EP0060937A1 - Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals - Google Patents

Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0060937A1
EP0060937A1 EP81110234A EP81110234A EP0060937A1 EP 0060937 A1 EP0060937 A1 EP 0060937A1 EP 81110234 A EP81110234 A EP 81110234A EP 81110234 A EP81110234 A EP 81110234A EP 0060937 A1 EP0060937 A1 EP 0060937A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
markings
arrangement according
light
scanning device
counter
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Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Granted
Application number
EP81110234A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0060937B1 (en
Inventor
Rolf Lochinger
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Siemens Building Technologies AG
Landis and Gyr AG
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Landis and Gyr AG
LGZ Landis and Gyr Zug AG
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Priority to AT81110234T priority Critical patent/ATE9620T1/en
Publication of EP0060937A1 publication Critical patent/EP0060937A1/en
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    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06MCOUNTING MECHANISMS; COUNTING OF OBJECTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06M1/00Design features of general application
    • G06M1/27Design features of general application for representing the result of count in the form of electric signals, e.g. by sensing markings on the counter drum
    • G06M1/272Design features of general application for representing the result of count in the form of electric signals, e.g. by sensing markings on the counter drum using photoelectric means
    • GPHYSICS
    • G06COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06MCOUNTING MECHANISMS; COUNTING OF OBJECTS NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06M3/00Counters with additional facilities
    • G06M3/06Counters with additional facilities for printing or separately displaying result of count

Definitions

  • the invention specified in claim 1 is based on the object of reducing the space requirement of the markings without buying this advantage through increased demands on the adjustment accuracy of the markings and the scanning device.
  • 10 means a number roller counter, which has number rollers 11 to 13 and behind an aperture 14, e.g. is arranged in a measuring device, not shown.
  • Each of the number rollers 11 to 13 bears numbers on its outer surface, e.g. the numbers 0, 1, 2 ... 9 or 00, 10, 20 ... 90.
  • the respective content (counter status) of the counter 10 can be read by a window 15 of the aperture 14 by the eye.
  • Markers 16 are arranged on each number roller 11 to 13. These markings 16 are of such a nature that they follow the beam path - i.e. Modify not only the beam intensity, but also the beam direction - of a photoelectric scanner 17 by diffraction or refraction.
  • the markings 16 are advantageously arranged on the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13.
  • the markings 16 of a number roller 11, 12, 13 each differ from one another, so that each marking individually modifies the beam path in a manner characteristic of the respective position of the number roller.
  • Each number 0 to 9 of the number rollers 11 to 13 is advantageously assigned a single individual marking 16 which, as will be explained in more detail below, can be located next to, between or above the numbers 0 to 9.
  • the scanning device 17 consists of a light source 18, a group of light receivers 19 and a signal processing element 20.
  • the light source 18 throws a light beam onto that marking 16 'of the number roller 11 which is assigned to the number of the number roller 11 appearing in the window 15.
  • the light beam is deflected at the marking 16 ′, optionally split into a plurality of partial beams and directed in one or more predetermined directions.
  • Each of the light receivers 19 is receptive to a narrow bundle of light from the light scattered at the marking 16 '.
  • the deflected light beams excite one or more of the light receivers 19, and the signal processing element 20 emits an electrical signal at its output which indicates the respective position of the numbers roll 11 and thus represents the number appearing in window 15 in serial or parallel coded form.
  • the numbers 12 and 13 are scanned in the same way.
  • Reflective phase holograms are preferably suitable as markings 16. You can use a hologram of the assigned number, a hologram of the binary coded number or a hologram of any, e.g. Representation organized in the Gray code, which allows the numbers 0 to 9 to be clearly differentiated as simply as possible. Such holograms can be by interference of coherent radiation or synthetic, i.e. with the help of a computer.
  • markings 16 are reflective phase diffraction gratings, the individual markings being able to differ from one another in terms of the grating frequency and orientation of the diffraction gratings; In order to make it easier to distinguish between ten different markings 16, it is also possible to implement each marking by superimposing two different diffraction gratings. A space can be provided between the markings 16 to indicate a number change taking place.
  • the markings 16 can be embossed directly into the number rollers 11 to 13 according to known hologram or diffraction grating Vervieif folding methods by means of an embossing die using pressure and heat. It is also possible to coat at least part of the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 with a thermoplastic layer and to emboss the markings 16 before or after the application of the thermoplastic layer.
  • the markings 16 are advantageously embossed in a thermoplastic film which e.g. is attached by gluing to the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 and encloses them in a ring.
  • Fig. 2 shows a number roll 21 with such a strip-shaped film 22, which is narrow compared to the width of the number roll 21 and only the one free edge of the Shell surface covered. Different hatching in FIG. 2 indicates that the individual markings 16 are not identical. To increase the reflection, the surface area provided with the markings 16 or the entire surface of the film 22 can be coated with a thin metal layer.
  • FIG. 3 shows a number roll 23 with a strip-shaped, transparent film 24 which has approximately the same width as the number roll 23 and which covers the zones of the lateral surface of the number roll 23 provided with the numbers 0 to 9.
  • Each of the markings 16 embossed in the film 24 is arranged between two numbers.
  • the markings 16 can be metal-coated.
  • FIG. 4 shows a number roll 25 which differs from the number roll 23 of FIG. 3 in that the markings 16 embossed into a transparent film 26 applied to the outer surface of the number roll 25 are arranged above the numbers 0 to 9 to cover the numbers.
  • This arrangement has the advantage that the numbers can occupy practically the entire lateral surface of the number roller 25, since the markings 16 do not take up any space for themselves.
  • the legibility of the numbers is hardly affected by the markings 16, since only a small part of the light incident on the number roller 25 is reflected by the surface of the film 26.
  • the light signals incident on the light receivers 19 are also relatively weak, but this hardly impedes reliable photoelectric detection of the markings 16.
  • Suitable light sources 18 are e.g. Laser diodes, LEDs or incandescent lamps, which cast a light beam onto the markings 16 directly or via light guides.
  • the lighting is advantageously carried out intermittently, so that the service life of the components used is increased and permanent lighting caused by a defect or fraudulent manipulation can be detected by means of the evaluation element 20.
  • Photodiodes or phototransistors are used, which can be integrated on a common semiconductor chip. Like the lighting, the detection of the light rays can also take place directly or via light guides.
  • the numbers 11 to 13 can be scanned in parallel or sequentially.
  • a single light source 18 can be provided and each group of numbers 11 to 13 can be assigned a group of light receivers 19, the signals of which are processed sequentially in a common signal processing element.
  • a separate light source can be assigned to each number roller 11 to 14 and a common group of light receivers 19 can be assigned to all number rollers, the light sources being controlled sequentially and the light receiver group being optically coupled to the individual number rollers via light guides.
  • the light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be installed in a mechanically movable scanning head, which scans the number rollers 11 to 13 in succession. It is also possible to work with a single, mechanically movable light receiver which is guided into all angular positions in which a light signal modified by the markings 16 can be expected.
  • the sampling can be carried out periodically and the result can be stored in an electronic memory of the signal processing element 20. This permits the use of slow-working, inexpensive components, and the scanning can be carried out in any cycle which is independent of the cycle of the information output at the output of the signal processing element 20.
  • the light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be assembled into a fixed block for each number roll or for the entire counter 10.
  • the scanning device 17 is advantageously arranged outside of this sealable part, so that manipulations on the scanning device do not result in a new calibration of the measuring device.
  • the optical coupling between the counter 10 and the scanning device 17 is advantageously carried out here via light guides.
  • a preferred possibility is to accommodate the scanning device in a separate reading device, which e.g. consists of a portable base unit and a scanning head connected to it via a cable.
  • a separate reading device which e.g. consists of a portable base unit and a scanning head connected to it via a cable.
  • the scanning device or its scanning head is placed on the measuring device, the beam path of the scanning device preferably leading through a counter window of the measuring device.
  • the advantages of the invention can now be easily recognized. Since it is sufficient to assign a single marking to each number of number rolls, these markings take up very little space, so that the number image is not disturbed by the markings and, in existing counter designs, neither the width of the number rolls has to be enlarged nor the size of the numbers reduced.
  • the individual markings can be selected to be very small, for example a hologram with an area of the order of one square millimeter is sufficient. In comparison to known solutions that work with pure reflection markings, but require at least four places per number for a marking, the same size of the markings assumes that the requirements for the adjustment accuracy are approximately the same.
  • Existing measuring devices or counters can easily be retrofitted, especially since it is even possible to glue a film bearing the markings on the number rolls.

Abstract

1. An arrangement for representing the content of number disc counters in the form of electrical signals, comprising optical markings (16) disposed on the peripheral surface of at least one number disc (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) and a photoelectric sensing means (17) for sensing the markings (16), the sensing means including a light source (18) and light receivers (19), characterised in that associated with each number of the number disc (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) is a single individual marking (16) in the form of a reflection phase diffraction grating or reflection phase hologram for modifying the ray path of the sensing means (17) by optical diffraction, and that each light receiver (19) is receptive of a narrow light beam from the light diffracted at the respective marking (16) lit.

Description

Bekannte Anordnungen zur Darstellung des Inhalts von Zahlenrollen-Zählwerken in Form elektrischer Signale beruhen auf der mechanischen, elektrischen, magnetischen oder photoelektrischen Abtastung von codierten Spuren auf den Zahlenrollen. Die vielfältigen Randbedingungen, nämlich Wirtschaftlichkeit, Verschleissfreiheit, Alterungsbeständigkeit, geringer Platzbedarf, Nachrüstbarkeit bestehender Zählwerke usw. werden bei der photoelektrischen Abtastung wohl am besten, bei bekannten Anordnungen aber trotzdem noch nicht in befriedigender Weise erfüllt.Known arrangements for representing the content of number roller counters in the form of electrical signals are based on the mechanical, electrical, magnetic or photoelectric scanning of coded tracks on the number rollers. The various boundary conditions, namely economy, wear and tear, aging resistance, small space requirements, upgradeability of existing counters, etc. are probably best achieved with photoelectric scanning, but are still not satisfactorily met with known arrangements.

Es ist eine Anordnung der im Oberbegriff des Anspruchs 1 genannten Art bekannt, bei der auf den Zahlenrollen wenigstens vier binär codierte Spuren mit optischen Reflexionsmarkierungen vorhanden sind. Diese vier Spuren beanspruchen auf der Zahlenrolle verhältnismässig viel Platz, stören allenfalls sogar das Zahlenbild und lassen es nicht zu, installierte Messgeräte mit einem solchen Zählwerk oder bestehende Zählwerke mit solchen Codespuren nachzurüsten.An arrangement of the type mentioned in the preamble of claim 1 is known, in which at least four binary-coded tracks with optical reflection markings are present on the number rollers. These four tracks take up a relatively large amount of space on the number roll, at most even disrupt the number image and do not allow installed measuring devices to be retrofitted with such a counter or existing counters with such code traces.

Der im Anspruch 1 angegebenen Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, den Platzbedarf der Markierungen zu verkleinern, ohne diesen Vorteil durch erhöhte Anforderungen an die Justiergenauigkeit der Markierungen und der Abtasteinrichtung zu erkaufen.The invention specified in claim 1 is based on the object of reducing the space requirement of the markings without buying this advantage through increased demands on the adjustment accuracy of the markings and the scanning device.

Nachfolgend werden einige Ausführungsbeispiele der Erfindung anhand der Zeichnungen näher erläutert.

  • Es zeigen: Fig. 1 eine Prinzipdarstellung eines Zählwerkes und einer Abtasteinrichtung und
  • Fig. 2 bis 4 verschiedene Zahlenrollen.
Some exemplary embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawings.
  • 1 shows a basic illustration of a counter and a scanning device and
  • Fig. 2 to 4 different number rolls.

In der Fig. 1 bedeutet 10 ein Zahlenrollen-Zählwerk, das Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 aufweist und hinter einer Blende 14 z.B. in einem nicht dargestellten Messgerät angeordnet ist. Jede der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 trägt auf ihrer Mantelfläche Zahlen, z.B. die Zahlen 0, 1, 2 ... 9 oder 00,10, 20 ... 90. Der jeweilige Inhalt (Zählwerkstand) des Zählwerkes 10 kann durch ein Fenster 15 der Blende 14 von Auge abgelesen werden.In Fig. 1, 10 means a number roller counter, which has number rollers 11 to 13 and behind an aperture 14, e.g. is arranged in a measuring device, not shown. Each of the number rollers 11 to 13 bears numbers on its outer surface, e.g. the numbers 0, 1, 2 ... 9 or 00, 10, 20 ... 90. The respective content (counter status) of the counter 10 can be read by a window 15 of the aperture 14 by the eye.

Auf jeder Zahlenrolle 11 bis 13 sind Markierungen 16 angeordnet. Diese Markierungen 16 sind solcher Art, dass sie den Strahlengang - d.h. nicht nur die Strahlenintensität, sondern auch die Strahlenrichtung - einer photoelektrischen Abtasteinrichtung 17 durch Beugung oder Brechung modifizieren. Vorteilhaft sind die Markierungen 16 auf der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 angeordnet. Die Markierungen 16 einer Zahlenrolle 11, 12, 13 unterscheiden sich jeweils voneinander, so dass jede Markierung den Strahlengang individuell in für die jeweilige Stellung der Zahlenrolle charakteristischer Weise modifiziert. Vorteilhaft ist jeder Zahl 0 bis 9 der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 eine einzige individuelle Markierung 16 zugeordnet, die sich, wie weiter unten noch näher erläutert wird, neben, zwischen oder über den Zahlen 0 bis 9 befinden kann.Markers 16 are arranged on each number roller 11 to 13. These markings 16 are of such a nature that they follow the beam path - i.e. Modify not only the beam intensity, but also the beam direction - of a photoelectric scanner 17 by diffraction or refraction. The markings 16 are advantageously arranged on the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13. The markings 16 of a number roller 11, 12, 13 each differ from one another, so that each marking individually modifies the beam path in a manner characteristic of the respective position of the number roller. Each number 0 to 9 of the number rollers 11 to 13 is advantageously assigned a single individual marking 16 which, as will be explained in more detail below, can be located next to, between or above the numbers 0 to 9.

Die Abtasteinrichtung 17 besteht im dargestellten Beispiel aus einer Lichtquelle 18, einer Gruppe von Lichtempfängern 19 und einem Signalverarbeitungsglied 20. Die Lichtquelle 18 wirft einen Lichtstrahl auf jene Markierung 16' der Zahlenrolle 11, welche der im Fenster 15 erscheinenden Zahl der Zahlenrolle 11 zugeordnet ist. Der Lichtstrahl wird an der Markierung 16' abgelenkt, gegebenenfalls in mehrere Teilstrahlen aufgespalten und in eine oder mehrere vorbestimmte Richtungen gelenkt. Jeder der Lichtempfänger 19 ist für ein enges Lichtbündel aus dem an der Markierung 16' gestreuten Licht empfänglich. Die abgelenkten Lichtstrahlen erregen einen oder mehrere der Lichtempfänger 19, und das Signalverarbeitungsglied 20 gibt an seinem Ausgang ein elektrisches Signal ab, das die jeweilige Stellung der Zahlenrolle 11 und damit die im Fenster 15 erscheinende Zahl in seriell oder parallel codierter Form darstellt. Auf gleiche Weise erfolgt die Abtastung der Zahlenrolten 12 und 13.In the example shown, the scanning device 17 consists of a light source 18, a group of light receivers 19 and a signal processing element 20. The light source 18 throws a light beam onto that marking 16 'of the number roller 11 which is assigned to the number of the number roller 11 appearing in the window 15. The light beam is deflected at the marking 16 ′, optionally split into a plurality of partial beams and directed in one or more predetermined directions. Each of the light receivers 19 is receptive to a narrow bundle of light from the light scattered at the marking 16 '. The deflected light beams excite one or more of the light receivers 19, and the signal processing element 20 emits an electrical signal at its output which indicates the respective position of the numbers roll 11 and thus represents the number appearing in window 15 in serial or parallel coded form. The numbers 12 and 13 are scanned in the same way.

Als Markierungen 16 eignen sich vorzugsweise reflektierende Phasenhologramme. Sie können ein Hologramm der zugeordneten Zahl, ein Hologramm der binär codierten Zahl oder ein Hologramm einer beliebigen, z.B. im Gray-Code organisierten Darstellung, die möglichst einfach eine eindeutige Unterscheidung der Zahlen 0 bis 9 gestattet, beinhalten. Solche Hologramme können durch Interferenz kohärenter Strahlung oder synthetisch, d.h. mit Hilfe eines Rechners, hergestellt werden. Ferner eignen sich als Markierungen 16 reflektierende Phasenbeugungsgitter, wobei sich die einzelnen Markierungen durch die Gitterfrequenz und Orientierung der Beugungsgitter voneinander unterscheiden können; um die Unterscheidung von zehn verschiedenen Markierungen 16 zu erleichtern, ist es auch möglich, jede Markierung durch Ueberlagerung zweier verschiedener Beugungsgitter zu realisieren. Zwischen den Markierungen 16 kann ein Zwischenraum zur Anzeige eines stattfindenden Zahlenwechsels vorgesehen werden.Reflective phase holograms are preferably suitable as markings 16. You can use a hologram of the assigned number, a hologram of the binary coded number or a hologram of any, e.g. Representation organized in the Gray code, which allows the numbers 0 to 9 to be clearly differentiated as simply as possible. Such holograms can be by interference of coherent radiation or synthetic, i.e. with the help of a computer. Also suitable as markings 16 are reflective phase diffraction gratings, the individual markings being able to differ from one another in terms of the grating frequency and orientation of the diffraction gratings; In order to make it easier to distinguish between ten different markings 16, it is also possible to implement each marking by superimposing two different diffraction gratings. A space can be provided between the markings 16 to indicate a number change taking place.

Die Markierungen 16 können nach bekannten Hologramm- oder Beugungsgitter-Vervieifältigungsmethoden mittels einer Prägematrize unter Anwendung von Druck und Wärme unmittelbar in die Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 eingeprägt werden. Es ist auch möglich, mindestens einen Teil der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 mit einer thermoplastischen Schicht zu beschichten und die Markierungen 16 vor oder nach der Applikation der thermoplastischen Schicht in diese einzuprägen. Vorteilhaft werden die Markierungen 16 in eine thermoplastische Folie geprägt, die z.B. durch Kleben auf der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 befestigt wird und diese ringförmig umschliesst.The markings 16 can be embossed directly into the number rollers 11 to 13 according to known hologram or diffraction grating Vervieif folding methods by means of an embossing die using pressure and heat. It is also possible to coat at least part of the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 with a thermoplastic layer and to emboss the markings 16 before or after the application of the thermoplastic layer. The markings 16 are advantageously embossed in a thermoplastic film which e.g. is attached by gluing to the outer surface of the number rollers 11 to 13 and encloses them in a ring.

Die Fig. 2 stellt eine Zahlenrolle 21 mit einer solchen streifenförmigen Folie 22 dar, die im Vergleich zur Breite der Zahlenrolle 21 schmal ist und nur den einen zahlenfreien Rand der Mantelfläche bedeckt. Durch eine unterschiedliche Schraffur ist in der Fig. 2 angedeutet, dass die einzelnen Markierungen 16 nicht identisch sind. Zur Erhöhung der Reflexion kann der mit den Markierungen 16 versehene Oberflächenbereich oder die gesamte Oberfläche der Folie 22 mit einer dünnen Metallschicht beschichtet sein.Fig. 2 shows a number roll 21 with such a strip-shaped film 22, which is narrow compared to the width of the number roll 21 and only the one free edge of the Shell surface covered. Different hatching in FIG. 2 indicates that the individual markings 16 are not identical. To increase the reflection, the surface area provided with the markings 16 or the entire surface of the film 22 can be coated with a thin metal layer.

Die Fig. 3 zeigt eine Zahlenrolle 23 mit einer streifenförmigen, transparenten Folie 24, welche etwa die gleiche Breite wie die Zahlenrolle 23 aufweist und die mit den Zahlen 0 bis 9 versehenen Zonen der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle 23 bedeckt. Jede der in die Folie 24 geprägten Markierungen 16 ist jeweils zwischen zwei Zahlen angeordnet. Auch hier können die Markierungen 16 metallbeschichtet sein.FIG. 3 shows a number roll 23 with a strip-shaped, transparent film 24 which has approximately the same width as the number roll 23 and which covers the zones of the lateral surface of the number roll 23 provided with the numbers 0 to 9. Each of the markings 16 embossed in the film 24 is arranged between two numbers. Here too, the markings 16 can be metal-coated.

In der Fig. 4 ist eine Zahlenrolle 25 gezeichnet, die sich von der Zahlenrolle 23 der Fig. 3 dadurch unterscheidet, dass die in eine auf die Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle 25 aufgebrachte, transparente Folie 26 geprägten Markierungen 16 über den Zahlen 0 bis 9 angeordnet sind, die Zahlen also bedecken. Diese Anordnung hat den Vorteil, dass die Zahlen praktisch die gesamte Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle 25 belegen können, da die Markierungen 16 keinen Platz für sich allein beanspruchen. Die Lesbarkeit der Zahlen wird durch die Markierungen 16 kaum beeinträchtigt, da von der Oberfläche der Folie 26 nur ein geringer Teil des auf die Zahlenrolle 25 einfallenden Lichtes reflektiert wird. Aus dem gleichen Grunde sind zwar auch die auf die Lichtempfänger 19 einfallenden Lichtsignale verhältnismässig schwach, was jedoch eine zuverlässige photoelektrische Erkennung der Markierungen 16 kaum erschwert.FIG. 4 shows a number roll 25 which differs from the number roll 23 of FIG. 3 in that the markings 16 embossed into a transparent film 26 applied to the outer surface of the number roll 25 are arranged above the numbers 0 to 9 to cover the numbers. This arrangement has the advantage that the numbers can occupy practically the entire lateral surface of the number roller 25, since the markings 16 do not take up any space for themselves. The legibility of the numbers is hardly affected by the markings 16, since only a small part of the light incident on the number roller 25 is reflected by the surface of the film 26. For the same reason, the light signals incident on the light receivers 19 are also relatively weak, but this hardly impedes reliable photoelectric detection of the markings 16.

Als Lichtquelle 18 eignen sich z.B. Laserdioden, LED's oder Glühlämpchen, die unmittelbar oder über Lichtleiter einen Lichtstrahl auf die Markierungen 16 werfen. Vorteilhaft erfolgt die Beleuchtung intermittierend, so dass die Lebensdauer der eingesetzten Komponenten erhöht und mittels des Auswertegliedes 20 eine durch einen Defekt oder eine betrügerische Manipulation verursachte Dauerbeleuchtung erkannt werden kann.Suitable light sources 18 are e.g. Laser diodes, LEDs or incandescent lamps, which cast a light beam onto the markings 16 directly or via light guides. The lighting is advantageously carried out intermittently, so that the service life of the components used is increased and permanent lighting caused by a defect or fraudulent manipulation can be detected by means of the evaluation element 20.

Zur Detektion der durch die Markierungen 16 modifizierten Lichtstrahlen können z.B. Photodioden oder Phototransistoren eingesetzt werden, die auf einem gemeinsamen Halbleiterplättchen integriert sein können. Wie die Beleuchtung kann auch die Detektion der Lichtstrahlen unmittelbar oder über Lichtleiter erfolgen.For the detection of the light rays modified by the markings 16, e.g. Photodiodes or phototransistors are used, which can be integrated on a common semiconductor chip. Like the lighting, the detection of the light rays can also take place directly or via light guides.

Zum Auslesen des gesamten Inhalts des Zählwerkes 10 können die Zahlen rollen 11 bis 13 parallel oder sequentiell abgetastet werden. Hierzu kann eine einzige Lichtquelle 18 vorgesehen und jeder Zahlenrolle 11 bis 13 eine Gruppe von Lichtempfängern 19 zugeordnet werden, deren Signale in einem gemeinsamen Signalverarbeitungsglied sequentiell verarbeitet werden. Ferner kann jeder Zahlenrolle 11 bis 14 eine gesonderte Lichtquelle und allen Zahlenrollen eine gemeinsame Gruppe von Lichtempfängern 19 zugeordnet werden, wobei die Lichtquellen sequentiell angesteuert werden und die Lichtempfänger-Gruppe über Lichtleiter optisch an die einzelnen Zahlenrollen gekoppelt ist. Ferner können die Lichtquelle 18 und die Lichtempfänger 19 in einen mechanisch bewegbaren Abtastkopf eingebaut werden, der die Zahlenrollen 11 bis 13 nacheinander abtastet. Es ist auch möglich, mit einem einzigen, mechanisch bewegbaren Lichtempfänger zu arbeiten, der in alle Winkelpositionen geführt wird, in denen ein durch die Markierungen 16 modifiziertes Lichtsignal zu erwarten ist.To read out the entire contents of the counter 10, the numbers 11 to 13 can be scanned in parallel or sequentially. For this purpose, a single light source 18 can be provided and each group of numbers 11 to 13 can be assigned a group of light receivers 19, the signals of which are processed sequentially in a common signal processing element. Furthermore, a separate light source can be assigned to each number roller 11 to 14 and a common group of light receivers 19 can be assigned to all number rollers, the light sources being controlled sequentially and the light receiver group being optically coupled to the individual number rollers via light guides. Furthermore, the light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be installed in a mechanically movable scanning head, which scans the number rollers 11 to 13 in succession. It is also possible to work with a single, mechanically movable light receiver which is guided into all angular positions in which a light signal modified by the markings 16 can be expected.

Die Abtastung kann periodisch durchgeführt und das Ergebnis in einem elektronischen Speicher des Signalverarbeitungsgliedes 20 gespeichert werden. Dies gestattet den Einsatz langsam arbeitender, preisgünstiger Bauteile, und die Abtastung kann in einem beliebigen Takt durchgeführt werden, der unabhängig ist vom Takt der Informationsausgabe am Ausgang des Signalverarbeitungsgliedes 20.The sampling can be carried out periodically and the result can be stored in an electronic memory of the signal processing element 20. This permits the use of slow-working, inexpensive components, and the scanning can be carried out in any cycle which is independent of the cycle of the information output at the output of the signal processing element 20.

Die Lichtquelle 18 und die Lichtempfänger 19 können für jede Zahlenrolle oder für das gesamte Zählwerk 10 zu einem festen Block zusammengebaut werden.The light source 18 and the light receiver 19 can be assembled into a fixed block for each number roll or for the entire counter 10.

Ist das Zählwerk 10 in einem plombierbaren Teil eines Messgerätes untergebracht, so wird die Abtasteinrichtung 17 vorteilhaft ausserhalb dieses plombierbaren Teils angeordnet, so dass Manipulationen an der Abtasteinrichtung keine erneute Eichung des Messgerätes nach sich ziehen. Die optische Kopplung zwischen dem Zählwerk 10 und der Abtasteinrichtung 17 erfolgt hierbei vorteilhaft über Lichtleiter.If the counter 10 is accommodated in a sealable part of a measuring device, the scanning device 17 is advantageously arranged outside of this sealable part, so that manipulations on the scanning device do not result in a new calibration of the measuring device. The optical coupling between the counter 10 and the scanning device 17 is advantageously carried out here via light guides.

Eine bevorzugte Möglichkeit besteht darin, die Abtasteinrichtung in einem gesonderten Ablesegerät unterzubringen, die z.B. aus einem tragbaren Basisgerät und einem mit diesem über ein Kabel verbundenen Abtastkopf besteht. Zum Ablesen des Zählwerkinhaltes wird die Abtasteinrichtung bzw. deren Abtastkopf auf das Messgerät gesetzt, wobei der Strahlengang der Abtasteinrichtung vorzugsweise durch ein Zählwerkfenster des Messgerätes führt.A preferred possibility is to accommodate the scanning device in a separate reading device, which e.g. consists of a portable base unit and a scanning head connected to it via a cable. To read the contents of the counter, the scanning device or its scanning head is placed on the measuring device, the beam path of the scanning device preferably leading through a counter window of the measuring device.

Die Vorteile der Erfindung lassen sich nun leicht erkennen. Da es genügt, jeder Zahl der Zahlenrollen eine einzige Markierung zuzuordnen, beanspruchen diese Markierungen nur sehr wenig Platz, so dass das Zahlenbild durch die Markierungen nicht gestört wird und bei bestehenden Zählwerkkonstruktionen weder die Breite der Zahlenrollen vergrössert noch die Grösse der Zahlen verkleinert werden muss. Die einzelnen Markierungen können sehr klein gewählt werden, beispielsweise genügt ein Hologramm mit einer Fläche in der Grössenordnung von einem Quadratmillimeter. Im Vergleich zu bekannten Lösungen, die mit reinen Reflexionsmarkierungen arbeiten, jedoch pro Zahl mindestens vier Plätze für eine Markierung benötigen, sind - gleiche Grösse der Markierungen vorausgesetzt - die Anforderungen an die Justiergenauigkeit etwa gleich gross. Bestehende Messgeräte oder Zählwerke können ohne weiteres nachgerüstet werden, zumal es sogar möglich ist, eine die Markierungen tragende Folie auf die Zahlenrollen aufzukleben.The advantages of the invention can now be easily recognized. Since it is sufficient to assign a single marking to each number of number rolls, these markings take up very little space, so that the number image is not disturbed by the markings and, in existing counter designs, neither the width of the number rolls has to be enlarged nor the size of the numbers reduced. The individual markings can be selected to be very small, for example a hologram with an area of the order of one square millimeter is sufficient. In comparison to known solutions that work with pure reflection markings, but require at least four places per number for a marking, the same size of the markings assumes that the requirements for the adjustment accuracy are approximately the same. Existing measuring devices or counters can easily be retrofitted, especially since it is even possible to glue a film bearing the markings on the number rolls.

Claims (12)

1. Anordnung zur Darstellung des Inhaltes von Zahlenrollen-Zählwerken in Form elektrischer Signale, mit auf mindestens einer Zahlenrolle angeordneten optischen Markierungen und mit einer photoelektrischen Abtasteinrichtung zum Abtasten der Markierungen, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Markierungen (16) solcher Art sind, dass sie den Strahlengang der Abtasteinrichtung (17) durch Beugung oder Brechung modifizieren.1. Arrangement for displaying the content of number roller counters in the form of electrical signals, with optical markings arranged on at least one number roller and with a photoelectric scanning device for scanning the markings, characterized in that the markings (16) are such that they are the Modify the beam path of the scanning device (17) by diffraction or refraction. 2. Anordnung nach Anspruch 1, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Markierungen (16) reflektierende Phasenhotogramme oder Phasenbeugungsgitter sind.2. Arrangement according to claim 1, characterized in that the markings (16) are reflective phase photograms or phase diffraction gratings. 3. Anordnung nach Anspruch 1 oder 2, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass jeder Zahl der Zahlenrolle (11; 12; 13'; 21; 23; 25) eine einzige individuelle Markierung (16) zugeordnet ist.3. Arrangement according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that each number of the number roll (11; 12; 13 '; 21; 23; 25) is assigned a single individual marker (16). 4. Anordnung nach Anspruch 3, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Markierungen (16) auf der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) angeordnet sind.4. Arrangement according to claim 3, characterized in that the markings (16) on the outer surface of the number roller (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) are arranged. 5. Anordnung nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Markierungen (16) in die Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) eingeprägt sind.5. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that the markings (16) in the outer surface of the number roller (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) are embossed. 6. Anordnung nach Anspruch 4, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass mindestens ein Teil der Mantelfläche der Zahlenrolle (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) mit einer thermoplastischen Schicht (22; 24; 26) beschichtet ist, in welche die Markierungen (16) eingeprägt sind.6. Arrangement according to claim 4, characterized in that at least part of the outer surface of the number roller (11; 12; 13; 21; 23; 25) is coated with a thermoplastic layer (22; 24; 26) into which the markings ( 16) are embossed. 7. Anordnung nach Anspruch 6, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Schicht (22; 24; 26) durch eine ringförmig auf der Mantelfläche angeordnete Folie gebildet ist.7. Arrangement according to claim 6, characterized in that the layer (22; 24; 26) is formed by a film arranged in a ring on the lateral surface. 8. Anordnung nach Anspruch 6 oder 7, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die Schicht (26) transparent ist und dass die Markierungen (16) über den Zahlen angeordnet sind.8. Arrangement according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the layer (26) is transparent and that the markings (16) are arranged above the numbers. 9. Anordnung nach einem der Ansprüche 1 bis 8, bei der die Abtasteinrichtung (17) aus mindestens einer Lichtquelle (18) und mehreren Lichtempfängern (19) besteht, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass jeder Lichtempfänger (19) für ein enges Lichtbündel aus dem an einer Markierung (16) gestreuten Licht empfänglich ist.9. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the scanning device (17) consists of at least one light source (18) and a plurality of light receivers (19), characterized in that each light receiver (19) for a narrow bundle of light from the one Mark (16) scattered light is receptive. 10. Anordnung nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Zählwerk (10) in einem plombierbaren Teil eines Messgerätes und die Abtasteinrichtung (17) ausserhalb des plombierbaren Teils angeordnet ist und dass die Abtasteinrichtung (17) über Lichtleiter optisch an das Zählwerk (10) gekoppelt ist.10. The arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that the counter (10) in a sealable part of a measuring device and the scanning device (17) is arranged outside the sealable part and that the scanning device (17) via optical fibers to the counter (10) is coupled. 11. Anordnung nach Anspruch 9, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass das Zählwerk (10) in einem plombierbaren Messgerät und die Abtasteinrichtung (17) in einem gesonderten Ablesegerät angeordnet ist.11. The arrangement according to claim 9, characterized in that the counter (10) is arranged in a sealable measuring device and the scanning device (17) in a separate reading device. 12. Anordnung nach Anspruch 11, dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass der Strahlengang der Abtasteinrichtung (17) durch ein Zählwerkfenster des Messgerätes führt.12. The arrangement according to claim 11, characterized in that the beam path of the scanning device (17) leads through a counter window of the measuring device.
EP81110234A 1981-03-17 1981-12-08 Arrangement for representing the result of count-on-drum counters in the form of electric signals Expired EP0060937B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT81110234T ATE9620T1 (en) 1981-03-17 1981-12-08 ARRANGEMENT FOR REPRESENTING THE CONTENTS OF NUMBER ROLLER COUNTER IN THE FORM OF ELECTRICAL SIGNALS.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
CH1790/81 1981-03-17
CH1790/81A CH650089A5 (en) 1981-03-17 1981-03-17 Arrangement for displaying the contents of number roller counters in the form of electrical signals.

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EP0060937A1 true EP0060937A1 (en) 1982-09-29
EP0060937B1 EP0060937B1 (en) 1984-09-26

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AT (1) ATE9620T1 (en)
CH (1) CH650089A5 (en)
DE (1) DE3166368D1 (en)

Cited By (9)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4685138A (en) * 1983-11-03 1987-08-04 Lgz Landis & Gyr Zug Ag System for the display and scanning of the contents of a counter equipped with counting wheels
EP0344931A2 (en) * 1988-05-28 1989-12-06 Smith Meters Limited Counter
EP0380046A2 (en) * 1989-01-23 1990-08-01 Gas-, Elektrizitäts- Und Wasserwerke Köln Ag. Method for testing counters, in particular electricity, water or gas meters, and device for carrying out this method
FR2648256A3 (en) * 1989-05-12 1990-12-14 Sagem Postal franking machine
WO1995024022A1 (en) * 1994-03-01 1995-09-08 Brand, Edith Electronic recording device for reading a counter with a readable display
US5539446A (en) * 1991-10-15 1996-07-23 Polaroid Corporation Light beam position detection and control apparatus employing diffraction patterns
FR2745231A1 (en) * 1996-02-28 1997-08-29 Pascal Corgier PROGRAMMABLE MOTION WHEEL COMPOSER
FR2814545A1 (en) * 2000-09-26 2002-03-29 Jean Luc Trapant Digital counter for displaying the amount of air sampled during a sampling period based on an analogue display meter with rotating counter wheels, the rotation of which is optically sensed and used with the digital display
DE102009003976A1 (en) * 2009-01-07 2010-07-08 Hengstler Gmbh Device for the optical scanning of graduations of a mechanical roller counter

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US3807859A (en) * 1971-11-11 1974-04-30 Sanyo Electric Co Information input system using holography
GB1410911A (en) * 1971-09-08 1975-10-22 Counting Instr Ltd Meter reading systems
FR2321155A1 (en) * 1975-08-14 1977-03-11 Landis & Gyr Ag AUTHENTICATION INFORMATION STORAGE AND READING DEVICE
GB2018069A (en) * 1978-03-23 1979-10-10 Kent Ltd G Encoding meter readings

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB1410911A (en) * 1971-09-08 1975-10-22 Counting Instr Ltd Meter reading systems
US3807859A (en) * 1971-11-11 1974-04-30 Sanyo Electric Co Information input system using holography
FR2321155A1 (en) * 1975-08-14 1977-03-11 Landis & Gyr Ag AUTHENTICATION INFORMATION STORAGE AND READING DEVICE
GB2018069A (en) * 1978-03-23 1979-10-10 Kent Ltd G Encoding meter readings

Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4685138A (en) * 1983-11-03 1987-08-04 Lgz Landis & Gyr Zug Ag System for the display and scanning of the contents of a counter equipped with counting wheels
EP0344931A2 (en) * 1988-05-28 1989-12-06 Smith Meters Limited Counter
EP0344931A3 (en) * 1988-05-28 1991-10-30 Smith Meters Limited Counter
EP0380046A2 (en) * 1989-01-23 1990-08-01 Gas-, Elektrizitäts- Und Wasserwerke Köln Ag. Method for testing counters, in particular electricity, water or gas meters, and device for carrying out this method
EP0380046A3 (en) * 1989-01-23 1992-01-02 Gas-, Elektrizitäts- Und Wasserwerke Köln Ag. Method for testing counters, in particular electricity, water or gas meters, and device for carrying out this method
FR2648256A3 (en) * 1989-05-12 1990-12-14 Sagem Postal franking machine
US5539446A (en) * 1991-10-15 1996-07-23 Polaroid Corporation Light beam position detection and control apparatus employing diffraction patterns
WO1995024022A1 (en) * 1994-03-01 1995-09-08 Brand, Edith Electronic recording device for reading a counter with a readable display
FR2745231A1 (en) * 1996-02-28 1997-08-29 Pascal Corgier PROGRAMMABLE MOTION WHEEL COMPOSER
WO1997031789A1 (en) * 1996-02-28 1997-09-04 Deconche Gerard Programmably movable numbering device with serrated wheels
FR2814545A1 (en) * 2000-09-26 2002-03-29 Jean Luc Trapant Digital counter for displaying the amount of air sampled during a sampling period based on an analogue display meter with rotating counter wheels, the rotation of which is optically sensed and used with the digital display
DE102009003976A1 (en) * 2009-01-07 2010-07-08 Hengstler Gmbh Device for the optical scanning of graduations of a mechanical roller counter
WO2010079129A3 (en) * 2009-01-07 2010-09-02 Hengstler Gmbh Device for optically scanning the counted value in a mechanical drum-type counter

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0060937B1 (en) 1984-09-26
ATE9620T1 (en) 1984-10-15
DE3166368D1 (en) 1984-10-31
CH650089A5 (en) 1985-06-28

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