Abstract:
A mail management system (MMS) is comprised of a host system communicatively coupled to one or more operator workstations. Each workstation may be further coupled to a postage dispensing device, such as a postage meter. A transaction record for each postage mailing transaction is collected, stored and transmitted to the host system from the workstation. The transaction record comprises a plurality of data fields. Some of the data fields are fixed data fields, that is they are transmitted for each transaction record. Other data fields are optional data fields which are transmitted from the workstation to the host system only if the host system has previously indicated to the workstation that the particular field is to be included within the transaction record.
Abstract:
A postage and mailing information system wherein an encrypted message based upon postage and mail address information is created. This encrypted message is used in the determination of authenticity. Another aspect of the invention resides in placing the encrypted message in the address field of a mail piece for authentication by an automatic high speed sorter.
Abstract:
A postage and mailing information system wherein an encrypted message based upon postage and mail address information is created. This encrypted message is used in the determination of authenticity. Another aspect of the invention resides in placing the encrypted message in the address field of a mail piece for authentication by an automatic high speed sorter.
Abstract:
An on-line value bearing item (VBI) printing system that includes one or more cryptographic modules and a central database is disclosed. The cryptographic modules are capable of implementing the USPS Information Based Indicia Program Postal Security Device Performance Criteria and other required VBI standards. The modules encipher the information stored in the central database for all of the on-line VBI system customers and are capable of preventing access to the database by unauthorized users. Additionally, the cryptographic module is capable of preventing unauthorized and undetected modification, including the unauthorized modification, substitution, insertion, and deletion of VBI related data and cryptographically critical security parameters.
Abstract:
An on-line value bearing item (VBI) printing system that includes one or more cryptographic modules and a central database is disclosed. The cryptographic modules are capable of implementing the USPS Information Based Indicia Program Postal Security Device Performance Criteria and other required VBI standards. The modules encipher the information stored in the central database for all of the on-line VBI system customers and are capable of preventing access to the database by unauthorized users. Additionally, the cryptographic module is capable of preventing unauthorized and undetected modification, including the unauthorized modification, substitution, insertion, and deletion of VBI related data and cryptographically critical security parameters.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for generating a Value Bearing Indicium (VBI) for on-line applications. A VBI is generated by hashing user information to create a message digest that is used to create a digital signature. The digital signature is combined with the user information to create a VBI that can be validated by a variety of stand-alone or on-line methods. An on-line postage metering application using the VBI is described.
Abstract:
A system and method for rapidly customizing and printing documents is disclosed. The system supports product lines having a plurality of customizable products therein, through the use of a single Web page that is continually updated in a data-driven fashion. The system is robust, easily expandable, and quickly deployable across a plurality of user platforms and geographic locations. Methods of the invention disclosed herein enable users to perform customization projects and to print the documents created thereby, either at a remote printer such as at a document factory, or at the user's own, local printer.
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.
Abstract:
Systems and method for customizing a shipping label allow users to select among a list of personalized endorsements which may be displayed on a shipping label printed by the user from an Internet website. The user may also create a personalized endorsement. The personalized endorsement or message appears in a white space of the shipping label, which may contain other information regarding contact and confirmation information.
Abstract:
A system and method for printing a postage meter stamp, including a desired postage amount and a personalized postage indicia, onto a piece of mail. A user takes a postal storage device to the Post Office in order to obtain a replenishment of the amount of postage stored within the postage storage device. A desired amount of postage is entered into the storage device by a postal employee through a processor-based system. The user is then able to access this stored postage at the user's location through a complementary processor-based system. The user is also able to create or to select one of a variety of graphical configurations of postage indicia to be imprinted as the postage meter stamp on a piece of mail.