Security hole-pattern punch

A decrementing punch is a device which that cuts or obliterates a portion of the ticket for each journey made, until all permitted journeys have been made. The objective is to provide a ticketing solution for multi-journey fare products.

The ticket is shaped and arranged so that there are sections, one representing each journey. The device has a slot into which the ticket is inserted. The presence or pressure of the card activates the punch, and the next available section is punched so that it is cut away. This makes the next section available for punching on any subsequent insertion. The ticket is shaped such that when all sections have been punched, the ticket can no longer activate the punch.

Some machines have a date stamp, which is set by the driver or other personnel at the start of the working day. The machine may also have a route or service number identifier, also set by the driver on the day. Some machines have a mechanical counter or register to indicate the cumulative number of validations.

In general, these are mechanical devices without any electronics, and are used in stand-alone mode. The mechanical punch is simply a means of punching the ticket. It does not “validate” the ticket in the sense of checking if the ticket is appropriate to the category of holder (adult, child) or the journey being made.

These machines are becoming obsolete, and are increasingly being replaced by magnetic-stripe or smart-card readers. 

Mechanical decrementing punches are used as a simple management tool for multi-journey tickets. They are located in one of three locations:

• At entry points to the transit system (bus terminal, station gate, at platform) for self-service pre-boarding validation. This may be linked to a gate or turnstile.
• At the entrance of the vehicle, where the customer validates the ticket to the satisfaction of the driver.
• Within the vehicle, for self-service validation post-boarding, to avoid any boarding delays.

The punch can be used for single tickets as well as multi-journey tickets. In some cases, the ticket is valid for transfer – e.g. from a feeder bus to a trunk service, or between buses during a specified period. In these cases, the ticket is punched on the first boarding, and then used as a “flash pass” on subsequent boardings.

Benefits of mechanical multi-journey punches are:

• Simple technology to manage multi-journey tickets.
• The ticket is clearly marked.
• Moderate cost.
• Few moving parts with moderate maintenance requirements.
• Longevity.

Cautions with regard to mechanical multi-journey punches are:

• Functionality is limited.
• If tickets become creased or damp, they might not properly activate the punch mechanism.
• If date or route stamp needs to be set daily, this might not be done consistently, leading to problems with inspection and revenue protection.
• Permitted transfers must rely on visual inspection.
• No transaction data are generated to support administrative or planning processes.