Mail tracker with zip break marker

US5403398A · kind A · utility

Inventors

• Robert F. Riess · Paddy Lane, US
• John Harisiadis · Arlington Heights, US
• Kasimir G. Rudak · Glenview, US
• Fred Lieder · Lincolnwood, US
• Elmer Nelson · Mukilteo, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 23, 1992
• Grant date: Apr 4, 1995
• Expiry date: Jul 23, 2012

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S209/90
• WIPO field: Surface technology, coating
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

An electronic mail tracking system having automatic zip code break marking capability. A series of optical sensors along the mail piece transport path of the tracking system track the progress of the mail pieces. A felt tip marker removably mounted to a solenoid is selectively extended and retracted to mark zip code breaks and the mail pieces are then transported to a stacker. The system provides high speed, reliable and low cost zip break marking and tracking of mail piece.