un motif destiné à la sécurité
DE69724345T2 (de) System zur kontrollierten Annahme von Poststücken, das sicher die Wiederverwendung einer ursprünglich für ein Poststück erzeugten digitalen Wertmarke bei einem später vorbereiteten anderen Poststück zum Beglaubigen der Bezahlung der Postgebühren ermöglicht
EP0907150B1 (fr) Méthode pour la vérification des impressions de sécurité
DE4213278C2 (de) Anordnung zum Frankieren von Postgut
DE3841394A1 (de) Sicherheitssystem fuer die ausgabe von postgebuehren
DE3850592T2 (de) Apparat zur Vorbereitung von Briefen.
EP1438145A2 (fr) Procede et dispositif pour traiter des envois postaux
EP1073018A1 (fr) Machine d'affranchissement à pré-paiement et post-paiement
EP0911767B1 (fr) Procédé d'entrée de données dans une machine d'affranchissement et dispositif d'affranchissement de courrier
EP0866427B1 (fr) Système de traitement de courrier avec une station de base de machine commandée par un ordinateur individuel
EP0809215B1 (fr) Module calculateur d'affranchissement interchangeable et procédé pour transmission de données
DE69631563T2 (de) Vorrichtung zum Herstellen von Poststücken
EP1519325B1 (fr) Dispositif pour générer une image imprimée pour des machines d'affranchissement et de compostage
EP1037172B1 (fr) Procédé pour l'installation automatique de machines à affranchir et dispositif pour sa mise en oeuvre
EP1736935A2 (fr) Procédé destiné à l'attribution d'une information à un élément postal
DE19847947A1 (de) Anordnung und Verfahren zur Speicherung von Daten über eine Benutzung eines Endgerätes
DE19847951A1 (de) Anordnung und Verfahren zur Speicherung von Daten über eine Benutzung eines Endgerätes
DE29522024U1 (de) Anordnung zur Dateneingabe in eine Frankiermaschine

Legal Events

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

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A2

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB IT LI

PUAL Search report despatched

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009013

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A3

Designated state(s): CH DE FR GB IT LI

RIC1 Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant

Free format text: 7G 07B 17/00 A, 7G 07B 17/02 B

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20000816

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA AG & CO. KG

17Q First examination report despatched

Effective date: 20030910

RAP1 Party data changed (applicant data changed or rights of an application transferred)

Owner name: FRANCOTYP-POSTALIA GMBH

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

Free format text: STATUS: THE APPLICATION IS DEEMED TO BE WITHDRAWN

18D Application deemed to be withdrawn

Effective date: 20091103