Mailing system having a capability for one-step postage metering
US4787046A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 12, 1985 |
| Grant date | Nov 22, 1988 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 12, 2005 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07B2017/00701
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A mailing system, including a postal scale and a postage meter controlled by the postal scale, and having one step metering capabilities. A postal scale controls a postage meter to set postage values as a function of the weight of an item to be mailed and, possibly, other postal information entered by an operator. The postage meter is physically mounted on the postal scale and the weight of the meter forms part of the tare weight of the scale. In one embodiment of the subject invention a letter placed in the meter will automatically be weighed and metered in a single step. In another embodiment of the subject invention the system also operates in a second mode wherein items placed on the system (i.e. on top of the meter) are weighed and postage values are computed in accordance with the weight and other postal information entered by an operator. Postal labels for packages, envelopes too thick to be weighed in the meter, or other items weighed, may then be printed upon command by the operator.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.