Patent · US Expired

Letter processing apparatus

US4796196A · kind A · utility

58Cited by
6References
23Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateMar 13, 1987
Grant dateJan 3, 1989
Priority date
Expiry dateMar 13, 2007

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB07C3/00
  • WIPO fieldChemical engineering
  • WIPO sectorChemistry

Abstract

Apparatus is provided which includes structure for preparing a letter including a returnable stationery item for sending to an addressee, wherein the returnable stationery item includes a code. In addition, the apparatus includes structure for routing the stationery item, when it is returned, to a selected one of a plurality of locations. The routing structure includes structure for sensing the code. Further, the apparatus includes a computer coupled to the routing structure. The computer is programmed for controlling the routing structure and for storing a dispositive data listing for the code. The dispositive data listing includes information defining the selected location. The computer causes the routing structure to route the stationery item to the selected location when the code on the stationery item is sensed. In addition, structure is provided for changing the dispositive data listing, whereby the selected location may be changed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.