Abstract: In order to relieve the load for an user and smooth an operation of the user in case of mixing each of sheets, on which images are formed by separating jobs, in predetermined page order of the job, color pages in the job outputted from a computer are printed by a color MFP and black/white pages are printed by a black/white MFP. Thereafter, on the computer, it is displayed that each sheaf of sheets has to be set in which bin of a collator, to the user. The user sets a sheaf of sheets printed by each of the MFP's in the collator. The collator mixes color pages with black/white pages. Further, each MFP prints bar codes representing page information or job information. The user sets a sheaf of sheets printed by each of the MFP's in the collator. The collator reads the bar codes to mix the color pages with the black/white pages.

Abstract: In one embodiment the present invention comprises an apparatus for preparing a matched mailing, the apparatus comprising: an input means for feeding a document downstream to a scanner station; a scanner for scanning the document to obtain information, the scanner providing the information to a controller; an printer for printing information obtained from the controller onto the envelope, whereby the information obtained from the controller comprises information obtained by the scanner and corresponding to the document matched to the envelope.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for assembling personalized CDs, DVDs and other types of optical disks, magnetic media, and data storage devices into magazines, catalogs, pamphlets, and other printed products in order to enhance the amount and quality of personalization associated with the printed product includes reading and/or writing personalized information to/from a data storage device and assembling the data storage device within a printed product that is to be delivered to a particular individual. The reading and/or writing of personalized information may be directed to either digital information stored on the data storage device or to more conventional optical indicia that is printed on and/or optically scanned from the data storage device.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for delivering signatures to a binding line, the apparatus and method preferably comprising a printer feeder apparatus and method for providing personalized information in a variety of locations upon a selected one of a plurality of signatures types before the signatures are fed to the binding line.

Abstract: A method for combining in zip code order pre-personalized printed items with items that are not pre-personalized. The method includes the step of producing a grouping of the pre-personalized items in zip code order according to a first mailing list. The first mailing list is merged with a second mailing list associated with the items that are not pre-personalized to produce a master mailing list of a desired zip code order. The pre-personalized items and the items that are not pre-personalized are selectively fed to a conveyor in the desired zip code order. The items that are not pre-addressed are addressed and the zip code bundles are prepared according to the master mailing list.

Abstract: A system for preparing mail items, the system comprising a general-purpose computer for preparing a document to be sent, a secure metering device connected to the general-purpose computer via a secure link so as to send it postage metering or “franking” information, a printer connected to the general-purpose computer so as to print both the document to be sent, and at least a destination address for the document and a postage imprint on an envelope that is to receive the document, and a folder/inserter connected both to the printer and to the general-purpose computer so as to receive and fold the printed document and so as to insert it into the corresponding franked envelope.

Abstract: The present invention concerns an apparatus and a method for securing an item to a cover of printed material. According to one aspect of the present invention, the item is displayed in such a manner so as to enable the item to be viewed through the cover but also reduce the appropriation of the item from the cover before the printed material reaches the end user.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for delivering signatures to a binding line, the apparatus and method preferably comprising a printer feeder apparatus and method for providing personalized information in a variety of locations upon a selected one of a plurality of signatures types before the signatures are fed to the binding line.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for personalizing printed media such as (but not limited to) catalogs, magazines, and books are disclosed. Personalized components are created before binding of the media occurs, reducing use of ink-jet printers on-line. At least the personalized components contain machine-readable indicia to permit identification and coordination of use of the components during the binding processes.

Abstract: A hybrid mixed format document that contains document portions prepared by different format sources, such as both black and white and colored pages, prepared by separately printing the colored pages on a color printer, and the black and white pages on a black and white printer. The two document portions are then put in separate locations within a mixed format finishing device. One of the document portions, for example the black and white document portion, includes a cover sheet that provides encoded information, which tells the finishing device how to merge the two document portions into a complete publication. One advantage of the mixed format finishing device is that those pages that contain only text may be printed on a faster, and less costly black and white printer.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for producing books on-demand. An electronic bookstore in accordance with the subject invention can receive an electronic text file of a book and then print and bind a copy of the book. A user may browse an electronic catalog, for example over the Internet, and place an order for a book which can be picked up at a conveniently located electronic bookstore shortly after placing the order. The subject invention reduces costs and waste associated with conventional production and distribution of print matter. Advantageously, the subject invention allows books with smaller audiences to be published at a reasonable price. An electronic bookstore in accordance with the subject invention can have access to literally millions of books and can print and bind any selected book in a few minutes.