Virtual security device
US6889214B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 23, 2000 |
| Grant date | May 3, 2005 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 18, 2022 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07B2017/0083
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system and method for remote postage metering of postage indicia, including demanding a desired postage amount and subsequently printing the postage indicia onto a piece of mail. A user inputs certain necessary information, as well as additional desired information, into a local processor-based system. The local system then assembles a postage demand in suitable format and transmits the same to a remote postage metering device. The remote postage metering device then verifies the demand for authority to demand and valid funding. Upon verification, the remote postage meter serves the transaction by configuring a shared device using virtual user device data structures and assembles a data packet representing an authorized postage indicia. The data packet is transmitted to the local system for printing. Printing of the postage indicia may be unaccompanied, or may include additional information. Such additional information may include destination and return address, machine readable routing or identification information, or a complete document to be posted.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.