Abstract: In a network-based mail processing system and method of the invention, the originating presort bureau or node is defined as the first bureau to receive and process mail, usually near the point of creation. Each presort bureau or node in the network is generally also a destination bureau or node since each processes mail from other nodes for delivery to recipients in its respective region by the postal regional sorting centers associated with its destination codes. Interactive network processing enables higher density of sorts at destination nodes and reduces overall sorts, postage, and sort costs over non-interactive processing centers. The term “presort bureau” is used to connote a service bureau or any other entity which is a) part of the enterprise network, b) processes mail created and entered by itself or by mailers it services, and/or c) processes mail interactively with other network nodes. A similar network is described for mail-like items.

Abstract: In a network-based mail processing system and method of the invention, the originating presort bureau or node is defined as the first bureau to receive and process mail, usually near the point of creation. Each presort bureau or node in the network is generally also a destination bureau or node since each processes mail from other nodes for delivery to recipients in its respective region by the postal regional sorting centers associated with its destination codes. Interactive network processing enables higher density of sorts at destination nodes and reduces overall sorts, postage, and sort costs over non-interactive processing centers. The term “presort bureau” is used to connote a service bureau or any other entity which is a) part of the enterprise network, b) processes mail created and entered by itself or by mailers it services, and/or c) processes mail interactively with other network nodes. A similar network is described for mail-like items.

Abstract: In a network-based mail processing system and method of the invention, the originating presort bureau or node is defined as the first bureau to receive and process mail, usually near the point of creation. Each presort bureau or node in the network is generally also a destination bureau or node since each processes mail from other nodes for delivery to recipients in its respective region by the postal regional sorting centers associated with its destination codes. Interactive network processing enables higher density of sorts at destination nodes and reduces overall sorts, postage, and sort costs over non-interactive processing centers. The term “presort bureau” is used to connote a service bureau or any other entity which is a) part of the enterprise network, b) processes mail created and entered by itself or by mailers it services, and/or c) processes mail interactively with other network nodes. A similar network is described for mail-like items.

Abstract: A light detection, signaling and speed measurement system. The system includes a housing having a first photosensitive surface mounted therein for detection of an incident light source approaching the system from any direction. The system further includes at least one light signal device mounted for visibility, along with circuitry responsive to detection of the incident light source for illuminating the light signal device. A second photosensitive surface is also provided to receive largely ambient light and to be nonresponsive to the light of the incident light source, along with circuitry to allow the illumination of the light signal device only when the second photosensitive surface detects the absence of a predetermined level of ambient light. The system further includes circuitry for detecting and indicating the velocity of the incident light source moving with respect to the system.

Abstract: A light detection and signaling system for attachment to a bicycle, pedestrian, or to any other object. The system includes a housing having a first photosensitive surface mounted therein for detecting the headlights of a vehicle approaching from any direction. The system further includes at least one light source mounted for visibility, along with circuitry responsive to detection of the vehicle headlights for illuminating the light source. A second photosensitive surface may also be provided to receive largely ambient light and to be nonresponsive to the lights of an approaching vehicle, along with circuitry to allow the illumination of the light source only when the second photosensitive surface detects the absence of a predetermined level of ambient light.