EP0334726A1 - Storing system with adjacent lockers controlled by a microprocessor device - Google Patents

Storing system with adjacent lockers controlled by a microprocessor device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0334726A1
EP0334726A1 EP89400725A EP89400725A EP0334726A1 EP 0334726 A1 EP0334726 A1 EP 0334726A1 EP 89400725 A EP89400725 A EP 89400725A EP 89400725 A EP89400725 A EP 89400725A EP 0334726 A1 EP0334726 A1 EP 0334726A1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
locker
microprocessor device
user
door
code
Prior art date
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Granted
Application number
EP89400725A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0334726B1 (en
Inventor
Philippe Mardon
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Mors SA
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Mors SA
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Publication date
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Priority to AT89400725T priority Critical patent/ATE96927T1/en
Publication of EP0334726A1 publication Critical patent/EP0334726A1/en
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Publication of EP0334726B1 publication Critical patent/EP0334726B1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/10—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property
    • G07F17/12—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property comprising lockable containers, e.g. for accepting clothes to be cleaned
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/10—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property
    • G07F17/12—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property comprising lockable containers, e.g. for accepting clothes to be cleaned
    • G07F17/13—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for means for safe-keeping of property, left temporarily, e.g. by fastening the property comprising lockable containers, e.g. for accepting clothes to be cleaned the containers being a postal pick-up locker

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to a storage system with adjacent lockers each closed by a door and allowing any user to deposit objects, such as luggage or packages, in a selected locker as well as the removal of these objects at the end of a specified period of occupation of the locker.
  • the issuance of a ticket on which the identification code of the chosen locker is clearly printed is binding for the user, who must store the ticket in a safe place allowing him to find it when picking up items placed in the locker. .
  • the user can lose his ticket which can be found by people likely to appropriate the objects in deposit after the composition of the code printed on the ticket.
  • the present invention aims to eliminate the above drawbacks of known systems by providing a storage system comprising a plurality of adjacent lockers which are each closed by a door; a microprocessor device connected in particular by through an input / output interface device to locks for opening and closing the doors of the lockers, to indicators indicating the free or occupied state of the lockers, to selection keys free lockers and a coin mechanism; and characterized in that the microprocessor device is also connected to a display device initially indicating to a user the type of operation, deposit or removal of an object, which he can carry out and to a keyboard with keys allowing the user to choose one of the two operations envisaged and, when a deposit operation is requested, after having deposited an object in a free locker chosen and introduced into the coin mechanism the required sum, to compose a personal code transmitted to microprocessor device which controls the locking of the lock of the door of the selected locker, the personal code being stored in a memory of the microprocessor device during the entire duration of occupation of the chosen locker.
  • the keypad allows the user to dial his personal code which is compared to the code stored in the memory of the microprocessor device who, after having noted the coincidence between the two codes, orders the unlocking of the door lock of the occupied locker.
  • the system comprises an opto-electronic sensor associated with a lock of a door of a locker and controlling the correct locking of the lock.
  • the free locker selection keys and the keyboard with keys for composing personal codes together form an alpha-numeric keyboard and each personal code composed by the user is preceded by a letter identifying the free locker chosen.
  • the keypad also allows the operator to dial the system of special secret codes transmitted to the microprocessor device authorizing various specific functions such as opening at least one locker door. , the withdrawal of the cash box with display on the display device of the amount thereof, the opening of the technical module comprising the microprocessor device.
  • the microprocessor device is adapted to allow the operator to change at least one of the aforementioned special codes using the keypad.
  • the reference 1 designates a storage system with adjacent compartments 2, in this case nine in number, the doors of which, in the closed position, are juxtaposed by extending in the same frontal plane.
  • Each door includes an automatic return device for the latter in the closed closing position.
  • Such return devices are already known per se and may for example be constituted by a return spring disposed coaxially with the hinge of the door and acting between the door and the frame thereof.
  • Each door also comprises a lock fixed to the interior side of the door and the locking and unlocking of which are controlled by a microprocessor device as will be described later.
  • a technical module 3 is assembled on a part of the front of the storage system outside that occupied by the doors 2. As shown, the technical module 3 is arranged at the location of a left upright of the storage system and can be removed by the system operator during, for example, a repair to be carried out in the module. This comprises, from bottom to top, and visible or accessible from the outside, a small poster 4 relating to the instructions for use of the storage system, a table 5 comprising letters of identification for lockers 2 and indicator lights respectively. 5a, for example of the type with light-emitting diodes (LED) associated respectively with the letters of identification of the compartments 2.
  • LED light-emitting diodes
  • Each indicator 5a indicates the free or occupied state of the corresponding compartment, the free state being represented for example by a lit indicator ( green light) while the busy state is represented by an off LED.
  • Below table 5 are successively arranged a slot 6 for inserting a coin and a cancel button 7 authorizing the return of the coin inserted.
  • An alphanumeric display device 8, of the liquid crystal type (LCD), allows the user to dialogue with the storage system with a view to the correct accomplishment of the various operations to be carried out for depositing or withdrawing a '' left luggage.
  • a keyboard with alphabetic keys 9 allows the user to select the free locker that he wishes to use for storing his personal objects and a numeric keyboard with keys 10 allows the user to personally enter a secret code, for example six digits, which, by means of the microprocessor device contained in the technical module 3, controls the locking of the lock of the door of the chosen locker.
  • the numeric keypad 10 further comprises two keys 10a and 10b allowing respectively to validate an action and to delete an action.
  • a coin reimbursement bowl 11 is provided under the numeric keypad 10.
  • the microprocessor 12 is bidirectionally connected to a time base or timer 13, an EPROM memory 14 containing the operating program of the microprocessor 12, an EPROM memory 15 in which various parameters are stored such as for example time values of the base time 13, and two RAMs 16 and 17 for storing the personal codes of users during the operations of depositing objects in the free lockers 2 and special secret codes used by the operator as will be described later.
  • the microprocessor 12 is also bidirectionally connected to buffers or buffers 18 themselves bidirectionally connected to parallel input-output interface circuits 19-24, of which there are very many types such as for example PIA.
  • the interface circuit 19 is bidirectionally connected to the alpha-numeric keypads 9 and 10 while the interface circuit 20 is bidirectionally connected to the display device 8, to an initialization push button 25 accessible only to the operator to allow it a restart procedure in the event of loss of a special secret code of the operator during the performance of a particular function, such as access to at least one of the occupied lockers and to a switch 26 only accessible to the operator for the choice between a paid or free locker.
  • the interface circuit 21 is unidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 27 to the indicator lights 5a while the interface circuit 22 is unidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 28 to the locking mechanisms 29 and unlocking the door locks.
  • Such mechanisms can be constituted by electromechanical members for actuating the bolts of the locks or by motors whose direction of activation determines the locking or unlocking of the lock.
  • the interface circuit 23 is bidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 30 to sensors 31 for detecting the correct closing of the locker doors during the operation of depositing objects and constituted for example by sensors opto-electronics housed either in the door jamb in the case where the lock is secured to the door, or in the door in the case where the lock is fixed to the amount, to a device 32 for canceling the coin mechanism, that is to say operations being paid and to a device 33 for accepting coins.
  • the interface circuit 24 is bidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 34 to switches 35 for detecting tampering of the coin box and of the technical module 3, to a device 36 for validating coins.
  • the storage system of the invention can operate from a 220-volt supply or from a low-voltage 12-volt supply serving as an emergency power supply, for example with batteries.
  • This algorithm highlights two types of functions, a user function and an operator function.
  • table 5 provides information on the free status of lockers identified by lights 5a on (for example green).
  • the display device 8 indicates two operations that can be carried out, namely depositing objects in an empty locker or removing objects from an occupied locker. If the user wishes to deposit objects in a free locker, he presses the key 1 of the keyboard 10. The display device 8 then requests the user to store his objects in an empty locker. Then, the user inserts a coin into the slot 6. This operation causes the display device 8 to indicate to the user the keystroke on the keyboard 9 of the letter corresponding to the locker chosen, indicating to him moreover to validate , using the 10a key, the choice of the locker or possibly correcting with the 10b key the letter identifying the chosen locker.
  • the user dials using the keyboard 10 the six-digit personal secret code which is either validated by the key 10a or erased by the key 10b to allow the user to redial another code.
  • the letter of the chosen locker and the personal code composed by the user are transmitted and stored in one of the random access memories 16 and 17 of the microprocessor device which then controls the locking of the lock of the door of the chosen locker.
  • the opto-electronic sensor associated with the lock of the door of the selected locker makes it possible to signal to the microprocessor device whether the door has been correctly locked or not. If the door is correctly locked, the microprocessor device controls the extinction of the indicator light 5a associated with the identification letter of the chosen locker.
  • the display device 8 instructs the user to check whether the closing of the door is hampered or prevented. Once the cause interfering with the locking of the door eliminated and the door correctly closed, the display device 8 returns to the display phase indicating the choice between a deposit operation or a withdrawal operation.
  • the locker chosen therefore contains the user's objects for a determined period of occupation.
  • the microprocessor device is adapted to compare the code composed with that memorized in one of the random access memories 16, 17 and, after having noted the coincidence between these two codes, it controls the unlocking of the lock of the door of the occupied locker.
  • the display device 8 instructs the user to remove the objects inside the locker and, if the deposit is free, the coin. Once these operations have been carried out, the microprocessor device controls the lighting of the indicator 5a associated with the emptied locker. In the event that the user has entered the wrong code, the display device 8 tells him to redial his code.
  • the microprocessor device controls the display device 8 which indicates to the user that the system is out of service and recommends that he contact the attendant desk, an alarm, such as for example a siren, which can be triggered by the microprocessor device.
  • an alarm such as for example a siren
  • the microprocessor device controls the display device 8 so that it indicates the phase relating to the choice of a deposit transaction or withdrawal transaction.
  • the purpose of the operator function is to allow an attendant to perform specific functions by means of special secret codes.
  • other operating functions can be envisaged such as the self-test function or the system self-diagnostic function.
  • the attendant To accomplish each of these functions, the attendant must first dial using the alpha-numeric keypad 9, 10, an access code to the operator functions. Then, he must dial the secret code specific to the chosen function. It is not necessary to describe in more detail each of these three functions, the role of which is sufficiently explained on reading the algorithm, except that it can be noted that the attendant has the possibility of changing the function code at will. In addition, if he has forgotten this function code, the attendant can use the initialization press button 25 located inside the cabinet constituting the storage system and which, once activated, allows the microprocessor device to deliver to the display device 8 a general code allowing the attendant to perform the desired function.
  • the storage system according to the invention therefore has the advantage of not issuing to any user tickets on which are printed in particular the secret codes authorizing the withdrawal of objects placed in deposit, thus saving paper and eliminating the need for the operator to monitor the quantity of paper in stock and to restock the system with paper as often as necessary.

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  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Lock And Its Accessories (AREA)
  • Coin-Freed Apparatuses For Hiring Articles (AREA)
  • Polyesters Or Polycarbonates (AREA)
  • Communication Control (AREA)
  • Selective Calling Equipment (AREA)
  • Electrotherapy Devices (AREA)
  • Time-Division Multiplex Systems (AREA)
  • Valve-Gear Or Valve Arrangements (AREA)
  • Warehouses Or Storage Devices (AREA)

Abstract

The present invention relates to a storage system with adjacent lockers having a microprocessor device. The system is characterised in that the microprocessor device (12) is connected to a display device (8) and to a keyboard (10) enabling the user to compose a personal secret code transmitted to the microprocessor device (12) which controls the locking of the door lock of the selected locker, this code being stored in a memory (16, 17) of the microprocessor device (12) for the entire period of occupation of the selected locker. The present invention is used particularly for left-luggage deposits in stations, airports, hypermarkets or sports clubs. <IMAGE>

Description

La présente invention concerne un système de rangement à casiers adjacents fermés chacun par une porte et permettant à tout utilisateur le dépôt d'objets, tels que bagages ou colis, dans un casier choisi ainsi que le retrait de ces objets à la fin d'une période d'occupation déterminée du casier.The present invention relates to a storage system with adjacent lockers each closed by a door and allowing any user to deposit objects, such as luggage or packages, in a selected locker as well as the removal of these objects at the end of a specified period of occupation of the locker.

On connait de tels systèmes contrôlés par un dispositif à microprocesseur qui verrouille la serrure de la porte du casier choisi contenant les objets après paiement d'une somme déterminée et délivre un ticket sur lequel est imprimé notamment un numéro de code d'identification du casier choisi. Avant la fin de la durée autorisée d'occupation du casier, l'utilisateur compose à l'aide d'un clavier le numéro de code qui est reconnu par le dispositif à microprocesseur commandant alors de déverrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier occupé.We know of such systems controlled by a microprocessor device which locks the lock of the door of the chosen locker containing the objects after payment of a determined sum and issues a ticket on which is printed in particular a number of identification code of the chosen locker . Before the end of the authorized duration of occupation of the locker, the user dials using a keyboard the code number which is recognized by the microprocessor device then commanding to unlock the lock of the door of the occupied locker .

Cependant, la délivrance d'un ticket sur lequel est imprimé en clair le code d'identification du casier choisi est contraignante pour l'utilisateur qui doit ranger le ticket en un emplacement sûr lui permettant de le retrouver lors du retrait des objets placés en consigne. De plus, l'utilisateur peut perdre son ticket qui peut être trouvé par des personnes susceptibles de s'approprier les objets en consigne après la composition du code imprimé sur le ticket.However, the issuance of a ticket on which the identification code of the chosen locker is clearly printed is binding for the user, who must store the ticket in a safe place allowing him to find it when picking up items placed in the locker. . In addition, the user can lose his ticket which can be found by people likely to appropriate the objects in deposit after the composition of the code printed on the ticket.

La présente invention a pour but d'éliminer les inconvénients ci-dessus des systèmes connus en proposant un système de rangement comprenant une pluralité de casiers adjacents qui sont chacun fermés par une porte ; un dispositif a microprocesseur relié notamment par l'intermédiaire d'un dispositif d'interface d'entrées/sorties à des serrures d'ouverture et de fermeture des portes des casiers, à des voyants d'indication de l'état libre ou occupé des casiers, à des touches de sélection de casiers libres et à un dispositif monnayeur ; et caractérisé en ce que le dispositif à microprocesseur est également relié à un dispositif d'affichage indiquant initialement à un utilisateur le type d'opération, dépôt ou retrait d'un objet, qu'il peut effectuer et à un clavier à touches permettant à l'utilisateur de choisir l'une des deux opérations envisagées et, lorsqu'une opération de dépôt est demandée, après avoir déposé un objet dans un casier libre choisi et introduit dans le dispositif monnayeur la somme requise, de composer un code personnel transmis au dispositif à microprocesseur qui commande le verrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier choisi, le code personnel étant mémorisé dans une mémoire du dispositif à microprocesseur pendant toute la durée d'occupation du casier choisi.The present invention aims to eliminate the above drawbacks of known systems by providing a storage system comprising a plurality of adjacent lockers which are each closed by a door; a microprocessor device connected in particular by through an input / output interface device to locks for opening and closing the doors of the lockers, to indicators indicating the free or occupied state of the lockers, to selection keys free lockers and a coin mechanism; and characterized in that the microprocessor device is also connected to a display device initially indicating to a user the type of operation, deposit or removal of an object, which he can carry out and to a keyboard with keys allowing the user to choose one of the two operations envisaged and, when a deposit operation is requested, after having deposited an object in a free locker chosen and introduced into the coin mechanism the required sum, to compose a personal code transmitted to microprocessor device which controls the locking of the lock of the door of the selected locker, the personal code being stored in a memory of the microprocessor device during the entire duration of occupation of the chosen locker.

Selon une caractéristique de l'invention, lors de l'opération de retrait de l'objet du casier occupé, le clavier à touches permet à l'utilisateur de composer son code personnel qui est comparé au code mémorisé dans la mémoire du dispositif à microprocesseur qui, après avoir constaté la coïncidence entre les deux codes, commande le déverrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier occupé.According to a characteristic of the invention, during the operation of removing the object from the occupied locker, the keypad allows the user to dial his personal code which is compared to the code stored in the memory of the microprocessor device who, after having noted the coincidence between the two codes, orders the unlocking of the door lock of the occupied locker.

Selon une autre caractéristique, le système comprend un capteur opto-électronique associé à une serrure d'une porte d'un casier et contrôlant le verrouillage correct de la serrure.According to another characteristic, the system comprises an opto-electronic sensor associated with a lock of a door of a locker and controlling the correct locking of the lock.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, les touches de sélection de casiers libres et le clavier à touches de composition de codes personnels forment ensemble un clavier alpha-numérique et chaque code personnel composé par l'utilisateur est précédé d'une lettre identifiant le casier libre choisi.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the free locker selection keys and the keyboard with keys for composing personal codes together form an alpha-numeric keyboard and each personal code composed by the user is preceded by a letter identifying the free locker chosen.

Selon toujours une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le clavier à touches permet également la composition par l'exploitant du système de codes secrets spéciaux transmis au dispositif à microprocesseur autorisant diverses fonctions particulières telles que l'ouverture d'au moins une porte de casier, le retrait de la caisse de monnaie avec visualisation au dispositif d'affichage du montant de celle-ci, l'ouverture du module technique comportant le dispositif à microprocesseur.Still according to another characteristic of the invention, the keypad also allows the operator to dial the system of special secret codes transmitted to the microprocessor device authorizing various specific functions such as opening at least one locker door. , the withdrawal of the cash box with display on the display device of the amount thereof, the opening of the technical module comprising the microprocessor device.

Selon encore une autre caractéristique de l'invention, le dispositif à microprocesseur est adapté pour permettre à l'exploitant de changer au moins l'un des codes spéciaux précités à l'aide du clavier à touches.According to yet another characteristic of the invention, the microprocessor device is adapted to allow the operator to change at least one of the aforementioned special codes using the keypad.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres buts, caractéristiques, détails et avantages de celle-ci apparaîtront plus clairement au cours de la description explicative qui va suivre faite en référence aux dessins schématiquesannexés donnés uniquement à titre d'exemple illustrant un mode de réalisation de l'invention et dans lesquels :

  • La figure 1 est une vue de face du système de rangement à casiers adjacents conforme à l'invention ;
  • La figure 2 est une vue de face du module technique contenant le dispositif à microprocesseur gérant les casiers de rangement ;
  • La figure 3 représente sous forme de schéma-blocs le dispositif à microprocesseur ; et
  • Les figures 4A-4I représentent l'algorithme de fonctionnement du système de l'invention.
The invention will be better understood and other objects, characteristics, details and advantages thereof will appear more clearly during the explanatory description which follows, made with reference to the appended schematic drawings given solely by way of example illustrating a mode of realization of the invention and in which:
  • Figure 1 is a front view of the storage system with adjacent lockers according to the invention;
  • Figure 2 is a front view of the technical module containing the microprocessor device managing the storage lockers;
  • FIG. 3 represents in the form of a block diagram the microprocessor device; and
  • FIGS. 4A-4I represent the operating algorithm of the system of the invention.

En se reportant aux figures, la référence 1 désigne un système de rangement à casiers adjacents 2, dans le cas présent au nombre de neuf, dont les portes, en position fermée, sont juxtaposées en s'étendant dans un même plan frontal. Chaque porte comprend un dispositif de rappel automatique de celle-ci en position rabattue de fermeture. De tels dispositifs de rappel sont déjà connus en soi et peuvent par exemple être constitués par un ressort de rappel disposé coaxialement à la charnière de la porte et agissant entre la porte et le dormant de celle-ci. Chaque porte comprend également une serrure fixée au côté intérieur de la porte et dont le verrouillage et le déverrouillage sont commandés par un dispositif à microprocesseur comme cela sera décrit ultérieurement.Referring to the figures, the reference 1 designates a storage system with adjacent compartments 2, in this case nine in number, the doors of which, in the closed position, are juxtaposed by extending in the same frontal plane. Each door includes an automatic return device for the latter in the closed closing position. Such return devices are already known per se and may for example be constituted by a return spring disposed coaxially with the hinge of the door and acting between the door and the frame thereof. Each door also comprises a lock fixed to the interior side of the door and the locking and unlocking of which are controlled by a microprocessor device as will be described later.

Un module technique 3 est assemblé sur une partie de la façade du système de rangement extérieurement à celle occupée par les portes 2. Comme cela est représenté, le module technique 3 est disposé à l'emplacement d'un montant gauche du système de rangement et peut être retiré par l'exploitant du système lors par exemple d'une réparation à effectuer dans le module. Celui-ci comporte, de bas en haut, et visibles ou accessibles de l'extérieur, une affichette 4 relative au mode d'emploi du système de rangement, un tableau 5 comportant des lettres d'identification respectivement des casiers 2 et des voyants lumineux 5a, par exemple du type à diodes électroluminescentes (LED) associées respectivement aux lettres d'identification des casiers 2. Chaque voyant 5a indique l'état libre ou occupé du casier correspondant, l'état libre étant représenté par exemple par un voyant allumé (lumière verte) tandis que l'état occupé est représenté par un voyant éteint. En dessous du tableau 5 sont disposés successivement une fente 6 d'introduction d'une pièce de monnaie et un bouton 7 d'annulation autorisant la restitution de la pièce de monnaie introduite. Un dispositif d'affichage alpha-numérique 8, du type à cristaux liquides (LCD), permet à l'utilisateur de dialoguer avec le système de rangement en vue d'un accomplissement correct des différentes opérations à effectuer pour le dépôt ou le retrait d'objets en consigne. Un clavier à touches alphabétiques 9 permet à l'utilisateur de sélectionner le casier libre qu'il désire utiliser pour y déposer ses objets personnels et un clavier numérique à touches 10 permet à l'utilisateur de composer personnellement un code secret, par exemple de six chiffres, qui, par l'intermédiaire du dispositif à microprocesseur contenu dans le module technique 3, commande le verrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier choisi. Le clavier numérique 10 comporte de plus deux touches 10a et 10b permettant respectivement de valider une action et d'effacer une action. Enfin, une sébile 11 de remboursement de pièces de monnaie est prévue sous le clavier numérique 10.A technical module 3 is assembled on a part of the front of the storage system outside that occupied by the doors 2. As shown, the technical module 3 is arranged at the location of a left upright of the storage system and can be removed by the system operator during, for example, a repair to be carried out in the module. This comprises, from bottom to top, and visible or accessible from the outside, a small poster 4 relating to the instructions for use of the storage system, a table 5 comprising letters of identification for lockers 2 and indicator lights respectively. 5a, for example of the type with light-emitting diodes (LED) associated respectively with the letters of identification of the compartments 2. Each indicator 5a indicates the free or occupied state of the corresponding compartment, the free state being represented for example by a lit indicator ( green light) while the busy state is represented by an off LED. Below table 5 are successively arranged a slot 6 for inserting a coin and a cancel button 7 authorizing the return of the coin inserted. An alphanumeric display device 8, of the liquid crystal type (LCD), allows the user to dialogue with the storage system with a view to the correct accomplishment of the various operations to be carried out for depositing or withdrawing a '' left luggage. A keyboard with alphabetic keys 9 allows the user to select the free locker that he wishes to use for storing his personal objects and a numeric keyboard with keys 10 allows the user to personally enter a secret code, for example six digits, which, by means of the microprocessor device contained in the technical module 3, controls the locking of the lock of the door of the chosen locker. The numeric keypad 10 further comprises two keys 10a and 10b allowing respectively to validate an action and to delete an action. Lastly, a coin reimbursement bowl 11 is provided under the numeric keypad 10.

Le dispositif à microprocesseur permettant le fonctionnement du système de rangement comprend un microprocesseur 12 auquel sont reliés une horloge de fonctionnement H et un chien de garde WD. Le microprocesseur 12 est bidirectionnellement relié à une base de temps ou timer 13, une mémoire EPROM 14 contenant le programme de fonctionnement du microprocesseur 12, une mémoire EPROM 15 dans laquelle sont stockés divers paramètres tels que par exemple des valeurs de temps de la base de temps 13, et deux mémoires vives du type RAM 16 et 17 permettant de stocker les codes personnels d'utilisateurs lors des opérations de dépôt d'objets dans les casiers libres 2 et des codes secrets spéciaux utilisés par l'exploitant comme cela sera décrit ultérieurement.The microprocessor device allowing the operation of the storage system comprises a microprocessor 12 to which are connected an operating clock H and a watchdog WD. The microprocessor 12 is bidirectionally connected to a time base or timer 13, an EPROM memory 14 containing the operating program of the microprocessor 12, an EPROM memory 15 in which various parameters are stored such as for example time values of the base time 13, and two RAMs 16 and 17 for storing the personal codes of users during the operations of depositing objects in the free lockers 2 and special secret codes used by the operator as will be described later.

Le microprocesseur 12 est également relié bidirectionnellement à des mémoires tampons ou buffers 18 elles-mêmes bidirectionnellement reliées à des circuits d'interface d'entrées-sorties parallèles 19-24, dont il existe de très nombreux types tels que par exemple le PIA. Le circuit d'interface 19 est bidirectionnellement relié aux claviers alpha-numériques 9 et 10 tandis que le circuit d'interface 20 est bidirectionnellement relié au dispositif d'affichage 8, à un bouton-poussoir d'initialisation 25 accessible uniquement à l'exploitant pour lui permettre une procédure de redémarrage en cas de perte d'un code secret spécial de l'exploitant lors de la réalisation d'une fonction particulière, telle que l'accès à au moins l'un des casiers occupés et à un interrupteur 26 uniquement accessible à l'exploitant pour le choix entre une consigne payante ou gratuite. Le circuit d'interface 21 est unidirectionnellement relié par l'intermédiaire de circuits de commande appropriés 27 aux voyants lumineux 5a tandis que le circuit d'interface 22 est unidirectionnellement relié par l'intermédiaire de circuits de commande appropriés 28 aux mécanismes 29 de verrouillage et de déverrouillage des serrures de porte. De tels mécanismes, connus en soi, peuvent être constitués par des organes électromécaniques d'actionnement des pênes des serrures ou par des moteurs dont le sens d'activation détermine le verrouillage ou le déverrouillage de la serrure. Le circuit d'interface 23 est bidirectionnellemnt relié par l'intermédiaire de circuits de commande appropriés 30 à des capteurs 31 de détection de la fermeture correcte des portes de casiers lors de l'opération de dépôt d'objets et constitués par exemple par des capteurs opto-électroniques logés soit dans le montant de la porte dans le cas où la serrure est solidaire de la porte, soit dans la porte dans le cas où la serrure serait fixée au montant, à un dispositif 32 d'annulation du monnayeur, c'est-à-dire des opérations en cours de paiement et à un dispositif 33 d'acceptation des pièces de monnaie. Le circuit d'interface 24 est relié bidirectionnellement par l'intermédiaire de circuits de commande appropriés 34 à des commutateurs 35 de détection d'effraction de la caisse des pièces de monnaie et du module technique 3, à un dispositif 36 de validation des pièces de monnaie, à une sirène d'alarme 37, à un dispositif 38 d'aiguillage des pièces de monnaie soit vers la caisse, soit vers la sébile de remboursement 11 suivant que la consigne est payante ou gratuite, et à un dispositif 39 de commande d'une alimentation de puissance, par exemple de 12 volts, en cas de coupure de courant. D'autre part, le système de rangement de l'invention peut fonctionner à partir d'une alimentation en 220 volts ou d'une alimentation basse-tension de 12 volts servant de bloc d'alimentation de secours, par exemple à batteries.The microprocessor 12 is also bidirectionally connected to buffers or buffers 18 themselves bidirectionally connected to parallel input-output interface circuits 19-24, of which there are very many types such as for example PIA. The interface circuit 19 is bidirectionally connected to the alpha-numeric keypads 9 and 10 while the interface circuit 20 is bidirectionally connected to the display device 8, to an initialization push button 25 accessible only to the operator to allow it a restart procedure in the event of loss of a special secret code of the operator during the performance of a particular function, such as access to at least one of the occupied lockers and to a switch 26 only accessible to the operator for the choice between a paid or free locker. The interface circuit 21 is unidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 27 to the indicator lights 5a while the interface circuit 22 is unidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 28 to the locking mechanisms 29 and unlocking the door locks. Such mechanisms, known per se, can be constituted by electromechanical members for actuating the bolts of the locks or by motors whose direction of activation determines the locking or unlocking of the lock. The interface circuit 23 is bidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 30 to sensors 31 for detecting the correct closing of the locker doors during the operation of depositing objects and constituted for example by sensors opto-electronics housed either in the door jamb in the case where the lock is secured to the door, or in the door in the case where the lock is fixed to the amount, to a device 32 for canceling the coin mechanism, that is to say operations being paid and to a device 33 for accepting coins. The interface circuit 24 is bidirectionally connected via appropriate control circuits 34 to switches 35 for detecting tampering of the coin box and of the technical module 3, to a device 36 for validating coins. change, to an alarm siren 37, to a device 38 for switching coins either to the cashier or to the reimbursement bowl 11 depending on whether the deposit is paid or free, and to a device 39 for controlling the '' a power supply, for example 12 volts, in the event of a power failure. On the other hand, the storage system of the invention can operate from a 220-volt supply or from a low-voltage 12-volt supply serving as an emergency power supply, for example with batteries.

Le fonctionnement du système de rangement conforme à l'invention ressort de l'algorithme représenté aux figures 4A-4I et va être expliqué ci-dessous uniquement dans ses fonctions essentielles.The operation of the storage system according to the invention is apparent from the algorithm shown in Figures 4A-4I and will be explained below only in its essential functions.

Cet algorithme fait ressortir deux types de fonctions, une fonction utilisateur et une fonction exploitant.This algorithm highlights two types of functions, a user function and an operator function.

La fonction utilisateur va être décrite en premier.The user function will be described first.

Lorsqu'un utilisateur se présente devant le système de rangement 1, le tableau 5 le renseigne sur l'état libre de casiers repérés par des voyants 5a allumés (par exemple verts). Le dispositif d'affichage 8 indique deux opérations pouvant être effectuées à savoir le dépôt d'objets dans un casier libre ou le retrait d'objets d'un casier occupé. Si l'utilisateur souhaite déposer des objets dans un casier libre, il enfonce la touche 1 du clavier 10. Le dispositif d'affichage 8 demande alors à l'utilisateur qu'il range ses objets dans un casier vide. Puis, l'utilisateur introduit une pièce de monnaie dans la fente 6. Cette opération amène le dispositif d'affichage 8 à indiquer à l'utilisateur la frappe sur le clavier 9 de la lettre correspondant au casier choisi en lui indiquant de plus de valider, à l'aide de la touche 10a, le choix du casier ou éventuellement de corriger à l'aide de la touche 10b la lettre identifiant le casier choisi. Une fois cette opération effectuée, l'utilisateur compose à l'aide du clavier 10 le code secret personnel de six chiffres qui est soit validé par la touche 10a soit effacé par la touche 10b pour permettre à l'utilisateur de recomposer un autre code. La lettre du casier choisi et le code personnel composé par l'utilisateur sont transmis et mémorisés dans l'une des mémoires vives 16 et 17 du dispositif à microprocesseur qui commande alors le verrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier choisi. Le capteur opto-électronique associé à la serrure de la porte du casier choisi permet de signaler au dispositif à microprocesseur si la porte a été correctement verrouillée ou non. Si la porte est correctement verrouillée, le dispositif à microprocesseur commande l'extinction du voyant lumineux 5a associé à la lettre d'identification du casier choisi. Dans le cas d'un problème de verrouillage de la serrure de la porte, le dispositif d'affichage 8 indique à l'utilisateur de vérifier si la fermeture de la porte est génée ou empêchée. Une fois la cause gênant le verrouillage de la porte éliminée et la porte correctement fermée, le dispositif d'affichage 8 revient à la phase d'affichage indiquant le choix entre une opération de dépôt ou une opération de retrait. Le casier choisi renferme donc les objets de l'utilisateur pendant une durée d'occupation déterminée.When a user comes to the storage system 1, table 5 provides information on the free status of lockers identified by lights 5a on (for example green). The display device 8 indicates two operations that can be carried out, namely depositing objects in an empty locker or removing objects from an occupied locker. If the user wishes to deposit objects in a free locker, he presses the key 1 of the keyboard 10. The display device 8 then requests the user to store his objects in an empty locker. Then, the user inserts a coin into the slot 6. This operation causes the display device 8 to indicate to the user the keystroke on the keyboard 9 of the letter corresponding to the locker chosen, indicating to him moreover to validate , using the 10a key, the choice of the locker or possibly correcting with the 10b key the letter identifying the chosen locker. Once this operation has been carried out, the user dials using the keyboard 10 the six-digit personal secret code which is either validated by the key 10a or erased by the key 10b to allow the user to redial another code. The letter of the chosen locker and the personal code composed by the user are transmitted and stored in one of the random access memories 16 and 17 of the microprocessor device which then controls the locking of the lock of the door of the chosen locker. The opto-electronic sensor associated with the lock of the door of the selected locker makes it possible to signal to the microprocessor device whether the door has been correctly locked or not. If the door is correctly locked, the microprocessor device controls the extinction of the indicator light 5a associated with the identification letter of the chosen locker. In the event of a problem in locking the door lock, the display device 8 instructs the user to check whether the closing of the door is hampered or prevented. Once the cause interfering with the locking of the door eliminated and the door correctly closed, the display device 8 returns to the display phase indicating the choice between a deposit operation or a withdrawal operation. The locker chosen therefore contains the user's objects for a determined period of occupation.

Lorsque l'utilisateur retire ses objets personnels avant la fin de la durée autorisée d'occupation du casier, il frappe tout d'abord la touche ② du clavier pour décider une opération de retrait.When the user withdraws his personal objects before the end of the authorized period of occupation of the locker, he first hits the ② key on the keyboard to decide on a removal operation.

Ensuite, à l'aide du clavier 9, l'utilisateur frappe la lettre correspondante au casier occupé et compose à l'aide du clavier 10 le code personnel qu'il avait choisi. Le dispositif à microprocesseur est adapté pour comparer le code composé à celui mémorisé dans l'une des mémoires vives 16, 17 et, après avoir constaté la coïncidence entre ces deux codes, il commande le déverrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier occupé. Le dispositif d'affichage 8 indique à l'utilisateur de retirer les objets à l'intérieur du casier et, si la consigne est gratuite, la pièce de monnaie. Une fois ces opérations effectuées, le dispositif à microprocesseur commande l'allumage du voyant 5a associé au casier vidé. Dans le cas où l'utilisateur aurait composé un code erroné, le dispositif d'affichage 8 lui indique de recomposer son code. Après quatre essais infructueux de composition du code et avant l'écoulement d'une temporisation déterminée, le dispositif à microprocesseur commande le dispositif d'affichage 8 qui indique à l'utilisateur la mise hors service du système et lui recommande de s'adresser au guichet du préposé, une alarme, telle que par exemple une sirène, pouvant être déclenchée par le dispositif à microprocesseur. Bien entendu, la temporisation susmentionnée est établie de façon que l'utilisateur ait suffisamment de temps pour réaliser l'opération de retrait. Dans le cas où l'utilisateur aurait renoncé à composer plus de quatre fois un code, l'écoulement de la temporisation permet au dispositif à microprocesseur de commander le dispositif d'affichage 8 pour qu'il indique la phase relative au choix d'une opération de dépôt ou d'une opération de retrait.Then, using the keyboard 9, the user types the letter corresponding to the occupied locker and composes using the keyboard 10 the personal code he had chosen. The microprocessor device is adapted to compare the code composed with that memorized in one of the random access memories 16, 17 and, after having noted the coincidence between these two codes, it controls the unlocking of the lock of the door of the occupied locker. The display device 8 instructs the user to remove the objects inside the locker and, if the deposit is free, the coin. Once these operations have been carried out, the microprocessor device controls the lighting of the indicator 5a associated with the emptied locker. In the event that the user has entered the wrong code, the display device 8 tells him to redial his code. After four unsuccessful attempts to compose the code and before the expiration of a determined time delay, the microprocessor device controls the display device 8 which indicates to the user that the system is out of service and recommends that he contact the attendant desk, an alarm, such as for example a siren, which can be triggered by the microprocessor device. Of course, the above-mentioned time delay is established so that the user has sufficient time to carry out the removal operation. In the event that the user has given up on dialing more than four times a code, the flow of the time delay allows the microprocessor device to control the display device 8 so that it indicates the phase relating to the choice of a deposit transaction or withdrawal transaction.

La fonction exploitant a pour but de permettre à un préposé d'accomplir des fonctions particulières au moyen de codes secrets spéciaux. Dans le cas présent, ces fonctions sont au nombre de trois : une fonction ouverture d'au moins l'un des casiers occupés, une fonction de retrait de la caisse avec affichage du contenu de celle-ci (ou affichage du nombre de dépôts/retraits dans le cas d'une utilisation gratuite de casiers) et une fonction maintenance permettant l'ouverture du module technique 3 sans déclenchement de l'alarme. Bien entendu, d'autres fonctions exploitant sont envisageables telles que la fonction d'auto-test ou la fonction d'auto-diagnostic du système.The purpose of the operator function is to allow an attendant to perform specific functions by means of special secret codes. In this case, there are three of these functions: an opening function for at least one of the occupied compartments, a function for removing the cash register with display of its contents (or display of the number of deposits / withdrawals in the case of free use of lockers) and a maintenance function allowing the opening of technical module 3 without triggering the alarm. Of course, other operating functions can be envisaged such as the self-test function or the system self-diagnostic function.

Pour accomplir chacune de ces fonctions, le préposé doit tout d'abord composer à l'aide du clavier alpha-numérique 9, 10, un code d'accès aux fonctions exploitant. Ensuite,il doit composer le code secret spécifique à la fonction choisie. Il n'est pas nécessaire de décrire plus en détail chacune de ces trois fonctions dont le rôle est suffisamment expliqué à la lecture de l'algorithme sinon que l'on peut remarquer que le préposé a la possibilité de changer à volonté le code fonction. De plus, au cas où il aurait oublié ce code fonction, le préposé a la possibilité d'avoir recours au bouton-pressoir d'initialisation 25 situé à l'intérieur du meuble constituant le système de rangement et qui, une fois actionné, permet au dispositif à microprocesseur de délivrer au dispositif d'affichage 8 un code général permettant au préposé d'accomplir la fonction souhaitée.To accomplish each of these functions, the attendant must first dial using the alpha-numeric keypad 9, 10, an access code to the operator functions. Then, he must dial the secret code specific to the chosen function. It is not necessary to describe in more detail each of these three functions, the role of which is sufficiently explained on reading the algorithm, except that it can be noted that the attendant has the possibility of changing the function code at will. In addition, if he has forgotten this function code, the attendant can use the initialization press button 25 located inside the cabinet constituting the storage system and which, once activated, allows the microprocessor device to deliver to the display device 8 a general code allowing the attendant to perform the desired function.

Le système de rangement conforme à l'invention a donc pour avantage de ne pas délivrer à tout utilisateur des tickets sur lesquels sont imprimés notamment les codes secrets autorisant les retraits d'objets placés en consigne, faisant ainsi des économies de papier et évitant au préposé d'avoir à surveiller la quantité de papier en stock et de réapprovisionner en papier le système aussi souvent que nécessaire.The storage system according to the invention therefore has the advantage of not issuing to any user tickets on which are printed in particular the secret codes authorizing the withdrawal of objects placed in deposit, thus saving paper and eliminating the need for the operator to monitor the quantity of paper in stock and to restock the system with paper as often as necessary.

Claims (6)

1. Système de rangement comprenant une pluralité de casiers adjacents qui sont chacun fermés par une porte, un dispositif à microprocesseur relié notamment par l'intermédiaire d'un dispositif d'interface d'entrées/sorties à des serrures d'ouverture et de fermeture des portes de casiers, à des voyants d'indication de l'état libre ou occupé des casiers, à des touches de sélection de casiers libres et à un dispositif monnayeur, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif à microprocesseur (12) est également relié à un dispositif d'affichage (8), indiquant initialement à un utilisateur le type d'opération, dépôt ou retrait d'un objet, qu'il peut effectuer et à un clavier à touches (10) permettant à l'utilisateur de choisir l'une des deux opérations envisagées et, lorsqu'une opération de dépôt est demandée, après avoir déposé un objet dans un casier libre choisi par l'utilisateur en actionnant la touche de sélection du casier et introduit dans le dispositif monnayeur la somme requise, de composer un code secret personnel transmis au dispositif à microprocesseur (12) qui commande le verrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier choisi (2), le code secret étant mémorisé dans une mémoire (16 ; 17) du dispositif à microprocesseur pendant toute la durée d'occupation du casier choisi.1. Storage system comprising a plurality of adjacent lockers which are each closed by a door, a microprocessor device connected in particular by means of an input / output interface device to opening and closing locks locker doors, indicators for indicating the free or occupied state of the lockers, keys for selecting free lockers and a coin-operated device, characterized in that the microprocessor device (12) is also connected to a display device (8), initially indicating to a user the type of operation, deposit or withdrawal of an object, which he can perform and to a keypad (10) allowing the user to choose the '' one of the two operations envisaged and, when a deposit operation is requested, after having deposited an object in a free locker chosen by the user by pressing the locker selection key and introduced the required sum into the coin mechanism, compose u n personal secret code transmitted to the microprocessor device (12) which controls the locking of the lock of the door of the selected locker (2), the secret code being stored in a memory (16; 17) of the microprocessor device during the entire period of occupation of the chosen locker. 2. Système selon la revendication 1, caractérisé en ce que lors de l'opération de retrait de l'objet du casier occupé (2), le clavier à touches (10) permet à l'utilisateur de composer son code personnel qui est comparé au code mémorisé dans la mémoire (16 ; 17) du dispositif à microprocesseur (12) qui, après avoir constaté la coïncidence entre les deux codes, commande le déverrouillage de la serrure de la porte du casier occupé (2).2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that during the operation of removing the object from the occupied locker (2), the keypad (10) allows the user to dial his personal code which is compared to the code memorized in the memory (16; 17) of the microprocessor device (12) which, after having noted the coincidence between the two codes, controls the unlocking of the lock of the door of the occupied locker (2). 3. Système selon la revendication 1 ou 2, caractérisé en ce qu'il comprend un capteur opto-électronique (31) associé à une serrure d'une porte d'un casier (2) et contrôlant le verrouillage correct de la serrure.3. System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it comprises an opto-electronic sensor (31) associated with a lock of a door of a locker (2) and controlling the correct locking of the lock. 4. Système selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que les touches de sélection des casiers libres (2) et le clavier à touches (10) de composition de codes personnels forment ensemble un clavier alpha-numérique (9, 10) et chaque code personnel composé par l'utilisateur est précédé d'une lettre identifiant le casier libre choisi (2).4. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the keys for selecting the free lockers (2) and the keypad (10) for composing personal codes together form an alpha-numeric keyboard (9, 10) and each personal code entered by the user is preceded by a letter identifying the free locker chosen (2). 5. Système selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le clavier à touches (10) précité permet également la composition par l'exploitant du système de codes secrets spéciaux transmis au dispositif à microprocesseur (12) qui autorise diverses fonctions particulières telles que l'ouverture d'au moins une porte de casier, le retrait de la caisse de monnaie avec l'indication au dispositif d'affichage (8) du montant de celle-ci et l'ouverture du module technique (3) comportant le dispositif à microprocesseur (12).5. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the aforementioned key keyboard (10) also allows the operator to dial the system of special secret codes transmitted to the microprocessor device (12) which authorizes various specific functions such as opening at least one locker door, removing the cash box with the indication to the display device (8) of the amount thereof and opening the technical module (3) comprising the microprocessor device (12). 6. Système selon l'une des revendications précédentes, caractérisé en ce que le dispositif à microprocesseur (12) est adapté pour permettre à l'exploitant de changer au moins l'un des codes secrets spéciaux à l'aide du clavier à touches (10) précité.6. System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the microprocessor device (12) is adapted to allow the operator to change at least one of the special secret codes using the keypad ( 10) cited above.
EP89400725A 1988-03-21 1989-03-15 Storing system with adjacent lockers controlled by a microprocessor device Expired - Lifetime EP0334726B1 (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AT89400725T ATE96927T1 (en) 1988-03-21 1989-03-15 STORAGE FACILITY WITH LOCKERS CONTROLLED BY A MICROPROCESSOR DEVICE.

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

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FR8803629A FR2628870B1 (en) 1988-03-21 1988-03-21 STORAGE SYSTEM WITH ADJACENT LOCKERS CONTROLLED BY A MICROPROCESSOR DEVICE
FR8803629 1988-03-21

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EP0334726A1 true EP0334726A1 (en) 1989-09-27
EP0334726B1 EP0334726B1 (en) 1993-11-03

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EP (1) EP0334726B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH01273195A (en)
AT (1) ATE96927T1 (en)
CA (1) CA1322394C (en)
DE (2) DE334726T1 (en)
DK (1) DK170722B1 (en)
ES (1) ES2011607T3 (en)
FI (1) FI95848C (en)
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PT (1) PT90068B (en)

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US5299862A (en) * 1990-02-06 1994-04-05 Gordon Rankine Storage devices
WO1994027260A1 (en) * 1993-05-06 1994-11-24 Willem Van Dalfsen Device for electronic control of a plurality of locks
NL9401532A (en) * 1985-07-03 1995-03-01 Method for controlling and monitoring locks in a bicycle shed, and bicycle shed designed for this method
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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0334726B1 (en) 1993-11-03
ES2011607A4 (en) 1990-02-01
FI95848C (en) 1996-03-25
FR2628870B1 (en) 1992-04-03
FI891315A0 (en) 1989-03-20
FR2628870A1 (en) 1989-09-22
DK170722B1 (en) 1995-12-18
JPH01273195A (en) 1989-11-01
FI891315A (en) 1989-09-22
DE334726T1 (en) 1990-04-12
DK130189D0 (en) 1989-03-17
FI95848B (en) 1995-12-15
PT90068B (en) 1994-09-30
DK130189A (en) 1989-09-22
PT90068A (en) 1989-11-10
US5126732A (en) 1992-06-30
ATE96927T1 (en) 1993-11-15
DE68910353T2 (en) 1994-04-28
CA1322394C (en) 1993-09-21
ES2011607T3 (en) 1994-02-01
DE68910353D1 (en) 1993-12-09

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