EP1300807A2 - Method and device for opening a security housing - Google Patents

Abstract

Method for opening a security housing, especially of a franking machine, has authorization and unlocking steps. Prior to unlocking a print module (30) is moved sideways using transverse movement means so that the print module takes up an unlocking position perpendicular to the postal item transport direction so that a security housing or access to it can be mechanically released. <??>An Independent claim is made for an arrangement for opening a security housing that is equipped with a mechanical locking device and a print module.

Description

The invention relates to a method for opening a security housing according to the preamble of claim 1 and an arrangement according to the preamble of claims 11 and 28. The invention comes for franking machines, addressing machines and other printing machines Mail processing equipment with a security housing for use.

The applicant's thermal transfer franking machine T1000 has one Thermal transfer printhead fixed in the housing for printing of a franking imprint. The franking imprint contains one before entered and stored postal information including the Postage data for the transportation of the letter. One attached to the housing The compartment is used to hold an exchangeable ribbon cassette (US 4,767,228). While a door leading to the compartment can be opened at any time, access to the security area the printing device is prevented by a safety housing.

If a franking machine is to be opened for repair purposes, tear-off screws of the safety housing must be destroyed. In Franking machines and other mail processing devices with one Security enclosures can also be used as seals or plastic parts further access protection to the microprocessor control and to the control lines of the fixed print head. To a repair that requires the safety housing to be opened, must tear off the security housing, seals or the plastic parts serving to protect access are replaced.

The applicant's JetMail® franking machine is with a base and with a removable meter. Only the latter is through a suitably designed housing protected against misuse. The meter contains a controller for controlling printing and for Control of peripheral components of the franking machine, as well as a Security module with a billing unit and a cryptographic Unit for securing the postage fee data to be printed Is provided. Encapsulation of the security module by means of a additional housing offers additional mechanical protection. in the In contrast to this, the base housing does not have to have a protective function and can be repair-friendly. The base contains a mail item transport device and an ink jet printing device to print the postage stamp on the mail. A replacement of the printhead is unnecessary because the ink tank is separated from the printhead is arranged and can be replaced. Neither have to special security measures for the printhead or for one Protection of the control and data signals are taken when using a special piezo inkjet printhead with a security imprint Mark is printed, which is a verification of the authenticity of the Security imprint allowed (US 6,041,704). The generation of a spurious security imprint is only made more difficult and not prevented from the start.

Bubble-jet print heads are also used in franking machines in the print module used (for example in the applicant's mymail®, in the personnel Post ™ by Pitney Bowes and the PortoStar by Neopost). The ink tank and bubble-jet printhead are in a replaceable ink cartridge integrated, as it is for example from the ½ inch ink cartridges of the Hewlet Packard (HP) is known. Contacting the electrical Print head contacts on the replaceable ink cartridge can be connected to a standard pen driver board HP company. Because of the easy replaceability of the ink cartridge through the user, new opportunities can arise Generation of a fake security imprint, for example by operating additional print modules with print data that are only for a certain pressure module is determined (replay attack). According to US 5,365,312 (Mannesmann AG) has an ink cartridge of the print module a chip with readable stored identity data to the ink cartridge Authorize for printing when inserted into the print module. Some postal authorities have stricter requirements Approval of franking machines, which prompts their manufacturers to equip such ink cartridges with additional security means or to take appropriate protective measures so that neither indirectly via manipulated ink cartridges or directly on the printing process Can be influenced to print franking imprints without to pay for it. The franking machine is intended to use a Exclude "foreign" ink cartridge. According to EP 875 862 A2 by means of reading means of the franking machine, unique identity data of the Read the ink cartridge and checked the authorization to use the the latter in the franking machine. According to US 5,956,056 (or EP 881 599 A2) it is checked whether an ink cartridge is installed. If not, then a billing module is blocked for "token" generation. Next the purely electronic solutions are already known that mechanically prevent that inadmissible during the printing process another print module is controlled with the print data. According to US 6,102,534 (or EP 875 861 A2) can be a franking machine for franking printing can only be operated when a hatch is closed. Lateral movement means allow the printing module with the ink cartridge to an area adjacent to the print area to move the Remove or replace the ink cartridge. The one in the security case arranged hatch can only be opened if the pressure module moved to the neighboring area with the ink cartridge has been. In the other cases, the hatch is closed by locking means. According to EP 875 865A2, access to the print module is provided with barricaded the ink cartridge by means of a hatch and only in response the hatch can respond to an authorization signal that removes the barricade can be opened, which means removing or replacing the ink cartridge allowed. Direct access to the security area of the Device housing is not provided in any of the aforementioned solutions.

The invention has for its object an arrangement and Process to develop for easy access for a service technician to a large extent within the safety housing To enable repair and maintenance purposes. The user should this access will be denied. Access protection is also required develop that give users access to sensitive digital Supply lines for controlling the ink print head of the ink cartridge denied. However, the user should still be given the option of a Remove or replace the ink cartridge.

The object is achieved with the features of the method according to claim 1 and the features of the arrangement according to claims 11 and 28 solved.

• aus einer Heimposition in eine Druckposition zum Drucken,
• aus einer Heimposition oder aus der Druckposition in eine Entriegelungsposition zum Freigeben des Sicherheitsgehäuses oder des ersten Zuganges zum Sicherheitsgehäuse oder
• in eine Wechselposition zum Wechseln der Tintenkartusche.

At least one security area and at least one non-security area are located within the security housing. Only authorized persons, such as service technicians, are authorized to access both areas. It is assumed that a mechanical release is triggered inside the safety housing. The force of a drive for a transverse movement of the printing module brings the latter into a special unlocking position, so that the printing module unlocks at least one safety housing part or access to it. This advantageously eliminates the need for an additional actuator for unlocking. The latter requires a prior authorization check, for example by a franking machine or meter or by a remote data center. As a result, at least a first access to at least one locking means of a security housing part can be released mechanically. It is furthermore provided that, when the security housing is mechanically released or accessed, activation of an inkjet print head of an ink cartridge is prevented. It is advantageous if a sensor is arranged and a check is carried out for the release or locking of the security housing of the postal device. After checking the locking, the postal device can be operated for franking mail items if the locking has been carried out properly. Another sensor can be used to determine that a mechanically released access for changing an ink cartridge has been locked again before the postal device is operated. The pressure module can basically be moved by means of transverse movement means:

• from a home position to a print position for printing,
• from a home position or from the printing position to an unlocking position for releasing the security housing or the first access to the security housing or
• in a change position for changing the ink cartridge.

The printing position and the unlocking position form the end points of the travel path of the printing module, the ink cartridge changing position being placed between the printing position and the unlocking position or the home position and the unlocking position.
The print module can first be moved in the X direction to the unlocking position and then opposite to the X direction in the change position for ink cartridges. Thus, on the one hand, the locking of the security housing is released mechanically directly, or there is an unlocked state of access to the security housing. On the other hand, an ink cartridge can be removed or replaced with a print module parked in the change position.
It is envisaged that a transverse movement of the printing module into the unlocking position will open a first access for an authorized person to components within the security housing for repair and maintenance purposes and a second access mechanically, the second access being accessible for changing an ink cartridge.

It is provided that the ink jet print head is part of a postal ink cartridge, which has electrical and mechanical features that distinguish it from the usual ink cartridges, the features for automatic and / or easy detection of the postal ink cartridge by the postal device and / or by the Users are trained. Further electronic and mechanical protective measures are provided in connection with the printing module, which has to be brought into a predetermined change position in order to enable an exchange of the ink cartridge.
The second access for changing an ink cartridge is already released mechanically when the print module crosses the change position during the transverse movement or when there is only a transverse movement of the print module into the change position, i.e. when an unauthorized person makes a transverse movement of the print module, for example before operation of the postal device for franking mail items. The user therefore only has access to non-security areas of the device, for example for changing consumables, such as franking strips or ink cartridges, for changing batteries or the like. In the upper part of the housing of the franking machine there is a corresponding opening for changing the ink cartridge. After entering an (unauthorized) signal, the print carriage with the ink cartridge is moved to a change position from which the ink cartridge can be removed or replaced. A flap is provided for the user, which covers the aforementioned opening. The flap can be opened at least if the print carriage has been moved into the change position for the ink cartridge or into the adjacent additional unlocking position. Alternatively, the flap is not part of the safety housing and / or can be opened or removed at any time. When the print carriage is in a printing position for printing, a protective cap prevents access to the control lines during printing. The protective cap is attached to the printing carriage and closes the aforementioned opening in the housing, corresponding to the movement of the printing carriage in the direction of the printing position. In any other position in which the printing carriage can be brought, the aforementioned opening is not or not completely closed by the protective cap.

Alternatively, it is provided that a security housing part for the user denied first access to the interior of the mail processing device and covers a releasable further locking means which on a wall of a lower housing part located inside the security housing or top of the security housing is arranged to the To lock or unlock the safety housing manually on the part of the safety housing at least one mechanical locking element is arranged, which with a hook nose at the end of a resilient Extension arm is equipped with the aforementioned inside of the security housing located wall can be brought into engagement, wherein the safety housing part can only be removed by visible destruction, that the security housing upper part has an opening that the Restricted users to change an ink cartridge allows second access to the interior of the mail processing device, that the opening can be closed by a flap with a Stop is equipped with a switch when opening the flap actuated, which is arranged inside the security housing, wherein the power supply of a motor of the transverse movement means of the Print module is interrupted and that a Protective jacket and a protective cap to prevent a unauthorized access to the tape conductor and the control electronics unit are attached.

Figur 1a,

perspektivische Ansicht einer Frankiermaschine mit Klappe,

Figur 1b,

perspektivische Ansicht eines abnehmbaren Gehäuseoberteils,

Figur 2a,

Verriegelungsmittel des Sicherheitsgehäuses,

Figur 2b,

Schnitt durch die Frankiermaschine, wobei das Druckmodul in Druckposition positioniert ist,

Figur 2c,

Detailansicht eines Verbindungsmittels von Gehäuseober- und Unterteil,

Figur 3a,

Darstellung des geöffneten Verriegelungsmittels des Sicherheitsgehäuses,

Figur 3b,

Schnitt durch die Frankiermaschine, wobei das Druckmodul in einer zusätzlichen Entriegelungsposition positioniert ist,

Figur 4a,

Darstellung des geschlossenen Verriegelungsmittels des Sicherheitsgehäuses,

Figur 4b,

Schnitt durch die perspektivische Ansicht der Frankiermaschine im Bereich der Öffnung, wobei das Druckmodul in einer Tintenkartuschenwechselposition positioniert ist,

Figur 5a,

Darstellung des mit dem Zugangsschutzteil verschlossenen Zuganges zum Verriegelungsmittel,

Figur 5b,

Darstellung eines Zuganges zum Verriegelungsmittel sowie Mittel zur mechanischen Freigabe des Zuganges,

Figur 6,

Darstellung eines Betätigungsmechanismus für das Zugangsschutzteil,

Figur 7,

perspektivische Ansicht einer Chassisanordnung in gesprengter Darstellung,

Figur 8,

Schutzummantelung für einen Bandleiter,

Figur 9,

Sicherheitsgehäuseteil zum Verwehren und Schutzanordnung zum Beschränken des Zuganges in das Innere zum Wechseln einer Tintenkartusche.

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 1a,

perspective view of a franking machine with flap,

Figure 1b,

perspective view of a removable upper housing part,

Figure 2a,

Locking means of the safety housing,

Figure 2b,

Section through the franking machine, the printing module being positioned in the printing position,

Figure 2c,

Detailed view of a connecting means of the upper and lower part of the housing,

Figure 3a,

Representation of the opened locking means of the security housing,

Figure 3b,

Section through the franking machine, the printing module being positioned in an additional unlocking position,

Figure 4a,

Representation of the closed locking means of the security housing,

Figure 4b,

Section through the perspective view of the franking machine in the region of the opening, the printing module being positioned in an ink cartridge changing position,

Figure 5a,

Representation of the access to the locking means closed with the access protection part,

Figure 5b,

Representation of an access to the locking means as well as means for the mechanical release of the access,

Figure 6,

Representation of an actuation mechanism for the access protection part,

Figure 7,

perspective view of a chassis arrangement in an exploded view,

Figure 8,

Protective covering for a strip conductor,

Figure 9,

Security housing part for protection and protective arrangement for restricting access to the inside for changing an ink cartridge.

FIG. 1a shows a perspective view of a franking machine with a removable upper housing part 2, which in the Y direction a lower housing part 1 is arranged. The front 25, the inbox side 27 and the outbox side (not visible) of the upper housing part 2 have a slot-shaped opening 21 for one to be franked Postal goods, which can be fed in the Z direction. The top of the case has a surface 22 inclined towards the front 25, which is suitable to include a user interface (not shown). On the Housing top 23, which is in the X direction on the inclined housing surface 22 connects, a lid-shaped flap 3 is arranged. The rear of the housing 26 is suitably designed to a - Locking means shown in Figures 2a, 3a and 4a To record, which can lock or unlock the housing parts 1, 2. The sectional area A located in the XY plane is only shown in FIG. 1a. An internal view of the franking machine is shown in FIGS. 2a to 4b shown, the latter being cut in the XY plane.

Figure 1b shows a perspective view of the removable Upper housing part 2 with the slot-shaped opening 21 on the front 25, the inbox page 27 and the outbox page (not visible) of the upper housing part 2, with the back of the housing 26, with the inclined Housing surface 22 and the top of the housing 23. The latter is shown without the flap and has an opening 24 which from the inclined housing surface 22 is limited. In addition, at least a releasable security housing part 4 may be provided, which must be released before the upper housing part 2 is removable. The removable upper housing part 2 is open at the bottom and has one equally formed peripheral edge B2, with the exception of the edge H2 on the front, the design of which is shown in more detail in FIG. 2c is explained. Before the upper housing part 2 can be removed, must have an authorization check by the franking machine or meter the franking machine or via franking machine or meter by one remote data center. The authorization check can advantageously by means of the data center and the control unit of the franking machine respectively. The control unit can switch between authorized Opening (service, inspection) and unauthorized opening (intention to manipulate) distinguish, in connection with that of the data center transmitted data and a signal detected by a sensor, such as under the title: Process to improve the security of franking machines against manipulation, in EP 969 421 A2 (or in US 5,671,146) has already been described.

The locking means 29 of the security housing is shown in FIG. 2a an embodiment in the locked state shown in more detail. In the predetermined Distance D2 from an edge B2 of the removable upper housing part 2, a web 291 is arranged parallel to the XZ plane, on which a spring leaf 292 connects opposite to the Y direction. The spring leaf 292 is parallel to the YZ plane, with the opposite to the A hook nose 293 is arranged in the Y direction. The Edge B2 of the removable upper housing part 2 has one on the back and circumferential U-shaped groove on both sides. A fitting one Spring is incorporated into the edge D1 of the lower housing part 1. At a predetermined distance D1 from the edge B1 of the lower housing part 1 a web 294 arranged parallel to the XZ plane, at right angles in the Y direction a stop 295 connects. The stop 295 is parallel to the YZ plane, with a hook 296 at the end in the Y direction of the stop 295 is arranged. When assembling the upper part of the housing 2 on the lower housing part 1, the spring leaf 292 in the X direction deflected, due to the slope of the hook nose 293, the slides on hook 296. The locking means 29 locks that Safety housing when the spring leaf 292 strikes the hook 296. This embodiment is also referred to as a "snap in" connection.

FIG. 2b shows a section through the franking machine. In the sliced A pressure device is visible in the housing. A mail piece (not shown) is driven in the transport direction Z by a Transported drum 12, which is opposite to at least one sprung counter pressure roller 11 is arranged, which is not driven.

The printing module 30 is arranged to be movable in the X direction and opposite thereto and thus to move transversely to the transport direction Z and has at least one exchangeable ink cartridge 31, which partially protrudes into a transport drum 12 in the printing position. More detailed information on this can be found in the unpublished German patent application 100 32 855.5, which bears the title: Device for printing on a printing medium.
The opening 24 for changing the ink cartridge 31 is covered by the flap 3. There is no closure means for such a flap 3. The transversely movable printing module is arranged in the area of the opening 24 for changing the ink cartridge 31, but the latter cannot be changed in the printing position. The print module 30 consists of a control electronics unit 38, which is connected via a ribbon conductor 34 to the control unit (not shown) of the filling machine and a print carriage 36, which is guided, for example, on rails (not shown), which is known to move from a home position to a print position or to change the position Ink cartridge can be moved into a change position. When the print carriage is brought into a printing position for printing, the protective cap 33 prevents access to the ribbon conductor 34 and the control lines in the control electronics unit 38 during printing. The protective cap 33 has an actuating finger 35 and is attached to the printing carriage 36. When the printing carriage 36 moves into the printing position, the aforementioned opening 24 in the housing is closed, the protective cap 33 being pushed under the opening 24. In any other position in which the printing module 30 can be brought, the aforementioned opening 24 is not or not completely closed by the protective cap 33. The inner wall of the rear of the housing 26 is formed with at least one locking means 29 which, for example, locks or unlocks the upper housing part 2.

FIG. 2 c shows a detailed view of a connecting means 19 from FIG Housing upper and lower part on the front 25. The edge H1 of the Lower housing part 1 is designed as an inwardly curved bead 191, which is enclosed in a U shape by the edge H2 of the upper housing part 2.

As long as the locking means 29 of the upper housing part 2 is locked, there is a positive and non-positive connection. The U-shaped opening of the enclosing means 192 on the edge H2 of the upper housing part 2 is incorporated in the X direction and gives the edge H2 of the upper housing part 2 a hinge function, for opening when rotating over the Edge H1 after the locking means 29 of the upper housing part 2 has been unlocked. Only when the upper housing part 2 to a predetermined Angle with respect to the lower housing part 1 can be opened the connection to the lower housing part 1 can be completely released.

FIG. 3a shows a representation of the opened locking means 29 of the security housing. If the print module reaches the additional unlocking position, reaches - as shown - the finger 35 of the slide 33 in abutment with the spring leaf 292, at the end of the spring leaf 292 arranged hook nose 293 unhooks on the hook 296.

Figure 3b shows a section through the franking machine, the Pressure module is positioned in an unlocking position. The direction of transport transversely movable pressure module 30 with at least one replaceable ink cartridge 31, was previously during a transverse movement from the printing position or a home position near the Transport drum 12 in the X direction up to the unlocking position move the back of the housing 26. The flap 3 can be opened , but the ink cartridge 31 still cannot be replaced become. The pressure module 30 moved for this purpose in the X direction is through Opening 24 still visible because the aforementioned opening 24 through the Protective cap 33 is not closed. Still are through the opening 24 through neither the connecting lines of the strip conductor 34 nor the Control electronics unit 38 accessible when the pressure module 30 in the unlocked position. The upper housing part 2 is by the at least formed on the inner wall of the rear of the housing 26 a locking means 29 unlocks as soon as the pressure module 30 in the Unlocking position arrives and the finger 35 of the protective cap 33 Spring leaf 292 deflects and thus opens the "snap in" connection. The The safety housing can now be opened in the Y direction when the Upper housing part 2 by a parallel to the Z direction (along the Connection means 19) located axis of rotation.

In Figure 4a is the locking means 29 of the security housing shown again in the locked state, which with reference to FIG. 2a has already been explained in more detail. If the print module 30 (as shown in Fig. 4b shown) only move to a change position for ink cartridges the locked state is still present. A user can therefore only change the ink cartridges.

FIG. 4b shows a section through the perspective view of FIG Franking machine in the area of the opening 24, the printing module 30 is positioned in the ink cartridge changing position. It is intended that the print position and the unlock position are the end points of the Form travel of the print carriage 36, the ink cartridge change position between the print position and the unlock position or the home position and the unlock position. The Ink cartridge change position is between the print position and the unlock position or the home position and the unlock position, so that the opening 24 in the housing top 23 is just so far above the ink cartridge 31 that the latter can be changed. This second created through the opening 24 Access can be at least partially closed by the protective cap 33 formed when the print module 30 is outside the ink cartridge changing position is positioned. Thus, when the flap 3 is open, neither the connecting lines of the strip conductor 34 and the control electronics unit 38 accessible through the opening 24. The lower housing part 1 and the upper housing part 2 are through the connecting means 19 and locked locking means 29 connected together.

If the print module 30 first in the unlocking position (in Fig.3a, b shown) and then move to the change position for ink cartridges was an unlocked state for the housing parts 1 and 2 and for flap 3 before. This means that a service technician can do more than that Open the safety housing, but also change the ink cartridge.

In a further embodiment variant - not shown - is at least a locking means 29 on the inside of one of the walls of the security housing as a snap connection or in a suitable other Trained way. The inside of the walls on the front 25, Back 26 or inbox 27 or outbox, upper or underside are in a corresponding manner with an operable from the inside Lock formed, the driving force of the transverse movement means for the transverse movement of the pressure module 30 via force transmission means transferred to the at least one locking means 29 when the print module 30 is brought into the unlocked position. This will make at least one security housing part or one access mechanically released. The power transmission means is, for example a lever, a cable or a similar device.

In an alternative - not shown - embodiment variant is at least a locking element with a hook on a resilient Extension arm formed on a security housing part 4th is attached and deflected by the transverse movement of the printing module 30 in the unlocked position. When the locking element is actuated is the security housing part 4 and thus access to another locking means of the security housing mechanically Approved. The further locking means is at least on one of the Walls (front 25, back 26, inbox 27 or outbox, Provided on the top or bottom) of the safety housing, to manually lock or unlock at least one safety housing part. As an access is an opening 28 (not shown) in one of the Housing surfaces of any security housing part are provided. That security housing part 4 for closing the access is for example an access protection part 40 with a protective cover.

5a shows an access protection part in perspective from below, which gives access to at least one detachable further Locking means of a security housing covers from the outside. The Access is, for example, on the rear of the housing 26, from which is shown only a section. Access to detachable others Locking means is designed as a compartment 280 with a bottom 281, which has further openings 282, 283, 284 and 285. The openings 284 and 285 are for the releasable further locking means of Security housing provided. In the simplest case, screws (Not shown) used as a releasable further locking means.

The access protection part 40 has an access protection panel 41 in the Size of the window-like opening 28 (not visible on the back of the housing 26) and inside the guide and locking elements 42, 43 on. The locking element 43 is resilient and that Guide element 42 is rigidly attached to the access protection panel 41. The openings 282, 283 in the bottom 281 correspond to the shape of the Guide and locking elements 42, 43 shaped. The guide element 42 has, for example, an L-shaped at a predetermined length or U-shaped shape, which increases its rigidity. The locking element 43 is plate-shaped and consists of an the access guard molded spring leaf 431 with a hook nose 432, which is arranged at a distance from the access protection panel 41 is, the spring leaf 431 the increasing distance from the access protection panel 41 merges into a plate-shaped stop 433. The Hook nose 432 can engage in a corresponding housing edge 2831 or a hook (not shown) the access protection part 40 in Lock the security housing: The access protection panel 41 is for this provided to close the window-like opening 28 on the rear of the housing 26 close.

FIG. 5b shows an illustration of an access to the locking means. Of which are the access protection part 40 covering the opening 28 only the guide and locking elements visible and means for mechanical access to compartment 280. The hook nose 432 of the locking element is in a corresponding housing edge 2831 of the opening 283 locked. Through the plate-shaped stop 433 the spring leaf 431 can be deflected in height with the hook nose 432 so that the hook tab 432 disengages from the housing edge 2831 or with the - not shown - hook. The access protection part 40 is then unlocked and can be removed. The means of mechanical release of the access 280 is, for example, a lever 37 with a finger 378, which on the plate-shaped stop 433 the force K presses as soon as the lever 37 by the transverse movement of the Printing carriage 36 is sufficiently deflected. The transverse movement of the Printing carriage 36 (not shown) takes place for the mechanical release of the Access protection part 40. The access protection part 40 and the lever 37 can be manufactured as plastic parts. As another mechanical Protection can be a hard outer layer (not shown) Material can be applied to the access protection panel 41.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the Levers 37 are omitted if this is done by means of the plate-shaped stop 433 extended spring leaf 431 by the transverse movement of the one corresponding fingers 35 equipped printing carriage 36 sufficient is deflected to the mechanical release of the access protection part 40 to effect.

Alternatively (similar to that shown in Fig. 3a, b), the most Printing carriage 36 attached protective cap 33 a finger 35 for the Have clearance of the safety housing or access to it.

FIG. 6 shows an illustration of an actuating mechanism for the Access protection part in top view. An access protection part 40, with an access protection panel 41 and inside the housing directed and locking elements 42, 43 is in a compartment-like recess in the rear wall of the housing 26 shown snapped. The latter is for example by screwing in attached to the chassis part 18. A cut is for clarification represented by the screws 16 on the bottom 281 of the compartment-like depression. The access protection part 40 can only be released from the inside. The driving force of the motor 5 fixes one on the axis 6 Drive spindle 7 rotated and the printing module 30 is moved.

For example, the printing module 30 is moved in the X direction and, starting from the printing position P, successively passes through the home position H, the change position C and the unlocking position E.
The print carriage 36 of the print module 30 is mounted so that it can move back and forth on a slide rail (not shown) and carries two ½ inch bubble jet ink cartridges 31 and 32. A protective cap 33 and a finger 35 are fastened to the print carriage 36. The protective cap 33 blocks access to the control means of the ink cartridges 31 and 32 when the printing module 30 is positioned outside the ink cartridge changing position or in the printing position P or home position H. A lever 37 deflectable at one end in the Z direction has at its other end an axis of rotation 374 in the Y direction near the wall on the front side of the safety housing. The lever 37 has an extension 376 in the X direction at a distance from the axis of rotation. The latter carries a spring 376 for resiliently supporting the lever 37 on the chassis side part 17, so that the lever 37 with its link 371, 372, 373 on the finger 35 of the Printing carriage 36 of the printing module is pressed. The finger 35 is moved in the X direction and slides along the link section 371 when the printing module 30 reaches the change position C.
It is envisaged that the opening 24 can be closed by a flap 3 which is equipped with a stop 39 which is arranged on the flap 3 by a second finger 379 of the lever 37, the locking being released when the pressure module 30 is positioned in the ink cartridge changing position C or in the unlocking position E. The lever 37 carries a first finger 378 and the second finger 379 at the end opposite the axis of rotation and is deflected against the spring force in accordance with the link curve shape of the link section 371. The second finger 379 thereby moved releases the stop 39 of the flap 3 (not shown), so that the flap 3 can be moved from a closed initial state into an open state.
However, if the printing module 30 leaves the change position C - in a manner not shown - with the printing module 30 being moved further in the X direction and the finger 35 now sliding along the link section 372, then the lever 37 will corresponding to the link curve shape due to the spring force of the link section 372 in the Z direction and the stop 39 of the flap 3 is held again by the second finger 379 in the initial state.

In an alternative - not shown - embodiment variant is the Flap 3 cannot be locked and the opening 24 is accessible at all times, because the second access is already restricted by the protective cap 33.

If the printing module 30 moves further in the X direction in the Bring unlocked position E, the finger 35 is on the link section 373 slide along and the lever 37 is corresponding to the Link curve shape of the link section 372 against the Z direction and deflected the spring force effect. The finger 378 guides the locking element 43, whereby the access protection part 40 unlocks and the first access (opening 28) to the upper safety housing part 2 is cleared becomes. The upper housing part 2 is released indirectly after the mechanical locking element 43 inside the Security housing over the first arranged on a lever 37 Finger 378 was actuated by the printing carriage 36.

In an alternative - not shown - variant for the Transverse means, a motor 5 acts on the toothed belt Pressure module 30 mechanically.

A perspective view of a chassis arrangement shown in an exploded view in FIG. 7 shows mechanical protection of a printed circuit board which is arranged in the inner security area of a franking machine and carries a control unit of the filling machine. Above a lower shell 13 formed for protection and support purposes and a printed circuit board 14 on which the components of the inner security area are interconnected, an upper shell 15 is arranged, which is shaped accordingly for protection and support purposes. The chassis shells 13 and 15 can have a group of outer ventilation openings arranged in a row, which are preferably incorporated in a slot shape on the outer edge. The lower shell 13 consists of a shielding and supporting plate 131 parallel to the lower housing part 1 and of a rear shielding and supporting plate part 136 which is angled parallel to the rear side of the housing 26 and which has at least openings for power supply via a mains plug cable and for discharging a heated air flow to the outside. The safety-relevant components arranged on the printed circuit board 14 are covered in a box-like manner by the chassis parts in the assembled state. In the assembled state, the printed circuit board 14 rests on the apron 134 of the lower shell 13 at the front. The chassis upper shell 15 is supported with its side walls on the printed circuit board 14.
The chassis upper shell 15 is delimited on the post-stream input or post-stream output side by a side wall 157 or 158, as well as by a front side wall 155 and by a side wall 152 parallel thereto. An inner cavity is divided into a lower cavity 50 and an upper cavity 60 by a plate 156 lying parallel to the shielding and support plate 131. The lower cavity 50 is provided for receiving control electronics for printing located in the inner security area. The upper cavity 60 is provided for receiving a pressure mechanism for the mail piece transport. In addition, a box 159 is arranged on the upper chassis shell 15, which extends, for example, in the X direction to the rear wall 29 of the housing. If the box 159 has a box bottom 1590, as shown, then at least one opening 1591 for electrical cables of the printed circuit board 14 in the form of a strip conductor 34 is provided in the latter. A support frame 10 (FIG. 8) is arranged above the upper chassis shell 15 as a further chassis part for supporting the printing mechanism.

FIG. 8 shows a protective sheathing 9 for a strip conductor 34, which is guided out of the chassis arrangement through the support frame 10 to a control electronics unit 38 (not shown). The support frame 10 has a rectangular box with a base plate 100 delimited by side walls on the post-flow exit side. In contrast to the X direction, the latter has an opening 101 near the front side for the pressing mechanism (not shown) for conveying a mail item in the transport direction Z.
The protective sheath 9 consists of a flattened tube piece 94 and merges at one end into a cap 90 for covering the control electronics unit 38. The tube piece 94 is designed to receive a strip conductor 34 and preferably has a releasable positive connection to the cap 90, which is designed to relieve strain. For example, a bulge-shaped collar 95 is formed on the tube piece 94 and the cap 90 has a concealed opening 91 for the passage of the tube piece 94 through the cap 90 from the side of the control electronics unit 38 to the side of the printed circuit board 14. The cap 90 is designed for attachment to the printing module 30, the means for attachment being arranged such that the latter are inaccessible from access through the opening 24. The cap 90 has, for example, side walls 92, 93 with an opening 96. A screw 97 which can be screwed into the opening serves for fastening to the printing module 30.
The protective casing 9 leads at the other end to a cover plate 99 which can be fastened to the support frame 10 and which is designed to relieve strain and to cover the openings in the upper chassis part 15. The - not shown in detail - means for attaching the cover plate 99 to the support frame 10 are also inaccessible from the access through the opening 24. A slit-shaped opening 98 in the cover plate 99 is provided for the passage of the hose piece 94, the cover plate 99 being formed in the opposite direction to the Y direction for strain relief. The piece of hose 94 is connected to the cover plate 99 in a positive and non-positive manner, for example, by a special shape or S-shaped passage between the cover plate 99 and the box bottom 1590 of the box 159 of the upper chassis shell 15. The tube piece 94 is made, for example, from a particularly resistant plastic and is of flexible design.

Alternatively, cover plate 99 and cap 90 may be on the protective jacket 9 already formed during manufacture and from the same material.

FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment variant, with a security housing part 4 'which prevents the user from having first access to the interior of the mail processing device and with a protective arrangement 8', 9 ', 33' which at any time has a second restricted access for changing one Ink cartridge granted. The security housing part 4 'covers a detachable further locking means, which is arranged on a wall located inside the security housing, for example the upper housing part, in order to lock or unlock the security housing manually. The releasable further locking means is, for example, a screw 16 'which can be inserted into the support frame 10' or into a chassis part. At least one mechanical locking element 43 'is arranged on the security housing part 4', which consists of a resilient extension arm with a hook nose 432 'at its end, which can be brought into engagement with the aforementioned wall located inside the security housing, the security housing part 4' only by visible destruction is removable. Compared to the embodiment variant shown in FIGS. 5a, 5b, the plate-shaped stop 433 on the locking element 43 and the lever 37 is thus dispensed with. The security housing part 4 'preferably has an access protection panel 41' and guide and locking elements 42 ', 43'.
In combination with this alternative embodiment variant, it is further provided that the upper part of the security housing has an opening 24 ', which allows the user to change an ink cartridge 31', 32 'a second access to the interior of the mail processing device, that the opening 24' can be closed by a flap which is equipped with a stop 39 'which, when the flap is opened, actuates a switch 8' which is arranged inside the safety housing, the power supply to a motor 5 'of the transverse movement means of the pressure module 30' being interrupted. Compared to the embodiment variant shown in FIG. 6, the lever 37 is therefore omitted.

When opening the flap 3 (Fig.1a), for example, a microswitch used as switch 8, the inside of the security housing arranged and electrically connected to the circuit board 14 (Fig.7). The latter is supported by the control electronics for printing, for example a franking machine and can power the motor 5 ' Interrupt movement means of the pressure module 30 'to interrupt the pressure module 30 'to prevent a transverse movement. The motor 5 'is with the Printed circuit board connected by control. In a sub-variant it is Motors 5 'electrically connected to the circuit board via the switch 8' and can be switched off when the flap is open becomes. The ink cartridge 31 ', 32' cannot then only in the one case be replaced if the latter is close to the print position or directly has been positioned in the latter. In any other case, the transverse printing module in a position outside the printing position has been moved and the flap is then open, one in the area the ink cartridge 31 ', 32' positioned in the opening 24 ' become. An empty or inoperable ink cartridge 31 ', 32' can can be replaced at any time. To protect against manipulation of the Franking machine through the opening 24 'and to cover the control electronics unit 38 'from above, the protective cap 33' prevents access to the strip conductor 34 'and the control lines in the control electronics unit 38 '. In any position in which the printing module 30 'is brought and access to the strip conductor 34 'and the control lines would be possible is the aforementioned opening 24 'through Protective cap 33 'at least partially or completely closed.

The invention is not limited to the present embodiments limited. Rather, a number of variants are within the scope of the Claims conceivable. Obviously, so can others Embodiments of the invention are developed or used by the same basic idea of the invention, starting from the enclosed claims are included.

Claims (34)

Method for opening a security housing, with authorization and unlocking, characterized by a transverse movement of a printing module (30) by means of transverse movement means, the printing module (30) being brought into an unlocking position transverse to the mail piece transport direction, whereby at least one part of the security housing or access to it is mechanically released. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that by a transverse movement of the printing module (30) in the unlocking position, a first access for an authorized person to components within the security housing for repair and maintenance purposes and a second access is mechanically released, the second access to Changing an ink cartridge is accessible. Method according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that the second access for changing an ink cartridge is released mechanically when the printing module (30) passes through the changing position during the transverse movement. Method according to one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that at least a first access to at least one locking means of the security housing is released mechanically. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3 or 4, characterized in that when a mechanical release of the security housing part or access thereto, activation of an inkjet print head of an ink cartridge is prevented. Method according to claim 5, characterized in that a check is carried out for the release or locking of the security housing of the postal device. Method according to one of claims 5 to 6, characterized in that after checking the locking, the postal device for franking mail items is operated if the locking has been carried out properly. A method according to claim 1, characterized in that an access for changing an ink cartridge is mechanically released and locked before operating the postal device. Method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the printing module (30) from a home position or from a printing position to an unlocking position for releasing the upper part (2) of the security housing or a first access (28) to the security housing and then in a change position for changing the ink cartridge (31) is moved. Method according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the printing position and the unlocking position form the end points of the travel path of the printing module (30), the ink cartridge changing position being placed between the printing position and the unlocking position or the home position and the unlocking position. Arrangement for opening a security housing, which is equipped with a mechanical locking device, with a pressure module (30), which is arranged transversely to the transport direction (Z) by means of transverse movement means (5, 6, 7), characterized in that the pressure module (30) in an unlocking position (E) is arranged such that it can be moved, the unlocking position (E) being located at one end of the travel path, that at least one mechanical locking means (29) or element (43) inside the security housing on a security housing part (1, 2 ) or (4) and that the printing module (30) has a finger (35) for actuating the mechanical locking means (29) or element (43). Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that the mechanical locking means (29) is a snap connection and that the finger (35) is designed for direct actuation of the mechanical locking means (29) for the mechanical release of at least one security housing part (1, 2). Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that the mechanical locking means (29) is a snap connection, which is arranged on the inside of at least one of the walls of the security housing and that the finger (35) is designed for indirect actuation of the mechanical locking means (29) For the mechanical release of at least one safety housing part, the driving force of the transverse movement means (5, 6, 7) for the transverse movement of the pressure module (30) being transmitted to the at least one locking means (29) via force transmission means when the pressure module (30) is in the unlocked position ( E) is brought. Arrangement according to claim 13, characterized in that the force transmission means is a lever, a cable or a similarly acting means. Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that at least one locking element (43) of the safety housing part (4) is provided, the locking element (43) being equipped with a hook nose (432) on a resilient extension arm which is moved by the transverse movement of the pressure module ( 30) can be actuated directly into the unlocking position, wherein upon actuation of the locking element (43) access to a further releasable locking means of the security housing part is mechanically released, the further locking means being provided on at least one wall of the security housing in order to manually ver at least one security housing part - or unlock. Arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that the security housing part (4) with the mechanical locking element (43) is an access protection part (40) through which access to at least one housing part (1, 2) which can be released by further releasable locking means can be closed, that the finger (35) is designed for indirect actuation of the mechanical locking element (43) via a force transmission means which is arranged between the finger (35) and the mechanical locking element (43). Arrangement according to claim 16, characterized in that the mechanical locking element (43) is plate-shaped and formed with a hook nose (432) which resiliently snaps into a compartment-like recess or in a compartment (280) of the releasable security housing part, that the mechanical locking element (43) is attached to an access protection panel (41) of the access protection part (40), openings (282, 283) being provided in the bottom (281) of the compartment (280) which correspond to the shape of the locking element (43) and one Further guide element (42) are formed, the latter being rigidly attached to the access protection panel (41) of the access protection part (40). Arrangement according to claim 17, characterized in that the locking element (43) consists of a spring leaf (431) formed on the access protection panel (41), that the hook nose (432) is arranged at a distance from the access protection panel (41), the spring leaf (431) merges into a plate-shaped stop (433) with increasing distance from the access protection screen (41). Arrangement according to claims 16 and 18, characterized in that the force transmission means is a lever (37) which can be deflected at one end in the Z direction and has a finger (378) which rests on the plate-shaped stop (433) of the mechanical locking element (43 ) presses with force (A) as soon as the lever (37) is sufficiently deflected by the transverse movement of the pressure module (30) in the X direction into the unlocking position that the lever (37) has an axis of rotation (374) at its other end in the Y direction near the wall on the front of the safety housing and in the X direction at a distance from the axis of rotation has an extension piece (376) which carries a spring (377) for resiliently supporting the lever (37) on the chassis side part (17), see above that the lever (37) with its link (371, 372, 373) is pressed onto the finger (35) of the printing module (30). Arrangement according to claim 16, characterized in that the access to the at least one releasable security housing part (1, 2) is designed to be closable by an access protection panel (41) of the access protection part (40), the access protection part (40) being the guide directed into the interior of the housing. and has locking elements (42) and (43). Arrangement according to claims 15 or 16, characterized in that screws (16) are provided as a further releasable locking means for fastening a releasable safety housing part (1, 2) to the support frame (10) or chassis part (13, 15, 18). Arrangement according to one of the preceding claims 11 to 13, 15 to 17, 20 and 21, characterized in that the releasable security housing part is an upper security housing part (2). Arrangement according to claim 22, characterized in that the releasable upper part of the security housing (2) has an opening (24) through which a second access for changing an ink cartridge is accessible when the printing module (30) is positioned in the ink cartridge changing position (C), wherein the printing module (30) a printing carriage (36) is equipped with a control electronics unit (38) and a strip conductor (34) and a protective cap (33), so that the second access through the protective cap (33) is at least partially closable, so that neither the connecting lines of the ribbon conductor (34) nor the control electronics unit (38) are accessible through the opening (24) when the print module (30) is positioned outside the ink cartridge change position (C). Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that the protective cap (33) attached to the printing carriage (36) or the printing carriage (36) is equipped with the corresponding finger (35) in order to bring about the mechanical release of the upper part of the security housing or access to it. Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that the opening (24) can be closed by a flap (3) which is equipped with a stop (39) which is on the flap (3) by a second finger (379) of the lever (37) is arranged in a lockable manner, the lock being released when the print module (30) is positioned in the ink cartridge change position (C) or in the unlock position (E). Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that the flap (3) cannot be locked and the opening (24) is accessible at all times. Arrangement according to claim 23, characterized in that a protective casing (9) for preventing unauthorized access to the strip conductor (34) and to the control electronics unit 38 is attached to the printing module (30). Security housing for a printing mail processing device, which is equipped with a mechanical locking device, with a printing module (30), which is arranged to move transversely to the mail piece transport direction (Z) by means of transverse movement means (5, 6, 7), characterized in that a security housing part (4) is provided which prevents the user from first accessing the interior of the mail processing device and covers a releasable further locking means which is arranged on a wall of a lower housing part (1) or an upper housing part (2) of the security housing located inside the security housing, around the security housing manually to lock or unlock that at least one mechanical locking element (43) is arranged on the security housing part (4), which is equipped with a hook nose (432) at the end of a resilient extension arm, which has the aforementioned flange located inside the security housing d can be brought into engagement, the security housing part (4) being removable only by visible destruction, the security housing upper part (2) having an opening (24) which allows the user to change an ink cartridge a limited second access to the interior of the mail processing device, that the opening (24) can be closed by a flap (3) which is equipped with a stop (39) which, when the flap (3) is opened, actuates a switch (8) which is arranged inside the safety housing, the Power supply to a motor (5) of the transverse movement means of the printing module (30) is interrupted and that a protective sheath (9) and a protective cap (33) on the printing module (30.) Prevent unauthorized access to the strip conductor (34) and to the control electronics unit (38) ) are attached. Arrangement according to claim 28, characterized in that the protective sheath (9) has a piece of hose (94), at the ends of which a cover plate (99) and a cap (90) can be fastened, the cap (90) to prevent unauthorized access is formed on the control electronics unit (38). Arrangement according to claim 28, characterized in that the tube piece (94) for receiving the strip conductor (34) is formed and made of a particularly resistant plastic and is flexible. Arrangement according to claim 28, characterized in that the tube piece (94) has a releasable positive connection with the cap (90), which is designed for strain relief, that the cap (90) is designed for attachment to the pressure module (30), the Fastening means are arranged so that the latter are inaccessible from access through the opening (24). Arrangement according to claim 28, characterized in that the protective sheath (9) has a piece of hose (94), at the ends of which a cover plate (99) and cap (90) are molded during manufacture and are made of the same material. Arrangement according to claim 28, characterized in that the cap (90) and the cover plate (99) are designed for the passage of the tube piece (94) and for strain relief. Arrangement according to claim 28, characterized in that the switch (8) is a microswitch.

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