EP0576113A2 - Method and device for the guide generation of a safety print - Google Patents

Abstract

In this method, quantities are provided by a control device (6) of the franking machine before a print request, with a) generation of a combination number (KOZ1), b) encryption of the combination number (KOZ1) into a crypto-number (KRZ1) and c) conversion of the crypto-number (KRZ1) into at least one row of marking symbols (MSR1) by means of a set (SSY1) of symbols. An unmistakeable machine readable and manually analysable marking is assembled column by column with the remaining variable data already embedded in the frame data during the printing of the entire franking machine pattern. The symbols are selected from the aspect of good distinguishability and the associated possibility of interpreting the image content of the symbol in speech. <IMAGE>

Description

The invention relates to a method for the rapid generation of a security imprint, in the manner specified in the preamble of claim 1 and an associated arrangement for carrying out the method. The method comprises steps for providing variable data immediately before printing, in particular for forming marking data and for composing constant and variable data for time-optimal printing control of the franking machine for a column-wise printing of a franking machine print image. The method enables, among other things, a quick change of the plate text part by means of editable data stored in the franking machine without interrupting printing.

In particular, the invention relates to franking machines that provide a fully electronic impression for franking mail, including an advertising slogan and a mark. The franking machine is equipped with at least one input means, an output means, an input / output control module, a memory for at least one advertising cliché, a control device and a printer module.

A franking machine generally creates an imprint in a form agreed with the post right-aligned, parallel to the upper edge of the mail item, beginning with the content of the postage value in the postmark, the date in the day stamp and stamp imprints for advertising slogans and, if applicable, the type of shipment in the election print stamp. The post value, the date and the type of shipment form the variable information to be entered according to the piece of mail.

The postage value is the transportation fee paid in advance by the sender, which is taken from a refillable credit register and used to clear the mail item.

The date is a current date or a future date in a postmark. While the current date is automatically provided by a clock / date module, the desired future date must be set in the case of manual pre-dating. Pre-dating is interesting in all cases where the volume of mail is processed and franked very early, but has to be dispatched on a certain date. The variable data for the date can be embedded in the day stamp as well as when the postal value is printed.

The approved advertising clichés can contain a wide variety of messages, in particular the address, the company logo, the mailbox and / or any other message. The advertising cliché is additional information in the postal sense that must be agreed with the postal authority.

It is well known that an advertising message is applied to a fixed printing block that can be replaced by the user. Such a machine provides a distinctive fingerprint. It would be pointless to copy the impression with a modern color copier, because even if the postage value and the serial number are falsified, the unmistakable fingerprint can be used to identify the machine that is being imitated with the intention of forgery. According to a solution described in DE 38 40 041, the non-continuously changing imprints of the clichés are applied to a printing drum and the variable parts of the clichés (characteristic data) are generated electronically and printed on a thermal printer. The characteristic data are assigned to a specific place in the cliché purely mechanically.

As is known, the difficulty of changing advertising messages without reducing the security of charges can be solved purely mechanically by replacing individual line castings carrying a text part. However, this is too time-consuming and would lead to an interruption in printing. On the other hand, such a change would be possible much more quickly with fully electronic impactless printing processes.

A franking machine message printing system is already known from DE 37 12 100, the characters to be printed comprising a postage value and a remotely transmitted message. The electrical postage meter is equipped with a postage meter accounting circuit, which provides the postage value, equipped with a telephone or transmission connection, with a message input device, with a transmission control system, with a printer and with a memory. The memory delivers the message, so the characters to be printed are printed at least in part on the basis of data stored in the memory.

With the transmission control system connected between the transmission port and the memory, the advertising slogan can be selectively changed by the data center when a request is sent to the data center via the transmission port with the message input device, the verification of the coded request in the data center was positive, and the message transmitted by the data center has been checked in the franking machine. It has also already been proposed to allow a third party to advertise in their own mail by letting the space for the franking machine message. A third party message is then transmitted to the data center. The data center must feed the third party's message to the franking machine and also controls the use of the message in the franking machine. However, measures are always required to ensure that the connection is maintained, that the message is authorized and that the data is correct.

It is not possible to change the message without a check in the data center. Since the memory is directly connected to the printer and stores the print data for the message, the user cannot check which print data is currently stored in the memory. The use of the message stored in this way cannot be controlled arbitrarily by the user of the franking machine.

In order to selectively change the advertising message stored in the memory, either the pixel data for the advertising message must be transmitted from a central station in a completely new way, the number of prints being monitored, or the advertising message to be printed is manually entered into a memory using a keyboard, to print the postage, date and text lines one after the other.

The disadvantage here is that when manual input information is changed, the previous old input information is lost. Only advertising messages stored in the head office can then be accessed. Another disadvantage is that the change cannot be made without interruption. The overprint is electronically and mechanically complex. The use of printing drums on the one hand or dot-matrix printers on the other hand also leads to undesirable noise pollution.

The internal structure of the printing drum, which already has dials for the postage value and the date, would also be so complicated that it had already been proposed to arrange a separate second printer in the plate printing drum. From US 3 869 986 it is known to use a second ink jet printer printing the variable data.

From US 4,580,144 an electronic franking machine with two thermal printing devices is known, with the first the fixed printed image part (postal code and picture frame) and the second the variable printed image part (postage and date) being printed one after the other. The printing speed can be increased by this division and separate treatment of the variable and constant data. However, due to the lack of a fingerprint, there is no security imprint per se. Rather, one would have to additional marking can also be printed.

In the case of a franking machine known from US Pat. No. 4,746,234, fixed and variable information is stored in storage means (ROM, RAM) in order to be read out by means of a microprocessor when a letter actuates a microswitch on the transport path in front of the printing position and to send a print control signal form. Both are then electronically assembled into a print image and can be printed out on an envelope to be franked using thermal printing media. With a large number of variable window print image data to be integrated, the formation of the print control signal is delayed accordingly. The maximum print speed that can be achieved with constant postal data is limited in particular by the time required for the formation of the print control signal. An additional material effort would have to be made or the reduction in printing speed would have to be accepted if a crypto number was to be calculated from the data in order to generate a marking for a security print. In both cases, such a machine (high price and / or too slow) would ultimately result in a lack of customer acceptance.

An automatic transmission system with user (chip) cards is known from EP 294 397. The user cards are equipped with a microprocessor and a data output unit. The franking machine has a terminal for the user cards with a value processing section, programming means for a card microprocessor and a processing section microprocessor for executing a programmed handling procedure, a graphic being loaded from the card memory through the terminal into the printer memory. However, the graphics can only be changed as a whole, ie by reloading an externally modified one Postage stamp including postmark using user cards. Security cannot be increased here by new advertising clichés. Such can be easily generated electronically. On the other hand, a changed advertising cliché would indicate manipulation. However, the postal authority has not yet provided for such an evaluation.

DE 38 23 719, on the other hand, discloses a security system for use with a character printing authorization device. A computer of the franking machine is assigned a memory for the data to be loaded, the graphic change and the data of the associated date. When the user searches for a change in funds, the computer of the franking machine accesses an external dialing device via a connection device (modem) which selects a character pattern to be printed. It is envisaged that the printed character pattern will be used to check the security of the authorization of the franking machine. Here, however, the entire printed image having that special character pattern is to be evaluated by the postal authority, which is only possible with great effort.

For franking machine printing, on the other hand, it has already been proposed to apply certain hidden or crypted characters, bar code, to the mail item as visible or invisible markings with several print heads in order to be able to identify forgeries.

For example, in US 4,775,246 an alphanumeric number is printed in US 4,649,266 a single alphanumeric number in a number in addition in the postmark, whereby subjective comparisons by the postal officer of such numbers or numbers are not excluded. In U.S. 4,934,846 (ALCATEL), on the other hand, a machine-readable barcode is already printed in a separate field next to the postage stamp, but this disadvantageously reduces the available printing area for the postmark and / or the advertising cliché.

Such a bar code by means of a separate printer is known from US Pat. No. 4,660,221 and US Pat. No. 4,829,568, the latter US patent also printing a character with offset elements, the offset of which contains the relevant security information. The evaluation is carried out, for example, in US Pat. No. 4,641,346 by reading such a character column by column and comparing it with stored characters column by column in order to recover the security information. The evaluation is accordingly complicated and can only be carried out by the postal authority using complex equipment.

Since the representation of the bar or bar code requires a relatively large amount of space, a two-dimensional bar code has already been proposed. However, the disadvantage remains that bar codes are now only machine, i.e. cannot also be checked manually. A security system known from US 4 949 381 uses imprints in the form of bitmaps in a separate marking field under the franking machine stamp printing. Although the bitmaps are packed particularly densely, the size of the marking field still reduces the height of the stamp image by the height of the marking field. This means that too much of the space required for an advertising cliché is lost. Another disadvantage is the high-resolution detection device required to evaluate the marking.

Another security system uses imprints in the form of a diagram (US Pat. No. 5,075,862) within the Franking machine stamp imprint. If printing elements have failed, the dots are missing in the printed image, which can signal an alleged forgery. Such markings in diagram form within the franking machine stamp imprint are therefore not so secure. Mechanical evaluation is difficult even with an error-free print, since the entire printed image must always be evaluated.

Furthermore, DE 40 03 006 A1 has proposed a method for identifying mail to enable franking machines to be identified, a multi-digit crypto number including the date, the machine parameters, the post value and the advertising slogan being formed and cached separately. The crypto number is additionally inserted into the print pattern during printing via a printer control which sets the printer means. Thus, a counterfeit or any imitation of the franking machine stamp can be identified by means of the crypto number by means of a postage imprint that has not been billed. Even with a large number of users of a single franking machine, the user who manipulated the postage value can easily be found out. However, this is not a fully electronically generated print image for an impact-less printer.

For security reasons alone, DE 40 34 292 has proposed for a fully electronically generated print image to store only a constant part of the franking image in the franking machine and to send the other associated variable part from the data center of the franking machine in order to assemble the final printed image.

For the compilation of print data, communication of the terminal device containing a franking module with a central office is necessary for each franking. This delays printing, which also makes this solution unsuitable for mass franking of large volumes of mail. In this solution, the fully electronically generated advertising cliché is just as much a part of the constant data of the franking image as the frame arrangement of the value and day stamp with location and, if applicable, the postcode. However, the advertising cliché cannot be partially modified in that franking machine.

The aforementioned solutions are either too expensive to achieve a high printing speed or have multiple printers or are unsuitable for time-optimized compilation of constant and variable data to form a print control signal for a single printer.

On the one hand, all previous solutions in which editing can be carried out do not allow a quick, uninterrupted change of an advertising slogan text part, with a high printing speed of up to approx. 6000 letters per hour. On the other hand, each embassy so far only contains the information previously agreed with the postal authority or, if a single message can be selected, a selection of agreed information. Every deviation leads either to the identification of a forgery or to a reduced security against forgery if such a deviation is permitted.

It was therefore an object to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art in order to create a method and an arrangement for the rapid generation of a security imprint.

On the one hand, there was a machine-readable as well as manually readable and decodable form of the identification, which was visible together with the franking imprint can be applied to the mail piece or the franking strip, and on the other hand to develop a solution for assembling constant and quickly editable data for franking machines and for controlling their printing for a column-wise printing of a franking print image.

As an additional function, the cliché should be changed via the actuating elements in the new franking machine, without this requiring prior approval from a data center or through the post office, and without this affecting the security of the billing and without such franking Postgut is sorted out as a forgery at the post office. At the same time, the security against counterfeiting should also be increased.

It should still be possible for the postal authority to easily distinguish between franking machine imprints manipulated with the intention of forgery and those that have not been manipulated but have an editable cliché text part. In addition, there should be a reference to the machine that was mimicked by the manipulator or that was manipulated itself and a reference to the machine that the user continued to operate after the inspection date and / or could be determined from the imprint.

The object is achieved with the characterizing features of claim 1.

Based on the consideration of using a microprocessor and a printing module of a postage meter machine, it is proposed for the security imprint that the variable data of the marking in one or more windows within a fixed by the postage meter printing image in the case of a fully electronically generated printing image given frame when printing. For the time-critical generation of the marking data, at least one combination number of predetermined sizes is formed after the completion of all inputs and this is encrypted according to an encryption algorithm to a crypto number, which is then converted into a marking. Here, at least one number assigned to the higher digits of the combination number is a monotonically variable quantity. As a result, the marking changes with each print, which makes such a franked item of mail unmistakable.

This marking is preferably printed in the form of a bar code and / or as a series of symbols in a field of the franking machine image simultaneously with this by the single printer module. The symbolism in addition to the mechanical one also enables a visual evaluation by a trained examiner who evaluates the form and the conceptual content of the symbols in the post office. The shape of the symbols, with orthogonal edges, enables particularly easy and quick machine readability through an integral measurement of the degree of blackening. Compared to the bar code, the row of symbols achieves a higher density of information and thus saves space in the franking machine print image, or more information can be printed coded using the graphic symbols.

A major reason why the print speed is not reduced, but rather can be increased overall, due to the time required for the formation of the marking data, is the development of a time reserve during printing by the microprocessor of the control device, which performs the columnar embedding of window data.

For the procedure for the rapid creation of a security imprint For franking machines, which generates coded marking data before a print request after editing window data and / or frame data of the franking machine stamp image by the same microprocessor of a control device which takes over the accounting and sequence control, it is therefore provided that a print control signal is generated after a print request by the Marking data converted into binary pixel data during column-by-column printing in the course of a special printing routine are inserted column-by-column in the currently printed column at a predetermined position.

The invention is based on the fact that, after switching on, the postage value in the value print corresponding to the last entry before switching off the franking machine and the date in the day stamp corresponding to the current date are automatically specified that the variable data in the fixed data for the frame for the print and be electronically embedded for all associated data that remain unchanged. These variable data of the window contents are hereinafter referred to briefly as window data and all fixed data for the value stamp, the day stamp and the advertising slogan stamp as framework data. The frame data can be taken from a first memory area of a non-volatile working memory. The window data can be taken from a second memory area for the purpose of combining them into an overall representation of a franking image. According to the invention, the data from the two memory areas are combined in accordance with a freely selectable assignment before printing to form a pixel print image and are completed during printing to form a column of the entire franking machine print image. Those variable data which are embedded in the printing column during printing comprise at least the marking data. The time required for the previous assembly of the entire pixel image with the rest of the data, is reduced accordingly.

The previous composition is similar to the date in the postmark and as with the postage in the value print, whereby the variable information can be added and modified subsequently in the window provided. It is assumed that a variable part of the text can be embedded in a frame for an advertising cliché in the same way as for the other window data and that a window is defined within the overall presentation of the advertising cliché. In order to save time, only those parts of a graphical representation that are actually changed are saved when a change is made.

To prepare a change of the plate text part for franking machines, the method assumes that loading of agreed plate types via MODEM or chip card and selection of a plate type can be carried out in a manner known per se. According to the invention, optional editing of a cliché text part stored in the franking machine and assembly and display of an overall representation and, if appropriate, storage of the edited text part before printing is additionally guaranteed.

According to the invention, the arrangement for changing the cliché text part for franking machines has, in one variant, a pixel memory and a non-volatile working memory with separate memory areas. In addition to the first storage area for the corresponding frame data, the fixed data being assigned to the different cliché types for a selection, the second storage area is provided for window data, inter alia for a number of assignable cliché text parts. The non-volatile memory is available with a device that stores the data in this second Memory area can change automatically in a predetermined manner in connection.

In particular, a message is to be transmitted in an agreed window of a field for an advertising cliché in the franking imprint, the message directly addressing the addressee in plain text. The message can be an alphanumeric text part that has not been agreed with the post office and contains any information, e.g. Contains references to company holidays, trade fairs, conferences and / or public events.

So far, authorization of every change requested by the user has been required by the postal authority. The invention is therefore further based on the consideration of agreeing an approval process for cliché types that can be supplemented in part by the customer, in order to enable the function in the franking machine to change alphanumeric text parts within the cliché in the franking machine. This eliminates the need to request new advertising clichés from the franking machine manufacturer or dealer or its data center each time, and the associated complex security procedure, including the transmission of coded signals for cliché data using a modem, is also eliminated.

On the one hand, a change in the text may not lead to reduced security against counterfeiting and, on the other hand, when checking the franking of postal items which are provided with such a change in the cliché text part, it should not automatically cause the postal items to be rejected as allegedly counterfeited. A corresponding marking is therefore generated for a security imprint, taking into account the fixed franking machine pixel image data, which remain unchanged when the cliché text is edited.

Advantageously, for the modification of a cliché text part, already saved, edited text parts are used, so that the advertising cliché can be partially changed or adapted to the current requirements during the ongoing printing of a stack of mail, without causing an interruption in printing.

According to the invention, it is proposed to transfer hexadecimal frame data, window data and assignment data into the respective separate memory areas of an additional non-volatile working memory and to store them there in order to display the printed image before printing and to be able to edit the cliché text parts. It is then transferred to the volatile pixel memory and the window data is classified according to the assignment data in the frame data. Here, however, it is possible through the invention to work in a time-optimized manner, so that the printing speed becomes high.

Figur 1,

Blockschaltbild einer ersten Variante der erfindungsgemäßen Frankiermaschine,

Figur 2,

Ablaufplan für die Druckbilderstellung nach einer zweiten Variante der erfindungsgemäßen Frankiermaschine mit drei Pixelspeicherbereichen,

Figur 3a,

Darstellung eines Sicherheitsabdruckes mit einem Markierungsfeld

Figur 3b bis 3e,

Weitere Varianten der Anordnung von Markierungsfeldern für Sicherheitsabdruck

Figur 3f,

Darstellung eines Satzes an Symbolen für ein Markierungsfeld im Werbeklischee

Figur 4,

Sicherheitsabdruck-Auswerteeinrichtung,

Figur 5,

Ablaufplan nach einer dritten Variante der erfindungsgemäßen Frankiermaschine mit zwei Pixelspeicherbereichen,

Figur 6,

Ablaufplan nach einer vierten Variante der erfindungsgemäßen Frankiermaschine mit einem Pixelspeicherbereich,

Figur 7,

Postwertzeichenbild mit zugeordneten Druckspalten,

Figur 8,

Darstellung der auf ein Pixelspeicherbild bezogenen und davon getrennt gespeicherten Fensterkennwerte,

Figur 9a,

Decodierung der Steuercode, Dekomprimierung und Laden der festen Rahmendaten sowie Bildung und Speicherung der Fensterkennwerte,

Figur 9b,

Einbettung von dekomprimierten aktuellen Fensterdaten vom Typ 1 in die dekomprimierten Rahmendaten nach dem Start der Frankiermaschine bzw. nach dem Editieren von Rahmendaten,

Figur 9c,

Einbettung von dekomprimierten variablen Fensterdaten vom Typ 1 in die dekomprimierten Rahmendaten nach dem Editieren dieser Fensterdaten vom Typ 1,

Figur 10,

Bildung neuer codierter Fensterdaten vom Typ 2 für ein Markierungsbild,

Figur 11,

Decodierung von Steuercode und Umsetzung in dekomprimierte binäre Fensterdaten vom Typ 2,

Figur 12,

Druckroutine für das Zusammensetzen von Daten aus den Pixelspeicherbereichen I und II,

Figur 13,

Druckroutine für das Zusammensetzen aus einem Pixelspeicherbereich I und Arbeitsspeicherbereichen entnommenen Daten,

Die Figur 1 zeigt ein Blockschaltbild der erfindungsgemäßen Frankiermaschine mit einem Druckermodul 1 für ein vollelektronisch erzeugtes Frankierbild, das ein Werbeklischee und/oder eine Markierung für einen Sicherheitsabdruck enthält, mit mindestens einem Betätigungselemente aufweisenden Eingabemittel 2, und mit einer Anzeigeeinheit 3, die beide über einen Ein/Ausgabe-Steuermodul 4 gekoppelt sind, einem nichtflüchtigen Speicher 5 für mindestens die konstanten Teile des Frankierbildes sowie mit einer Steuereinrichtung 6. Ein Charakterspeicher 9 liefert die nötigen Druckdaten für den flüchtigen Arbeitsspeicher 7. Die Steuereinrichtung 6 weist einen Mikroprozessor µP auf, der mit dem Ein/Ausgabe-Steuermodul 4, mit dem Charakterspeicher 9, mit dem flüchtigen Arbeitsspeicher 7 und mit dem nichtflüchtigen Arbeitspeicher 5, mit einem Kostenstellenspeicher 10, mit einem Programmspeicher 11, mit einer Transport- bzw. Vorschubvorrichtung ggf. mit Streifenauslösung 12, einem Encoder (Codierscheibe) 13 sowie mit einem Uhren/Datums-Baustein 8 in Verbindung steht.Advantageous developments of the invention are characterized in the subclaims or are shown below together with the description of the preferred embodiment of the invention with reference to the figures. Show it:

Figure 1,

Block diagram of a first variant of the franking machine according to the invention,

Figure 2,

Flow chart for the creation of print images according to a second variant of the franking machine according to the invention with three pixel memory areas,

Figure 3a,

Representation of a security imprint with a check box

3b to 3e,

Further variants of the arrangement of marking fields for security imprint

Figure 3f,

Representation of a set of symbols for a marking field in the advertising cliché

Figure 4,

Safety imprint evaluation device,

Figure 5,

Flow chart according to a third variant of the franking machine according to the invention with two pixel memory areas,

Figure 6,

Flow chart according to a fourth variant of the franking machine according to the invention with a pixel memory area,

Figure 7,

Postage stamp image with assigned printing columns,

Figure 8,

Representation of the window parameters relating to a pixel memory image and stored separately therefrom,

Figure 9a,

Decoding of the control code, decompression and loading of the fixed frame data as well as formation and storage of the window parameters,

Figure 9b,

Embedding of decompressed current window data of type 1 in the decompressed frame data after starting the franking machine or after editing frame data,

Figure 9c,

Embedding decompressed variable window data of type 1 in the decompressed frame data after editing this window data of type 1,

Figure 10,

Formation of new coded window data of type 2 for a marking image,

Figure 11,

Decoding of control code and conversion into decompressed binary window data of type 2,

Figure 12,

Print routine for the compilation of data from the pixel memory areas I and II,

Figure 13,

Print routine for the compilation of data taken from a pixel memory area I and working memory areas,

1 shows a block diagram of the franking machine according to the invention with a printer module 1 for a fully electronically generated franking image, which contains an advertising slogan and / or a marking for a security imprint, with at least one input means 2 having actuating elements, and with a display unit 3, both of which have a An input / output control module 4 are coupled, a non-volatile memory 5 for at least the constant parts of the franking image and with a control device 6. A character memory 9 supplies the necessary print data for the volatile working memory 7. The control device 6 has a microprocessor μP which is associated with the input / output control module 4, with the character memory 9, with the volatile working memory 7 and with the non-volatile working memory 5, with a cost center memory 10, with a program memory 11, with a transport or feed device, optionally with a strip release 12, an enco the (coding disc) 13 and a clock / date module 8 is connected.

All alphanumeric characters or symbols are stored in pixel memory 9 as binary data. Data for alphanumeric characters or symbols are in the non-volatile working memory 5 compressed in the form of a hexadecimal number. Corresponding to the position report provided by the encoder 13 about the advance of the postal matter or paper strip in relation to the printer module 1, the compressed data are read from the working memory 5 and converted with the aid of the character memory 9 into a printed image having binary pixel data, which in such a decompressed form is volatile Memory 7 is saved. Working memories 7a, 7b and pixel memory 7c are used below to explain the invention, although this is physically preferably a single memory chip.

The working memory 7b and the pixel memory 7c are connected to the printer module 1 via a printer controller 14 having a print register (DR) 15 and an output logic. The pixel memory 7c is connected on the output side to a first input of the printer controller 14, at whose further control inputs there are output signals from the microprocessor control device 6.

The arrangement for the rapid generation of a security imprint for franking machines has, in the non-volatile working memory 5, a first memory area A (for the data of the constant parts of the franking image, among other things, the advertising slogan frame, an associated indication i identifying the respective frame), and a pixel memory area I in volatile pixel memory 7c. For a quick change of the window data, in particular for a quick change of the cliché text part, there is a second memory area B in the non-volatile working memory 5 and a pixel memory area II in the pixel memory 7c for the selected decompressed data of the variable parts of the franking image. A stored block of cliché text is further identified by an assigned name or indication j.

The data for a first assignment of the names of the cliché text parts to the names of the cliché frames are available in a third memory area C of the non-volatile working memory 5. This assignment enables the data records in memory areas A and B to be addressed and called up automatically.

The memory areas A to T in the non-volatile working memory 5 can contain a large number of sub-memory areas, under which the respective data are stored in data records. The sub memory areas A _i are provided for i = 1 to m frame or fixed data, B _j for j = 1 to n window data and B _k for k = 1 to p window data, different assignments between the sub memory areas of the different memory areas being selectable and / or are stored in a predetermined manner.

The strings of numbers (sTrings) that are entered for the generation of the input data with a keyboard 2 or via an electronic balance - not shown in FIG. 1 - connected to the input / output device 4 and calculating the postal value are automatically stored in the memory area T of the non-volatile memory 5 stored. This ensures that the last input values are retained even when the franking machine is switched off, so that after switching on the postage value in the value print is automatically specified in accordance with the last entry before the franking machine was switched off and the date in the day stamp in accordance with the current date. In addition, data records of the sub memory areas, for example A _i , B _j , C etc., are also retained. In each data record of a sub memory area A _i , B _j or B _k , control code and run length-coded frame or window data are alternately contained one after the other.

The corresponding temporary assignment of window to frame data is made by the control device 6 having a microprocessor after switching on in accordance with the current or the specified future date. Before printing, the respective selected frame data for the advertising slogan stamp, for the postmark and for the postage stamp in the registers 100, 110, 120, ..., of a volatile working memory 7a are taken from the non-volatile working memory 5, control code being decoded during the taking and be stored in a separate memory area of the working memory 7b. The respective selected window data are also loaded into registers 200, 210, 220, .... The registers of sub-memory areas are preferably formed in the memory area of the main memory 7a. In another variant, these aforementioned registers are part of the microprocessor control 6.

Decompression converts the runtime-encoded hexadecimal data into corresponding binary pixel data. The decompressed binary pixel data that remain unchanged over a longer period of time are transferred to a first pixel memory area I and the binary pixel data that change frequently are transferred to a second pixel memory area II. FIG. 1 shows a block diagram for such a first variant of the solution according to the invention.

New frame and / or window data can be selected as long as there is still no print request after the insertion and storage of binary pixel data in the first pixel memory area I and the selection of editable window data with subsequent decompression and their storage as binary pixel data in the second pixel memory area II .

For example, a large number of the same letters are to be provided with the same date and postage free, with the same cliché text part which is loaded into the second pixel memory area II being able to be exchanged at the same moment as the input was made. It is particularly advantageous if the security markings are also accommodated in such a window in the postage stamp or in the day stamp or between the two stamps. The pixel memory area II is reloaded with the decompressed window data, which correspond to the selected ones stored compressed in the memory areas of the main memory 5, before printing. The combination with the other binary pixel data stored in the pixel memory area I is preferably carried out after a print request has been made during a print routine. The printing need not be interrupted to select the cliché text part data. The invention thus enables a quick, uninterrupted change of the advertising slogan text part and the marking, up to a printing speed of approx. 6000 letters per hour, for example based on the 16 bit processor technology.

The number of printed letters with the respective above The setting of the advertising cliché is registered in the franking machine for later evaluation.

In a further embodiment of this first variant, a large number of separate pixel memory areas for frame and window pixel data are provided in a manner not shown in the figures. The window data relate to the current postage (postage) and franking machine-specific data (serial number) in the Franking stamp, the date or additional suitable data (absolute time or number of pieces) in the postmark, editable cliché text part data in the cliché stamp. The composition of the frame and window pixel data takes place again - as in the first variant - during the execution of a special printing routine.

FIG. 2 shows a second variant of the solution according to the invention. In addition, specially generated encrypted marking data stored in a sixth memory area F can be used for marking. The arrangement for changing the cliché text part for franking machines now has three separate memory areas in the pixel memory. In addition to the first storage area I for the data of the cliché type (frame), the postal value and the current date and the second storage area II for assignable multiple cliché text part data, a third storage area III is provided for the marking data. The device which can change the data in this first, second and third memory area is the same microprocessor of the control device 6 which also executes the accounting routine and the printing routine. The data from the three storage areas are combined according to a predetermined (freely selectable within certain limits) assignment during printing to an overall representation of an advertising slogan.

In particular, in a modification of the solution shown in DE 40 03 006 A1, marking of postal items on the basis of a crypto number generated marking to enable identification of franking machines can be carried out without difficulty if the multi-digit crypto number is not included, including the data values stored as a hexadecimal number entire clichés, but only taking into account selected data values from the cliché framework and Further data, such as how the machine parameter of the value setting and the date is formed and temporarily stored.

It is assumed that not only numerical or numerical values, such as the number of the advertising cliché used, but data values of the image information are used to form the encrypted information. In contrast to DE-PS 40 03 006, any area of the advertising slogan to which separate data in a data record are assigned can be used to form the crypto number. For this purpose, individual data are selected from this data set. It is advantageous that the end of the column is identified as a control code for each column to be printed, which follows the hexadecimal data encoded with run length. The run length-coded hexadecimal data at the first position in the data record can preferably be used.

In a further development of the solution according to the invention, the associated data of the column-wise regional image information is selected from the data set by a physical quantity present and / or generated in the machine, in particular by the current date, in order to extract at least a number of data (hexadecimal numbers).

Furthermore, several data records can also be assigned to each advertising slogan number, with each data record having the data relating to a partial area of the advertising slogan. A physical quantity present and / or generated in the machine is used to select the data record with the associated data of the columnar regional image information in order to extract at least a number of data (hexadecimal numbers).

Preferably, those run length-coded hexadecimal data corresponding to a predetermined print column are combined with at least some of the data of the machine parameters (serial number, monotonously variable size, time data, inspection data, such as the number of prints during the last inspection) and the postage value into a number in special - in 10 - Combined and encrypted.

When new coded window data is formed before it is stored in the third memory area III, the DES algorithm (Data Encryption Standard) for encryption and, in addition, a conversion into a special graphic character set can be used for a high security standard.

However, other encryption methods and methods for converting the crypto number into a marking are also suitable.

Depending on the amount of information coded, a bar code may take up a considerable amount of space in the franking machine print image or force the franking machine imprint to enlarge, or it may not be possible to reproduce all the information in the bar code imprint.

According to the invention, a particularly compact print consisting of special graphic symbols is used.

A label, for example formed from symbols to be printed, can be placed in front of, behind, under u./o. be printed over a field within the actual franking stamp imprint. According to the invention, this is a human as well machine-readable marking.

A letter envelope 17 transported under the printer module 1 is printed with a franking machine stamp image. In this case, the marking field is located in a line which is advantageous for evaluation in a line below the fields for the value stamp, for the day stamp, for the advertising slogan and, if appropriate, in the field for the optional print addition of the franking machine stamp image.

From a representation of a first example of the security imprint, shown in FIG. 3a, it can be seen that there is good readability for manual evaluation and machine readability with good recognition reliability.

The marking field is located in a window FE 6 arranged within the franking machine print image under the day stamp. The value stamp containing the postage value in a first window FE 1 and the machine serial number in a second and third window FE 2 and FE 3 may have a reference field in a Window FE 7 and, if applicable, the number of the advertising cliché in a window FE 9. The reference field is used for pre-synchronization for reading the graphic character string and for obtaining a reference value for the light / dark threshold in the case of a machine evaluation. A pre-synchronization for reading the graphic character string is also achieved by and / or in connection with the frame, in particular the postage stamp or value stamp.

The fourth window FE 4 in the day stamp contains the current date or the predated date entered in special cases. Below that is an eighth window FE 8 for a compressed precise time indication, in particular for high-performance franking machines with tenths of a second. This ensures that no print is the same as another print, making counterfeiting by copying the print with a copier is pointless.

A fifth window FE 5 is provided in the advertising cliché for an editable advertising cliché text part.

FIG. 3b shows the representation of a security imprint with a marking field in the columns between the value stamp and the day stamp, the upstream vertical part of the frame of the value stamp serving for pre-synchronization and possibly as a reference field. A separate window FE7 is therefore not necessary. In this variant, the marking data can be acquired almost simultaneously with a vertical arrangement of the symbol row in a shorter time.

It is also possible to save additional windows for the open, unencrypted imprint compared to the windows shown in FIG. 3a. On the other hand, the printing speed can be increased because fewer windows have to be embedded in the frame data before printing and the formation of marking data can therefore begin earlier. To achieve simple copy protection, the crypted print using marking symbols is sufficient, without an open, unencrypted print of the absolute time in a window FE8. In the marking field FE 6, the marking data, which are generated on the basis of at least the post value and such a time count, are already sufficient, as will be explained below with reference to FIG. 10.

In a third example, shown in FIG. 3c, for the security imprint, in addition to In the variant shown in FIG. 3b, a further marking field is arranged in the postmark under the window FE 1 for the postage value. Here, further information, for example about the number of the selected advertising cliché, can be communicated unencrypted but in a machine-readable form.

In FIG. 3d, in a fourth example for the security imprint, two further marking fields are arranged in the postmark below and above the window FE 1 for the postage value.

In FIG. 3e, in a fifth example for the security imprint, two further marking fields are arranged in the postmark below and above the window FE 1 for the postage value. The marking field, which is arranged in the postmark above the window FE 1 for the postage value, has a bar code. This allows further information, for example about the number of the selected advertising cliché, to be communicated unencrypted but in a machine-readable form.

With a smaller number of available symbols set, more symbols have to be printed for the same information. Then a row of symbols can be made either in two lines or in the form of a combination of the variants shown in FIGS. 3a to 3e.

The form of marking is freely compatible with any postal authority. Any general change of the marking image or the arrangement of the marking field is possible without any problems due to the electronic printing principle.

The arrangement for the rapid generation of a security imprint for franking machines permits a fully electronically generated franking image which is generated from fixed data by the microprocessor-controlled printing process and current data was formed. For this purpose, a third memory area C is provided in the non-volatile working memory, in which data are available for a first assignment of the names of the variable parts to the names of the constant parts. In contrast, the data for the constant parts of the franking image, which relate to at least the frame of an advertising slogan, are stored in a first memory area A _i , an assigned name identifying the cliché frame, and the data for the variable parts of the franking image are in a second memory area B _j or for marking data is stored in a memory area B _k , an assigned name identifying the variable part.

At predetermined intervals, for example regularly with each inspection of the franking machine, the set of symbols - shown in FIG. 3f - can also be changed or exchanged in order to further increase the security against forgery.

FIG. 3f shows a representation of a set of symbols for a marking field, the symbols being designed in a suitable manner so that both mechanical and visual evaluation by trained personnel in the postal authority is made possible.

To increase the security against counterfeiting, a set of symbols is used that is not included in the standard character set of conventional printing devices.

According to the invention, a higher information density compared to a bar code saves space when the symbols are printed. It is sufficient to distinguish between 10 degrees of blackening, for example, to make the information display shorter by a factor of three compared to the ZIP CODE to reach. This results in ten symbols, with the degree of blackening differing by 10% in each case. With a reduction to five symbols, the degree of blackening can differ by 20%, but it is necessary to increase the number of symbols to be printed considerably if the same information as the symbol set shown in FIG. 3f is to be reproduced. A sentence with a higher number of symbols is also conceivable. Then the row or rows of symbols is shortened accordingly, however, the recognition reliability is also reduced accordingly, so that suitable evaluation devices of digital image processing, for example those with edge detection, are then required. Due to the continuous use of orthogonal edges and the omission of curves, sufficient detection reliability is achieved with simple algorithms of digital image processing. Detection systems of this type use, for example, commercially available line-scan CCD cameras and image processing programs supported by personal computers.

Another advantage over a bar code is the good legibility of the individual symbols in the marking field, which is due to the symbolic nature of the image content, and the possibility of linguistically recording the image content for manual evaluation.

In the preferred variant, the marking field is arranged at least under or in a field of the franking machine stamp image and a line of such symbols is printed below and simultaneously with the franking stamp impression. The character memory 9 converts a crypto number into a symbol-containing identifier. In particular, one is determined by a further physical variable, advantageously by the Post value, selected list that uses graphic symbols for the individual crypto numbers. The encrypted hexadecimal data is decompressed by means of the character memory in order to print the identifier formed from the symbols to be printed. This is also a machine-readable marking.

The mechanical identification of the symbols in the license plate can be done in two variants: a) via the integrally measured degree of blackening of each symbol or b) via edge detection for symbols.

The quantized difference in degree of blackening between the symbols enables simple mechanical evaluation without complex pattern recognition. For this purpose, a suitably focused photo detector is arranged in a reading device.

This simple machine evaluation is possible even with different colored envelopes. A reference value is derived from the reference field to compensate for different measured values obtained, the differences between which are based on the different printing conditions or paper types. The reference value is used to evaluate the degree of blackening. With this reference value obtained, a relative insensitivity to failed printing elements, for example a thermal bar 16 in the printer module 1, can advantageously be achieved.

The advantage of a symbol set of the specified type used is that, depending on the requirements of the respective national postal authority, an authentic franking stamp can be identified in a simple manner mechanically (for example by integrally measuring the degree of blackening of the symbols) and / or manually using the conceptual contents of the symbols .

The lists, which are created for each serial number or each user and are preferably stored in databases of the data center for all franking machines, contain data values for each variable which are used to check the authenticity of a franking. Thus, on the one hand, the assignment of the symbols to the listed valences and, on the other hand, in the case of another set of symbols (not shown in FIG. 3f), the assignment of meaning and degree of blackening can be defined differently for different users.

A corresponding evaluation device 23, shown in FIG. 4, for manual identification has a computer 26 with a suitable program in the memory 28, input and output devices 25 and 27. The evaluation device 23 used at the respective postal authority is connected to a data center 21 (not shown in FIG. 4).

• a) visuelles Erfassen der Seriennummer und deren Eingabe über eine Eingabeeinrichtung 25,
• b) visuelles Erfassen des Postwertes und Eingabe über die Eingabeeinrichtung 25,
• c) visuelles Erfassen der graphischen Symbole und Eingabe über eine entsprechend gekennzeichnete Funktionstasten aufweisende Eingabeeinrichtung 25,
• d) Start einer automatischen Auswertung, ggf. in Zusammenwirken mit einem Datenzentrum 21 und Signalisierung des Vergleichsergebnisses oder Anzeige mindestens eines Teils der aus der Markierung zurückgewonnenen Größen zur manuellen Überprüfung durch einen Prüfer der Postbehörde.

A suitable procedure for checking security prints consists of the following steps:

• a) visual detection of the serial number and its input via an input device 25,
• b) visual detection of the postage value and input via the input device 25,
• c) visual detection of the graphic symbols and input via an input device 25 having correspondingly labeled function keys,
• d) Start of an automatic evaluation, possibly in cooperation with a data center 21 and signaling the comparison result or displaying at least some of the quantities recovered from the marking for manual checking by an inspector of the postal authority.

In a first evaluation variant, the trained tester manually or by means of a suitable reading device 24 automatically enters the graphic symbols one after the other in order to convert the marking printed on the mail item (letter) back into at least one first crypto number KRZ1. Here, the actuating elements, in particular the keyboard, of the input device can be identified with the symbols in order to facilitate manual input.

In a second step, the openly printed sizes from the franking machine stamp image, in particular G0 for the serial number SN of the franking machine, G1 for the advertising cliché (frame) number WRN, G2 for the date DAT and G3 for the postage value PW, G4 do not become Repeating time data ZEIT and from at least one size G5 INS known only to the franking machine manufacturer and / or the data center and communicated to the postal authority are used at least partially to form at least one comparison crypto number VKRZ1.

The verification is carried out in a third step by comparing the crypto numbers KRZ1 with VKRZ1 in the computer 26 of the evaluation device 23, a signal for authorization in the case of equality or the non-authorization in the event of a negative comparison result (inequality) being emitted.

A second evaluation variant consists in recovering the individual information from the printed marking and comparing it with the information printed open on the mail piece. If the crypto numbers for the marking were generated according to a symmetrical algorithm (for example DES algorithm), then after the first step of the first evaluation variant, the crypto number can be generated again Output number can be generated. The starting number is a combination number KOZ and contains the number combination of at least two sizes, one size being represented by the upper digits of the combination number KOZ and the other size by the lower digits of the KOZ. The part of the number combination that is to be evaluated - for example, the postage - is separated and displayed. Thus, the second and third steps of the first evaluation variant are omitted here.

A device equipped with an appropriate program (laptop) is sufficient for evaluation. In this case, variables G1, possibly G4 and at least one quantity G5 known only to the franking machine manufacturer and / or the data center and communicated to the postal authority and not communicable from the franking machine stamp image can also be encrypted. These are also recovered from the marking by decryption and can then be compared with the user-specific saved values. The lists stored in the memory 28 can be updated via a connection to the data center 21. Further details are given in connection with step 45, shown in FIG. 10, of forming new coded window data of "type 2" for a marking image.

In a third evaluation variant, variables G0, G2, G3 and G4 are manually or automatically entered into the evaluation device by the operator in order to derive a crypto number using the same key and encryption algorithm used in the franking machine. A marking generated from this is displayed and compared by the operator with the marking printed on the postal matter (envelope). This is due to the symbolism of those shown in the output unit 25 and printed on the postal matter Markings against.

If an uncomplicated (possibly simple asymmetrical) encryption algorithm is used, a purely mechanically acting template can be produced, for example - which is not shown in the figures - and which is set accordingly and displays individual symbols. In addition to the frame number of the advertising cliché frame that is recognizable for the viewer, the serial number, the date from the postmark and the postage value from the franking stamp must be set. A row of symbols formed from this is displayed and can be compared with the row of symbols shown in the marking field. The check is carried out by comparing the markings in order to determine whether there is equality or not if the comparison result is negative (inequality).

The first size G1 is the advertising slogan frame number WRN, which the inspector recognizes from the franking stamp image. In addition to the user, this first size is also known to the franking machine manufacturer and / or data center and is communicated to the postal authority. In a variant, preferably with a data connection to the data center, the advertising slogan frames WR _n belonging to the serial number SN of the respective franking machine with assigned numbers WRN _n are displayed on a screen of the data output device 27. The comparison with the advertising slogan frame WR _b used on the letter is made by the examiner, who enters the number WRN _n determined in this way.

The stored lists transferred from the data center into the memory 28 contain on the one hand the current assignment of the parts of the advertising cliché frame WRNT to a second size G2 (for example the date DAT) and on the other hand the assignment of symbol lists to a third size G3 (for example that Post value PW). In addition, a list of parts SNT of the serial number SN selected by the first size G1, in particular the advertising cliché (frame) number WRN, can be present. User-specific information, such as the advertising slogan frame number WRN, can be used for the manual evaluation of the marking on a random basis, in that decoding lists can be selected on the basis of the user-specific information, which contain corresponding data records. The size G2 (DAT) is then used to determine the byte from the data record which is used when generating the combination number.

In the preferred variant, a monotony test is used on the one hand to check the unmistakability of the impression. The examiner takes the serial number SN from the windows FE2 and FE3 of the impression and determines the franking machine user. The advertising slogan number can also be used here, since these are usually assigned to certain cost centers if the same machine is used by different users. In the above Lists are data from the last check, among others. also data from the last inspection entered. Such data are, for example, the number of pieces if the machine has an absolute piece count, or the absolute time data if the machine has an absolute time count.

In the first test step, the correctness of the printed postage value is checked in accordance with the valid regulations of the postal authority. Subsequent manipulation of the value print can be detected with fraudulent intent. The monotony of the data, in particular that in window FE8, is then checked in the second test step. This allows copies of a franking imprint to be identified. Manipulation for counterfeiting is therefore not promising, since this data is additionally printed in the form of a crypted row of symbols in at least one marking field.

In the case of an absolute time or piece count, the number given in window FE8 must have increased since the last check. In the FE8 window, nine digits are shown, which allows the display of a period of approximately 30 years with a resolution of seconds. Only after this time would the counter overflow. These sizes can be recovered from the marking in order to compare them with the open, unencrypted sizes.

In a third optional test step, the manipulation can also be used to check and determine the other variables, in particular the serial number SN of the franking machine, and, if necessary, the cost center of the user.

The information, such as the advertising slogan (frame) number WRN, on the other hand, can be indicated by a predetermined window FE9. The associated window data is of type 1, i.e. they are changed less often than window data of type 2, such as the time data in window FE8 and the marking data in window FE6.

In a further embodiment variant, the data of the windows FE8 and FE9 are not printed openly unencrypted, but are only used for encryption. Therefore, the windows FE8 and FE9 shown in FIG. 3a are missing in the franking machine print images - shown in FIGS. 3b to 3e - in order to clarify these variants.

In a preferred input variant for the test, the temporarily variable variables to be entered, for example the advertising cliché (frame) number WRN, are The date DAT, the postage value PW, time data TIME and the serial number SN are automatically detected and read by means of a reader 24 from the corresponding field of the franking machine stamp image. The arrangement of the windows in the franking machine imprint must be observed in a predetermined manner.

Other temporarily variable sizes assigned to the respective serial number SN are only known to the franking machine manufacturer and / or data center and are communicated to the postal authority. For example, the defined number of frankings achieved during the last inspection serves as a fifth size G5.

All sizes to be entered, except for sizes G1, G4 and G5, must be evident from the individual windows FE _{j of} the franking machine stamp image. The size G5 forms, for example, the key for the encryption, which is changed at predetermined time intervals, ie after each inspection of the franking machine. These time intervals are dimensioned such that even when using modern analysis methods, for example differential cryptanalysis, it is certainly not possible to reconstruct the original information from the markings in the marking field in order to subsequently produce counterfeit stamp images.

For example, size G1 corresponds to an advertising cliché (frame) number. Corresponding number strings (sTrings) for window or frame input data are stored in the sub-memory areas T _i , T _{j of} the working memory 5 of the franking machine.

The sizes G0, G2 and G3 correspond, for example, to the window data stored in the sub-memory areas T _{j of} the main memory 5 of the postage meter machine, the size G0 in the windows FE2 and FE3 from the Sub memory areas T₂ and T₃, the size G2 in the window FE4 from the sub memory area T₄ and the size G3 in the window FE1 from the sub memory area T₁ comes from.

• a) Laden vereinbarter Klischeerahmen über MODEM oder Chipkarte,
• b) Selektieren eines Klischeerahmens,
• c) Editieren eines Klischeetextteils, das vor dem Frankieren automatisch abgespeichert wird,
• d) Zusammensetzen und Anzeige einer Gesamtdarstellung des Frankierbildes,

Falls die Schritte a) bis c) bereits vorher durchgeführt worden sind, können die abgespeicherten Klischeerahmen mit den eingesetzten Klischeetextteilen sofort angezeigt und ausgewählt werden, um ein Wechsel im Klischee oder der Kombination eines Klischees mit dem ausgewählten Klischeetextteil ohne eine Druckunterbrechung zu bewirken.The following steps are provided for changing the cliché text part for franking machines:

• a) Loading agreed cliché frames via MODEM or chip card,
• b) selecting a cliché frame,
• c) editing a part of the cliché text that is automatically saved before franking,
• d) assembling and displaying an overall representation of the franking image,

If steps a) to c) have already been carried out beforehand, the saved cliché frames with the cliché text parts used can be displayed and selected immediately in order to change the cliché or to combine a cliché with the selected cliché text part without interrupting printing.

It is furthermore provided that in the display unit 3 of the franking machine for the selection of a cliché frame, a number of names of the cliché frames or a clear representation for the selection of the cliché frames with an associated cliché or standard text part takes place from a pixel memory. By acknowledging the selection, at least one of the variable text parts for FE5 is assigned to the respective cliché frame. The selected cliché text part can be edited with simultaneous plain text on the display using the actuating elements. After editing a cliché text part for the window FE5 and assembling and displaying an overall representation of one The franked image automatically saves the edited text part before franking, a new data record or a new assignment of the edited text part to the cliché frame being stored in the memory areas B₅ or C.

The windows within the overall display of the advertising cliché are defined in such a way that only those parts of a graphic display that are actually changed are saved in a separate sub-storage area B₅ in the event of a change. The data of the window contents can be taken from the storage area B for the purpose of assembling them into an overall representation of a franking image. A run length coding of graphic data was provided in at least one area of the non-volatile working memory 5, the first code of each line of the coding indicating the number of pixels to be printed per column and control codes, for example for the window start of the respective window (types 1 or 2), Column end, picture end in hexadecimal notation are present.

The cliché frame data and the data for the variable cliché text parts are taken from the memory areas A _i and B₅ if necessary, taking into account the assignment. A plurality of data records for the cliché text parts are preferably stored in the sub-memory areas B₅. At the start, the user enters his cost center, whereby a predetermined cliché frame data set is selected from the storage area A _i . Since the selectable cliché frames are each assigned to a cost center KST and / or a second assignment of the cliché type number to cost centers is stored in a fourth memory area D, the control device 6 can carry out the predetermined compilation of the print image data.

It is envisaged that the names of the first Memory area A stored cliché frames are composed of the number KN of cost center K and a type number TN that the names of the cliché text parts, which are stored in a second sub-memory area B,, are determined by the current date at the time of generation and possibly by the time UZ and that the data for the first assignment in the third memory area C are determined by storing both the name of the cliché frame containing the cost center number KN and the type number TN, and the name of the cliché text part containing a date DAT and possibly a time UZ. Depending on the selected cost center, an assignment is found in the memory area D and a predetermined data set for the cliché _{frame is} selected from A _i . The associated cliché text part can be addressed on the basis of the assignment given in the memory area C in the memory area B₅ and then automatically transferred to the memory area 7a of the volatile working memory 7 intended for this purpose.

It is further provided that the display required for a selection of clichés in the display unit 3 is only made from the names of those cliché frames for which there are assignments in the third memory area C that fall within a defined period of time. A cliché frame without an existing assignment of a name to a cliché text part name cannot be displayed. The assignment can e.g. refer to the period of the current year. After the name has been selected and an acknowledgment has been made, the corresponding cliché frame is displayed in clear form.

The names of parts of the cliché text are displayed in the window provided for that field of the display unit 3, in which the clear representation of the cliché frame is also visible.

For another variant of the display, for a better selection of cliché text parts, the clear representations of the cliché text parts should appear in succession in an order determined by the time data of the name in the window of the field of the display unit.

In a preferred variant, the defined time period is determined by the selectable time data in the data of the assignment of cliché parts, in particular such time data as e.g. the month and / or the year, given automatically in relation to the current date supplied by a clock / date module 8.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the inventive concept there is an assignment in a fifth memory area E which relates to a freely programmable defined period in which the time data in the data of the assignments of cliché text parts to cliché frames are related to the current date.

In the sub-memory areas B₅ B₆ and B₇ of the working memory 5 of the franking machine, the stored window data for an advertising slogan text part, a marking field and possibly for a reference field are available. It should be noted that in some of the sub-memory areas of the main memory 5 of the franking machine identified as B _k , the window data are written and / or read out more often than in other sub-memory areas. If the non-volatile working memory is an EEPROM, a special storage method can be used to ensure that it remains safely below the limit number of storage cycles that is permitted for it. On the other hand, a battery-backed RAM can also be used for the non-volatile working memory 5.

The window data which can be changed less in time is referred to below as window data of type 1. In contrast, type 2 window data is used to refer to the constantly changing window data.

In comparison to the second variant shown in FIG. 2, FIG. 5 now shows a third variant of the solution according to the invention, the method being based on the presence of two pixel memory areas shown in FIG. 1.

According to the frequency of change of data, decoded binary frame and window data are stored in two pixel storage areas before printing. The type 1 window data, such as the date, serial number of the franking machine and the cliché text part that is not to be constantly changed, can be decompressed together with the frame data in binary data before printing and combined to form a pixel image stored in the pixel memory area I. In contrast, constantly changing type 2 window data is decompressed and stored as binary window data in the second pixel memory area II before printing. Window data of type 2 are the postage and transport-dependent postage value to be printed and / or the constantly changing marking. After a print request, the binary pixel data from the pixel memory areas I and II are combined to form a print column control signal for each column of the print image during the course of a print routine.

After the start in step 40, the input of the cost center in step 41 results in an automatic input of the window and frame data that was last saved and in step 42 a corresponding display. In the manner described above, a cliché text part that corresponds to a specific advertising cliché assigned is automatically specified.

In step 43, frame data in register 100, 110, 120,... Of the volatile working memory 7a are adopted and control code is detected and stored in the volatile working memory 7b. The remaining frame data are decompressed and stored in the volatile pixel memory 7c as binary pixel data. Likewise, the window data are loaded into registers 200, 210, 220, ..., of the volatile working memory 7a, and control code is detected and stored in the volatile working memory 7b, and the other window data are accordingly stored in columns in the volatile pixel memory 7c after they have been decompressed.

In Figure 9a, the decoding of the control code, decompression and loading of the fixed frame data as well as the formation and storage of the window parameters and in Figure 9b the embedding of decompressed current window data of type 1 in the decompressed frame data after the start of the franking machine or shown in detail after editing frame data.

In step 44, either the decompressed frame and window data of type I are stored as binary pixel data in the Pichel storage area I and can be processed further in step 45, or frame and / or window data is re-entered. In the latter case, a branch is made to step 51.

In step 51, the microprocessor determines whether an input has been made via the input means 2 in order to replace window data, for example for the postage value, with a new one or to replace or edit window data, for example for a cliché text line. If such an entry has been made, the necessary sub-steps for the inputs are carried out in step 52, ie a finished other data record is selected (cliché text parts) and / or a new data record is generated which contains the data for the individual characters (numbers and / or letters) of the input size.

In step 53, corresponding data records are called up for a display for checking the input data and are provided for the subsequent step 54 for reloading the pixel memory area I with the window data of type 1.

FIG. 9c shows step 54 for embedding decompressed variable window data of type 1 in the decompressed frame data after a new entry or after editing this window data of type 1. The data from data records called up according to the input are evaluated in order to detect control codes for a "color change" or a "column end" which are necessary for embedding the newly entered window data. Then, those data that are not control codes are decompressed into binary window pixel data and embedded in the pixel memory area I in columns.

On the other hand, if it was determined in step 51 that no window data should be selected or edited, a branch is made to step 55. In step 55, the possibility of changing the fixed advertising slogan or frame data leads to a step 56 in order to carry out the input of the currently selected frame data sets together with the window data sets. Otherwise, the process branches to step 44.

If a new input of selected special sizes is to take place, a flag is set in step 44 and taken into account in the subsequent step 45 for the formation of data for a new row of marking symbols if a step 45b is to be processed here according to a second variant.

The new coded window data of type 2 is formed in step 45. The marking data for a window FE6 are preferably generated here, preceding steps for encrypting data to generate a crypto number being included. In this step 45, a shape as a bar code and / or symbol chain is also provided. The formation of new coded window data of type 2 for a marking image is explained in two variants with reference to FIG. 10. In a first variant, a monotonously variable size is processed in a step 45a, so that ultimately each print is unmistakable due to the printed symbol row. In a second variant, other sizes are processed in a step 45b before step 45a.

The correspondingly formed data record for the marking data is then loaded into an area F and / or at least in a sub-memory area B₆ of the non-volatile working memory 5 and overwrites the previously saved data record for which window characteristic values have already been determined or are predetermined and are only now be stored in the volatile working memory 7b. The sub-memory area B₁₀ is preferably provided for a data record which leads to the printing of a second row of marking symbols, as is shown in FIGS. 3c and 3d. In addition, double rows of symbols can also be printed side by side - in a manner not shown in FIG. 3b. The area F is preferably provided for a data record which leads to the printing of a bar code, as is shown in FIG. 3e.

In step 46, the data of the data record is transferred byte by byte for the marking in registers of the volatile working memory 7a and the control characters "color change" and "column end" are detected, in order then to decode the remaining data of the data record and to decode the binary window pixel data of the type 2 to load into the pixel memory area II of the volatile working memory 7c. FIG. 11 shows in detail the decoding of control code and conversion into decompressed binary window data of type 2. Such type 2 window data are identified in particular by the index k and relate to the data for the window FE6, possibly FE10 for marking data and possibly FE8 for the TIME data of the absolute time count. The time data in particular represents a monotonously changeable, since time-dependent, increasing quantity. First, BCD-packed time data delivered from the clock / date module 8 are, if appropriate, converted into a suitable data record containing runtime-coded hexadecimal data. Now they can also be stored in a memory area B₈ for window data FE8 of type 2 and / or loaded immediately in step 46 into register 200 of the working memory 7a or into the print register 15 in columns.

In step 47, if a print request has been made, the step 48 containing a print routine is waited for and if the print request has not yet taken place, the print request is waited in a waiting loop. In one embodiment, the waiting loop - as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 - is directly traced back to the beginning of step 47. In another embodiment, the waiting loop is - in a manner not shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 - returned to the beginning of step 44 or 45.

The print routine - shown in detail in FIG. 12 - carried out in step 48 for the compilation of print column data from the pixel memory areas I and II takes place while the print register (DR) 15 is being loaded. The printer controller (DS) 14 effects immediately after loading the Print register (DR) 15 a print of the loaded print column. It is then checked in step 50 whether all columns for a franking machine print image are printed by comparing the current address Z with the stored end address Z _end . If the printing routine has been carried out for a piece of mail, a branch is made to step 57. Otherwise, the process branches back to step 48 in order to generate and print the next print column until the print routine has ended.

If the printing routine has ended, a check is carried out in step 57 as to whether further mail items are to be franked. If this is the case, then franking is ended in step 60. Otherwise the end of printing has not yet been reached and the process branches back to step 51.

FIG. 6 shows a fourth variant of the solution according to the invention, in which, in deviation from the block diagram according to FIG. 1, only one pixel memory area I is used. Decoded binary frame data and window data of type 1 are assembled and stored in this pixel memory area I before printing. The steps are identical except for step 46, which is saved here in this variant according to FIG. 6, and step 48, which is replaced here by step 49. Up to step 46, there is essentially the same sequence in the sequence.

In FIG. 13, the printing routine for compiling data taken from a pixel memory area I and working memory areas is discussed in more detail.

The constantly changing type 2 window data is decompressed in step 49 during the printing of each column and, together with the binary pixel data to be printed column by column, is combined from the pixel memory area I to form a printing column control signal. Type 2 window data are, for example, the postage and transport-dependent postage value to be printed and / or the constantly changing marking.

Using a postage stamp image shown in FIG. 7 and the data of the print control signal assigned to a print column, its generation from the frame and window data is explained. A letter envelope 17 is moved under the printing module 1 of an electronic franking machine at the speed v in the direction of the arrow and thereby printed in columns s 1 beginning in a column-like manner with the postage stamp image shown. The printer module 1 has, for example, a print bar 16 with a number of print elements d1 to d240. Ink-jet or a thermal transfer printing principle, for example the ETR printing principle (Electroresistive Termal Transfer Ribbon), can be used for printing.

A column s _f to be printed has a printing pattern 30 to be printed, which consists of colored printing dots and non-colored printing dots. A colored printing dot is printed by a printing element. In contrast, the non-colored printing dots are not printed. The first two printing dots in the printing column s _f are colored in order to print the frame 18 of the postage stamp image 30. Then alternate 15 non-colored (ie not active) and 3 colored (ie active) printing dots until a first window FE1 is reached, in which the postage (postage) is to be inserted. This is followed by a range from 104 non-colored pressure dots to the end of the column. A such run length coding is implemented in the data set by means of hexadecimal numbers. The space requirement is minimized by having all the data in such a compressed form.

With "QQ" hexadecimal data, 256 bits can be generated. If the required control code bits are subtracted from this, less than 256 bits remain for driving the dots generating means.

However, if additional control characters "00" causing a color change are used, even more than 256 dots can be controlled, but more memory space is now required in the sub-memory area A _{i of} the main memory 5. The exemplary embodiments according to FIGS. 9, 11, 12 and 13 are designed for such a high-resolution printer module.

Control characters "00" are provided for color changes. This means that a subsequent hexadecimal number is still considered colored (f: = 1), which would otherwise be considered non-colored. A reset color flip-flop (f: = 0) is set when the color changes (f: = 1) and switched again the next time the color changes (f: = 0). With this principle, 256 dots or more can be addressed. The register 15 in the print controller 14 is loaded bit by bit from the pixel memory (e.g. for a print column with N = 240 dots).

Other control characters are "FE" for the end of the column, "FF" for the end of the image, "F1" for the start of the window of the first window FE1, etc.

In the following example chosen to explain FIG. 7, less memory space is required in the ROM compared to a print column to be controlled with more than 240 dots, since the control characters are placed favorably. For hexadecimal data "01", "02", ..., "QQ", ... "F0" are 1 up to 240 dot ("F0" = [F * 16¹] + [0 * 16⁰] = [15 * 16] + [1] = 241) can be controlled.

The control code "00" for color changes can theoretically be omitted here, since with a single hexadecimal number "F0" an entire print column of 240 dots with the same coloring can be completely defined. Nevertheless, if there is only an imperceptible additional memory requirement, a color change can also make sense for several windows in one column.

According to this method, a data record for the pressure column s _f results in the form shown in sections:
... "2", "0D", "02", "4F", "F1", "68", "FE", ..., ...

When transferred to a register 100 of the µP controller 6, control characters are detected from hexadecimal numbers "QQ" and evaluated in the course of a step 43.

In this evaluation, window characteristic values Z _j , T _j , Y _j or Z _k , T _k , Y _{k are also} generated and together with specified values for the start address Z₀, end address Z _end and the total run length R, ie the number of print columns required binary data, stored in volatile memory RAM 7b.

A maximum of 13 windows could be called for the 13 control characters "F1" to "FD" and the start addresses determined. For example, with "F6" for the start of a window FE6 of type 2, a start address Z₆ can be determined and saved as a window parameter.

FIG. 8 shows the window characteristic values relating to a pixel memory image and stored separately therefrom for a first window FE1. The window has a window column run length Y₁ = 40 pixels and a number of columns of approximately 120, which is stored as a window column variable T₁. If the window start address Z 1 is stored as the destination address, the position of the window FE1 in the binary pixel image can be reconstructed at any time.

Binary data converted from the registers 100, 200 are read bit by bit into the volatile pixel memory RAM 7c, with an address being assigned to each bit. If the hexadecimal number loaded in the register is a detected control character "F2", the window characteristic value Z _{j is determined} for a start address of the window of No. j = 2 with a total of n windows. This means that window data can later be inserted into the frame data at this point identified by the address. It is the window column run _length Y _j <R total run length of the print column. From the addition with R the new address can be created in the same row but in the next column.

FIG. 9a shows the decoding of the control code, decompression and loading of the fixed frame data as well as the formation and storage of the window characteristic values. A control code "color change" was taken into account when considering the creation of very high-resolution prints. A color flip-flop 1 must therefore be reset to f: = 0 in a first sub-step 4310. The source address H _i for finding the frame data is initially H _i : = H _i - 1 and the destination address Z: = Z₀.

For the window data of type 1, the window column variable T _j : = 0 is set in sub-step 4311, for j = 1 to n windows and for the window data type 2, the window column variable T _k : = 0 for k = 1 to p windows. In sub-step 4312 the source address H _i incremented for frame data and a color change performed so that the initial data byte is evaluated as colored, for example, which later leads to correspondingly activated printing elements.

The above-mentioned byte, which is a run-length-coded hexadecimal number for frame data, is now transferred in sub-step 4313 from the area A _{i of} the non-volatile memory 5 which is automatically selected by the cost center KST to a register 100 of the volatile memory 7a. Control characters are detected and a run length variable X is reset to zero.

A control character "00" for a color change is recognized in sub-step 4314, which leads to a color change after branching back to sub-step 4312, i.e. the next hexadecimal number encoded by the run length deactivates the printing elements according to the run length. Otherwise, it is determined in sub-step 4315 whether there is a control character "FF" for the end of the image. If one is recognized, point d has been reached in accordance with FIGS. 5 or 6 and step 43 has been processed.

Otherwise, if such a control character "FF" for end of image is not recognized in sub-step 4315, it is checked in sub-step 4316 whether there is a control character "FE" for an end of column. If one is recognized, the color flip-flop 1 is reset in sub-step 4319 and a branch is made to sub-step 4312, in order then to load the byte for the next printing column in sub-step 4313. If there is no end of column, it is determined in sub-step 4317 whether there is a control character for a window of type 2. If one has been recognized, a branch is made to sub-step 4322. Otherwise, it is examined in sub-step 4318 whether there is a control character for type 1 windows. Should that be the case, a point c 1 is reached at which a step 43 b - shown in FIG. 9 b - is carried out.

If no control character for window data of type 1 is recognized in sub-step 4318, then the run-length-coded frame data are present in the called byte, which are decoded in sub-step 4320 and converted into binary frame pixel data and stored in the pixel memory area I of the pixel memory 7 c under the set address Z. In the following sub-step 4321, the column run length variable X is determined in accordance with the number of bits converted and then the target address for the pixel memory area I is increased by this variable X. A point b has thus been reached and in order to call a new byte, the process branches back to sub-step 4312.

In sub-step 4322, if there is a control character for window data of type 2, the storage of window characteristic values T _{k is carried out} . If a window characteristic value, in this case the window column run variable T _{k is} still at the initial value zero, the window start address Z _k corresponding to the address Z is determined in a sub-step 4323 and stored in the volatile working memory 7b. Otherwise, a branch is made to a sub-step 4324. Sub-step 4323 is also followed by sub-step 4324, in which the window characteristic value of the window column variable T _{k is} incremented. In the subsequent sub-step 4325, the previous window column variable T _k stored in the volatile main memory 7b is overwritten with the current value, and the point b is reached.

The window parameters are thus loaded for k = 1 to p windows, in particular FE6 and possibly FE10 or FE8. Then the process branches back to sub-step 4312 in order to load a new byte in sub-step 4313. The from the Hexadecimal data converted bits (dot = 1) are thus adopted in the step 43a - shown in FIG. 9a - byte by byte into the pixel memory area I of the volatile pixel memory 7c and stored one after the other as binary data.

FIG. 9b shows the embedding of decompressed current window data of type 1 in the decompressed frame data after the start of the franking machine or after editing frame data. Assuming a control character for windows of type 1 was recognized in sub-step 4318, the point c 1 and thus the beginning of step 43 b is reached.

In step 4330, the storage of window parameters T _{j is} determined. If a window characteristic value, in this case the window column run variable T _{j is} still at the initial value zero, the window start address Z _j corresponding to the address Z is determined in a sub-step 4331 and stored in the volatile working memory 7b. Otherwise, a branch is made to a sub-step 4332. Sub-step 4331 is also followed by sub-step 4332, in which the window characteristic of the window column run length Y _j and the window column run length variable W _j to an initial value of zero, and the window source address U _j to the initial value U _oj -1 and the second color flip-flop for windows "do not print in color".

In the subsequent sub-step 4333, the previous window source address U _{j is} incremented and a color change is carried out, so that any window bytes that are loaded in the subsequent sub-step 4334 are evaluated as colored, which subsequently leads to activated printing elements during printing.

In sub-step 4334, a byte from the sub-memory areas B _{j is} stored in the non-volatile main memory 5 in Register 200 of volatile main memory 7a is loaded and thereby detected for control characters.

In sub-step 4335, the window column run length Y _j is incremented by the value of the window column run length variable W _j . In sub-step 4336 it is determined whether there is a control character "00" for color changes. If one has been recognized, the process branches back to sub-step 4333. Otherwise, it is examined in sub-step 4337 whether there is a control character "FE" for the end of the column. If this is not the case, window data is available. In a sub-step 4338, the content of the register 200 is decoded with the help of the character memory 9 and the binary window pixel data corresponding to this byte is stored in the pixel memory area I of the pixel memory 7c.

The window column run length variable W _j is then determined in a sub-step 4339 to increment the address Z to the value of variable W _j. The new address is thus available for a new byte of the data record to be converted, and a branch is made back to sub-step 4333, in which the new source address for a byte of the data record for window FEj is also generated.

If a control character "FE" for a column end was recognized in sub-step 4337, a branch is made to sub-step 4340, in which the window column variable T _{j is} incremented and the volatile working memory 7b stored window column variable T _j and the window column run length Y _{j are} overwritten with the current value. A color change is then carried out in sub-step 4341 and point b has been reached.

This completes step 43b and new framework data could be implemented in step 43a. if a next window is not recognized or point d has been reached.

FIG. 9c shows the embedding of decompressed variable window data of type 1 in the decompressed frame data after editing this window data of type 1. As has already been shown, pixel memory data and window characteristics have already been stored before the start of step 54.
The sub-step 5440 begins with the determination of the number n 'of windows for which the data has been changed and a determination of the associated window start address Z _j and window column variable T _j for each window FEj. A window counter variable q is also set to zero.

In sub-step 5441 it is determined whether the value of the window counter variable q has already reached the value of the number of window changes n '. If there are zero changes, ie n '= 0, the comparison is positive and point d is reached. Otherwise, a branch is made to sub-step 5442, the window start address Z _j and the window column variable T _{j being taken} from the volatile working memory 6b for a first window FEj whose data has been changed. In addition, the source address U _{j is set} to an initial value U _oj -1, the target address Z _{j is used} to address the pixel memory area I, a window column counter P _j and the second color flip-flop are reset to the initial value zero.

In the following sub-step 5443, the source address is incremented and a color change is carried out before the sub-step 5444 is reached. In sub-step 5444, a byte of the changed data record is called up in the non-volatile memory and transferred to the register 200 of the volatile memory 7a, control characters being detected. With a control character "00" for Color change is branched back to sub-step 5443 in sub-step 5445. Otherwise, a branch is made to sub-step 5446 to search for control characters "FE" for the end of a column. However, if such a control character is not present, the content of register 200 can be decoded in the following sub-step 5447 with the cooperation of character memory 9 and converted into binary pixel data for the window to be changed. These now replace the previous pixel data stored in area I of the pixel memory 7c from the position predetermined by the window start address Z _j . The bits converted in this way are counted as window run length variable W _j , with which the target address V _{j is} incremented in sub-step 5448. The method then branches back to sub-step 5443 in order to load the next byte in sub-step 5444.

However, if a control character "FE" for the end of the column is recognized in sub-step 5446, then a branch is made to sub-step 5449, in which the window column counter Pj is incremented.

In sub-step 5450 it is examined whether the window characteristic value for the associated window column variable T _{j has been} reached by the window column counter P _j . Then, for a first changed window, all change data would be loaded into the pixel memory area I and branching back to the sub-step 5453 and from there to the sub-step 5441 in order to transfer change data into the pixel memory area I for a possibly second window. For this purpose, the window counter variable q is incremented in sub-step 5453 and the subsequent window start address Z _{j + 1} and the subsequent window column variable T _{j + 1 are} determined.

Otherwise, if in step 5450 the window column variable T _j has not yet been reached by the window column counter P _j , branches back to sub-step 5443 via sub-steps 5451 and 5452 in order to overwrite a further window column in the pixel memory area until the old binary window pixel memory data has been completely replaced by the new one. For this purpose, the target address for the data in the pixel memory area I is incremented by the frame total column length R in sub-step 5451. The target address V _j is thus set to the next column for binary pixel data of the window in the pixel memory area I. In sub-step 5452, the color flip-flop is reset to zero, so that the conversion begins with pixel data that is rated as color. If no further new entry is determined in step 44, new coded window data of type 2 can now be formed in step 45 for a marking image, in particular according to a first variant with step 45a.

Step 45 comprises further sub-steps, shown in FIG. 10, for forming new coded window data of type 2 for a marking image.
While there is already decompressed binary pixel data in the pixel memory area I, after step 44 in step 45 the output data for the data records containing the compressed data for the windows FEj and possibly for the frame data are required again in order to generate new coded window data of type 2 for one To form a series of marking symbols. The individual output data (or input data) are stored in the memory areas T _w as a BCD-packed number in accordance with the respective sizes G _w . In addition to the data records stored non-volatile in the sub-memory areas A _i and B _j, the data for a data record for window FEk of type 2 are now compiled in several steps and stored non-volatile in a sub-memory area B _k .

• a) Generierung einer Kombinationszahl KOZ1, wobei eine stetig monoton veränderbare Größe G4 zur Bildung von ersten zusammenhängenden Stellen und mindestens eine das Postgut charakterisierende weitere Größe G3 zur Bildung von zweiten zusammenhängenden Stellen der Kombinationszahl KOZ1 zur Verfügung gestellt werden,
• b) Verschlüsselung der Kombinationszahl KOZ1 zu einer Kryptozahl KRZ1,
• c) Umsetzen der Kryptozahl KRZ1 in mindestens eine Markierungssymbolreihe MSR1 anhand eines Satzes SSY1 an Symbolen.

After the provision of quantities, the method for the rapid generation of a security print comprises a sub-step 45a carried out by the microprocessor of the control device 6 of the franking machine before a print request (step 47), comprising the sub-steps:

• a) Generation of a combination number KOZ1, whereby a constantly monotonically variable variable G4 for forming first connected positions and at least one further quantity G3 characterizing the mail item are provided for forming second connected positions of the combination number KOZ1,
• b) encryption of the combination number KOZ1 to a crypto number KRZ1,
• c) converting the crypto number KRZ1 into at least one marking symbol row MSR1 using a set SSY1 of symbols.

In a first variant 1, a row of marking symbols is generated in a step 45a. In the manner according to the invention, at least some of the sizes are used in the postage meter machine to form a single number combination (sub-step 451) due to the amount of information by the sizes G0 to G5, which are only intended to be partially printed in the franking machine stamp image in an unencrypted manner a single crypto number is encrypted (sub-step 452) and then converted into a marking to be printed on the postal matter (sub-step 453). The data record to be generated for the marking in a window FE6 can be stored in a final sub-step 454. Then point c₃ is reached. This first variant, executed in partial step 45a, saves the time that would otherwise be required in the franking machine for generating further crypto numbers.

It is envisaged that the continuously monotonically variable variable G _{w is} at least one ascending or descending machine parameter, in particular a time count or its complement during the life of the franking machine.

It is advantageous if a machine parameter is time-dependent, in particular if it comprises a variable G4a characterizing the decreasing battery voltage of the battery-supported memory and a second continuously monotonically decreasing variable G4b or the respective complements of the variables G4a and G4b.

It is further provided in one variant that the second, continuously monotonically decreasing variable G4b is the complement of the number of pieces or a continuously monotonously decreasing, time-dependent variable.

On the one hand, it is provided in a variant that the continuously monotonically decreasing quantity is a numerical value corresponding to the next inspection date (INS) and a continuously monotonously falling time-dependent quantity.

On the other hand, it is envisaged that a continuously monotonically increasing quantity includes the date or the number of pieces determined during the last inspection.

As has already been explained in more detail, it is advantageous if the control device 6 provides part of a quantity G0, G1 which characterizes the user of the franking machine in order to form third contiguous digits of the combination number KOZ1.

In sub-step 451, the upper 10 digits of the combination number KOZ1 for the TIME data (size G4) and the lower 4 digits for the postal value (size G3) are preferably provided from the memory areas T _w . This results in a combination number with 14 digits, which would then have to be encrypted. When using the DES algorithm, a maximum of 8 bytes, ie 16 digits, can be encrypted at once. This means that the combination number KOZ1 can be supplemented by a further size in the direction of the least significant digits. For example, the supplementary part can be a part of the serial number SN or the number WRN of the advertising slogan frame or the byte that is selected from the data record of the advertising slogan frame depending on a further size.

This combination number KOZ1 can be encoded in a sub-step 452 in about 210 ms into a crypto number KRZ1, a number of further steps known per se taking place here. Then, in sub-step 453, the crypto number KRZ1 is to be converted into a corresponding symbol row on the basis of a predetermined marking list stored in the memory areas M of the non-volatile working memory 5. In this case, in particular the increased information density which is so advantageous for later printing can be achieved.

Even if a set of 10 symbols - shown in FIG. 3f - is used, i.e. without an increase in the information density compared to the crypto number KRZ1, but two rows of markings (next to each other or one below the other) are printed, additional symbols could remain with which further information could be displayed unencrypted or encrypted. In this case, it is preferably information that does not change or changes only slightly, and only needs to be encrypted once and converted into a symbol row. This is preferably the size G5, ie inspection data (INS), for example the date of the last inspection or the rest of the serial number SN or SN and the byte of the data record of the advertising slogan frame, which was not included in the first combination number KOZ1, or selected predetermined parts thereof. In FIG. 3c, a row with 20 symbols each is depicted in windows FE6 and FE10, arranged here orthogonally to one another, with which, for example, the total of 8 bytes, ie 16 digits, the crypto number KRZ1 and further information may be unencrypted or in some other way are encrypted.

A second variant with a step 45b in addition to step 45a differs from the first variant in other output or input variables which have to be considered in the same way. In the second variant, a row of marking symbols is generated in succession in two steps 45b and 45a, step 45b being carried out analogously to step 45a.

In a first sub-step 450 of the step 45 carried out by the control device 6, it is checked whether a flag has been set in order to cause sub-steps 45b and / or 45a to be carried out.
that in step 45b a second combination number KOZ2 having at least the other part of the size G0, G1 characterizing the user of the franking machine is formed, then encoded to a second crypto number KRZ2 and then converted into at least one second marking symbol row MSR2 using a second set SSY2 of symbols .

Compared to sub-step 451, a combination number KOZ2 is formed in sub-step 455, wherein here in particular the sizes for other parts of the serial number, for advertising cliché (frame) number, and other sizes can be included. As in sub-step 452, a crypto number KOZ2 is formed in sub-step 456. In sub-step 457, the transformation into a series of marking symbols then takes place, which is temporarily stored in non-volatile manner in sub-step 458.

Sub-step 45a, which comprises sub-steps 451 to 453, then takes place. If necessary, this can be connected by a sub-step 454. Then point c₃ is reached.

In spite of twice using the DES algorithm, time is saved because an evaluation is carried out in a first sub-step 450 to determine whether the selected quantities required for forming the series of marking symbols in sub-step 45b have been changed by an input. In the case of new input of selected special sizes, a flag would be set in step 44 and taken into account in the subsequent formation of data for a new series of marking symbols in order to process step 45b here. If this is not the case, then it is possible to fall back on marking symbol rows which have already been formed and are stored in a non-volatile manner in a memory area 458 or parts of the marking symbol row.

In one embodiment variant, an encryption algorithm other than the DES is used in sub-step 456 to save time.

In an advantageous embodiment variant, a transformation is carried out in sub-step 453 of the first variant or in sub-step 457 of the second variant in order to additionally increase the information density of the marking symbol series compared to the crypto number KRZ1 or KRZ2. For example, in the case of a crypto number with 16 digits, a set of 22 symbols is now used in order to represent the information by means of only 12 digits - in the manner shown in FIG. 3b. The row of marking symbols shown there must be doubled for two crypto numbers. This can be done by means of a further marking symbol row lying parallel to the marking symbol row shown in FIG. 3b happen.

Correspondingly, it can further be shown that only a symbol set comprising 14 symbols is required for a row of marking symbols of 14 digits. The previously described check in the postal authority of mail items having such marking symbol rows can consequently - after the second evaluation variant - by transforming the marking symbol row back into crypto numbers KRZ1 or KRZ2, the subsequent decoding of them into combination numbers KOZ1 and possibly KOZ2, the individual sizes of which correspond to those on the Postage in the franking image are compared to printed sizes.

A row of marking symbols - as has been shown in FIG. 3a - is designed for 10 digits and can represent a crypto number KRZ1 if the symbol set has 40 symbols. Fully automated input and evaluation is useful here - even to avoid subjective errors by the examiner when recognizing the symbols.

In a step following step 45, the data of a data record for the marking symbol row are then embedded in the remaining pixel data after their decompression. According to the invention, two different options are provided for this. One possibility is explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 11, another with reference to FIG. 13.

FIG. 11 explains step 46 in FIG. 5 in particular. In a sub-step 4660, window parameters Z _k and T _{k are} specified for changed window data, the window change number p ′ is determined and a window count variable q is set to zero. A sub-step 4661 evaluates whether Window count variable q is equal to the window change number p '. Then the point d₃ and thus the next step 47 would already be reached. However, this path is not regularly followed at the beginning, since the monotonously increasing size constantly creates new marker symbol rows for each print.

Otherwise, if a change has been made, the process branches to sub-step 4662 in order to enter window characteristic values corresponding to the changed windows and to set initial conditions.

In a sub-step 4663, a new source address for the data of the data record of the window FEk just processed is generated, in order to load a byte of the coded window data of type 2 from the memory area B _k into registers of the non-volatile memory 7 a and to detect control characters in the next sub-step 4664 .

In a sub-step 4665, the window column run length Y _k is then incremented by the window column run length variable W _k , which is still zero here. Then a check is carried out for control characters for color changes (sub-step 4666) and, if appropriate, a branch is returned to sub-step 4663 or a search is carried out for control characters for the end of the column (sub-step 4667). If successful, branch is made to sub-step 4669 and the window column counter P _{k is} increased. Otherwise, the next sub-step 4668 is to decode the control code and convert the called byte into decompressed binary window pixel data of type 2.

In sub-step 4670 it is then checked whether all columns of the window have been processed. If this is the case, the process branches to sub-step 4671 and the column run length Y _{k of} the window FEk is stored in memory 7b and branched back to sub-step 4673.
If it is recognized in sub-step 4670 that not all Columns are processed, the sub-step 4672, with the window characteristic Y _k and the color flip-flop being reset to zero, branches back to the sub-step 4663. In the next sub-step 4668, a decoding of the control code and a conversion of the called byte into decompressed binary window pixel data of type 2 may then be carried out again.

After sub-step 4673, where the characteristic values of the next changed window are called, a branch is made back to sub-step 4661. When all change windows are processed, point d 3 is reached.

The print routine shown in FIG. 12 for assembling data from the pixel memory areas I and II runs when a print request is recognized in step 47 and data has been loaded in a sub-step 471 (not shown in FIG. 5).

In sub-step 471, the end address Z _{end is} loaded, the current address Z (running variable) to the value of the source address Z₀ in area I of the pixel memory 7c, the window column counter P _k to the respective value corresponding to the stored window column variable T _k , the window bit count length X _k set the respective value corresponding to the stored window column run length Y _k and load the target addresses Z _k for k = p windows and the total run length R for a print column s _k . The pressure column has N pressure elements.

Subsequently, with reaching point e 1 at the beginning of step 48, several sub-steps run. First, in a sub-step 481, the register 15 of the printer controller 14 is loaded serially bit by bit from the area I of the pixel memory 7c with binary print column data, which are called up with the address Z, and the window counter h to one Number set which corresponds to the number of windows p increased by one. In sub-step 482 a window counter h is decremented, which outputs window numbers k one after the other, whereupon in sub-step 483 the address Z reached in the pixel memory is compared with the window start address Z _{k of} the window FE _k . If the comparison is positive and a window start address is reached, a branch is made to sub-step 489, which in turn consists of sub-steps 4891 to 4895. Otherwise, branch to sub-step 484.

In sub-step 4891, a first bit from the area II of the pixel memory 7c for the window FE _k, the binary window pixel data is loaded into the register 15, the address Z and the bit count variable l being incremented in sub-step 4892 and the window bit count length X _{k being} decremented. In a sub-step 4893, if not all bits corresponding to the window column run length Y _{k have been} loaded yet, further bits from area II are loaded. Otherwise, a branch is made to sub-step 4894, the window start address Z _k for the addressing of the next window column being increased accordingly by the total length R and the window column counter P _{k being} decremented. At the same time, the original window bit count length X _k is restored in accordance with the window column run length Y _k .

Sub-step 4895 then checks whether all the window columns have been processed. If this is the case, then the start address Z _k for the corresponding window FE _{k is set} to zero or an address which lies outside the pixel memory area I. Otherwise and after the sub-step 4896, branching to the point e 1 takes place.

In sub-step 484, it is checked whether all window start addresses have been queried. Once that's done, then the program branches to sub-step 485 in order to increment the current address Z. If this has not yet taken place, a branch is made back to sub-step 481 in order to continue to decrement window counter h until the next window start address has been found or until window counter h becomes zero in sub-step 484.

In sub-step 486, it is checked whether all data for column s _k to be printed are loaded in register 15. If this is not yet the case, the bit count variable 1 is incremented in sub-step 488 to return to point e 1 and then (in sub-step 481) to load the next bit addressed with the address Z from the pixel memory area into the register 15.

However, if register 15 is full, the column is printed out in sub-step 487. Thereafter, in a step 50 - already shown in FIG. 5 - it is determined whether all the pixel data of the pixel memory areas I and II have been printed out, i.e. the mail piece has been franked. If this is the case, then point f 1 is reached. Otherwise, a branch is made to sub-step 501 and the bit count variable 1 is reset to zero, in order then to branch back to the point e 1. Now the next print column can be created.

The printing routine for the compilation of data taken from only one pixel memory area I and working memory areas is explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 13. After pressure request, which is determined in step 47 shown in FIG. 6, a sub-step 471 takes place immediately, as already explained in connection with FIG. 12, in order to reach point e 2. Step 49, which now begins - already shown in FIG. 6 - comprises sub-steps 491 to 497 and sub-steps 4990 to 4999. Sub-steps 491 to 497 run with the same Result in the same order as sub-steps 481 to 487, which have already been explained in connection with FIG. Merely in sub-step 493, a branch is made to sub-step 4990 in order to reset a color flip-flop to g: = 0, whereupon the process of decompressing the coded window data of type 2 by column, which was explained in connection with FIG. 6, is initiated with sub-step 4991 becomes. Here there is a color change already explained - in connection with FIG. 7 - when evaluating the type 2 window pixel data to be converted, so that the first hexadecimal data of the data set called up are evaluated as colored, for example. The source address is incremented. Then the compressed window data for the windows FE _k of type 2, in particular for the marking data, are loaded from the predetermined data record (stored in the corresponding sub-memory areas B _j ) into the registers 200 of the volatile main memory 7a in sub-step 4992. A hexadecimal number "QQ "corresponds to one byte.

The control code is also detected here. If a window column is to be printed that begins with non-colored, ie not to be printed, pixels, the control code "color change" would appear first in the data record. Thus, in sub-step 4993, there is a return to sub-step 4991 in order to carry out the color change. Otherwise, branch to sub-step 4994. In sub-step 4994, it is determined whether there is a "column end" control code. If this is not yet the case, the register content must be decoded and thus decompressed. For each runtime-coded hexadecimal numerical value, there is a series of binary pixel data in the character memory (CSP) 9, which is due to the hexadecimal number loaded in the volatile working memory 7a can be accessed accordingly. This takes place in sub-step 4995, after which the decompressed window pixel data for a column of the window FE _j of type 2 are loaded serially into the print register 15 of the printer controller 14.

In sub-step 4996 the address is then incremented and a corresponding next hexadecimal number is selected in the data record which is stored in the non-volatile main memory 5 in the sub-area B₅, and the bits converted during the decoding of the run length coding are determined in order to form a window column run length variable W _j with which the Destination address is incremented. The new destination address for reading is thus generated. and branching back to sub-step 4991.

If the end of the column is reached, follow the sub-steps 4997 to 4999 in order to then branch back to the point e₂. The sub-steps 4998 and 4999 run similarly to the sub-steps 4895 and 4894 shown in FIG.

In sub-step 497, the print column that has been loaded is printed. The sub-steps 491 to 497 run similarly to the sub-steps 481 to 487 shown in FIG.

In addition to less mechanical effort, there is a high printing speed with a large number of variable print image data to be embedded in a stored fixed print image.

In particular, the advantageous variants have been explained in more detail, although it is entirely possible with faster hardware to change the sequence of the method steps in order to also quickly generate a security imprint.

In step 47, if a print request has been made, step 48 containing a print routine is waited for and if a print request has not yet taken place, the print request is waited for in a waiting loop by going directly back to the beginning of step 47, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6 According to the invention, this has a further advantage in terms of time, since the DES algorithm is not permanently generated anew. The next recordable point in time after generation of the marking symbol row can already trigger printing. However, as already mentioned, other branches are possible.

Likewise, in another variant, step 45 can be placed between steps 53 and 54. In step 54 following step 45, the data of a data record for the row of marking symbols after their decompression are embedded in the remaining pixel data of the pixel memory area I. A further pixel memory area is then not required.

Another opposite variant stores only the frame pixel data in the pixel memory area and embeds all window pixel data immediately in the corresponding columns read into the print register 15, without the need for a pixel memory for window data in between.

In one variant, without the automatic editing of cliché text parts, the memory area A _{i can be} omitted. Instead, the unchangeable image information is stored in an ONLY read memory, for example in the program memory (ROM) 11. When the unchangeable image information is decoded, this ONLY read memory 11 is accessed, so that the intermediate storage can be omitted.

The invention is not limited to the present embodiment. Rather, a number of variants are conceivable which make use of the solution shown, even in the case of fundamentally different types.

Claims (42)

Process for the rapid generation of a security imprint with provision of sizes in order to print these sizes in encrypted form in the franking imprint in addition to the post and day stamp,
marked by
a sub-step (45a) or step (45) carried out by the microprocessor of the control device (6) of the franking machine before a print request (step 47), comprising the sub-steps: a) Generation of a combination number (KOZ1), whereby a constantly monotonically variable variable (G4) for the formation of first contiguous digits and at least one further variable characterizing the postal item (G3) for the formation of second contiguous digits of the combination number (KOZ1) are made available , b) encryption of the combination number (KOZ1) to form a crypto number (KRZ1), c) converting the crypto number (KRZ1) into at least one marking symbol row (MSR1) using a set (SSY1) of symbols. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the constantly monotonically variable variable is at least one ascending or descending machine parameter, in particular a time count or its complement during the life of the franking machine. Method according to claims 1 to 2, characterized in that a machine parameter is time-dependent and a variable characterizing the decreasing battery voltage of the battery-backed memory (G4a) and a second continuously monotonically decreasing variable (G4b) or the respective complement of the variable (G4a and G4b) ) includes. Method according to claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the second continuously monotonically decreasing quantity (G4b) is the complement of the number of pieces or a continuously monotonously falling time-dependent quantity. Method according to claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the continuously monotonically decreasing quantity is a numerical value corresponding to the next inspection date (INS) and a continuously monotonously decreasing time-dependent quantity. Method according to claims 1 to 2, characterized in that a constantly monotonically increasing quantity includes the date or the number of pieces determined during the last inspection. Method according to claims 1 to 6, characterized in that a part of a quantity (G0, G1) characterizing the user of the franking machine is made available by the control device (6) to form third contiguous digits of the combination number (KOZ1). Method according to claims 1 to 7, characterized in that in a first sub-step (450) of the step (45) carried out by the control device (6) it is checked whether a flag has been set in order to carry out sub-steps (45b) and / or (45a)
that in the sub-step (45b) a second combination number (KOZ2) having at least the other part of the quantity (G0, G1) characterizing the user of the postage meter machine is formed, then encrypted to a second crypto number (KRZ2) and then in at least one second marking symbol row MSR2 a second set (SSY2) of symbols is implemented. Method according to claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the formation of crypto numbers (KRZ1 and / or KRZ2) is carried out by the control device (6) of the franking machine by means of an implemented DES algorithm, for which one and the same or correspondingly different keys ( KEY1 or KEY2) are stored in the franking machine. Method according to one of Claims 1 to 9, characterized in that before the crypto number is implemented, a transformation by means of an algorithm into such a payment system is carried out, which allows a higher information density by an expanded set (SSY2) and / or (SSY1) of symbols for at least one marking symbol row (MSR1). Method according to claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the symbols have only orthogonal edges which, on the one hand, in particular in the form of an integral light / dark evaluation, are machine-readable for checking by the postal authority and, on the other hand, in particular by their symbolism, the symbols a predetermined meaning is assigned in each case, enables manual evaluation. Method according to claims 1 to 11, characterized in that a) that the step (45) is preceded by further steps for editing window data of type 1, which do not change as often as the window data of type 1, for loading registers from the memory areas B _J by at least one pixel memory area I and / or II to load with decompressed pixel data or to reload new window pixel data. b) that step (45) follows a step (454) or (458) after steps (450 to 453) of sub-step (45a) or steps (455 to 457) of sub-step 45b carried out to generate a series of marking symbols. for generating at least one data record for window data of type 2 and possibly for storing it in memory areas B _K , the aforementioned changeable window data of type 2 being changeable data which make each security imprint distinguishable and therefore unique and for at least one window (FE6, FE10 ) are provided in the franking image. Process for the rapid generation of a security imprint, with control of the column-wise printing of a postage stamp image in a franking machine with an electronic printer, wherein variable data and constant data of image information stored in coded form are treated separately before printing and then combined to form a printed image,
characterized by - That after switching on the franking machine by a control device (6) having a microprocessor, the bytes of at least one first data record, which includes runtime-coded, constant, hexadecimal data of a printed image, in particular frame data and control data, a first memory (11) and / or second non-volatile Working memory (5) is removed (step 42) and temporarily stored in a register (100) of a first volatile working memory (7a) (step 43), - That the microprocessor controller (6) from the coded bytes of the first data set during the aforementioned step (43) detects control data and, if necessary, window parameters (Z, T, Y) are generated for at least one window area and are temporarily stored in a second volatile working memory (7b) , and that binary pixel data are decoded from the frame data and temporarily stored in a third volatile working memory (7c) and - That in the aforementioned step (43) the window data from the second non-volatile working memory (5) is decoded into binary window pixel data in the third volatile memory (7c) and then bit by bit in a print register (14) to execute a print routine in step (48). a printer controller (15) or that window data in step (49) are transferred bit by bit directly into the print register (14) of the printer controller (15), the window pixel data being transmitted sequentially with the frame pixel data. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that after the print request in step (47), the pixel data are taken from the third volatile working memory (7c) by the control device (6), the second volatile working memory (7b) being queried for window parameters. Method according to Claim 14, characterized in that the control device (6) uses the window characteristic values of the first and at least one second data set in order to convert the decoded binary window pixel data transferred in a pixel memory area II of the third volatile working memory (7c) in one step (48 ) to execute the printing routine in the binary pixel data of the respective printing column and store it in the printing register (14). (Variant 1b) Method according to Claim 14, characterized in that the control device (6) uses the window characteristic values of the first and at least one second data set in order to combine the window data stored in the second non-volatile working memory (5) after they have been decoded into binary window pixel data To classify step (49) for executing the print routine bit by bit in the pixel data of the respective column and to store it directly in the print register (14). (Variant 1a) Method according to one of the preceding claims 13 or 14, characterized in that the window data of type 1 or 2 is decompressed together with the frame data prior to printing and is volatile in the pixel memory area I of the third Work memory (7c) are loaded and that when a print request is made by the control device (6) from the third volatile work memory (7c), the print data are transferred sequentially to the print register (14) in a manner suitable for column-wise printing. (Variant 2) Method according to one of the preceding claims 13 to 17, characterized in that - That from the first non-volatile memory (PSP 2) of the franking machine, run-length-coded, constant, hexadecimal data, in particular frame data and control data including comprehensive data from a selected print image, and in the second non-volatile working memory (5) of the franking machine, byte by byte in the form of a first data record in one first area Ai saved and - That, on the other hand, separately from this run-length-coded, variable, hexadecimal data of the print image, which correspond to the current settings of the data for the print image window stored in memory areas T of the second non-volatile working memory (5), byte by byte in the form of a second, in particular window data and control data record in a second area B _j . Method according to claims 13 to 18, characterized in that the execution of the printing routine (steps 48 or 49) is waited until the printing request. Method according to claim 19, characterized in that with the execution of the printing routine (steps 48 or 49) up to Print request is waited by branching to a step (44) or (45). Method according to claim 20, characterized in that a flag is set when a new special predetermined quantity is entered and is queried in step (45). A method for the rapid generation of a security imprint, characterized by a combination of the features of claims 1 to 12 with claims 13 to 15 and 18 to 21, wherein the window pixel data stored in a pixel memory area II in a step (46) from a third data set for window data from Type 2 are generated, which is stored separately according to first and second data records in a further area B _K , the third data record containing run length-coded, variable, hexadecimal marking data generated in step (45) for a distinctive print. Method for the rapid generation of a security imprint, characterized by a combination of the features of claims 1 to 12 with the features of claims 13 to 14, 16, 18 to 21. Method for the rapid generation of a security imprint, characterized by a combination of the features of claims 1 to 12 with the features of claims 13, 17 to 21. Arrangement for the rapid generation of a security imprint for franking machines, with a printer module for a fully electronically generated franking image, with at least one input means, a display unit, an input / output control module, a non-volatile working memory for at least the constant parts of the franking image, and with a control device and with one Printer control, which generates the print pattern, which was formed by the microprocessor-controlled printing process from fixed data and current data,
characterized in that
the data for the constant parts of the franking image relate at least to the frame of an advertising cliché and are stored in a first memory area A _i and an assigned name identifies the cliché frame,
that the data for the variable parts of the franking _image are stored in a second memory area B _j and an assigned name identifies the variable part,
that data for a first assignment of the names of the variable parts to the names of the constant parts are available in a third memory area C. Arrangement according to claim 25, characterized in that for the automatic change of the cliché text part names of the cliché text parts are assigned to the name of at least one constant part, in particular the selected advertising cliché frame, and are stored in a predetermined manner in the third memory area C of the non-volatile working memory (5) and that selected cliché frames are each assigned to a cost center KST and / or there is a second assignment of cliché types to cost centers stored in a fourth memory area D. Arrangement according to claims 25 and 26, characterized in that the names of the cliché frames stored in a first storage area A _i are composed of the number of the cost center KN and a type number TN, that the names of the cliché text parts stored in a second storage area B₅ are determined by the current date and possibly by the time and that the data for the first assignment in the third memory area C by storing both the name of the cliché frame containing the cost center number KN and the type number TN and the current date and possibly the time-containing name of the cliché text part are determined. Arrangement according to claims 25 to 27, characterized in that the display unit (3) only shows the names of those cliché frames for which there are assignments in the third memory area C falling within a defined period of time. Arrangement according to claims 25 to 28, characterized in that the defined period is automatically given in relation to the current date by the components of the name of the assignment of cliché parts, in particular the month and / or the year. Arrangement according to Claim 29, characterized in that there is an assignment in a fifth memory area E which has a freely programmable defined period in which the names of the assignments of cliché text parts to cliché frames are related to the current date. Arrangement according to one of Claims 25 to 30, characterized in that data for generating additional barcode window data from a combination number or size or crypto number are present in a sixth memory area F. Arrangement according to one of claims 25 to 31, characterized in that input means (2) are provided in order to store in a seventh memory area G the data measured or determined during an inspection - for example the total number of frankings, the next inspection date, etc. to save. Arrangement according to one of claims 23 to 32, characterized in that a crypto number (KRZ2) can be temporarily stored in an eighth memory area K. Arrangement according to one of Claims 25 to 33, characterized in that at least one set (SSY) for marking symbols is stored in a ninth memory area M. Arrangement according to one of claims 25 to 34, characterized in that in a tenth memory area S at least one Key (KEY1, KEY2) for an encryption algorithm on the one hand and on the other hand the encryption algorithm itself is stored there. Arrangement according to one of claims 25 to 35, characterized in that data containing the strings of numbers for all input variables are stored in an eleventh memory area T. Arrangement according to one of Claims 25 to 36, characterized in that a compression algorithm is stored in a twelfth memory area V, which converts the BCD-packed number representation for the number base ten into a differently packed number representation for a number base greater than ten, by at least one Display crypto number (KRZ1) with a series of marking symbols (MSR1) when information is compressed. Arrangement according to one of claims 25 to 37, characterized in that security means are provided for interacting with the input means (3), which allow access to the memory areas G, S, M and V during an inspection, so that the input means (2) a new key (KEY), encryption algorithm, marker symbol set (SSY) or compression algorithm can be loaded during an inspection and that these security means are in the form of a physical key and / or a chip card. Method according to claim 12, characterized by the following steps preceding the method steps (51, 52) for changing the cliché text part for franking machines: a) Loading agreed cliché types via MODEM or chip card, b) selecting a cliché frame, c) editing of a cliché text part in the franking machine, d) assembling and displaying an overall representation of the franking image. Method according to claim 39, characterized in that before editing a cliché text part in the franking machine for selecting a cliché frame, a number of names of the cliché frames or a clear representation for the selection of the cliché frames with assigned cliché or standard text part is made from a pixel memory and by acknowledgment the selection an assignment of at least one of the variable text parts to each cliché frame was made, that the selected cliché text part is edited by means of the actuating elements with simultaneous plain text display on the display and that after editing a cliché text part and assembling and displaying an overall representation of a franking image, the edited text part takes place automatically before franking. Method according to claims 12 and 39, characterized in that the names of the parts of the cliché text are displayed in the window provided for that field of the display unit, in which a clear display takes place after the selection or that one after the other is determined by the temporal components of the name Sequence the clear representations appear in the window of the field of the display unit for selection. Procedures for checking security imprints,
characterized by the steps a) visual detection of the serial number and its input via an input device (25), b) visual recording of the postage value and input via the input device (25), c) visual detection of the graphic symbols and input via an input device (25) having correspondingly labeled function keys, d) Start of an automatic evaluation, possibly in cooperation with a data center (21) and signaling the comparison result or displaying at least some of the sizes recovered from the marking for manual checking by a verifier of the postal authority.

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