Portable computerized wireless information apparatus and methods

A mobile user apparatus and associated methods useful for transferring information wirelessly, such as for instance at points of departure or point-of-sale locations. In one embodiment, the mobile user apparatus is a cellular-enabled mobile device with a GPS receiver and a short-range radio frequency device that enables transfer of information to the device from a wireless-enabled entity such as a kiosk.

DEVICE AND METHOD FOR PRINTING MAILPIECES

A device including a printer with a print head for printing an imprint containing a first printing area with a security imprint (such as a franking mark), and a second printing area with a text or image imprint on mailpieces. The print head has at least two printing nozzles, of which a first printing nozzle is connected to a first printing supply and a second printing nozzle is connected to a second printing supply. An ink suitable for a security imprint is contained in the first printing supply, and a conventional printing ink is contained in the second printing supply. In the related method, the entire imprint, which contains a first printing area with a security imprint and a second printing area with a text or image imprint, is printed onto the mailpiece in a single print run. 1. Device for printing mailpieces with an imprint that contains a first printing area with a security imprint and a second printing area with a text or image imprint , the device comprising a printer with a print head , wherein the print head comprises at least two printing nozzles , of which a first printing nozzle is connected to a first printing means supply and a second printing nozzle is connected to a second printing means supply , wherein the first printing means supply and the second printing means supply are separate from one another , and the first printing means supply contains an ink suitable for a security imprint and the second printing means supply contains conventional printing ink.2. Device according to claim 1 , wherein the printing nozzles simultaneously print the first printing area and the second printing area during the print run.3. Device according to claim 1 , wherein the first printing nozzle is assigned to the first printing area claim 1 , and the second printing nozzle and any additional nozzles are assigned to the second printing area claim 1 , each of the printing nozzles printing only in the printing area assigned to it.4. Device according to claim 1 , wherein ...

Franking machine and method for servicing thereof

A franking machine has an ink jet printing device with exchangeable ink cartridges. The lower housing shell of a security housing of the franking machine has a sealable, shaft-shaped opening in the base and is designed to accommodate assemblies that can be contaminated with ink. These assemblies are situated in a non-secure region of the franking machine and are accessible via the aforementioned opening when a cover of the shaft-shaped opening is opened. A servicing procedure allows the franking machine to be retrofitted to print with a different ink color. After moving the print carriage in one direction and opening a cartridge flap, the ink cartridges can be removed. A displacement of the print carriage takes place after closing the cartridge flap, wherein the print carriage is moved in the opposite direction so that the print carriage arrives in the sealing position for ink cartridges. A box-shaped mod can now be removed from the franking machine. Servicing of the ink-contaminated modules subsequently takes place via the aforementioned opening.

COMPUTERIZED APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR LOCATION-BASED SERVICE PROVISION

Computerized apparatus useful within vehicles for causing provision of location-based services to users via a portable wireless computerized device. In one embodiment, the vehicle comprises a global positioning system (GPS) based receiver capable of providing location data to the computerized apparatus. 120.-. (canceled)21. A method of obtaining user-specific location-based services via a computerized apparatus , the apparatus configured to provide the user-specific location-based services via a data communication session so as to increase the efficiency of the computerized apparatus , the method comprising:receiving, from a user, data relating to an input to the computerized apparatus via a user interface thereof, the input relating at least in part to a user-specific location-based service request; establishing a secure data communication session between the computerized apparatus and a data network computerized server apparatus to enable provision of the user-specific service;', 'generating via the computerized apparatus one or more data messages, the one or more data messages comprising: (i) location-related data, the location-related data (a) obtained via a GPS (Global Positioning System)-based receiver of the computerized apparatus, and (b) relating to a destination for provision of the user-specific location-based service; (ii) data relating to the user input; and (iii) data enabling identification of at least one user-specific account accessible by the data network computerized server apparatus and associated with the user; and', 'causing transmission of generated one or more data messages to the data network computerized server apparatus via the secure data communication session;, 'based at least on the receiving the data relating to the input, automaticallyreceiving one or more data messages at the computerized apparatus via the secure data communication session, the received one or more data messages generated by the data network computerized server ...

COMPUTERIZED VEHICULAR APPARATUS FOR LOCATION-BASED SERVICE PROVISION

Computerized apparatus useful within vehicles for causing provision of location-based services to users via a portable wireless computerized device. In one embodiment, the vehicle comprises a global positioning system (GPS) based receiver capable of providing location data to the computerized apparatus. 120.-. (canceled)21. A vehicular computerized electronic apparatus configured to provide a service to a user such that the user does not need to know an address of a location where the service is desired to be provided , the vehicular computerized electronic apparatus comprising:a digital processing apparatus;a global positioning system (GPS)-based receiver apparatus configured to generate location-related data;a wireless interface in data communication with the digital processing apparatus;an input device in data communication with the digital processing apparatus; and receive location-related data, the location-related data generated by the GPS-based receiver apparatus based on a then-current location of the vehicular computerized electronic apparatus;', 'generate at least one message for transmission to a network server entity, the at least one message comprising at least a portion of the location-related data based on the then-current location;', 'establish a secure data communications session with the network server entity; and', 'cause transmission of the at least one message to the server entity via at least the wireless interface, the at least one message configured to at least enable provision of the service for the user at the desired location., 'a storage device comprising at least one computer program thereon, the storage device in data communication with the digital processing apparatus, the at least one computer program configured to, when executed by the digital processing apparatus;'} This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/470,775 filed Mar. 27, 2017 and entitled “COMPUTERIZED METHODS FOR LOCATION-BASED SERVICE ...

Processing apparatus for individual items, having an inkjet print head, and an activation method therefor

In a processing apparatus, with an inkjet print head, that processes individual items, a drive motor that operates a transport mechanism to transport the individual items in the x-direction of a Cartesian coordinate system past the inkjet print head in a printing position so as to execute a printing operation with the inkjet print head on each individual item. The drive motor arrangement also moves the inkjet print head in the y-direction into a first position that is any of an exchange position, the printing position, a cleaning position or a sealing position. The drive motor arrangement also moves the inkjet print head vertically, in the z-direction of the exchange position or the sealing position, into at least one other position that is either the printing position or the cleaning position.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MARKING VALUE LABELS

A method is provided for detecting value labels that have been re-used, that have a surface containing a luminescent substance, and that have been applied to mailpieces that are to be transported. These mailpieces pass through a sorting system in which the presence of value labels that have a surface containing luminescent particles which are distributed essentially evenly is checked. The mailpiece having such a surface is conveyed to a marking device. Here, the substrate in the form of the surface of the value label containing luminescent particles which are distributed essentially evenly is irradiated with high-energy radiation. In this process, wherever the radiation strikes the substrate, the luminescence of the particles is destroyed to such an extent that they are no longer detected as being luminescent when they pass through the sorting system once again. 1. A method for detecting a value label that has been re-used , but that is intended for one-time use , and that has a surface containing a luminescent substance , the method comprising:illuminating the value label with light that has a first wavelength and that excites a luminescence of the luminescent substance, wherein at the time of the first use of the value label, irradiation with high-energy electromagnetic waves imparts it with a motif having a background that contrasts with the luminescent background.2. The method according to claim 1 , whereby the contrast is created by reducing the intensity of the luminescence.3. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the motif is a bar.4. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the motif is a wavy line.5. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the high-energy radiation is generated by a light source that generates a directed beam that is guided over the surface that is to be irradiated along a trajectory corresponding to the motif that is to be created.6. The method according to claim 1 , wherein the high-energy radiation is generated by a light source ...

Apparatus for franking flat items of mail transported individually or from a supplied stack, such as envelopes, mailers, cards, printed products, sleeves, labels or the like, on a processing line

An apparatus for franking flat items of mail removed individually or at the underside of a supplied stack and guided in a transport direction at one side edge, includes a separating station formed from a feeder for items of mail separating device, and a downstream processing line of a franking machine, following in a conveying manner in the transport direction, for franking/printing the individual items of mail. The processing line in the transport region between feeder and the separating device of the separating station assigned to the latter includes a plurality of driven transport rollers which form a transport plane for receiving an item of mail or the respective lowest item of mail from a stack, which rollers are mounted in a frame in the transport direction of the items of mail transversely and beside one another and in the same direction and at the same peripheral speed.

GOOD PROCESSING APPARATUS

This disclosure relates to a good processing apparatus with a first communication module. The first communication module is connected to a controller. The good processing apparatus is designed to accommodate at least one second communication module. The controller is designed to determine whether the second communication module is ready for operation. 1. A good processing apparatus , comprising:a first communication module;a second communication module; anda controller connected to the first and second communication modules, the controller being configured to determine whether the second communication module is ready-to-operate.2. The good processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first communication module is configured for wired data transmissions.3. The good processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the second communication module is configured for wireless data transmissions.4. The good processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the second communication module is configured for wireless data transmissions.5. The good processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first communication module and/or the second communication module are logically and electrically connected to the controller.6. The good processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the controller is configured to:establish a connection with the second communication module and, by evaluating determined data, to detect whether the second communication module is switched on and/or connected; and/ordetermine and/or to recognize which type of wireless communication the second communication module is configured.7. The good processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the controller is arranged on a mainboard of the good processing apparatus.8. The good processing apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the first communication module and/or the second communication module are respectively connected to a mainboard of the good processing apparatus via ...

Method and device for marking value labels

The invention relates to a method for the automatic verification of the authenticity of a postage indicium that has a value indication and that has a luminescent area, whereby the postage indicium has been applied onto the surface of a mailpiece, and whereby the surface of the mailpiece is illuminated with light having wavelengths from a spectral region, then a first image of the surface of the mailpiece is taken with a camera system and this first image is evaluated regarding the place of the postage indicia applied onto the surface of the mailpiece, subsequently the postage indicium is irradiated with light having wavelengths from a second spectral region, whereby this light is capable of exciting the luminescence of the luminescent printing ink.

COMPUTERIZED METHODS FOR LOCATION-BASED SERVICE PROVISION

Computerized methods useful for causing provision of user-specific services via one or more data network apparatus and user mobile device. In one embodiment, the method includes receiving user-specific location data (e.g., relating to a destination of travel or shipping desired by the user) from the user's mobile device via an electronic network proxy agent that acts as a proxy for multiple different users simultaneously, and automatically forwarding that received data to another computerized device to enable provision of the service relating to that user and location. In one variant, the user mobile device and the network proxy agent establish a secure session to facilitate transfer of the data to a network address or device specified in a secure user-specific account accessible to the proxy agent. In another variant, the mobile device interfaces with a kiosk at a point of departure to transfer the data. 120.-. (canceled)21. A method of operating a data network computerized server apparatus to enable provision of one or more user-specific services to each of a plurality of users , the computerized server apparatus comprising at least one computer program operative to be executed thereon , and one or more data network interfaces configured to communicate data with one or more data networks , the method comprising:utilizing the at least one computer program to receive, via the at least one data network interface, and sent from respective mobile wireless-enabled user devices, respective data enabling identification of respective user-specific accounts accessible by the data network computerized server apparatus;utilizing the at least one computer program to receive, via the at least one network interface, and sent from the respective mobile wireless-enabled user devices, respective data messages comprising location-related data, the respective location-related data (i) obtained by respective ones of mobile wireless-enabled user devices, and (ii) relating to a ...

Method for franking mail items which are fed to a franking machine, and device for carrying out the method

A method for franking mail items fed to a franking machine. The mail items are drawn from the underside of a stack for separation or are fed individually on a conveying section upstream of the franking machine to a printing unit for franking, after franking, are discharged in the opposite direction from the printing unit. The mail items are fed via a diverter section to the conveying section, after franking, are conveyed via the diverter section which is switched over to change the conveying direction into a depositing apparatus below the diverter section. The mail items are guided in the opening region of the franking machine into the printing position and are returned out of the printing position. The printing position of a mail item fed to the printing unit is determined by a print head movement-controlled from a readiness position pursuant to the format length of the mail item.

GOODS PROCESSING APPARATUS HAVING A PIVOTABLE DISPLAY

A goods processing apparatus can include a printing device, a pivotable display, a controller, and a sensor. The pivotable display may include a display support, a pivotable display holder, a display housing that houses a display monitor having a display border arranged around the display monitor and a display housing frame that surrounds the display border, and at least one actuation input device configured to manually trigger a motorized pivoting of the display monitor. The sensor detects an angle of inclination of the pivotable display. The controller controls a motor to automatically set a display inclination of the pivotable display based on the detected angle of inclination and a respective operator of the apparatus. 1. A goods processing apparatus , comprising:a pivotable display including a display support, a pivotable display holder, a display housing that houses a display monitor having a display border arranged around the display monitor and a display housing frame that surrounds the display border, and at least one actuation input device configured to manually trigger a motorized pivoting of the display monitor;a sensor configured to detect an angle of inclination of the pivotable display; anda controller configured to control a motor to automatically set a display inclination of the pivotable display based on the detected angle of inclination and a respective operator of the apparatus.2. The goods processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the sensor is disposed on a rear wall of the display housing frame or included in or on the display holder.3. The goods processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the motor configured to pivot the pivotable display comprises a self-locking gearbox configured to reduce a rotation of the motor and an output via a gear shaft to an overload protection claim 1 , wherein a pinion of the overload protection engages with a partial gearwheel segment of the pivotable display holder.4. The goods processing ...

COMPUTERIZED APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR LOCATION-BASED SERVICE PROVISION

Computerized apparatus and methods useful for causing provision of location-based services to users via a user portable wireless computerized device or other device. In one embodiment, the user device establishes a secure communication session with a network server (e.g., proxy process for a service coordinator or provider) to provide user-specific location-based services such as a time-limited rental of a tangible object or space. In one variant, dynamic generation of a response to the user included providing image data relating to provision of the user-specific location-based service, the image data enabling the user to authenticate at least one aspect of the provision of the user-specific location-based service by the third party service provider. 120.-. (canceled)21. A method of arranging for provision of a user-specific location-based service via a computerized apparatus , the apparatus configured to arrange for the provision of the user-specific location-based service via a data communication session , the method comprising:providing, by a user and via an input to the computerized apparatus via a user interface thereof, first data, the first data relating at least in part to a user-specific location-based service or request for said service; establishing of a secure data communication session between the computerized apparatus and a data network computerized server apparatus to enable provision of the user-specific location-based service;', 'generating via the computerized apparatus one or more data messages, the one or more data messages comprising: (i) location-related data, the location-related data obtained via a GPS (Global Positioning System)-based receiver of the computerized apparatus, (ii) at least a portion of the first data; and (iii) data enabling identification of at least one user-specific account directly or indirectly accessible by the data network computerized server apparatus and associated with the user; and', 'causing transmission of ...

Postal charge accounting system

ABSTRACT OF DISCLOSURE A postage meter accounting system is provided having a user terminal which interfaces with and controls an electronic postage meter. The user terminal is also connected to an integrated circuit card read-write unit for receiving user, administrator, service and/or program integrated circuit cards. The user terminal activates and permits use of the meter upon presentation of a valid user card, stores postage meter use information and transmits the postage meter use information to the user card for storage in a user card transaction table. The postage meter use information stored in the user terminal and in user card memory may be accessed for later reference on a user terminal display and/or printer. Preferably, an administrative computer is provided for periodically receiving all postage meter use information from the user cards or, alternatively, directly from the user terminal to generate one or more postage meter use accounting reports. The administrator card permits access to and revision of user card memory, postage meter use information and owner-variable user terminal application program information. The service card permits access to and revision of administrator card memory and all user terminal application program information. Program cards facilitate application program loading and revision.

一种车载自助快递机

一种车载自助快递机，包括传动机构、旋转机构、机架及机械手等，其特征是参照魔方的立体式结构，合理地设计存放快递包裹的空间，单向轴承和轴承转盘在电机的驱动下通过行星齿轮减速器可实现每一层货物的独立存取，合理设计了一个可以在三个方向上移动的机械臂，便于自动取货。包裹在存入“车载自助快递机”前将进行一次扫码，让系统记住包裹存放的位置，并标记对应的取货码，在取货时可输入取货码，主轴电机带动相应轴承转盘转动，将货物送到正前方，机械手取出货物。本发明具有原理清晰易懂、结构简单、紧凑，运动可靠、实用性强、拆装便捷、灵巧轻便等特点。

Automated transaction system

An automated transaction system employs a card maintaining an account balance and a terminal for dispensing an article of value and debiting the card's balance. The card has a secure, resident microprocessor which executes an interactive handshake recognition procedure with a secure, resident microprocessor in the value dispensing section of the terminal prior to actuating a requested transaction. In the preferred form, the handshake procedure operates by an exchange of encrypted words between the card microprocessor and the dispenser microprocessor using corresponding encryption algorithms and a secret key number, and the card microprocessor providing a command signal to the dispenser microprocessor only upon successful completion of the procedure. The automated transaction system is particularly suitable as a postage metering terminal having a postmark printer as the value dispensing section. Postage is printed only if the handshake procedure is executed between the card microprocessor and the printer microprocessor. The postal terminal also receives a rate card for computing postage automatically, and prints an invisible authentication mark along with the postmark to discourage counterfeiting. The terminal can be configured to print standard form waybills for postal and private carrier services by loading waybill information from an IC ROM services card. The balance in the user card is refilled in a refilling terminal using a master card which maintains a master account balance and a supervisor card which is in the custody of an authorized person.

Secure system for printing authenticating digital signatures

The present invention includes a method of securing one or more product indicia for use in authenticating products or collecting a tax and includes generating one or more product indicia and encrypting the one or more product indicia with a public encryption key. The product indicia are then transferred to an indicia application location for application of the one or more product indicia to one or more products and processed securely while applying the one or more product indicia to the one or more products to thereby prevent tampering, misuse or theft of the product indicia at the indicia application location. The present invention also.includes a system for securing product indicia for use in authentication of products or collecting a tax and includes a processor and a read/write memory associated with the processor. The read/write memory stores therein a product indicia file which contains one or more product indicia in an encrypted form. In addition, the read/write memory stores therein a private key file containing a private encryption key in an encrypted form which is associated with a public encryption key which is used to encrypt the product indicia in the product indicia file. A code-protected device is also associated with the processor and stores therein a code-protected encryption key which is used to encrypt and decrypt the private encryption key in the read/write memory. Further, the code-protected encryption key can not be deciphered without rendering the code-protected memory inoperable. A printing device is also associated with the processor and the processor is configured to utilize the code-protected encryption key to decrypt the private encryption key, use the decrypted private encryption key to decrypt the one or more product indicia in the product indicia file, and transfer the decrypted one or more product indicia to the printing device for printing thereof.

Virtual security device

A system and method for remote postage metering of postage indicia, including demanding a desired postage amount and subsequently printing the postage indicia onto a piece of mail. A user inputs certain necessary information, as well as additional desired information, into a local processor-based system. The local system then assembles a postage demand in suitable format and transmits the same to a remote postage metering device. The remote postage metering device then verifies the demand for authority to demand and valid funding. Upon verification, the remote postage meter serves the transaction by configuring a shared device using virtual user device data structures and assembles a data packet representing an authorized postage indicia. The data packet is transmitted to the local system for printing. Printing of the postage indicia may be unaccompanied, or may include additional information. Such additional information may include destination and return address, machine readable routing or identification information, or a complete document to be posted.

Chattel management apparatus and methods

Apparatus and methods for tracking or otherwise accounting for chattel (e.g., personal property such as keys, pocket knives, and the like) at a point of departure such as an airport, bus station, train station, etc., or areas where people congregate (e.g., sporting events, concerts, etc.). In one exemplary embodiment, the apparatus comprises a kiosk adapted for use near a security checkpoint, wherein passengers or patrons can efficiently deposit their items for shipment to their home, travel destination, or third party.

Token generation process in an open metering system

A method of issuing digital tokens in a open system meter includes the steps of sending a request for digital tokens and predetermined postal information, including addressee information, from a host processor to a vault that is operatively coupled to the host processor; calculating in the vault in response to the request for tokens at least one digital token using the predetermined postal information; debiting postal funds in the vault; issuing the digital token to the host processor; and storing the digital token and the predetermined postal information as a transaction record in the host processor for subsequent generation and printing of an indicia. The method further includes the steps of generating in the host processor an indicia comprising a graphical image of the digital token and the predetermined postal information and storing the indicia in the host processor; and printing the indicia on a mailpiece when requested.

Disabling a mailing machine when a print head is not installed

Mailing machine including a controller, a printer module including a connector, a print head controller for producing print data signals necessary to print a postal indicia on an envelope and a replaceable print head cartridge having a plurality of print elements which are selectively energizable in response to the print data signals. The print head cartridge is detachably mounted to the connector. The controller in operative communication with the printer module for: determining if a valid print head cartridge is installed; and if a valid print head cartridge is not installed, preventing the print data signals from reaching the connector.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING THE USE OF A CARTRIDGE UNIT

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein System zum Drucken eines Abdrucks auf ein flaches Gut mit einer ein Verbrauchsgut enthaltenden Kartuscheneinheit (107) und einem Gutverarbeitungsgerät (102, 103, 104), insbesondere einer Frankiermaschine, die eine zur Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) ausgebildete Druckeinrichtung (102.6) und eine mit der Druckeinrichtung (102.6) verbundene erste Datenverarbeitungseinheit (102.1) zur Steuerung der Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) zum Drucken des Abdrucks umfasst. Das Gutverarbeitungsgerät (102, 103, 104) ist dazu konfiguriert, ein Einsetzen der Kartuscheneinheit (107) in die Druckeinrichtung (102.6) zu erfassen. Weiterhin ist das Gutverarbeitungsgerät (102, 103, 104) dazu konfiguriert, eine aktuelle Verbrauchsinformation zu erzeugen, welche für die Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) durch die Druckeinrichtung (102.6) seit dem Einsetzen repräsentativ ist. Die Kartuscheneinheit (107) weist einen ersten Speicher (107.1) auf, in dem nichtflüchtig, insbesondere unveränderbar, eine eindeutige Kartuschenidentifikation der Kartuscheneinheit gespeichert ist. Die erste Datenverarbeitungseinheit (102.1) ist dazu konfiguriert, zumindest bei Eintreten wenigstens eines vorgebbaren nutzungsrelevanten Ereignisses ein Speichern einer mittels der aktuellen Verbrauchsinformation generierten aktuellen Nutzungsinformation logisch verknüpft mit der Kartuschenidentifikation in wenigstens einem zweiten Speicher (102.3, 106.6) zu veranlassen, wobei das nutzungsrelevante Ereignis für die Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) durch die Druckeinrichtung (102.6) relevant ist. Weiterhin ist die erste Datenverarbeitungseinheit (102.1) dazu konfiguriert, bei Eintreten des nutzungsrelevanten Ereignisses einen irreversibel beschreibbaren Speicherbereich (111.1, 111.2) des ersten Speichers (107.1) zu beschreiben. The present invention relates to a system for printing an impression on a flat good with a cartridge unit (107) containing a consumer good and a ...

Method and system for controlling the use of a cartridge unit

Die vorliegende Erfindung betrifft ein System zum Drucken eines Abdrucks auf ein flaches Gut mit einer ein Verbrauchsgut enthaltenden Kartuscheneinheit (107) und einem Gutverarbeitungsgerät (102, 103, 104), insbesondere einer Frankiermaschine, die eine zur Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) ausgebildete Druckeinrichtung (102.6) und eine mit der Druckeinrichtung (102.6) verbundene erste Datenverarbeitungseinheit (102.1) zur Steuerung der Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) zum Drucken des Abdrucks umfasst. Das Gutverarbeitungsgerät (102, 103, 104) ist dazu konfiguriert, ein Einsetzen der Kartuscheneinheit (107) in die Druckeinrichtung (102.6) zu erfassen. Weiterhin ist das Gutverarbeitungsgerät (102, 103, 104) dazu konfiguriert, eine aktuelle Verbrauchsinformation zu erzeugen, welche für die Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) durch die Druckeinrichtung (102.6) seit dem Einsetzen repräsentativ ist. Die Kartuscheneinheit (107) weist einen ersten Speicher (107.1) auf, in dem nichtflüchtig, insbesondere unveränderbar, eine eindeutige Kartuschenidentifikation der Kartuscheneinheit gespeichert ist. Die erste Datenverarbeitungseinheit (102.1) ist dazu konfiguriert, zumindest bei Eintreten wenigstens eines vorgebbaren nutzungsrelevanten Ereignisses ein Speichern einer mittels der aktuellen Verbrauchsinformation generierten aktuellen Nutzungsinformation logisch verknüpft mit der Kartuschenidentifikation in wenigstens einem zweiten Speicher (102.3, 106.6) zu veranlassen, wobei das nutzungsrelevante Ereignis für die Nutzung der Kartuscheneinheit (107) durch die Druckeinrichtung (102.6) relevant ist. Weiterhin ist die erste Datenverarbeitungseinheit (102.1) dazu konfiguriert, bei Eintreten des nutzungsrelevanten Ereignisses einen irreversibel beschreibbaren Speicherbereich (111.1, 111.2) des ersten Speichers (107.1) zu beschreiben. The present invention relates to a system for printing an impression on a flat good with a cartridge unit (107) containing a consumer good and a ...

Digital postage meter system having a replaceable printing unit with system software upgrade

A postage meter mailing system utilizes a meter vault (24) operated under the control of a microcontroller (44) mounted in a secure housing. The microcontroller (44) of the meter vault (24) has a communication device (43) for receiving and transmitting data messages and non-volatile memory (40, 41) for storing program data and other data. A printer (27) is utilized for printing a postage indicia. The printer (27) operates under the control of a microcontroller (66) mounted in a secure housing. The microcontroller (66) of the printer (27) has a communication device (63) for receiving and transmitting data messages and non-volatile memory (61, 62) for storing program data and other data. An interface (23) provides a communication path between the meter vault and the printer. The non-volatile memory (40, 41) of the meter vault has stored therein a program version number for identifying the control program version. The non-volatile memory (61, 62) of the printer has stored therein a software update number for identifying associated meter vault programs which utilize the update software. Upon system start-up, the print head microcontroller (60) requests the meter vault microcontroller (44) to transmit the control program version and number and determines whether the control program requires the update software and if so transmits the update software.

Method for enhancing franking machines security

Method for manipulation-proof control of print data and internal interface circuit for franking machines

Digital postage meter system with a replaceable printing unit with system software update

Unsecured postage application system

Method and device for opening a security housing

security chassis

Sicherheitschassis für einen Sicherheitsbereich im Inneren eines Sicherheitsgehäuses (1, 2), mit einem Stützrahmen (6) für die Druckmechanik im Nichtsicherheitsbereich, wobei ein Druckmodul (7) im Stützrahmen (6) beweglich angeordnet und mechanisch vor einem unberechtigten Zugriff geschützt ist, gekennzeichnet dadurch, dass sich der Stützrahmen (6) auf mindestens einer Funktionskante (541, 541', 541'') von mindestens einer Chassisschale (5, 5', 5'') abstützt, wobei mindestens zwei voneinander beabstandete Chassisschalen (3, 3', 3'', 5, 5', 5'') den Sicherheitsbereich umgeben, dass die mindestens eine Funktionskante (54, 54', 54'', 541, 541', 541'') an ihrem Rand ausgebildete Lüftungsöffnungen (51, 51', 51'', 52, 52', 52'', 511, 511', 511'', 521, 521', 521'') aufweist, wobei die geometrische Form des Randes der Funktionskante (54, 54', 54'', 541, 541', 541'') ein Eindringen von Werkzeugen in den von beiden Chassisschalen (3, 3', 3'', 5, 5', 5'') eingeschlossenen Sicherheitsbereich unmöglich macht. Security chassis for a security area inside a security housing (1, 2), with a support frame (6) for the print mechanics in the non-security area, a pressure module (7) being movably arranged in the support frame (6) and mechanically protected against unauthorized access, characterized in that that the support frame (6) is supported on at least one functional edge (541, 541 ', 541' ') of at least one chassis shell (5, 5', 5 ''), at least two chassis shells (3, 3 ', 3 '', 5, 5 ', 5' ') surround the security area such that the at least one functional edge (54, 54', 54 '', 541, 541 ', 541' ') has ventilation openings (51, 51) formed on its edge ', 51' ', 52, 52', 52 '', 511, 511 ', 511' ', 521, 521', ...

Method of, and configuration for, opening a security housing

A method of opening a security housing that requires authorization and unlocking moves the printing module transversely by a transverse mover into an additional unlocked position, as a result of which, the security housing or an access thereto is unlocked. The configuration has a mechanical locking or element and a printing module. The printing module is mounted such that it can be moved transversely to the transporting direction, for mechanically releasing the lock of a security-housing part directly or indirectly, by the security-housing part only being released once an additional security-housing part has been unlocked. The latter has a locking element that is disposed in the interior of the security housing and can be actuated by the printing module.

Automated transaction system with modular printhead having print authentication feature

An automated transaction system employs a terminal for printing a value indicia, such as a postmark, on an article. The terminal contains a modular printer unit which has a printhead and a dedicated microprocessor physically permanently bonded together such that the printhead microprocessor cannot be physically tampered with without disabling the printhead. The modular printer unit includes a first supply of visible ink and a second supply of invisible ink, and an internal program for printing the value indicia with visible ink and an authentication code, which uniquely corresponds to the value indicia, with invisible ink. The invisible value indicia can be subsequently verified as authentic by machine reading of said invisible authentication code and comparing the authentication code for correspondence to the value indicia.

Postage meter having a removable franking head

A postage meter has a removable franking head and a stationary base on which said head is mounted at a defined location, with locking means coupled to an external control for locking the head in place on the base. The meter also has two complementary connector portions for electrically interconnecting the head and the base by one of said connector portions plugging into the other. One of said first and second connector portions is movably mounted to move between an unplugged first position and a plugged second position in which the connector portions are plugged together, and is connected to actuator means for ensuring that the connector portion is in said unplugged first position while said head is being installed on the base.

Ascending register lockout system for a postage meter

The invention is for an improved security system for a postage meter, which features an ascending register lockout. Most commercial postage meters contain ascending and descending registers which keep an accounting of the meter's use. The lockout for the ascending register is disposed in combination with, but functions independently from, a descending register lockout also located within the postage meter. Both lockout devices use a locking comb arrangement to sense when a postage value lockout position is reached by their respective register wheels. The descending register lockout provides a pivoting cam to block a shutter bar window when a descending register lockout condition is sensed. The ascending register lockout system provides a slide bar for blocking the shutter bar window when an ascending register lockout condition is sensed.

Secured printer for a value printing system

A system is disclosed for securing a device from invasive and noninvasive tampering, one such device being a printer assembly for use in a value printing system, such as a postal mailing system. The system is comprised of a Decryption Microcomputer operable for decrypting the input data to be printed in accordance with a valid cipher key, the encrypted data and key being provided by another device, such as a postal meter. The cipher key is stored within a Tamper Latch readably coupled to the Microcomputer for providing the key to the Microcomputer. In addition, the Tamper Latch has a wire of small cross-sectional area connected thereto such that the presence of the wire is operable for defining a portion of the cipher key. To provide further security from tampering the Microcomputer, Latch and wire are embedded within a potting material. An attempt to remove the potting material in order to gain access to the components embedded therein will cause a brakage of the wire, thereby invalidating the cipher key and rendering the Microcomputer inoperable for decrypting the data to be printed.

Secure shutter locking arrangement for a postage meter

An improved locking apparatus for preventing access to the print die of a postage meter which is protected by a shutter when it is removed from its base include a carriage and slide crack which are reciprocated by a solenoid in a direction transverse to the deadbolt which locks the shutter from moving. The operation of the carriage and slide crank prevent the deadbolt from being reciprocated by force applied to the deadbolt. A groove in the deadbolt interlocks with a slot on the shutter to allow the solenoid to be deactuated. A return spring in the solenoid is sized to prevent acceleration forces from moving the deadbolt.

Apparatus for cleaning postage meter printing indicia

A poster meter is insertable into and removable from a mail machine base receptacle. The postage meter includes a shutter bar which is slidably mounted to the meter. The shutter bar is positionable between a first position where the shutter bar is located opposite and blocking external access to the indicia plate of the meter and in a second position, the shutter bar is laterally positioned from said indicia plate. The receptacle is pivotally mounted to mailing machine base and includes a shutter bar locking mechanism for engaging the shutter bar in the shutter bar's first position and for slidably positioning the shutter bar between the first and second position. A brush assembly is mounted to the shutter bar for brushing or sweeping the indicia plate upon reciprocal displacement of the shutter bar between the first and second positions.

Electronic postage meter system having internal accounting system and removable external accounting system

A metering system includes means for printing postage value. First means are coupled to the printing means for accounting for value printed by the printing means. Second means are coupled to the printing means for accounting for value printed by said printing means. Means determine which of the first and the second accounting means accounts for value printed by said printing means. The system may be arranged where the first accounting means is a smart card chip mounted internal to the metering system and the second accounting means is an external smart card. When the system is operable only one accounting system is rendered operable with priority given to the external smart card.

Secure pusher with a removable printhead

Method of, and configuration for, opening a security housing

A method of opening a security housing that requires authorization and unlocking moves the printing module transversely by a transverse mover into an additional unlocked position, as a result of which, the security housing or an access thereto is unlocked. The configuration has a mechanical locking or element and a printing module. The printing module is mounted such that it can be moved transversely to the transporting direction, for mechanically releasing the lock of a security-housing part directly or indirectly, by the security-housing part only being released once an additional security-housing part has been unlocked. The latter has a locking element that is disposed in the interior of the security housing and can be actuated by the printing module.

Electronic postage meter system separable printer and accounting arrangement incorporating partition of indicia and accounting information

Franking machine

Printer control method for printing postage

Electronic postage meter system having internal accounting system and removable external accounting system

Electronic postage meter system having plural clock systems providing enhanced security

A system (2) includes a system time counter (33) associated with a micro controller (26) and a secure clock module (48) having a real time clock (49) and an elapsed time counter (51). The system synchronizes operation between the secure clock module (48) and the system time counter (33). The synchronized time entered into the system time counter is utilized in the operation of the system. The real time clock time can be caused to be entered into the elapsed time counter at certain point in the operation of the system. The relationship of the time provide enhanced systems security.

Postage-meter-strip printing machine

The postage-meter-strip printing machine disclosed comprises a housing (1) with a printing unit, processor system, read/ write unit and controls (4, 5) and is operated by means of a postage credit card (2). The credit card is used not only to monitor the postal charges but also to enable an advertising cliché to be identified, read off and stored.

Secure printing apparatus with removable print head

Postage meter with removable print head

A postage meter includes a printing device (19) including a removable ink supply (22) carried by the printing device (19). The printing device is movable on a carriage (29) over an area in which printing of a postage indicia is to be effected and is movable to a location beyond that area for the purpose of replacement of the ink supply. Access to the printing device to replace the ink supply is by means of a hatch (30) in a housing (28) of the postage meter. The printing device can be moved and from the location only when the hatch is locked closed and the construction of the carriage and the mounting thereon of the printing device is such as to inhibit access to electrical connections (23, 24, 33) between the printing device and the postage meter.

Postage meter with removable print head

A postage meter includes a printing device (19) which is removable by a user of the postage meter. The printing device may be an ink-jet print cartridge (21) including an integral ink supply. When the ink supply is depleted the ink-jet print cartridge must be replaced to enable further printing to be effected. The printing device has electrical contacts (22) which interface with corresponding electrical connections (20) of the postage meter when the printing device is mounted in the postage meter. In order to prevent unauthorised access to the print device, access to the printing device for replacement of the printing device is provided by means of an aperture (31) in a housing (26) of the postage meter and the aperture is closed by a member (30) which can only be unlocked and opened in response to input of a coded signal to the postage meter.

Cassette holder with status detection for a printing mail processing device

Kassettenaufnahmeeinrichtung mit Zustandserkennung für ein druckendes Postverarbeitungsgerät, dessen Gehäuse eine verschließbare Kappe (5) für ein Kassettenfach aufweist, gekennzeichnet dadurch, dass ein Sensor (36) nahe der Kassettenklappe angeordnet ist, der vor dem Auswechseln einer Kassette (8) diejenige Klappenstellung detektieren kann, in welcher eine Kassetten-Entnahme möglich ist, dass die Kassettenklappe auf deren Unterseite mindestens einen Klappenfinger aufweist, der mit dem Sensor (36) zusammenwirkt sowie dass ein Mikroprozessor betriebsmäßig mit dem Sensor (36) verbunden ist, um die Stellung der Kassettenklappe (5) zu erkennen und um eine Versorgung einer im Kassettenfachformteil (17) angebrachten Chip-Leseeinheit (14) bei geschlossener Kassettenklappe (5) mit einer Spannung zu sichern, die bei geöffneter Kassettenklappe (5) vor jedem Auswechseln der Kassette abgeschaltet wird. Cassette holder with status detection for a printing mail processing device, the housing of which lockable Cap (5) for one Has cassette compartment, characterized in that a sensor (36) is located near the cassette door, before being replaced a cassette (8) can detect that flap position in which a cassette removal is possible that the cassette door has at least one flap finger on the underside of it interacts with the sensor (36) and that a microprocessor operationally with the sensor (36) is connected to the position of the cassette door (5) to recognize and to supply a in the cassette compartment molding (17) attached chip reading unit (14) with the cassette door closed (5) with a voltage that is secured when the cassette door (5) is open is switched off each time the cassette is replaced.

Interface circuit internal to the franking machine

Arrangement for communication between a base station and other stations of a mail processing machine and for their emergency shutdown

Method for reloading a postage credit into an electronic franking device

Verfahren zum Nachladen eines Portoguthabens in einen Guthabenspeicher 13 einer Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 11 einer elektronischen Frankiereinrichtung 10, die Mittel umfaßt, einen Guthabenstand mit einer Abrechnungseinrichtung 44 in einem entfernten Teleportodatenzentrum 40 im Datennetz abzustimmen. Aufgabengemäß ist ein alternatives Fernwertvorgabeverfahren anzugeben, mit dem auf bequeme Weise Guthaben über ein Datennetz zu erhalten ist. DOLLAR A Die Frankiereinrichtung 10 bildet hierzu mit einem Personalcomputer 20, der mit einem Modem 32 und Internetzugang, ausgerüstet ist eine Arbeitsstation 1. Von dieser Arbeitsstation 1 wird eine netzfähige Anforderung für eine Vorgabewertänderung und für eine Guthabenanforderung erstellt. Zwei Transaktionen sind notwendig, um den Datenbestand in der Frankiereinrichtung 10 mit dem Teleportodatenzentrum 20 abzustimmen, mit einer ersten Transaktion wird der gespeicherte Vorgabewert in der Frankiermaschine 10 geändert und mit einer zweiten Transaktion wird in der Höhe des Vorgabewertes Guthaben vom Teleportodatenzentrum 40 übermittelt, daß in den Guthabenspeicher 13 zum vorhandenen Restwert addiert wird. Hierzu werden für beide Transaktionen jeweils in der Frankiereinrichtung 10 Einstellcode aus Frankiereinrichtungsparameter nach einem nur in der Frankiereinrichtung 10 und im Teleportodatenzentrum 40 vorliegenden Schlüssel in der Frankiereinrichtung 10 gebildet. Diese Einstellcode werden mit den unverschlüsselten Parametern zu einer ... Method for reloading a postage credit into a credit memory 13 of a data processing device 11 of an electronic franking device 10, which comprises means for coordinating a credit balance with a billing device 44 in a remote teleporto data center 40 in the data network. According to the task, an alternative remote value specification method is to be specified, with which credit can be conveniently obtained via a data network. DOLLAR A For this purpose, the franking device 10 forms a workstation 1 ...

Arrangement for entering and displaying user information on a display

Method for improving the security of franking machines

Method and device for opening a security housing

The method involves moving print module (30) in a transverse manner with the help of transverse movement device (5,6,7) into the print position for printing whereby the opening (24) is mechanically plugged into the security housing (4). The module is brought to the change position by moving transversely whereby the entrance to the opening is opened mechanically for change of ink cartridge. An independent claim is also included for the arrangement of the security housing.

Proof of postage digital franking

A proof-of-postage generating system wherein funds, application of those funds, the replenishment of those funds and the auditing of those funds are secure against attempts at fraud. The system may either be a Closed System (CS) wherein the proof-of postage printing means are housed within the system computational means or within a cryptographically secure boundary. Further, the system my be an Open System (OS) wherein the proof-of postage printing means are external to the system computational means.

Method and apparatus for authenticating postage accounting reports

Method and system for returning postage

An error event associated with billed but unusably printed franking imprint having a postage value is detected. The error information is stored and error amount is increased in the information by the postage value. The error information is transmitted to a repayment entity to initiate the repayment for postage value represented in the error information. Independent claims are also included for the following: (1) franking machine; and (2) mail processing arrangement.

Transaction evidencing system and method including post printing and batch processing

A transaction evidencing system and method includes a host processor and an unsecured printer coupled to the host processor. A vault device that includes digital token generation and transaction accounting functions is operatively coupled to the host processor. The vault device generates a digital token in response to a first command from the host processor. The digital token and information relating thereto are stored in storage area in the vault and/or the host processor. The stored digital token and information relating thereto are selectively accessed for generating transaction evidencing indicia corresponding to the stored digital token. The unsecured printing structure prints the transaction evidencing indicia in response to a second command which is issued at a time subsequent to the first command. A batch of digital tokens may be generated and stored in an indexed file in the storage area before any indicia corresponding to the batch of digital tokens are generated and printed. The host processor may be a personal computer and the vault device may be a portable vault card that is removably coupled to the personal computer. The information related to the digital token is postal information including piece count, postage amount and addressee information and the indexed file is indexed according to addressee information.

Method for enhancing franking machines security

The method includes applying for an authorised opening of a franking machine for the purpose of an inspection, an opening application being made after entry into the communication mode (300) at a remote data centre and, in response to the opening application made, a new code word Y' being sent from the data centre to the franking machine which, if it is lacking (step 207), sets the franking machine to a first mode (208) and thus effectively disables it. The franking machine can enter a second mode (steps 203-206) by means of a decision criterion (step 202) in the system routine (200) in order to output a warning and request for communication with the data centre to the user of the franking machine. The data centre monitors the behaviour of the user of the franking machine on the basis of data transmitted during the communication.

Mail processing system with a machine base system controlled by a personal computer

Postage calculation and payment method

METHOD OF PAYING POSTAGE SERVICE IN A FREE MAIL PROCESSING MACHINE

SYSTEM FOR ACCOUNTING FOR POSTAL COSTS

Un système pour comptabiliser les coûts postaux est fourni possédant un terminal d'utilisateur qui forme une interface avec une machine pour affranchir qu'il contrôle. Le terminal de l'utilisateur est également connecté à une unité de lecture-écriture de carte à circuit intégré pour recevoir des cartes de l'utilisateur, de l'administrateur, de l'entretien et/ou des cartes de programmation à circuit intégré. Le terminal de l'utilisateur active et permet l'utilisation d'une machine à affranchir à la présentation d'une carte d'utilisateur valide, enregistre de l'information sur l'utilisation de la machine à affranchir et transmet l'information sur l'utilisation de la machine à affranchir pour enregistrement dans un tableau de transactions de la carte de l'utilisateur. La machine à affranchir utilise l'information enregistrée dans le terminal de l'utilisateur et on peut accéder à la mémoire de la carte de l'utilisateur pour pouvoir la visualiser avec un affichage du terminal de l'utilisateur et/ou avec une imprimante.

Franking machine

Electronic computer-controlled stamp machine-franking device for use in e.g. airport, has Internet site leading central access provider to user i.e. customer, where machine enables control and following of work flows through monitor screen

The franking device has an integrated interface e.g. Bluetooth, combined with a stamp machine through a digital subscriber line (DSL) or the Internet or with a wireless interface through a universal mobile telecommunications system. The stamp machine is equipped with a wireless encrypted receiving and sending unit. An Internet site leads an assigned central access provider from a stamp machine-display e.g. LCD, to a user i.e. customer, where the stamp machine enables the control and following of work flows through an integrated monitor screen.

Postage accounting system including means for transmitting ASCII encoded variable information for driving an external printer

A postage accounting system comprising: structure for accounting for postage; printing structure externally of the accounting structure, the printing structure including a printing module and computer structure for controlling the printing module, the printing module including printing apparatus and structure for sequentially feeding each item of a predetermined plurality thereof to the printing apparatus for printing thereon, the computer structure including structure programmed for sequentially transmitting variable information for each item to the accounting structure, the variable information including at least a portion of a mailing address for each item; the postage accounting structure including structure for connecting the accounting module in communication with the printing structure, the accounting structure including structure for sequentially encrypting the variable information received for each item, the accounting structure including a microprocessor, the microprocessor including structure programmed for transmitting to the printing structure a bit-mapped image of fixed information for printing on each item, and the microprocessor including structure programmed for separately sequentially transmitting to the printing structure an ASCII encoded string of characters corresponding to the sequentially encrypted information for sequentially printing on the respective items.

Method and device for opening a security housing

Verfahren und Anordnung zum Öffnen eines Sicherheitsgehäuses. Das Verfahren zum Öffnen eines Sicherheitsgehäuses ist gekennzeichnet durch eine Autorisierung und Entriegelung, wobei durch Querbewegungsmittel eine Querbewegung des Druckmoduls (30) erfolgt und letzteres in eine zusätzliche Entriegelungsposition gebracht wird, wodurch das Sicherheitsgehäuse (1,2) oder ein Zugang dazu entriegelt wird. Die Anordnung weist ein mechanisches Verriegelungsmittel (29) bzw. -element (43) und ein Druckmodul (30) auf, das querbeweglich zur Transportrichtung (Z) gelagert ist, zur mechanischen Freigabe des Verriegelungsmittels (29) eines Sicherheitsgehäuseteils (1, 2) auf direktem Wege oder auf indirektem Wege, indem das Sicherheitsgehäuseteil (1, 2) erst nachdem ein zusätzliches Sicherheitsgehäuseteil (4) entriegelt wurde freigegeben wird. Das letztere weist ein Verriegelungselement (43) auf, das im Innerem des Sicherheitsgehäuses angeordnet und vom Druckmodul (30) betätigbar ist. Method and arrangement for opening a security housing. The method for opening a security housing is characterized by an authorization and unlocking, transverse movement of the printing module (30) takes place by means of transverse movement means and the latter is brought into an additional unlocking position, whereby the security housing (1, 2) or access to it is unlocked. The arrangement has a mechanical locking means (29) or element (43) and a pressure module (30), which is mounted so that it can move transversely to the direction of transport (Z), for mechanically releasing the locking means (29) of a security housing part (1, 2) directly or indirectly, by only releasing the safety housing part (1, 2) after an additional safety housing part (4) has been unlocked. The latter has a locking element (43) which is arranged inside the security housing and can be actuated by the pressure module (30).

PACKAGE DISPLACEMENT DEVICE AND METHOD FOR IMPLEMENTING SUCH A DEVICE

Two-part franking machine.

POSTAGE MACHINE WITH AN ALARM

POSTAGE MACHINE WITH REMOVABLE PRINTHEAD.

La machine à affranchir est à tête (1) amovible sur une base (2) et comporte un fourreau (12) portant le tambour d'impression (11) de la tête, qui est monté rotatif dans la tête (1) et a son alésage rendu accessible sur un côté arrière de la tête, et une broche (22), qui est montée rotative dans la base (2) et couplée à des moyens internes d'entraînement du contre-rouleau d'impression de la base, et dont une partie terminale dite avant reçoit le fourreau sur elle, pour la mise en place de la tête sur la base et l'entraînement du fourreau et donc du tambour à partir de la base. The postage meter has a head (1) removable on a base (2) and has a sleeve (12) carrying the printing drum (11) of the head, which is rotatably mounted in the head (1) and has its bore made accessible on a rear side of the head, and a spindle (22), which is rotatably mounted in the base (2) and coupled to internal means for driving the print backing roller of the base, and of which a so-called front end portion receives the sheath on it, for positioning the head on the base and driving the sheath and therefore the drum from the base.

Locking device for removable franking machine.

MINIATURIZED POSTAGE MACHINE

The computer-controlled franking apparatus (10) has a printing device, in order to apply ink drops onto a document (14), and a computer, which carries out the control and the data-processing functions of the franking apparatus, and is mounted in a handy housing (24), so that the printing device can be advanced via guide rollers (30, 32) so as to bear on the document (14). The computer is programmed so that it actuates the printing device sequentially during this relative movement. The movement of the printing device relative to the document (14) is determined by a rotating decoder wheel which is arranged on the lower bearing face of the printing device. The wheel is connected to a perforated disc which transmits pulses to it in order to coordinate the exact moment for actuating the printing device. A memory for a preset amount is provided. During each use of the franking apparatus, the microprocessor subtracts the particular printed-on postage amount (18) from the stored preset amount. When the stored preset amount is reduced to a minimum amount, the microprocessor determines the content and emits a signal for switching off the printing device and therefore the franking apparatus.

POSTAL POSTAGE COMPOSER

Customizable user interface for a mailing apparatus

A customizable user interface (21) for a mailing apparatus (20), such as a postage meter or other mailing equipment, provided as input data to a user interface control program (14), the input data specifying all aspects of the look and feel of the user interface. The invention provides a specific organization of the input data suitable for providing the required specifications. At a high level, the data is organized into a screen tree component (32), for providing the feel of each screen, i.e. the response by the mailing apparatus (usually the execution of a function) to any key pressed by a user in association with each screen of the user information as well as for providing what screens to display in response to an event so as to communicate the occurrence of the event to a user; and a screen language component (31), used in conjunction with a font component (30), for providing the look of each screen, i.e. for providing its content and layout, where the characters or symbols to be painted on a screen is specified in the screen language component, and how to paint the characters and symbols is specified in the font component.

Programmable reception apparatus for objects for the purposes of processing them

The installation comprises: - on one hand, a facade 1 opening onto the outside of a premises and offering, accessible to the public, a hatch 2 for receiving objects 8, opening onto a duct 9 going into the said premises, a monitor screen and a computer keyboard and - on the other hand, within the premises, a technical area enclosing a central computer unit functionally linked to the said monitor and keyboard, as well as to a printer set up to deliver at least one identification ticket 18 reflecting the information entered via the said keyboard, and correlation means 11, 13 associating the object 8, 20 received in the said duct 9 and the ticket 18 delivered by the printer. Application to the reception, out of normal working hours, for example, of articles which have to be repaired or cleaned or to self-service postal franking.

SECURITY PRINTER FOR PRINTING VALUES

ON DECRIT UN SYSTEME POUR ASSURER LA SECURITE D'UN DISPOSITIF CONTRE LES FRAUDES PAR INTRUSION ET SANS INTRUSION, CE DISPOSITIF ETANT UNE IMPRIMANTE 17 POUR UTILISATION DANS UN SYSTEME D'IMPRESSION DE VALEURS, TEL QU'UN SYSTEME D'EXPEDITION DU COURRIER. LESYSTEME COMPREND UN MICRO-ORDINATEUR DE DECRYPTAGE DE LA DONNEE D'ENTREE DEVANT ETRE IMPRIMEE EN CONFORMITE AVEC UNE CLEF VALABLE DE CHIFFRAGE, LA DONNEE CRYPTEE ET LA CLEF ETANT FOURNIES PAR UN AUTRE DISPOSITIF, PAR EXEMPLE PAR UN APPAREIL D'AFFRANCHISSEMENT 1. LA CLEF DE CHIFFRAGE EST STOCKEE DANS UNE MEMOIRE ANTI-FRAUDE POUVANT ETRE COUPLEE AU MICRO-ORDINATEUR POUR LUI FOURNIR LA CLEF. DE PLUS, LA MEMOIRE COMPORTE UN FIL DE FAIBLE SECTION DE FACON QUE LA PRESENCE DE CE FIL PUISSE DEFINIR UNE PARTIE DE LA CLEF DE CHIFFRAGE. POUR ASSURER ENCORE LA SECURITE CONTRE LES FRAUDES DU MICRO-ORDINATEUR, LA MEMOIRE ET LE FIL SONT NOYES DANS UN MATERIAU D'ENROBAGE. TOUTE TENTATIVE D'ENLEVEMENT DE CE MATERIAU POUR AVOIR ACCES AUX COMPOSANTS DANS LEQUEL ILS SONT NOYES PROVOQUERA LA RUPTURE DU FIL, CE QUI INVALIDERA LA CLEF DE CHIFFRAGE ET RENDRA LE MICRO-ORDINATEUR INOPERANT POUR DECRYPTER LA DONNEE A IMPRIMER. A SYSTEM FOR ENSURING THE SECURITY OF A DEVICE AGAINST INTRUSION AND NON-INTRUSION FRAUD, THIS DEVICE IS A PRINTER 17 FOR USE IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM, SUCH AS A MAIL DISPATCH SYSTEM. THE SYSTEM INCLUDES A MICROCOMPUTER FOR DECRYPTING THE INPUT DATA TO BE PRINTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH A VALID ENCRYPTION KEY, THE ENCRYPTED DATA AND THE KEY BEING PROVIDED BY ANOTHER DEVICE, FOR EXAMPLE BY A FRANKING DEVICE. ENCRYPTION KEY IS STORED IN AN ANTI-FRAUD MEMORY THAT CAN BE PAIRED TO THE MICRO-COMPUTER TO PROVIDE IT WITH THE KEY. IN ADDITION, THE MEMORY INCLUDES A WIRE OF LOW SECTION SO THAT THE PRESENCE OF THIS WIRE CAN DEFINE PART OF THE ENCRYPTION KEY. TO ENSURE FURTHER SAFETY AGAINST MICROCOMPUTER FRAUD, THE MEMORY AND THE WIRE ARE EMBEDDED IN A WRAP MATERIAL. ANY ATTEMPT TO REMOVE THIS ...

Patent FR2622324B1

POSTAGE COUNTER WITH AN INPUT / OUTPUT CHANNEL NOISE CANCELER

Canal d'entrée/sortie perfectionné destiné à interconnecter une unité de commande de calculateur pour compteur d'affranchissements électronique avec des unités d'entrée/sortie. Il comprend des diodes électroluminescentes pour convertir des signaux électriques de sortie d'unité en signaux optiques et des phototransistors pour convertir les signaux optiques d'entrée d'unité en signaux électriques. Des fibres de transmission de lumière sont utilisées pour transmettre les signaux optiques entre le compteur et les unités d'entrée/sortie. Advanced input / output channel for interconnecting an electronic postage meter calculator control unit with input / output units. It includes light emitting diodes for converting unit output electrical signals to optical signals and phototransistors for converting unit input optical signals to electrical signals. Light transmission fibers are used to transmit optical signals between the meter and the input / output units.

Franking machine with a security locking circuit.

Une machine de traitement de courrier comprenant un dispositif d'alimentation électrique (1) destiné à alimenter au moins un moteur de commande (2), et un circuit de verrouillage de sécurité relié électriquement à un contacteur (3) de capot de la machine et coopérant avec le dispositif d'alimentation électrique en vue de couper cette alimentation lors de l'ouverture du capot de la machine, caractérisée par un dispositif d'alimentation électrique à découpage comprenant au moins un circuit hacheur de puissance (16) ayant une commande (18), et en ce que le circuit de verrouillage de sécurité comprend au moins un relais électromécanique (17) reliant électriquement le circuit hacheur de puissance à sa commande, et constituant un mécanisme intégré de mise en/hors service homologué économique et d'encombrement minimal. A mail processing machine comprising an electrical power supply device (1) for supplying power to at least one drive motor (2), and a safety interlock circuit electrically connected to a cover switch (3) of the machine and cooperating with the power supply device with a view to cutting off this power supply when the cover of the machine is opened, characterized by a switching power supply device comprising at least one power chopper circuit (16) having a control ( 18), and in that the safety interlock circuit comprises at least one electromechanical relay (17) electrically connecting the power chopper circuit to its control, and constituting an integrated mechanism for enabling / disabling approved economical and space-saving minimal.

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AN UNACCOUNTED PRINT IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM

CE SYSTEME POUR DETECTER DES IMPRESSIONS FRAUDULEUSES SUR DES DOCUMENTS COMPREND UN COMPTEUR 1, UN ORDINATEUR CENTRAL 2 ET UN APPAREIL 3 DE VERIFICATION. LE COMPTEUR 1 FOURNIT UN SIGNAL DE VALIDATION A L'ORDINATEUR CENTRAL ET A SON IMPRIMANTE ASSOCIEE. L'IMPRIMANTE IMPRIME ENSUITE DES INFORMATIONS QUI COMPRENNENT DES INFORMATIONS PROVENANT DU SIGNAL DE VALIDATION. LES INFORMATIONS IMPRIMEES SUR UN ARTICLE DE COURRIER PEUVENT ENSUITE ETRE VALIDEES SUR L'APPAREIL 3 DE VERIFICATION EN DETECTANT L'INFORMATION DE VALIDATION FOURNIE PAR LE COMPTEUR 1. LE SYSTEME FOURNIT UN PROCEDE POUR REALISER UN DISPOSITIF COMPTEUR PROTEGE SANS IMPRIMANTE INCORPOREE. CE SYSTEME D'IMPRESSION DE VALEURS EST PROTEGE ET PERMET LA DETECTION D'IMPRIMES FRAUDULEUX SUR UN APPAREIL DE VERIFICATION 3. THIS SYSTEM FOR DETECTING FRAUDULENT PRINTS ON DOCUMENTS INCLUDES COUNTER 1, CENTRAL COMPUTER 2 AND VERIFICATION 3. COUNTER 1 PROVIDES A VALIDATION SIGNAL TO THE CENTRAL COMPUTER AND ITS ASSOCIATED PRINTER. THE PRINTER THEN PRINTS INFORMATION THAT INCLUDES INFORMATION FROM THE VALIDATION SIGNAL. THE INFORMATION PRINTED ON A MAIL ITEM CAN THEN BE VALIDATED ON THE VERIFICATION DEVICE 3 BY DETECTING THE VALIDATION INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE METER 1. THE SYSTEM PROVIDES A PROCESS FOR ACHIEVING A PROTECTED METER DEVICE WITHOUT AN EMBEDDED PRINTER. THIS VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM IS PROTECTED AND ALLOWS THE DETECTION OF FRAUDULENT PRINTS ON A VERIFICATION DEVICE 3.

Patent FR2622325B1

POSTING MACHINE COMPRISING AN ALARM

L'INVENTION S'APPLIQUE A UNE MACHINE A AFFRANCHIR COMPORTANT UN CLAVIER 1, UN AFFICHEUR 2, UNE HORLOGE CALENDRIER 3, UN MICROPROCESSEUR 4, UNE MEMOIRE PROGRAMME 5, UNE MEMOIRE DE TEXTE 6 ET UNE MEMOIRE DE TRAVAIL 7, RELIES PAR UN BUS B. DES MESSAGES PERMETTENT DES OPERATIONS NORMALES D'AFFRANCHISSEMENT ET DES OPERATIONS PARTICULIERES. CES MESSAGES SONT EN MEMOIRE DE TEXTE, ET A CHAQUE MESSAGE CORRESPOND UN PROGRAMME DANS LA MEMOIRE PROGRAMME. LA MACHINE COMPREND UNE ALARME SONORE 8 COMMANDEE PAR LE PROGRAMME D'UN MESSAGE LORSQUE CELUI-CI EST UN MESSAGE D'ALERTE POUR L'OPERATEUR. DES INDICATIONS D'ALARME CONTENUES DANS LE PROGRAMME SONT CHARGEES DANS LA MEMOIRE DE TRAVAIL 7 QUI EST LUE CYCLIQUEMENT PAR UN PROGRAMME SPECIFIQUE D'ALARME SONORE.

POSTAGE APPARATUS HAVING AN ASSEMBLY FOR PROTECTING THE PRINTING MATRIX OF POSTAGE VALUES IN ORDER TO AVOID FRAUDULENT PRINTING

Un module d'appareil d'affranchissement comporte des lames 500, 510 de protection de la matrice afin d'éviter une impression frauduleuse des affranchissements. La première multitude de lames de protection est rétractée de manière à exposer les roues d'impression contigus 310 lorsque l'appareil procède au contrôle de ses conditions internes. Le reste des lames est rétracté dans des conditions différentes alors que les premières lames restent en retrait pour permettre l'impression. De préférence, le reste des lames n'est rétracté que pendant une durée prédéterminée après réception d'un signal d'impression. Les lames de protection de la matrice servent également à aligner les roues d'impression lorsque les lames sont en retrait. A postage meter module has blades 500, 510 for protecting the matrix in order to prevent fraudulent printing of the postage. The first multitude of protective blades is retracted so as to expose the contiguous printing wheels 310 when the device proceeds to check its internal conditions. The rest of the slides are retracted under different conditions while the first slides are left behind to allow printing. Preferably, the rest of the blades are only retracted for a predetermined period of time after receiving a print signal. The matrix protection blades also serve to align the print wheels when the blades are recessed.

Patent FR2051726B1

Modular mailing system

A mailing system includes a mailing machine having a printing mechanism for printing an indication of postage value on a mailpiece and structure for controlling relative movement between the printing mechanism and the mailpiece to ensure the mailpiece is properly positioned relative to the printing mechanism during printing of the indication of postage value; a meter vault having a securely sealed housing, and apparatus, within the securely sealed housing, for accounting for the printed indication of postage value, wherein the meter vault is removably mounted in the mailing machine for easy removal via a plug-in connector; and a printing mechanism control module for securely controlling printing by the printing mechanism based on data received from the meter vault, the printing mechanism control module being removably mounted in the mailing machine for easy removal via a quick disconnect connector; wherein the meter vault and the printing mechanism control module are in electrical communication via the mailing machine. The mailing system can also include ciphered communications between the vault and the printing mechanism.

A method of controlling a printer to obtain postal postage.

L'invention concerne les procédés qui permettent d'utiliser une imprimante de bureau reliée à un micro-ordinateur pour imprimer des marques postales légitimes. Elle consiste à utiliser une cartouche de polices spéciales (104) dans laquelle sont mémorisées les marques d'affranchissement selon les normes prévues pour l'imprimante (102). Un composant de sécurité connu (204) permet d'une part de protéger l'accès à la mémoire (202) contenue dans la cartouche et d'autre part de calculer pour chaque impression d'une marque d'affranchissement une marque de sécurité qui contient de manière cryptée des informations lisibles par l'administration postale permettant d'authentifier la marque d'affranchissement. Elle permet d'éliminer les machines d'affranchissement spécifiques et de limiter la manipulation à celle d'une cartouche de faible dimension. Methods of using a desktop printer attached to a microcomputer to print legitimate postmarks are disclosed. It consists of using a special font cartridge (104) in which the franking marks are stored according to the standards provided for the printer (102). A known security component (204) makes it possible on the one hand to protect access to the memory (202) contained in the cartridge and on the other hand to calculate for each printing of a franking mark a security mark which contains encrypted information readable by the postal administration to authenticate the franking mark. It eliminates the need for specific franking machines and limits handling to that of a small cartridge.

Virtual user interface device for mail processing system, has processing module i.e. microcontroller, controlling action selected by operator at virtual screen based on image of screen and calculated position of point of projection zone

The device has a projection module (32) i.e. LCD projector, for projecting an image of virtual screen on a projection zone (22) of mail processing system. Image formation module (30) generates the image of screen. A co-ordinate acquisition module (34) i.e. image acquisition module, acquires a position of particular point corresponding to impact point of stylus or finger of operator on the zone. A position calculation module (36) calculates the position of point. A processing module (38) i.e. microcontroller, controls action selected by an operator at the screen based on the image and position.

INTEGRATED IMAGE SENSOR IMAGE FEEDING DEVICE

Dans un dispositif (10) d'alimentation en articles de courrier comportant un plateau de réception (12) pour recevoir une pile d'articles de courrier à imprimer, un moyen de sélection (20A, 20B, 20C) pour extraire un à un de cette pile les articles de courrier à imprimer et des rouleaux superposés de transport (22A, 22B ; 24A, 24B) dont des rouleaux mobiles supérieurs pour acheminer vers l'aval les articles de courrier ainsi extraits un à un, il est prévu en outre un moyen mobile de lecture optique (26) disposé en aval du moyen de sélection et se déplaçant en synchronisme avec un (22B) des rouleaux mobiles supérieurs de transport des articles de courrier pour, en liaison avec un moyen de traitement (28), numériser et reconnaître automatiquement des données imprimées sur ces articles de courrier.

METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING A DATA BLOCK

UN SYSTEME D'IMPRESSION DE VALEURS EST DECRIT QUI PERMET LE STOCKAGE DE SIGNES DEVANT ETRE IMPRIMES DANS UN MODULE DE SECURITE D'APPAREIL D'AFFRANCHISSEMENT 2. LE MODULE PERMET EGALEMENT DE CONSERVER EN SECURITE LES DONNEES COMPTABLES DU SYSTEME. AU MODULED'AFFRANCHISSEMENT EST COUPLE UN MODULE D'UNITE CENTRALE QUI EST A SON TOUR COUPLE A UN MODULE D'IMPRIMANTE 17, D'OU IL RESULTE L'IMPRESSION DES SIGNES. LES DEUX MODULES SONT COUPLES ENSEMBLE PAR UN BUS DE COMMUNICATION A HAUTE VITESSE QUI FAIT APPEL A UNE TECHNIQUE DE PERMUTATION DE MEMOIRES POUR TRANSFERER DES BLOCS DE DONNEES BIDIRECTIONNELLEMENT ENTRE LE MODULE D'AFFRANCHISSEMENT ET L'UNITE CENTRALE. APPLICATION AUX DISPOSITIFS D'AFFRANCHISSEMENT DU COURRIER. A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM IS DESCRIBED WHICH ALLOWS THE STORAGE OF SIGNS TO BE PRINTED IN A POSTAGE SECURITY MODULE 2. THE MODULE ALSO ALLOWS THE SAFETY OF THE ACCOUNTING DATA OF THE SYSTEM. TO THE POSTAGE MODULE IS COUPLED A CENTRAL UNIT MODULE WHICH IS IN TURN COUPLED TO A PRINTER MODULE 17, FROM WHERE THE SIGNS ARE PRINTED. THE TWO MODULES ARE COUPLED TOGETHER BY A HIGH SPEED COMMUNICATION BUS WHICH USES A MEMORY SWAP TECHNIQUE TO TRANSFER BLOCKS OF DATA BIDIRECTIONAL BETWEEN THE POSTAGE MODULE AND THE CENTRAL UNIT. APPLICATION TO MAIL POSTAGE DEVICES.

MODULAR MAIL SENDING MACHINE

La machine comprend une multitude de modules, chaque module exécutant une fonction particulière de traitement d'une enveloppe. Les modules sont disposés à l'intérieur d'un poste de traitement. Les modules comprennent un module de balance 13 ayant des moyens pour peser une enveloppe, un module de transport ayant des moyens pour positionner l'enveloppe dans le poste de traitement et l'éjecter de ce poste, un module 15 d'appareil d'affranchissement comportant un moyen d'impression pour imprimer un signe sur l'enveloppe, un module de platine 21 ayant des moyens pour que l'enveloppe vienne en contact avec le moyen d'impression, et un module d'encrage 19 ayant des moyens pour que l'encre soit déposée sur le moyen d'impression du module de l'appareil d'affranchissement. Les modules fonctionnent indépendamment les uns des autres. Un module de bande 17 est incorporé qui comprend des moyens pour positionner une bande afin d'imprimer des signes. Un module de couteau 230 est en outre inclus qui comprend un moyen 242 pour découper une partie de la bande à la suite de l'impression des signes. The machine comprises a multitude of modules, each module performing a particular function of processing an envelope. The modules are placed inside a processing station. The modules include a scale module 13 having means for weighing an envelope, a transport module having means for positioning the envelope in the processing station and ejecting it from this station, a postage meter module 15. comprising printing means for printing a sign on the envelope, a platen module 21 having means for the envelope to come into contact with the printing means, and an inking module 19 having means for ink is deposited on the printing medium of the postage meter module. The modules operate independently of each other. A tape module 17 is incorporated which includes means for positioning a tape to print indicia. A knife module 230 is ...

Automatic distributor of self-adhesive, non-pre-cut postage stamps.

Automatic distribution of self-adhesive non-precut post franking labels

Dans ce distributeur automatique (1) de vignettes (3) d'affranchissement postal comprenant notamment un chemin complexe (7) de guidage d'un ruban auto-adhésif (9) sensible à la pression, et un moyen de coupe (62, 63; 24, 26) monté sur ce chemin, les parties actives de ce moyen de coupe sont revêtues d'une couche d'un matériau composite constitué par un métal à base d'oxydes imprégné d'une matière non métallique polymérisée; et/ou la couche d'adhésif (34) de ce ruban (9) comprend essentiellement au moins un polymère acrylique ou vinylique. Application aux machines de traitement de courrier.

Mail processing system with unique mailpiece authorization assigned in advance of mailpieces entering carrier service mail processing stream

A mailing list is created including destination addresses for mailpieces to be submitted to a carrier service for delivery. A unique mailpiece identifier associated with mailpieces on the mailing list is generated by the carrier or other trusted third party. The unique mailpiece identifier is printed on the mailpiece with which it is associated. The mailpieces with the printed unique identifier are submitted to the carrier service. The carrier service obtains the printed unique identifier from the mailpiece. The obtained unique identifier from each said mailpiece is utilized to verify that data associated with the mailpiece has been processed by the carrier or trusted third party. When the unique number has been obtained from the mailpieces, the carrier service, if desired, may note this fact in the carrier records to prevent reuse of the unique identifier. The carrier service as part of issuing the unique identification may: charge the mailer's account of other fund depository for the carrier service charges associated with the mailpiece; and/or, assign a destination delivery code; and/or, provide address hygiene for the mailpiece; and/or change of address processing. When the unique identifier is obtained from the mailpiece, a delivery point destination code may be printed on the mailpiece, based on the corrected address. As an alternative, the destination delivery code may be provided to the mailer with the unique mailpiece identifier to be printed on themailpiece by the mailer. Various cryptographic techniques may be employed to authenticate the mailer and the carrier service and to protect the transmitted information between the parties. The payment for the carrier services can be implemented prior in time to the entry of the mailpieces to the carrier service mailstream. Unauthorized mailpieces may be out sorted early in the carrier service processing procedure.

METHOD AND DEVICE FOR ENABLING THE DEPOSIT, WITHDRAWAL AND TRANSPORT OF A LETTER AND / OR PACKAGE

ELECTRONIC POSTAGE MACHINE WITH OPERATING MODE SELECTION

HANDHELD PORTABLE PRINTING AND COPYING DEVICE, ESPECIALLY FOR MAILING MACHINES.