Abstract: A mailing machine that provides for permanent postage is described. Postage may be purchased at one point of time at a then prevailing rate and used in the future at the same effective purchasing power even if a new more expensive rate schedule is in effect. The mailing machine provides for the accounting of such rate purchased postage using a Postal Security Device and may include multiple rate-table based accounts each associated with a particular postage rate table.

Abstract: A system and method for linking data objects and physical objects of various kinds to an identified user is described. The system provides to the identified user information relating to the delivery status of mail pieces directed to or sent by the user, and the user then tracks and traces the mail pieces. The system further provides to the identified user information relating to continued sessions through which the user provides to a postal service system information relating to mailing labels and postage.

Abstract: Methods, systems, and computer program products for providing variable rate prepaid telecommunication services utilizing a weighting function are disclosed. The method includes intercepting a signaling message that includes an available credit value associated with a prepaid communications session. A credit adjustment factor based on at least one call parameter associated with the prepaid communications session is determined. The method also includes applying the credit adjustment factor to the available credit value to generate an adjusted available credit value. The signaling message is modified to include the adjusted available credit value.

Abstract: Method allowing a mailing system to frank in advance and manage a large number of rate tables stored in the mailing system, and in particular providing the possibility to frank mail in advance using a new future rate table and to come back later to franking with today's date and using a previous rate table, and including the main steps: provision of a control module, which can store more than two rate tables in a non-volatile memory accessible by the control module, provision of a volatile memory which can store the active rate table that is currently used by the mailing system for franking mail pieces, selection by the control module of the active rate table amongst the rate tables stored in a non-volatile memory when the mailing system is powered on and loading of this active rate table by the control module in volatile memory, initiation by the control module of the change of the active rate table triggered by determined events, selection by the control module of a new rate table based on the franking date

Abstract: Electronic messages may be processed using a stamp authority by receiving an electronic message, identifying a stamp associated the message, determining if the stamp is valid, and, if the stamp is determined to be valid, distinguishing the message from messages with which a valid stamp is not identified.

Abstract: A system and method for linking data objects and physical objects of various kinds to an identified user is described. The system provides to the identified user information relating to the delivery status of mail pieces directed to or sent by the user, and the user then tracks and traces the mail pieces. The system further provides to the identified user information relating to continued sessions through which the user provides to a postal service system information relating to mailing labels and postage.

Abstract: Electronic messages may be processed using a stamp authority by receiving an electronic message, identifying a stamp associated the message, determining if the stamp is valid, and, if the stamp is determined to be valid, distinguishing the message from messages with which a valid stamp is not identified.

Abstract: The system and method described herein may securely disseminate and manage postal rate information, including discount or custom postal rates established in contractual agreements negotiated between a postal service and certain mailers, among other postal rate types. For example, the postal service may upload postal rates to a server associated with a postage vendor and optionally associate the postal rates with particular mailers. The postal service and/or postage vendor may then validate whether the postal rates were correctly uploaded, and the postage vendor may then enable applicable mailers to utilize the postal rates in response to validating that the postal rates were correctly uploaded. Additionally, the postage vendor may maintain records relating to postage transactions, which a mailer can use to support a request to negotiate the custom postal rates with the postal service and subsequently prove compliance with any terms and conditions associated therewith.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided in which remote installed devices may be assigned various call-in times to contact a host controller. The host may schedule remote devices sequentially across multiple modems. Additional modems may be added to the system as more bandwidth is desired or required. The system may include additional, unscheduled bandwidth to account for calls made by devices outside of the assigned call times.

Abstract: The present subject matter relates generally to techniques and/or equipment for validating mail items within a mail processing system. Sort scheme data and mail item identification data are loaded into the mail processing system. The mail item identification data includes a mail owner identification value and a unique mail item identifier. Then, mail item identification data is acquired from each of the mail items processed in the system and validated against the loaded mail item identification data. The method may involve storing mail item validation data. The mail items are sorted in accordance with the loaded sort scheme data. Further, the present subject matter relates generally to building reports based on the information derived from the techniques and/or equipment utilized therein.

Abstract: There is provided a cryptographic round dater and its method of use. By capturing customer profile information and encoding the information on a label affixed to the customer's submitted mailpiece, fraudulent or criminal use of the mail may be deterred by providing traceability to the source of the mail piece. The information attached to the mailpiece may be both human readable and machine readable, said machine readable portion being optionally encrypted to protect the privacy and security of the encoded information. Further benefit is provided by allowing the handling of a mailpiece to be traced, allowing for effective remediation or investigation in the event of an unauthorized use of mail.

Abstract: A system and method for determining the approximate weight of metal consumables used by an electric arc welder over a period of welding time, the system comprises a program to calculate the total energy exerted by the welder over a period of welding, a divider to divide the total energy by a number including a power of a selected non-unity factor to obtain said weight. When the energy is in mega joules the factor is in the range of 3.2-4.2 and preferably approximately 4.0.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for identifying and prioritizing applications and application servers in a Voice over IP network is disclosed. In a first embodiment, elements of signaling information are extracted from a call and are mapped to parameters associated with the call. These mapped parameters are then used by a service broker in a VoIP network to identify one or more application servers adapted to process the values of the respective parameter. The service broker may illustratively identify the application servers by a pointer to permit flexible reassignment of processing of a given parameter. The matched pointer/parameter combinations are then mapped to a precedence index. Then, according to this precedence index, the aforementioned pointers are mapped to specific addresses of application servers and the elements of signaling information are forwarded to those addresses for processing of applications.

Abstract: Methods and systems for dispensing value are described. In one configuration, a unique tangible indicia is enabled with a value and then disabled after the value is redeemed. In another configuration, a user enables a unique coded stamp and associates a postage payment with the stamp. The postal service cancels the stamp by deactivating the stamp from a list of active stamps and optionally audits the payment association.

Abstract: A mail piece verification system for processing a mail piece having associated therewith mail piece data includes an incoming mail processing center, an outgoing mail processing center located downstream from the incoming mail processing center and a data center in operative communication with the incoming mail processing center and the outgoing mail processing center. The incoming mail processing center receives the mail piece, obtains the mail piece and uploads the mail piece data to the data center. The data center performs a verification check on the mail piece data and downloads instructions based upon the verification check to the outgoing mail processing center. The outgoing mail processing center uses the instructions to process the mail piece.

Abstract: An arrangement for loading rate tables has a switchover module that is connected between a meter of a postage meter machine and a modem, between a postage calculator of an external scale and the modem. A control line drives the switchover module, so that the modem and the postage calculator can be functionally directly connected to one another for the purpose of loading rate tables.

Abstract: Methods and systems for postal payments and addressing are described. In one embodiment, an electronic communication identifier associated with a postal item may be accessed for automated payment. Source user data associated with the postal item may be accessed. A user associated with an electronic communication associated may be identified. Information from the identification of the user may be utilized for addressing or otherwise delivering the postal item, or for securing a payment approval, or for otherwise verifying previous blanket approval for payments.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for processing mail pieces to automatically associate a manually entered postage to a class of service and to a system which implements the method. The method includes receiving a postage amount that is to be applied to the mail pieces and searching stored rate tables for one or more classes of service having a postage rate that matches the entered postage amount. The matching classes of service are displayed and the user selects one of the classes of service. The entered postage amount is applied to the mail pieces and transaction information for each is stored. A corresponding weight for each of the matching classes of service may also be displayed to the user. Mail pieces may be processed individually or in a batch using the discussed method and system.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for generating a rate model (115) for use in determining a rate to be applied with respect to an instance of a product or service, system or process. The rate may relate for example to utilisation of a resource, for example to a charging rate to be applied with respect to use of a product or service. The rate model comprises: (i) data (205, 210) defining a rating space having at least one dimension defined by an attribute of the system, process, product or service; (ii) a rating vector definition comprising at least one rate parameter; and (iii) data (225, 230) which defines distinct regions in the rating space over which the defined rating vector is invariant, and which defines the respective invariant rating vector (235) for each distinct region (225, 230).

Abstract: A virtual postage metering system and method provides value added services corresponding to postage metering transactions. Funds are not stored at a user's site, reducing the risk of unauthorized modification of accounting balances. There is a database record of every mailpiece, thereby improving verification since all valid pieces are known. Furthermore, the present invention enables the Post to know the volume of mail to be processed prior to receipt of physical mail pieces. Since more mailer data is available (e.g. when users usually mail, how much mail per day, average postage amount) the virtual postage metering system enables the postal service to predict mail handling patterns. Additionally, users have the option to pay as they go which contrasts present systems in which funds must be on deposit prior to being downloaded to a meter although such downloaded funds may remain in the meter for weeks before being used.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and apparatus for creating computer-based postage that may be used on any date and with an undetermined addressee includes generating a request to print postage, determining the means for generating the request, determining the master serial number for label stock, tracking the master serial number and printing the postage. The present invention provides for the creation of computer-based postage that may be used in a manner similar to standard postage issued by the USPS. In a presently preferred embodiment, the intended address of the recipient need not be verified at the time the postage is created. Rather the postage may be used at any time in the future with any recipient.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for data input into a service device allow a loading and updating of service data, particularly postage fee schedule tables, separated from one another in time. The method and apparatus are suitable for postage meter machines as well as for scales containing postage computers or similar devices. The apparatus for implementation of the method contains a processor and a memory with memory areas for service data. After detecting the input and storage of a load requirement, a check for the presence of a load instruction, formation of a status report of the memory occupancy for service data and a transmission of the status report to the data center ensue. The data center forms recommendations for a future status of the memory occupancy in the service device on the basis of an analysis of the status report of the memory occupancy for service data that is implemented in the data center.

Abstract: A system for correcting the rating and payment of mail pieces scanned and weighed by the post. The foregoing is accomplished by: uniquely identifying mail pieces during the metering process; maintaining a record of the postage that has been applied to the mail pieces and the characteristics of the mail pieces; scanning the mail pieces to determine if the correct postage has been paid; comparing the scanned and weighed mail pieces to the maintained record; and correcting any underpayments or overpayments.

Abstract: A method for communicating a re-keying message from a postage meter to a registration authority includes the steps of determining at the postage meter that a current key needs to be replaced with a new key; generating in the postage meter the new key; creating in the postage meter the re-keying message, the re-keying message including at least a device identifier and the new key; using the postage meter for printing the re-keying message in a machine-readable form on a recording medium; and mailing the recording medium to the registration authority.

Abstract: A maritime container booking process delivered via the Internet for pricing, routing and confirming freight bookings and associated options on ocean going container ships loading and discharging in the United States of America and ports of call worldwide. By following this program the shipper can secure freight bookings, without paying for services in advance or committing to any minimum cargo volume. Pricing of the freight will be sensitive to loading ports, discharge ports, type of equipment required, type of service required, transit time and type of commodity.

Abstract: A method of creating and maintaining a shipping-charge database is provided. The method includes the steps of receiving a shipping-charge data set into a shipping-charge administration tool from the administrator client, the data set including a plurality of possible order price ranges, at least one shipping option for each price range, and a shipping charge for each shipping option, and causing the shipping-charge data set to be stored at a location exposed to a server for use in establishing a shipping charge for an on-line order in response to a price of the order and a shipping-option selection for the order. The method is extendable and may be used to create and maintain other databases, such as airline and hotel pricing databases.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and article of manufacture for determining return delivery charges is described. In one aspect related to the invention, the return delivery charges is determined on the basis of a cost factor (5A). The weight cost factor is determined for a sample of a shipment. The weight cost factor is then utilized to determine the return delivery charges for the shipment (5B).

Abstract: At least one listing from a mailer of packages deposited in at least one post office is received by a verification system. The at least one listing further comprises, for each package deposited, a corresponding package identification code and a corresponding computed postage. The verification system receives from the mailer a total postage payment equal to the sum of the computed postage for each package deposited. The verification system determines a sample of the packages deposited and verifies postage for the sample of the packages deposited. The verification system determines an additional payment for the mailer based on the verification.

Abstract: A method and computer architecture monitoring resource usage via a global computer network. The computer architecture may include a resource-metering data recorder/translator unit having a global computer network node and, in operation, recording resource usage measured by and associated resource meter. The computer architecture further includes a database and at least one global computer network server, in operation, storing resource usage data recorded by the data recorder/translator unit in the database, receiving a resource usage data query from a user, calling the database for resource usage data relevant to the user, and presenting resource management information based on the relevant resource usage data via a global computer network site to the user.

Abstract: In a method and an arrangement for processing variable service data structures and display texts, a processing module is provided having a microprocessor, a program memory in which an operating program for the microprocessor is stored, and a non-volatile service data memory having first and second memory areas. Service data are stored in the second memory area and a root table is stored in the first memory area, the root table having a number of table items respectively associated with pointers for the addresses of the service data in the second memory area. Access to the second memory area from the microprocessor ensues exclusively through the root table by selection of a table item, within the context of the operating program, and service data are supplied to the microprocessor from the second memory area from an address identified by the pointer for the selected table item.

Abstract: A system and method is provided that enables a postal customer to order a shipping label on-line via the internet. The label may be a mailing label to be placed on letters or parcels. The label includes information such as postage, delivery address, return address, and a barcode for tracking delivery information. A user may request both a label and postage in what, to the user, appears to be a single computerized connection on a single internet web-page. A postage indicia is provided through a postage provider with whom the user has a deposit or credit. The label itself may be generated through a label-generating application hosted or generated by an entity separate from the postage provider.

Abstract: A system and method of evidencing postage payment includes a local postage printing system requesting to a remote data metering center for the generation of postage evidencing information. The request includes a postage amount to be printed on a mailpiece. The remote data metering center determines a postal origin corresponding to the request for postage evidencing information, then accounts for the postage amount in a general account corresponding to the local postage printing system and in a payment account corresponding to the determined postal origin. The remote data metering center generates postage evidencing information in response to the request. The postage evidencing information includes a digital token and the determined postal origin. The remote data metering center sends the postage evidencing information to the local postage printing system which prints the postage evidencing information and the determined postal origin on the mailpiece.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically transferring information in a data processing system, including setting a counter within a data processing device to a predetermined time period and counting the predetermined time period based upon a real time clock maintained within the data processing device. When the counter reaches the predetermined time period, the data processing device automatically initiates a data center connection and requests an information transfer. The data center transfers information to/from the data processing device. The data processing device activates the transferred information, which can then be used by the data processing device. Typical data processing systems include weighing systems, in which frequently changing postal rates and carrier rates are used to determine mail piece and parcel delivery cost, facsimile or other information accumulation systems.

Abstract: In a data providing method and device thereof for providing data in a simple manner at a highly efficient transmission rate, first data of a configuration where information relating to a valid period of data is added to the data is made and provided, with the first data being categorized and stored in accordance with the information. Information for second data of the same configuration as the first data is then recognized and the first data is replaced with the second data in accordance with results of the recognition.

Abstract: In a data providing method and device thereof for providing data in a simple manner at a highly efficient transmission rate, first data of a configuration where information relating to a valid period of data is added to the data is made and provided, with the first data being categorized and stored in accordance with the information. Information for second data of the same configuration as the first data is then recognized and the first data is replaced with the second data in accordance with results of the recognition.

Abstract: Freight forwarders and carriers post published rate and discount information for land, sea and air bearing cargo vessels to allow customers the opportunity to evaluate competitive prices, preferably in one consolidated location (e.g., a web site). A customer navigates to the site to obtain published or discounted rate information offered by a freight forwarder or carrier. The customer may accept a posted rate, in which case the site operator notifies the freight forwarder or carrier. Alternatively, customers, freight forwarders and carriers may negotiate rates for particular lanes of interest using an online interactive auction block.

Abstract: The invention comprises a rating engine, system, and method for processing rating requests in a computerized rating system. One aspect of the invention is an object-oriented rating engine operable to receive a rating request associated with a carrier contract. The rating engine comprises a base rating engine object operable for use on a computer and further operable to calculate a linehaul rate in response to the rating request. The base rating engine object further comprises a rating method operable to calculate a linehaul rate and a rate data structure comprising at least one rate value. The rate data structure is accessible by the rating method for use in calculating a linehaul rate.

Abstract: A method of displaying information associated with a special promotion by an electronic price label (EPL) which saves bandwidth at a start time of the special promotion. The method includes the steps of receiving a number of first messages containing the second information by the EPL prior to the special promotion, storing the second information in a second memory location within the EPL while the first information is being stored within a first memory location in the EPL by the EPL prior to the special promotion, receiving a second message containing a command to display the second information by the EPL at about the time of the special promotion, reading the second information from the second memory location by the EPL, and displaying the second information by the EPL.

Abstract: A postal scale system is updated, by telephone or other communication medium, by a remote service provider whenever postal rates or regulations are changed, without requiring shipment or replacement of IC chips. The system provides for remote updating of both application software and databases such as rates, zip codes and the like. By having direct communication between the provider and the postal scale, the invention permits relevant data, including scale model number, software version number and the like to be accessed by the provider, thus to update the service provider's database and to provide updates only to the correct systems. The inventive system further uses automated telephone billing, available as 1-900 service, thus to reduce expenses and errors associated with billing for update services.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for improving the efficiency of providing updated data over a transmission medium. Each data has associated information indicating the presence or absence of validity data. An absence of validity data indicates that the data does not need to be updated. The presence of validity data allows only that data which needs updating to be transferred on the transmission medium, thereby improving its performance.

Abstract: In an improved postage scale system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The display on such a system is adjustable for comfortable viewing thereof. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system.

Abstract: In a method and to an arrangement for entering data into a postage meter machine, after calling stored setting data, a routine is triggered that includes a manual input routine. The arrangement includes specific actuation elements for data input for positioning, within the overall image, sub-images (image portions or constituents of the overall image). After interrogation of the actuated inputs, request data are formed if a non-available data set is needed. The formation likewise ensues when a microprocessor in the machine finds data of the clock/date module that were called but were modified due to the passage of time. A communication is then implemented, whereby the data central communicates sub-image data files and, if necessary, further data files to the postage meter machine on the basis of the communicated request data.

Abstract: A method is provided for activating a rating capability in a microprocessor-based parcel manifest system. The method includes storing in the system's memory a number of rate tables, each containing data for calculating parcel shipment charges, and disabling access to one or more of the rate table. A rate activation request, which includes information that identifies the system and the rate table to be activated, is transmitted to a data center. In response to the request, an activation code is received from the data center. Access to the rate table is activated by entering the received code into the system.Activation of a rate table may be temporary and subject to a time deadline.