Abstract: An X-ray film cassette has on its top a triangular bar code field readable by a bar code reader of an automatic film sheet charging and discharging apparatus. The bar code field is in the form of an isosceles right triangle whose hypothenuse faces a reference corner and whose legs extend parallel to edges of the cassettes. The bars of the code extend parallel to the hypothenuse. An optical axis of the bar code reader, when the cassette is in its end position in the apparatus, intersects a vertex area formed by the legs of the triangle. This arrangement guarantees that its bar codes on cassettes of small format, even if misaligned in the feeding direction, are reliably read by the reader.

Abstract: A document reader module which provides precise alignment for the document being read and the associated reader, like an optical reader. An integrated frame member provides accurate control surfaces for the precise alignment mentioned. An elevator mechanism mounted on the frame member provides an apparatus for adjusting the read head relative to the line of data on the documents being read. A special pinch roller construction, which can be locked in a retracted position, facilitates the removal of jammed documents from the associated document track.

Abstract: An identifiable security device comprises a carrier (1), such as a key card, credit card or document, supporting a thick film hologram (5) including at least one discrete reflective region (6) which, when illuminated reflects strongly in a specific, predetermined direction. A reader (2) incorporates a light source (7) and one or more photodiode detectors (8,11) arranged to detect the directional reflections, to discriminate against non-holographic reflections and to perform a security function on detection of appropriate reflections. The function may comprise authentication of a carrier bearing a simple hologram, but more complex hologram having a plurality of reflective regions arranged in a coded array are used, for example, on bank cheque cards to operate automatic bank dispensers and on pass cards for gaining entry to secure areas.

Abstract: A passbook printer uses a conveyor belt (16) to urge a passbook (86) towards a raised barrier (40) for the passbook (86) to strike the barrier (40) and then have one edge thereof aligned with the barrier (40) by sliding engagement with the conveyor belt (16). After alignment, the barrier (40) is lowered and the passbook (86) is advanced beneath a printhead and sensor assembly (38) which senses the orientation of the passbook (86) and prints thereon in a correct and upright manner regardless of the orientation of the passbook (86).

Abstract: The receiving unit for a data card (10) containing an electronic circuit includes a push-in frame showing a receiving compartment (20) for the data card (10) which frame is pivotable between an input/output position and an operating position in which the receiving compartment (20) is inaccessible, and locking means for fixing the push-in frame in the operating position, where the push-in frame is under initial stress in its input/output position and is arranged behind a case wall (14) of the receiving compartment (20) of the receiving unit in such a way that the receiving compartment (20) in its input/output position is in alignment with an input/output slot (16) in the housing wall (14).

Abstract: A card reader locking and unlocking apparatus has a locking lever. One end of the locking lever supports a hook which hooks over a card when the card is locked in position during reading. A key, when brought into abutment with the locking lever, raises the locking lever so that the hook clears the trailing edge of the card and permits the card to be withdrawn. A solenoid acts on the locking lever by a release lever to electrically lock and unlock the card. The release lever is forked so that movement of the locking lever by the key does not cause corresponding movement of the solenoid armature.

Abstract: An indication card has a plurality of apertures representing information code relating to parts to be assembled. The information code is determined by means of photodetectors of a reader and a processing unit. When the indication card is conveyed with 5 degrees of its inclination angle, no indication signal corresponding to the information code is produced. In order to detect the inclined indication card, there are provided a main and an auxiliary reading position detection photodetectors in the reader. The outputs of both detection photodetectors are used to determine the reading position of the indication card. The indication signal causes a corresponding one of lamps to be turned on which are provided regarding to the parts to be assembled.

Abstract: The method of identifying data supports such as credit cards, check cards, identity cards, etc. includes detecting inherent individual features of the cards to derive a random information therefrom. The random information is stored for later comparison with detected information to determine authenticity of the data support. In order to derive the random information in perfectly reproducible manner irrespective of changes of the dimensions of the data support, the individual characterizing features of the data supports are detected within a linear detection zone lying centrally between two opposed lateral edges of the data support. The invention provides an apparatus for perfectly aligning the data supports so that their central lines will always be coincident with the reading path of a detection system in which the data supports are processed.

Abstract: A card reader for electronic memory cards of the type which include a integrated circuit and integral electrical contact pads. The card reader includes a slot for introduction of the card. Within the slot are a series of contact elements for supplying power and information signals to the contact pads on the memory card. A card position detector, e.g. a microswitch, detects when the card is in the correct position, i.e. when the contact elements are contacting the electric contact pads of the memory card. When the card is so positioned, electric power and information signals are applied to the contact elements and then to the integrated circuit of the memory card via the electric contact pads.

Abstract: A system for generating a unique signal indicative of a particular identity carried by a card. The card has a series of zones along the sides thereof with holes extending through one or more of the zones. A receptacle is provided for the card, the receptacle including a longitudinal internal slot and a series of opto-electronic sensors which are spaced along the slot such that when the card is inserted within the slot, one of the sensors is positioned in registration with each of these zones. The card and the receptacle are formed such that the card can be inserted in the slot in only one proper orientation. One or more of the sensors is employed solely for determining proper insertion of the card.

Abstract: This invention relates to a device adapted to read and erase magnetically encoded information on a ticket or card. A compact self-contained device is provided for attachment to a local utility meter (e.g. electricity meter) or a gas meter. The device comprises a compact casing 10 which is attached to an electrical drive motor 11 which, via roller 9, drives a drive roller 13. The casing 10 includes an entry mouth 18 which leads to a flow path 19 passing between the drive roller 13 and a pinch roller 15 and terminating in an exit mouth 20. Adjacent the entry mouth 18 are sensors 21, adapted to energize the motor 11 when a card is pushed into the entry mouth 18. Similarly adjacent the exit mouth 20 are sensors incorporating switches 22 which may be used to de-energize or reverse the motor. A magnetic read-head 25 is located within the casing 10 and is adapted to read information magnetically recorded on the card or ticket as it flows along the flow path 19. An erase head 23 may also be provided.

Abstract: A key card receiver has a key card slideway facial insert and upper and lower body halves. The insert has a tapered guideway and a flat slideway with opposite parallel walls and side walls which extend perpendicularly from the guideway walls. Abutments are connected to the side walls, and the abutments include elongated hooks which extend around pedestals of the upper and lower body halves and lugs which extend into recesses in a jack in the lower body half. The upper and lower body halves are joined together by pedestals which have complementary knobs and depressions. Larger pedestals have aligned openings for mounting. A front vestibule formed between the body halves receives the key card slideway insert, and a rear chamber provides space for mounting an electronic circuit for converting identification data on the card to a pulse train.

Abstract: In an autoteller, where a card is inserted into a slot to be read by the autoteller, and remains visible at all times by means of an indentation in the slot whereby the card can also be grasped, a cam operated bale arm assembly prevents the card from being removed from the slot by interposing the tips of bale arm behind the fascia of the autoteller between the card and the slot. A bale arm clamp is provided for holding the bale arm assembly closed for the card to be pushed into a retention bin transversely to its direction of insertion into the autoteller by means of a drive wheel driven card ejection pin in the event of the autoteller desiring to retain the card. The bale arm assembly performs a dual action, both preventing the removal of the card and drawing the card into a predetermined position prior to the card being read. The clamp maintains the bale arm assembly in a removal-preventing position even although the cam operating mechanism is de-activated.

Abstract: The method of aligning generally flat data supports of flexible sheet material such as credit cards, identity cards, check cards and similar documents includes the steps of engaging at least one edge of the data support and exerting an alignment force thereon; prior to exerting the alignment force on the data support edge, an arching force is exerted substantially normally on at least one main surface of the data support to deform the latter into a generally arched state. Preferably, the data support is deformed into a shape having a generally waved cross-section in a direction perpendicular to the direction of the arching force. At the end of the alignment operation, the data support is restored into its flat shape by a pressure plate urging the data support against a flat supporting face of a receiving member.

Abstract: The method of identifying data supports such as credit cards, cheque cards, identity cards, etc. includes detecting inherent individual features of the cards to derive a random information therefrom. The random information is stored for later comparison with detected information to determine authenticity of the data support. In order to derive the random information in perfectly reproducible manner irrespective of changes of the dimensions of the data support, the individual characterizing features of the data supports are detected within a linear detection zone lying centrally between two opposed lateral edges of the data support. The invention provides an apparatus for perfectly aligning the data supports so that their central lines will always be coincident with the reading path of a detection system in which the data supports are processed.

Abstract: Badge reading apparatus for reading a data encoded badge or the like has a channel for receiving the badge, the channel having a slide positioned therein which clock-holes for producing synchronizing timing signals, the slide being adapted to move within the channel in abutting relation to the badge. Means are provided for maintaining the badge and slide in fixed abutting relation while the badge is moved so as to read, such means incorporating a wrap-around spring on which the badge rides and which keeps the badge properly aligned. The slide element further incorporates a fold-over arrangement for the clock-holes, whereby the slide need not contain the same number of clock-holes as there are rows of data to be read from the badge, thereby enabling a smaller slide element and reduced size of the overall apparatus.

Abstract: Keycard reader has entry slot aimed at an angle to the vertical and a vertical lower portion so that flexible keycard is bent as it is inserted. This provides a convenient entry, precludes the malicious insertion of coins, sticks, and other objects into reader to render it inoperative, blocks light into the reader and makes it unnecessary to make an enlarged opening in the door to receive the lock.

Abstract: Test patterns (6) in bar code of different densities are printed at the start of document (20) preparation on the line with a alignment mark (5). The test patterns (6) are immediately read at different timing intervals (59) corresponding to the densities of the patterns. The highest density pattern (6) having test data which is recognized by the logic (61) as correctly sensed, defines the subsequent printing density to be used. First, the next line of data 3 is printed in the lowest density with a code defining the density of the subsequent printing. When a document (20) is read, the first line is read with the clock (59) intervals corresponding to the lowest density. The frequency is then changed to that defined by the code in the first line. Alternatively, the frequency is adjusted lower when an ordinary line of data is re-read and found to read incorrectly.

Abstract: A device for preventing a sheet-like original, when conveyed to a position for reading the image information of the original, from being conveyed to the reading position in an oblique condition with respect to a proper direction. When the original 14, 25, 81 is conveyed along a guide surface 5 while being held between a ball, 8, 23, 33, 44, 51, 71, 75 and an opposed member 6, 22, 29, 31, 50, 70, 76, this device conveys the original at a certain angle with respect to the guide surface, thereby automatically correcting to a proper direction the original being obliquely fed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for identifying objects appearing on an image window and bearing on a surface facing the window an identification in the form of a data field which includes at least one data track bearing contrasting symbols and a plurality of contrasting line patterns which identify the position and orientation of the data track. The window is optoelectronically scanned in a parallel line raster to generate a video signal which corresponds to the scanned contrast sequence appearing at the window. The contrasting line patterns are initially identified in a stationary detection raster and the angular inclination of the raster lines relative to the contrasting line pattern is determined.

Abstract: A reading device which uses both optical character recognition techniques and magnetic reading are combined in a reader wherein the magnetic reading head stays at a fixed position while the optical reading aperture may be varied to accomodate different documents. The slot through which checks, credit cards or other similar documents are passed is movable vertically to adapt to different media from which information is to be read.

Abstract: A cash replacement system including an encoded plastic card and a card acceptor mechanism is provided by punching a number of specially shaped apertures with predetermined orientations into a card. The acceptor mechanism which receives the card has a sensor pin aligned with each of the punched apertures of the plastic card. The sensor pins have a probe section at one end which is shaped to substantially conform to the shape of the punched apertures of the plastic card so that when they are in alignment with the apertures the probe sections will fit in the apertures as the sensor pins are depressed toward the card. The sensor pin also has a surface area adjacent the probe section which engages the card so that when the probe section extends through the aperture it insures that the aperture is of the correct shape and orientation. The sensor pins are lowered toward the card by a drive mechanism which is linked to a handle or other control device.

Abstract: A magnetic detection device for use in a bank note discriminating apparatus is proposed. A magnetic pattern which has been already formed on each bank note by applying the magnetizable printing ink thereon is detected by a magnetic detecting head of the device. The device further includes a conveyer driven at a conveying speed of V.sub.1, and a positioning roller rotated at a circumferential speed of V.sub.2. According to this invention, the speed V.sub.2 is adjusted to be approximately equal to or only slightly higher than the speed V.sub.1. According to another feature of this invention, the detection face of the magnetic head is spaced from the opposing peripheral face of the positioning roller by a gap D which is greater than the thickness T of the bank notes to be handled.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing access to an electrically controlled service for perdetermined periods of time employs a dual magnetically striped record medium encoded in a CRB format with data indicative of the periods of time during which access is to be provided. The data is read by a reader and stored in a processor having an internal clock and a comparator for comparing the instantaneous time output of the clock with the predetermined time period data encoded on the record medium for enabling a security device only when the instantaneous time is within the predetermined time period.

Abstract: A magnetic card drive assembly for use with an electronic typewriter is provided for driving a magnetic card supported on a platform with a top surface and a card guide surface thereon. The magnetic card drive assembly includes a drive wheel supported for rotation on a frame. The frame has an alignment surface formed thereon for mating with cooperating alignment faces of a pair of lugs extending from the card platform. The engagement of the alignment surface of the drive wheel frame against the alignment faces of the lugs automatically aligns the frame and the drive wheel relative to the card guide surface. The drive wheel is further alignable relative to the plane of the top surface of the card platform by adjustment of one of three retaining screws connecting the drive wheel frame to the card platform. This screw cooperates with a compression spring acting between the frame and the card platform to position the periphery of the drive wheel tangent to the plane of the top surface of the card platform.

Abstract: A tracking mount assembly is provided for use with an electronic typewriter magnetic card support platform having a top surface and a card guide surface thereon. The tracking mount assembly includes a bridge frame with a lead screw and a guide shaft mounted in the frame. A pair of lugs extend from the frame and are formed with alignment surfaces thereon. The alignment surfaces of the lugs engage the card guide surface of the card support platform to align thelead screw and guide shaft relative to the card guide surface. The lead screw and guide shaft are further aligned relative to the plane of the top surface of the card support platform by the connection between the bridge frame and the card support platform.

Abstract: A token for use in a vending machine consists of a plastic card having at least one pair of side-by-side holograms embossed thereon. A token reader includes means to guide a token into the path of a readout beam. When two photodetectors positioned at predetermined spaced locations receive equal-amplitude first order beams from an illuminated pair of holograms, an electrically-operated plunger in the token reader operates to obliterate the pair of holograms on the token, and then a signal from a third photodetector in the token reader enables an output signal for operating the vending machine.

Abstract: A reader for a magnetically coded card with a magnetodiode as the magnetic field sensor. A circuit for compensating for changes in magnetodiode resistance due to ambient temperature change. First and second amplifiers connected in a self balancing nulling system and having the magnetodiode signal as an input, and providing a null output signal for no magnetic field at the diode, with third and fourth amplifiers connected as comparitors and providing high and low output signals for magnetic fields of opposite polarity.