Patent Publication Number: US-7222787-B2

Title: Ballot marking system and apparatus utilizing single print head

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     This application claims benefit as a Continuation-In-Part of application Ser. No. 10/347,528 filed Jan. 17, 2003 now abandoned, which claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Application, Ser. No. 60/398,919 filed Jul. 26, 2002, the complete disclosure thereof being incorporated by reference. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates generally to systems, methods and apparatus for conducting elections, and particularly, to a system, method and apparatus which utilizes a physical ballot, formed of a markable material, such as paper, cardboard, or a thin plastic sheet, or the like, which can be either manually marked by a voter, or electronically marked by an electronic voting station, and then visually or otherwise verified by the voter, electronically scanned and tallied, and preserved in a ballot box for recount purposes. 
     Traditionally, elections for public office in the United States have been conducted with voting systems utilizing hand-marked paper ballots. Typically, in such systems a paper ballot is issued to a verified voter by an election judge. The voter takes the ballot to a voting booth, where he manually marks his selections by placing marks or punch holes in marking spaces associated with the candidates he or she selects. The marked ballot is then taken by the voter to a ballot box where it is inserted and stored for subsequent hand or machine counting. 
     In recent years, the traditional system has been improved with the use of a ballot scanner to tally the hand-marked ballots as they are inserted into the ballot box. This has the advantage of making vote tallies immediately available at the close of polling, and, with scanners so-equipped, of preventing unintentional under-votes and over-votes. However, one drawback of the traditional system remains in that there is no provision for assisting voters who have a physical impairment, which would interfere with the manual marking of a ballot. Previous attempts at assisting such impaired voters have utilized electronic voting terminals wherein, instead of presenting candidate choices on a paper ballot, candidate choices are serially presented to the voter on large, easily viewable touch-screen displays. When the voter has made his selections, the results are tallied within the voting terminal, the total votes for each candidate being read from the terminal electronically or by means of a paper tape at the close of the polling place. 
     One drawback of electronic voting terminals is that there is no satisfactory means for auditing the voting process, i.e. confirming that each vote is tallied as voted, and that no votes are tallied which were not voted. Furthermore, there is no means for an individual voter to confirm for his or herself that his or her vote has actually been counted. Attempts at addressing these deficiencies have centered on the use of a paper tape or slip printed concurrently with each voter&#39;s voting. Such tapes and slips, which bear little or no resemblance to a ballot, have proven difficult to interpret by the voter and do not confirm that the vote has been actually tallied. 
     Another drawback of the use of the electronic voting terminals is that they are inherently less efficient since voters require more time to electronically vote their ballot than is required to mark or punch a paper ballot providing the same candidate choices. Consequently, to avoid long lines at a polling place, a large number of electronic voting stations must be provided, if such stations are utilized as the sole means of voting. This imposes an undesirable cost and space burden on voting jurisdictions, since the electronic voting stations are expensive to own and maintain and require additional space in use and in storage. 
     Accordingly, it is the general object of the invention to provide a new and improved voting system, method and apparatus. 
     It is a more specific object of the invention to provide an improved voting system which utilizes a voter-readable and machine-readable physical ballot which can be either hand-marked in a voting booth, or electronically marked at an electronic voting station by means of a touch screen voting terminal and associated marking device. 
     It is a still more specific object of the invention to provide a system and apparatus for efficiently and accurately marking a two-sided physical ballot utilizing only a single print head. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The invention is generally directed to a ballot marking apparatus for marking a paper ballot printed to present election races on both a front side and a reverse side of the ballot, the apparatus comprising: a housing; a voter input device on the housing; a slot in the housing for receiving the ballot from a voter; a marking head; a paper path defined within the housing for receiving the ballot as it passes through the slot and conveying the ballot past the marking head, the front side of the ballot being presented to the marking head and the marking head marking the front side of said ballot in accordance with the selections made by the voter; the paper path inverting the ballot after the ballot has passed by the marking head; the reverse side of the ballot being presented to the marking head and the marking head marking the reverse side of the ballot in accordance with the selections made by the voter; and discharging the ballot through the ballot slot upon the front and reverse sides of the ballot having been presented to the marking head. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The features of the present invention which are believed to be novel, are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The invention, together with the further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in the several figures of which like reference numerals identify like elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a simplified perspective view of a voting system utilizing hand-marked and machine-marked paper ballots, a ballot issuing station, a ballot marking station comprising a ballot marking device and an electronic voting terminal, a ballot scanner device and a ballot box. 
         FIG. 2  is a simplified block diagram showing an alternative ballot issuing station for use in the voting system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 3 and 3A  provide a simplified perspective view of a ballot handling, sensing and marking apparatus, and the principal electronic circuits and components utilized therein, for use in the voting system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the apparatus depicted in  FIG. 3  taken along lines  4 — 4  of  FIG. 7  showing the apparatus operating as a ballot scanning device. 
         FIG. 5  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line  5 — 5  of  FIG. 7  showing a locking arrangement for preventing unauthorized removal of the scanning device from a ballot box. 
         FIG. 6  is a plan view of a voter- and machine-markable, voter- and machine-readable paper ballot adapted for use in the voting system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of the ballot scanning device utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1  showing the scanning device installed on a ballot box. 
         FIG. 8  is an enlarged cross-sectional view taken along line  8 — 8  of  FIG. 7  showing the receptacle provided in the housing of the ballot scanning device of  FIG. 7  for receiving a ballot data module. 
         FIG. 9  is a side elevational view of the voting terminal utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1  showing the touchscreen display and other major components utilized therein. 
         FIG. 10  is a simplified block diagram showing the major components of the voting terminal of  FIG. 9 . 
         FIGS. 11A–11E  are a series of views of the message display provided on the ballot scanner device utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1  showing various messages displayed to the voter during operation of the scanning device. 
         FIGS. 12A–12C  are a series of views of the message display provided on the ballot marking device utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1  showing various messages displayed to the voter during operation of the marking device. 
         FIG. 13  is an enlarged front elevational view of the control panel provided on the ballot marking and scanning devices utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 14A–C  provide a simplified flow chart illustrating the principal operating steps which occur during operation of the ballot marking device utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIGS. 15A–D  provide a simplified flow chart illustrating the principal operating steps which occur during operation of the ballot scanning device utilized in the voting system of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 16  provides a simplified flow chart illustrating the principal operating steps which occur in the implementation of a security system in the voting system of  FIG. 1  to assure that only an authorized ballot data module is used in conjunction with a particular marking or scanning device. 
         FIG. 17  provides a simplified flow chart illustrating the principal operating steps which occur in the implementation of a security system in the voting system of  FIG. 1  to assure that only authorized ballots are processed by a marking or scanning device in which a particular ballot data module is installed. 
         FIG. 18  provides a simplified flow chart illustrating the principal operating steps which occur in the implementation of a security system in the voting system of  FIG. 1  to assure that only an authorized ballot data module is utilized with a particular scanning or marking device, and that only authorized ballots are processed by the authorized devices and ballot data modules. 
         FIG. 19  is a perspective view of an alternate embodiment of the voter assistance terminal for use according to the voting system of the present invention shown in its open and ready to use position. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of the voter assistance terminal of  FIG. 19  shown in its closed position. 
         FIG. 21  is a cross-sectional side view of the voter assistance terminal of  FIG. 19  showing the principal components utilized for the ballot path. 
         FIGS. 22   a – 22   e  are a series of diagramatic cross-sectional side views showing the path of a physical ballot as it traverses the ballot path within the voter assistance terminal of  FIG. 21 . 
         FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional view showing the pivotable features of the voter assistance terminal of  FIG. 21  to facilitate the service thereof. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
     Referring to the drawings, and particularly to  FIG. 1 , a voting system  19  constructed in accordance with the invention is seen to basically include a paper ballot  20 , an electronic voter-assistance station  21  comprising a ballot marking device  22  and voting terminal  23 , a ballot scanning device  24  and a ballot box  25 . A first removable ballot data module  26  is preferably provided for configuring marking device  22 , and a second removable ballot data module  27  is preferably provided for configuring scanning device  24  to a particular ballot format. Marking device  22  is connected to voting terminal  23  by a flexible cable  28  which may have conventional connectors (not shown) at one or both ends to facilitate disassembly and transport of the voting system. 
     In use, an election judge at  30 , after confirming the identity and registration of a voter, issues a paper ballot  20  at a ballot issuing station  31 . The voter, after physically receiving the ballot, has the option either of manually marking the ballot at a conventional voting booth  32 , or of inserting the ballot into a ballot receiving slot  33  at the front of marking device  22  of voter-assistance station  21  for electronic marking. In the later event, the ballot is received and positioned within the marking device, and voting choices appropriate to the ballot are presented to the voter on successive viewing screens on voting terminal  23 . In particular, the voting selections are preferably presented on a color liquid crystal touch-screen display panel  34 , one slate of candidates for an office at a time, under control of processors contained within marking device  22  and voting terminal  23 . With each office voted, a check is automatically made to determine if the voter has under-voted (failed to vote for a candidate in that office) or over-voted (voted for two or more candidates for that office). In the event of such an under-vote or over-vote, additional choices are presented to the voter on touch-screen  34  to give the voter an opportunity to correct the voting error. In the event the error is not corrected within a predetermined period of time, or in the event the voter fails to vote within a predetermined period of time, the voting process is terminated and the ballot held in marking device  22  is rejected and returned to the voter through slot  33 . 
     Once the voter has made a selection for each candidate on the ballot, the voter indicates his satisfaction with his choices by actuating a vote option on touch-screen  34 , causing marking device  22  to mark ballot  20  with voter-detectable marks in appropriate marking spaces  35  ( FIG. 6 ) associated with the respective candidates listed on the ballot. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the marking is done such that the same marking spaces  35  are marked as would have been marked by the voter had the voter manually marked the ballot at voting booth  32 . 
     As ballot  20  is being marked, it is discharged from marking device  22  through slot  33 . The discharged ballot is physically removed by the voter, visually checked for accuracy, and carried to scanner device  24  wherein it is inserted in a slot  36  provided at the front of the device. In the event that ballot  20  has instead been manually marked at voting booth  32 , the ballot is similarly inserted into slot  36 . The scanning device, after receiving ballot  20 , checks the ballot for under-vote or over-votes. In the event none are detected, the ballot is automatically deposited in ballot box  25 , which is preferably constructed as described in co-pending application for Letters Patent, application Ser. No. 10/072,093, filed Feb. 8, 2002, entitled Collapsible Ballot Box. Ballot box  25  preferably includes separate compartments  37  and  38  ( FIG. 4 ) for non-write-in and write-in ballots, respectively. 
     To assist the voter, marking device  22  may include a message display window  40  utilizing liquid crystal or other known color display technology for displaying marking device status and issuing prompts and instructions to the voter, and a pair of push-button switches  41  and  42  for receiving instructions from the voter. Similarly, scanner device  24  may include a message display window  43  for displaying scanner device status and voter instructions, and a pair of push-button switches  44  and  45  for receiving voter instructions. 
     Referring to  FIG. 2 , the voter registration station  31  may alternatively utilize a printer  50  for printing ballots  20 . In particular, printer  50 , which is preferably a laser-type printer, is driven by a personal computer  51 . Computer  51 , which may be either a desktop or a laptop, is preferably provided with an input adapted to read a ballot data module  52  containing ballot format data for one or more voting jurisdictions being processed at a polling place. For example, ballot data module  52  may contain formats for each ward in a multiple-ward precinct. Then, once this data has been transferred from data module  52  to computer  51 , upon identification of the voter and his or her ward, it is only necessary for the election judge to input the ward identification. Computer  51  refers to the stored ballot format data from ballot data module  52  to print a ballot  20  of correct format, i.e., having the correct candidate choices, for that voter. A further optional function of computer  51  is to store the names of all of the registered voters for each ward, thereby enabling the election judge to merely input a voter&#39;s name. The computer then would automatically verify the registration of that voter and print a ballot in a format appropriate for the voter. 
     Appropriate security provisions in the form of a PIN (personal identification number) entered into computer  51  by the election judge prior to printing the ballot may be provided to prevent voter fraud. Computer  51  may be connected by a cable  53  to laser printer  50 , which is preferably pre-loaded with a supply of paper compatible with the ballot format. The paper stock may be preprinted with an official seal  54  and/or with a watermark for additional security. However, it is anticipated that at least the candidates&#39; names, generally designated  55  in  FIG. 2 , sync marks  56 , and associated marking spaces  35 , would ordinarily be printed by laser printer  50 . 
     Sync marks  56  may be provided along one or more edges of ballot  20  to assist ballot marking device  22  and ballot scanning device  24  in generating and reading marks in ballot marking spaces  35 . In addition, the ballot type, i.e. the particular ward or voting jurisdiction for which the ballot is intended, together with an optional ballot security ID number, may be indicated by one or more printed bar codes  57  at a predetermined location on the ballot. As will be explained, these bar codes are read by marking device  22  and scanning device  24  in processing ballot  20  to identify the type, and hence the format, of the ballot being processed. 
     The pattern of sync markings  56  may be modified to provide index points along the ballot. In particular, such index marks may include, for example, a start mark  56   a  at the top of the ballot, a header mark  56   b  between the ballot header portion and the ballot candidate selection portion of the ballot, and an end mark  56   c  at the bottom of the ballot. The index marks preferably differ from each other and from non-index sync marks  56  in thickness and/or spacing to enable the index marks to be sensed by the same sensors in marking device  22  and scanning device  24  which read the sync marks. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the mechanism within marking device  22  for receiving, marking, sensing and discharging ballot  20  may comprise a pair of generally parallel-spaced thin metal plates  60  and  61  which define between their co-facing surfaces a paper channel  62 . The plates diverge toward the front end of the printer to define ballot receiving slot  33 , the bottom plate  61  providing a surface on which the voter places the ballot prior to sliding ballot  20  into the slot. A slot  63  in top plate  60  allows a first sync detector  64 , preferably in the form of a light source and photocell focused on the underlying ballot surface, to detect the presence of index mark  56   a  ( FIG. 6 ) on the edge of the ballot, thus determining that a ballot has been inserted through slot  33 . This causes a pair of ballot-positioning feed rollers  65  and  66 , rotatably driven by a pair of ballot feed drive motors  67  and  68 , respectively, to advance ballot  20  along paper channel  62 . To this end, feed rollers  65  and  66  are paired with opposing feed rollers  70  and  71  ( FIG. 4 ), respectively. Feed rollers  65  and  70  contact the top and bottom surfaces of the ballot through apertures  72  and  73  ( FIG. 4 ), respectively, and feed rollers  66  and  71  contact the top and bottom surfaces of the ballot through apertures  74  and  75 , respectively. Feed rollers  65 ,  66 ,  70  and  71  may be conventional in design and construction, having a rubber ballot engaging surface and being spring-biased into contact with the ballot in a conventional manner. For reliable paper handling, conventional rotation sensing means in the form of circumferentially segmented discs  76  and  77  ( FIG. 3 ) and optical segment detectors  78  and  79  may be provided to generate signals confirming rotation of feed motors  67  and  68 , and hence paper-positioning feed rollers  65  and  66 , respectively. 
     As feed motors  67  and  68  rotate, ballot  20  advances until a second sync detector  80  senses through an aperture  81  the passage of index mark  56   b  ( FIG. 6 ), signifying that the ballot has advanced to a predetermined stop position between plates  60  and  61 . At this point, feed motors  67  and  68  are stopped and the ballot remains stationary. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9 and 10 , the voter is now presented with successive interactive displays on touch-screen  34  of voter terminal  23  which enable him or her to record his or her candidate choices. Communication between marking device  22  and voting terminal  23  coordinates the ballot presentation, the screens being generated by a display processor  82  utilizing data derived from either ballot data module  26  or an optional ballot data module  84 , and stored in a Random Access Memory (RAM)  83  associated with display processor  82 . Voter selections made by the voter on touch-screen  34  are stored in RAM  83  for subsequent use in marking the ballot. A marking device interface circuit  85  provides communication with marking device  22  to coordinate the voting protocol with the handling of ballot  20  by the marking device. An uninterruptible battery back-up power supply (UPS)  86  within voter terminal  23  assures that the voting process can continue even during an AC line interruption. A pair of status lights  87 , indicating AC or battery operation, are provided to confirm the power-up status of the terminal. 
     To determine which ballot format is to be presented to the voter on touch-screen  34 , bar-code readers in the form of optical mark sensors  88   a  and  88   b  read ballot bar codes  57  ( FIG. 6 ) through an aperture  89  in top plate  60 . Ballot information provided by the bar codes is utilized by appropriate software in a processor  90  ( FIG. 3A ) to select the correct ballot format from multiple formats stored in a RAM  91  associated with processor  90  utilizing data obtained from ballot data module  26 . As will be explained, for protection against voter fraud, the bar codes may also provide a ballot ID which is matched with an identification code associated with each ballot format in data module  26  prior to presenting the ballot choices to the voter. In the event there is no match, the ballot is rejected by marking device  22  and returned to the voter without voting terminal  23  being functional. Ballot marking device  22  preferably includes an uninterruptible battery back-up power supply (UPS)  92  for supplying power to processor  90 , drive roller motors  67  and  68  and the other components of the marking device to enable the voting process to continue in the event of power interruption. 
     A voting station interface circuit  93  cooperates with marking device interface circuit  85  to establish communication between processor  82  and processor  90  to coordinate operation of voting terminal  23  with operation of marking device  22 , including conveying ballot format data from ballot data module  26  to RAM  83  in the event such data is not provided by a separate data module  84 . 
     To provide voter-detectable marks in appropriate marking spaces  35  ( FIG. 6 ) on ballot  20  following completion of the voter&#39;s selection on voting terminal  23 , marking device  22  includes a pair of marking heads  94  and  95  ( FIGS. 3 and 4 ) which engage the top surface of the ballot through apertures  96  and  97 , respectively. Various types of marking heads may be employed for this purpose, including, for example, ink jet-type and impact-type print heads for producing a visually-detectable mark, or punch-type heads for producing an embossment, dimple or perforation tactilely detectable mark. A pair of mark sensors  98  and  99  are paired with marking heads  94  and  95 , respectively, to confirm that each has marked ballot  20  in response to marking signals provided by processor  90  through marking head drive circuits  100  and  101  ( FIG. 3A ), respectively. 
     When the voter completes his voting session on terminal  23  by providing an appropriate input on touch-screen  34 , ballot feed motors  67  and  68  are caused to operate in reverse to back ballot  20  out of the marking device. As the ballot backs out, processor  90 , in response to the ballot position-identifying sync marks  56  on the ballot, causes marking heads  94  and  95  to be actuated as required to mark candidate selection spaces  35  on the ballot in accordance with the voter&#39;s selections on touch-screen  34 . Mark detectors  98  and  99  independently verify that the print heads have functioned, signaling processor  90  to stop the ballot in position and sound an alarm in the event of a malfunction. The marks made by marking heads  94  and  95  on ballot  20  are user-detectable as well as machine-detectable, allowing the voter to independently verify that the ballot has been marked in accordance with his selections on touch-screen  34 . 
     Ballot feed motors  67  and  68  may in practice be stepper motors driven by a conventional stepper motor drive circuit  102  ( FIG. 3A ). The feedback signals generated by rotation sensing detectors  78  and  79  are applied to drive circuit  102  to verify motor rotation in a manner well known to the art. 
     A similar arrangement of ballot marking heads and mark detectors may be provided for the bottom surface of the ballot, allowing both sides of a double-sided ballot to be processed simultaneously. In the present embodiment, additional sync detectors  103  and  104  ( FIG. 3A ) detect sync marks along a bottom edge of the ballot through apertures  105  and  106  in bottom plate  61  ( FIG. 4 ), respectively. A pair of marking heads  107  and  108  ( FIG. 3A ) are paired with mark detectors  110  and  111  to mark and sense marks on the bottom of ballot  20  through aperture  112  ( FIG. 4 ). Conventional marking head driver circuits  113  and  114  ( FIG. 3B ) provide drive signals to marking heads  107  and  108 , respectively. 
     The ballot processing mechanism functioning in  FIGS. 1–3B  as marking device  22  may also function as ballot scanning device  24 . When functioning as a scanning device no voting terminal is connected and alternate operating software is provided for processor  90 . In operation as ballot scanning device  24 , an initial message  11 A may be provided on display screen  43  prompting the voter to insert the marked ballot. Upon sync sensor  64  sensing insertion of a ballot, processor  90  causes ballot feed motors  67  and  68  to advance ballot  20  through paper channel  62 . As the ballot advances, mark sensors  98  and  99  sense marks in respective columns of marking positions  35  on the ballot as sync marks  56  are read by sync detectors  64  and  80 , the sensed mark locations being stored in RAM  91 . 
     When the ballot has been read, as sensed by the passage of index mark  56   c  ( FIG. 6 ) at sync detector  64 , feed motors  67  and  68  are stopped and the ballot is held in position. The sensed mark locations are then compared with the ballot format provided by ballot data module  27  in RAM  91  for the ballot type read by bar-code readers  88   a  and  88   b . In the event of an under-vote or an over-vote, a message is provided on bar-code display  43  ( FIG. 7 ) indicating the under-vote or over-vote, and push-button switches  44  and  45  are illuminated to allow an interactive selection by the voter. Preferably, in the event of an under-vote, a red flashing display may read as shown in  FIG. 11B , requiring either 1) the actuation of vote switch  45 , which will cause the under-vote to be erased in RAM  91  and, provided no other under-votes or over-votes are present, the ballot to be discharged into ballot box  25 , or 2) the actuation of return switch  44 , which will cause all votes on that ballot to be deleted in RAM  91 , feed motors  67  and  68  to operate in reverse, and the ballot to be returned to the voter for further voting. Print heads  94 ,  95 ,  107  and  108  may be optionally operated during the return of the ballot to void the ballot, as by printing over all marking spaces, or by printing over the ballot ID  57  by means of an additional marking head (not shown), requiring the voter to request a new ballot. In the event of a returned ballot, display  11 E may appear, prompting the voter to remove and re-mark the ballot. 
     In the event of an over-vote, a red flashing message  11 C prompts the voter to either 1) actuate put-button VOTE switch  45 , in which event the over-vote is deleted from RAM  91 , and, provided no other under votes or over votes are present, the ballot is discharged into ballot box  25 , or 2) actuate push-button RETURN switch  44 , in which event the ballot is returned for correction by the voter and message  11 E is displayed. The ballot may be optionally voided as previously described, requiring the voter to obtain a new ballot. In the event of an accepted ballot, a steady green display  11 D is provided. When no action is required by the voter, push-button switches  44  and  45  remain unlit and preferably display no indicia. 
     Similar interactive color display messages may be provided on display  40  of ballot marking device  22 . Initially, an amber display ( FIG. 12A ) may prompt the voter to insert an unmarked ballot. When the ballot is in place and while the voter is using terminal  23 , a steady red message ( FIG. 12B ) may be displayed. When voting is complete, a flashing red message may be displayed to prompt the voter to remove the machine-marked ballot and take the ballot to scanner device  24 . When the mechanism is functioning as a ballot marking device, push-button switches  44  and  45  are preferably inoperative, unlit and display no indicia. 
     To enable vote tallies to be transmitted to a central processing location upon poll closing, a communication port  115  ( FIG. 3A ) and modem  116  may be provided which, under control of processor  90 , causes an appropriate signal to be transmitted indicative of the tallies. Various security provisions are possible, including encryption through the use of an embedded electronic serial number (ESN) in processor  90  and ballot data module  26 , which serial numbers are required to be transmitted and received at the central processing location before ballot tallies, preferably encrypted, are received as authentic election results. 
     An additional function which may be required of ballot scanning device  24 , but not of ballot marking device  22 , is that the ballot, after processing, is selectively discharged into one or two compartments  37  and  38  within ballot box  25 , depending on whether the ballot contains write-in votes. To this end, when a mark is sensed in a marking space on a write-in vote line, as indicated by the data provided by data module  27  and stored in RAM  91 , a ballot routing gate  117  ( FIGS. 3 and 4 ) is positioned by an actuator motor  118  to a position which will discharge the ballot into the appropriate compartment. A rotation sensor in the form of a circumferentially segmented disc  119  and optical rotation sensor  120 , provide a feedback signal to a conventional stepper motor drive circuit  121 , which causes gate  117  to be positioned as determined by processor  90 . 
     The operating mode of the marking and scanning devices is controlled by a key-operated mode switch  122  on the front panel  123  ( FIG. 13 ) of the devices. The switch selects one of four operating modes: OFF, MARK, SCAN and REPORT. In the MARK mode, the apparatus functions as a marking device to mark the ballot in accordance with vote selections read at voting terminal  23 . In the SCAN mode, the apparatus functions as a scanning device to check marked ballots for under-votes and over-votes and then tally and deposit the ballots in a ballot box. In the REPORT mode, which is normally used following closing of the polls, vote tallies are transmitted as an encrypted message to a central vote-counting location. 
     Other features provided on front panel  123  include a key-operated locking mechanism  124  for locking the device to a supporting surface, in the case of marking device  22 , or to a ballot box, in the case of scanning device  24 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the locking mechanism  124  may consist of a cylinder-type key lock, having a locking arm  125  which engages a slot  126  in the underlying surface. One or more tabs  127  engage the housing of the printer or scanner through appropriately located slots  128 . 
     The front panel may further include an identification plate  130  ( FIG. 13 ) which may contain a permanent device serial number or other identifying indicia, and/or a user-removable identification card by which the scanning device is identified as the property of a particular jurisdiction. Also, a lockable module receiving receptacle  131  may be provided for receiving ballot data modules  26  or  27 . 
     Preferably, as shown in  FIG. 8 , receptacle  131  comprises a compartment  132  within which the module is slidably received. A connector  133  at the rear end of the compartment provides connections with a printed circuit board  134  within the module. A handle  135  may be provided integral with the module housing to assist in removing the module. A hinged door  136  ( FIGS. 7  and  13 ) secured by a key lock  137  may be provided to prevent tampering with the data module. A window  138  in door  136  may be provided to enable viewing of a module identification number on the handle of the module. A pair of LED pilot lights  139  ( FIGS. 7 and 13 ) provide a steady indication to indicate whether the unit is operating on AC or battery power, and a blinking indication in the battery mode to indicate a low-battery condition. 
     As best shown in  FIG. 6 , the ballot voting spaces  35  are preferably arranged in columns  140  on ballot  20  so as to be in alignment with the optical marking sensors and marking heads of marking device  22  and scanning device  24 . While two columns are shown in  FIG. 6 , it will be appreciated that a greater or lesser number of columns may be provided to accommodate a greater or lesser number of candidate selections on the ballot. In such cases a like number of mark sensors and marking heads would be provided within the marking and scanning devices. 
     The basic operation of marking device  22  is illustrated by the simplified flow chart of  FIGS. 14A and 14B . Initially, upon power up of the printer, a start sequence  150  results in data being read from data module  26  at  151 . This data is stored at  152  in RAM  91  within marking device  22 . Provided the data from data module  26  tests valid at  153 , an inquiry is made at  154  whether a ballot has been inserted into ballot receiving slot  33 . In the event the data from data module  26  tests invalid at  153 , a message is generated at  155  for display on display screen  40  and the stored data is erased from RAM  91  at  156 . 
     Upon a ballot being sensed at  154 , ballot feed motors  67  and  68  are caused to turn in a forward direction at  157   a  to receive the ballot and ballot sync marks  56  are read at  158  to monitor the movement of the ballot through paper channel  62 . As sync pulses are read, the ballot ID is read by bar code readers  88   a  and  88   b  at  160 . The sensed bar code is tested at  161  for validity against a ballot ID received into memory from data module  26 . In the event of an invalid ID, a message is generated at  162  for display on message display  40  and the ballot feed motors are initially stopped and then reversed at  157   b  to reject the ballot. 
     If the ballot tests valid at  161  and sync marks  56  indicate at  163  the ballot has reached an initial position for marking, the ballot feed motors are stopped at  157   c  and a message is generated at  164  for display on message display  40 . The voter assistance routine is then performed by voting terminal  23  at  165 , in accordance with ballot format stored in RAM  91  and communicated to the voting terminal through cable  28 . Upon completion of the voter assistance routine at  166 , the voter&#39;s candidate selections are recorded in RAM  91  at  166 , a message is generated at  168  for display on display  40 , and the ballot feed motors are caused to turn in a reverse direction at  157   d . In the event that voting is not complete after a period of time starting at  170   a  and ending at  170   b , a message at  171  is displayed on display  40  and the ballot feed motors are caused to turn in a reverse direction at  157   b  to discharge the ballot. 
     As ballot  20  backs out of marking device  22  from its initial printing position, sync markings are read at  172 , stored user candidate selections are recalled from memory at  173  and, where at  174  a mark is required by the stored selection, marking heads  94 ,  95 ,  107  and  108  are actuated at  175  to place voter-readable and machine-readable marks at the marking spaces  35  associated with the voter-selected candidates. Following each marking, the associated one of mark sensors  98 ,  99 ,  110  and  111 , respectively, test for proper printing at  176 . In the event a printing malfunction is sensed, an alarm is sounded at  177   a , a message is generated at  177   b  for display on message display  40  and the ballot feed motors are stopped at  157 . 
     If all print marks check valid and the printing tests complete at  178 , a message is generated at  180  on message display  40  and reverse operation of the ballot drive motors continues at  157   f  until the ballot is sensed at  181  to be discharged through slot  33 . If printing is not complete, then sync marks continue to be read at  172  and the previously described print cycle continues. Once the ballot feed motors have been stopped, further movement of the feed motors is prevented at  157   g  until the ballot has been removed at  182  by the voter. 
     The operation of scanning device  24  is described by the simplified block diagram of  FIGS. 15A and 15B . Upon initiation of the operation sequence at  190 , data from ballot data module  27  is read at  191  and stored in RAM  91  at  192 . The data supplied by data module  27  is tested for validity at  193 . In the event the data module is found to be invalid, a message is displayed at  194  for display on message display  43  and the stored data is erased at  195  from RAM  91 . 
     In the event the data from data module  27  is valid, a determination is made at  196  whether a ballot is present at ballot-receiving slot  36 . If a ballot is present, the ballot feed motors  67  and  68  are caused to operate at  197   a  to advance the ballot through ballot channel  62  and sync marks  56  are read at  198  as the ballot advances. Upon detection at  200  of the ballot having reached an initial reading position, a counter within processor  90  is reset at  201  to track the progress of the ballot. With each incremental movement of the ballot reference is made at  202  to the data stored in RAM  91  to determine whether the ballot is in a position wherein a valid marking space is positioned under one of the mark sensors. In the event a marking space is so situated and a mark is sensed at  203 , an input is provided to RAM  91  at  204  of the sensed mark and marking space to record a vote for the candidate associated with that marking space. The process continues until all valid marking spaces have been sensed at  205 , at which time the ballot ID code  57  is read at  206  by bar code reading heads  88   a  and  88   b . In the event the ballot ID is not valid at  207 , i.e., the ballot is not appropriate to this scanning device in this voting jurisdiction, the forward progress of the ballot is stopped by stopping the ballot feed motors at  197   b  and a message is generated at  208  for display on message display  43 . 
     If the ballot ID tests valid at  207 , the ballot feed motors are stopped at  197   c  and the ballot format is read from memory at  210  to determine whether the ballot has been properly marked for the particular candidate selections presented to the voter. If an under-vote is detected at  211 , a display message is generated at  212 . Push-button switches  44  and  45  are now enabled. If switch  44  is actuated by the voter signaling rejection of the ballot at  213 , a message is generated at  214  for display on message display  43  and the ballot feed motors are caused to operate in reverse at  197   f  to return the ballot to the voter. If the voter actuates switch  45  indicating acceptance of the under-vote at  215 , the valid votes contained on the ballot are recorded into a cumulative vote tally memory at  216  and a message is generated at  217  for display on message display  43 . In the event the voter fails to actuate either switch  44  or  45  following generation of the under-vote message at  212 , the inaction is treated as a rejection after a predetermined time period starting at  218   a  and ending at  218   b.    
     In the event an over-vote is sensed at  220 , a message is generated at  221  for display on message display  43 . Push-button switches  44  and  45  are illuminated and enabled. If the voter chooses to reject the over-vote by actuation of RETURN switch  44  at  222 , a message is generated at  223  for display on message display  43  and the ballot feed motors are caused to operate in reverse at  197   f  to return the ballot to the voter. In the event VOTE switch  45  is actuated at  224  to accept the over-vote, the votes constituting the over-vote, i.e., multiple votes cast for a single office, are cancelled from RAM  91  at  225  and the balance of the ballot is entered into the cumulative vote tally AT  216 . A message is generated at  226  for display on message display  43 . In the event that the voter fails to actuate either push-button switch  44  or  45  following the generation of the over-vote message at  221 , the inaction is treated as a rejection after a predetermined period of time starting at  218   c  and ending at  218   d.    
     In the event no under-votes or over-votes are present, a message is generated at  227  for display on message display  43  and the movement of ballot  20  is continued at  197   d  through paper channel  62  until discharge of the ballot has been sensed at  228 , at which time the ballot feed motors are stopped at  197 . 
     When the ballot feed motors have been caused at  197   f  to return the ballot to the voter, the feed motors continue to operate until the ballot has been discharged through slot  36  as sensed by index mark  56   a  at  229 , at which time the feed motors are stopped at  197   g . Forward operation of the ballot feed motors is prevented at  197  by sensor  64  at  230  to prevent the returned ballot prior to pick up by the voter from being sensed as a newly-inserted ballot. 
     Various security protocols may be provided in marking device  22  and scanning device  24  to prevent voter fraud. In  FIG. 16 , a system is shown for allowing only authorized data modules  26  or  27  to be used with a particular marking device or scanning device. In this system each device is provided with an identification number, ID 1 , which is preferably embedded within a chip associated with processor  90 . ID 1  may, for instance, comprise a unique 8, 16 or 32 bit number. A ballot data module intended for use with the particular printer or scanner is similarly provided with an embedded identification number, ID 2 . Upon insertion and reading of the data module at  250 , ID 1  is stored in RAM  91  at  251 . At the same time, ID 2  is read at  252  and stored in RAM  91  at  253 . A security algorithm receives ID 1  and ID 2  at  254 , validates the numbers at  255 , and generates an enabling signal which enables operation of the device. In the event the IDs do not validate, a message is generated at  256  for display on the device message display and further operation of the device is prevented. 
     A further security protocol may be provided to prevent a data module  26  or  27  from being used with an inappropriate ballot  20 . In this instance, as shown in  FIG. 17 , the module ID 1  is read at  260  and stored in RAM  91  at  261 . In subsequent operation, ID 3  is read from ballot bar code ID  57  at  262  and stored in RAM  91  at  263 . A security algorithm is performed at  264  whereby ID 1  and ID 3  are compared to determine whether their combination is valid at  265 . In the event the ballot ID is not appropriate to the module ID, a message is generated at  266  for display on the device message display, and the ballot is rejected. In the event the combination is appropriate, operation of the device continues. 
     A further security protocol is possible wherein a valid combination of ballot data module, marking or scanning device and ballot is verified. In this routine, as shown in  FIG. 18 , the data module ID 1  is read at  270  and stored in RAM  91  at  271 . The device ID 2  is read at  272  and stored in RAM  91  at  273 . A security algorithm is performed at  274  to verify at  275  that a valid combination of data module and device exists. In the event the module is not appropriate, a message is generated at  276  for display on the device message display and further operation of the device is prevented. 
     If the ballot data module and device are a valid combination, in subsequent operation the ballot ID 3  is read from the ballot at  277  and stored in RAM  91  at  278 . A further security algorithm is performed at  280  which verifies that the ID 1  of the data module, the ID 2  of the device and the ID 3  of the ballot are all valid at  281  for processing of the ballot. In the event that the ballot is inappropriate to the combination, a message is generated at  282  for display on the device message display and the ballot is rejected. 
     Thus, by controlling the imbedded ID numbers of the ballot data module and the device and the ID number of the ballot, the introduction of an inappropriate element into the voting system is prevented. It is anticipated that the ID&#39;S of the data module and marking and scanning devices would be concealed to prevent someone from easily substituting another module or device into the system and thereby achieving erroneous vote tallies. 
     While a form of marking and scanning apparatus has been described for use with the voting system of the invention, it will be appreciated that such marking and scanning devices may take various forms. For example, a greater or lesser number of rollers may be employed to position the ballot within the device and a greater or lesser number of marking and mark sensing heads may be employed to provide for a greater or lesser number of columns of marking spaces on the ballot. Furthermore, instead of moving the ballot past stationary marking and sensing heads, it would be possible to move the ballot to a stationary position, and then move the marking and sensing heads, preferably arranged horizontally side-by-side on a stepper motor driven carriage, vertically from one end to the other of the ballot, thereby vertically scanning the ballot for markings and marking locations as required. 
     Furthermore, while data modules have been shown that plug directly into a receptacle in the personal computer, marking device, or scanning device, it will be appreciated that such modules could instead be connected through a cable using a serial data interface, such as, for example, a universal serial bus (USB). Furthermore, while the foregoing description provides that voting data will be stored in RAM memory, it will be appreciated that EEPROM (electrically erasable programmable read-only memory) or flash memory could be used instead. 
     Furthermore, various types of mark sensing devices can be used in the marking and scanning devices, including one utilizing, a focused light source reflecting from the ballot surface onto a focused detector, and that various known circuits and optical devices can be incorporated to enhance the performance of such mark sensing devices. Furthermore, various forms of print heads can be used as marking heads to mark the marking spaces of the ballot. One form of print head believed advantageous for this purpose and readily available is an impact type involving a single hammer and a replaceable carbon or mylar film ribbon cartridge. However, print heads employing bubble jet or ink jet technology could also be utilized. 
     It will also be appreciated that various types of alternative media may be used for the physical ballot, including, for example, a thin plastic material, and marking may be accomplished by punching or deforming the material by means of heat, or a mechanical, electrical or magnetic force, it only being necessary for the voter to be able to detect the mark to ascertain that his or her votes have been correctly marked. 
     Furthermore, while it is recognized that the particular construction illustrated for the apparatus of the marking and scanning devices is advantageous in that it allows the same apparatus to be used for either device, and that the function of the apparatus can be readily changed by selecting different operating systems in processor  90  by a means of a single mode-selecting switch, in practice the construction of the marking and scanning devices need not be identical and can instead be optimized for use in each device. 
     For example, an alternate embodiment for the construction of a device optimized for marking is illustrated in  FIGS. 19–23 . Referring to  FIG. 19 , this voter assistance terminal  300  comprises a ballot marking device  302  and touchscreen or voting terminal  304 . The preferred embodiment of this voter assistance terminal  300  provides for the marking device  302  to be connected to the touchscreen  304  via a flexible cable (not shown) which may have conventional connectors to facilitate the closing and transport of the voter assistance terminal  300 . (See  FIG. 20 ) 
     The voter assistance terminal  300  constructed in accordance with this alternate embodiment of the present invention is used as previously discussed. In short, an election judge, after confirming the identity and registration of the voter, issues a preprinted paper ballot  306 . The voter has the option of manually marking the ballot  306  in the conventional way, or of inserting it into a ballot receiving slot  308  at the front of the marking device  302  of the voter assistance terminal  300  for electronic marking. The terminal  300  draws in the ballot  306  and scans a preprinted code to determine which form or style of ballot has been inserted. It then presents a series of menu-driven voting choices on its preferably color touchscreen  304  corresponding to that particular ballot style. 
     In the event that the voter is in need of language support, for example he or she cannot read the English language, the voting menus on the touchscreen  304  can be presented in any number of different languages and then the voter can more readily navigate through these menus. Additionally, in the event that the voter has diminished motor skills, is somewhat visually impaired, or is in some other way physically handicapped and cannot vote in the conventional manner, he or she simply navigates through these touchscreen menus. Furthermore, in the event that the voter cannot use the touchscreen  304  due to the severe physical impairment, blindness or any other reason, he or she can navigate through these menus via a headphone  310  and sub-panel  312  combination. More particularly, a blind voter (for example) would wear the headphones  310  which are connected to the marking device  302  via headphone wire  314  and jack  316  into plug  318 . 
     Although the headphones may be used in conjunction with the touchscreen display, the display may shut down (turn black) when the voter selects audio assistance or when jack  316  is inserted into plug  318  in order to preserve the voter&#39;s privacy as he or she navigates through these menus. As such, the sub-panel comprises, preferably four arrow keys, up  322 , down  324 , left  326 , right  328  and a center enter key  330 . The blind voter then navigates through the menus using these keys in conjunction with pre-recorded, digitized audio prompts heard through headphones  310 . 
     It will be understood that additional means of voter menu navigation have been contemplated, for example, a USB port  320  may be provided that would allow voters to bring in their own input devices, such as a puff-blow or foot pedal. In this implementation, the interface provides single switch access which takes place in the same general manner as the touchscreen or sub-panel, but voter responses are limited to YES and NO. 
     In any event, the voter assistance terminal  300  accumulates the voters choices in its internal memory during this menu driven (visual, audio, or both) navigation. When the voter is finished with his or her choices, he or she is prompted to mark his or her ballot. The preprinted ballot is then marked according to these choices using its internal print mechanism. The ballot is then fed back to the voter through slot  308  for confirmation and insertion into the scanner, where it is validated and tallied. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 20 , the voter assistance terminal  300  is shown in its closed or transport state. In this state, it can be easily carried via handles  332  located on both sides of its lower housing  334 . The touchscreen is safely located within recess  336  and beneath the protective cover  338  hinged to the top housing  340  via hinges  342  ( FIG. 19 ). The ballot slot  308  is also safely located behind the lower cover  344  which forms the ramp  346  to aid in the ballot insertion when the voter assist terminal  300  is in the open position. 
     An additional sub-panel  348  preferably comprises a message display window  350  utilizing liquid crystal or other known color display technology for displaying voter assistance terminal status and issuing prompts and instructions to the voter. It is contemplated that sub-panel  348  be interchangeable within a future sub-panel having a different message display window, or an additional sub-panel utilizing a key configuration. 
     Other features provided on the voter assist terminal  300  include a lockable module receiving receptacle  352  for receiving ballot data modules (as previously discussed). A hinged door  354  secured by a key lock  356  may be provided to prevent tampering with the data module. An LED pilot light  358  provides a steady green indication to indicate AC power, a steady yellow indication to indicate battery power and a blinking red to indicate a low-battery condition. 
     The assembly  360  illustrating the ballot path within the voter assist terminal  300  for receiving, marking, sensing and discharging the ballot is shown within the cross-sectional side view of  FIG. 21 . 
     The mechanism within the voter assist terminal  300  for receiving, marking, sensing and discharging ballot  306  may comprise of a pair of generally parallel-spaced thin metal plates  362  and  364  which define between their co-facing surfaces a ballot channel  366 . The plates diverge toward the front end  368  of the terminal  360  to define a ballot receiving slot  370 , the bottom plate extending with the ramp  346  to provide a surface on which the voter places the ballot  306  prior to sliding the ballot into the slot  370 . A small slot in the plates enables a first optical detector  372 , preferably in the form of a light source and photocell, to determine whether a ballot has been inserted through slot  370 . Upon such detection, a pair of ballot-positioning feed rollers  374  and  376  driven by a first drive motor (not shown) advance the ballot along ballot channel  366 . To this end, feed rollers  374  and  376  are paired with opposing feed rollers  378  and  380 , respectively. Feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380  may be conventional in design and construction, having a rubber ballot engaging surface and being spring-biased into contact with the ballot in a conventional manner through slots in plate  362 . Furthermore, as the ballot needs to travel in both directions within the channel  366   a , either towards the front of the assembly or towards the back of the assembly, feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380  need to be capable of rotating in both directions. 
     Conversely, the pair of feed rollers  382  and  384  within the ballot reversal loop  386  of channel  366   b  need only rotate in one direction to advance the ballot. To this end, feed rollers  382  and  384  are driven by a second drive motor (not shown) and paired with opposing feed rollers  388  and  390 , respectively. Feed rollers  382 ,  384 ,  388  and  390  may also be conventional in design and construction, having a rubber ballot engaging surface and being spring-biased into contact with the ballot in a conventional manner through slots in plates  362  and  364  of reversal loop  386 . 
     A solenoid  392  actuated routing gate  394  urges the ballot either towards the receiving slot  380  and ramp  346  when in the down position, in the event marking of the ballot by the print mechanism  396  is complete, or towards the holding channel  366   c , when in the up position, in the event the ballot marking process is not complete. In any event, and as previously discussed in greater detail, all ballot routing positioning and marking is controlled by appropriate software in a processor that ensures correct mark positioning from ballot type and position information continuously obtained by optical detectors  372 ,  398  and  400 . 
     With the principal component of the ballot path so described with respect to  FIG. 21 , the actual path of the ballot during the subject ballot marking procedure will now be illustrated. In particular,  FIGS. 22   a – 22   e  are a series of diagramatic cross-sectional views of the assembly  360  within the housing of the voter assist terminal showing the physical ballot as it traverses its path. It will be understood that the following description mainly focuses on the path of the physical ballot and that the means and methods by which the ballot is maneuvered therein have been previously described with greater detail. These following figures will illustrate the ability of the present invention to mark a double sided ballot with a single printing mechanism by first marking one side and then inverting the ballot and marking the other side. 
     Referring to  FIG. 22   a , when the voter places his or her ballot  306  into slot  370  via ramp  346 , optic reader  372  senses its presence and feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380  rotate and thereby feed the ballot through channel  366   a  such that optic readers  398  and  400  can detect the particular size and style of the ballot such that the correct navigational menu may be presented to the voter. Once it has been sensed that the ballot is fully within channel  366   a , solenoid  392  is activated to lift gate  394 , feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380  reverse and feed the ballot into upper channel  366   c , as shown in  FIG. 22   b , where it will be held as the voter navigates through their selection process. 
     When the voter has finished his or her selection process and has chosen to mark the ballot, feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380  once again reverse and feed the ballot into channel  366   a  and thereby pass the ballot under print mechanism  396  which marks a first side thereof pursuant to the voter&#39;s selections, as shown in  FIG. 22   c . The ballot  306  then enters and is fed through the ballot reversal loop  386  through channel  366   b  by feed rollers  382 ,  384 ,  388  and  390 , as shown in  FIG. 22   d . Feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380 , again engage the ballot and feed it through channels  366   a  and  366   c  ( FIG. 22   b ) where it is then in position to pass under print mechanism  396  which marks the other side thereof, pursuant to the voters selections, as shown in  FIG. 22   c . Once both sides of the ballot  306  have been marked, solenoid  372  is deactivated thereby lowering gate  394  and feed rollers  374 ,  376 ,  378  and  380  feed the ballot  306  back out the slot  370  and return it to the voter,  FIG. 22   e , for appropriate verification and tabulation. 
     Housing  340  and assembly  360  may have pivot points to allow for service as well as replacement of component parts such as ink cartridges and the like. Referring to  FIG. 23 , the housing  370  is pivotal about pivot  402  and the assembly  360  and pivotal about pivot  404 . Such pivot points,  402  and  404 , thereby providing the necessary spacing for manual access to the paper path and/or service of parts. 
     While particular embodiments of the invention have been shown and described, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that changes and modifications may be made therein without departing from the invention in its broader aspects, and, therefore, the aim in the appended claims is to cover all such changes and modifications as fall within the true spirit and scope of the invention.