Token generation process in an open metering system
US5987441A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 17, 1998 |
| Grant date | Nov 16, 1999 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 17, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07B2017/00935
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method of issuing digital tokens in a open system meter includes the steps of sending a request for digital tokens and predetermined postal information, including addressee information, from a host processor to a vault that is operatively coupled to the host processor; calculating in the vault in response to the request for tokens at least one digital token using the predetermined postal information; debiting postal funds in the vault; issuing the digital token to the host processor; and storing the digital token and the predetermined postal information as a transaction record in the host processor for subsequent generation and printing of an indicia. The method further includes the steps of generating in the host processor an indicia comprising a graphical image of the digital token and the predetermined postal information and storing the indicia in the host processor; and printing the indicia on a mailpiece when requested.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.