Abstract: A method providing for programming reprogramming at least some software into flash memory of a postage machine or other mailing apparatus. The method calls for providing the software to be programmed into the flash memory in at least two builds, with one build providing kernel software that includes the functionality needed for programming/reprogramming (including functionality for linking to a personal computer by which the software to be programmed may be provided), and the other build providing non-kernel software, usually routines providing application-oriented functionality, and not essential to programming the flash memory. The first build, of the at least two builds, is written into sectors of the flash memory that are then locked. The system provides, in some applications, for writing the non-kernel software using a paging algorithm that writes several sectors worth of non-kernel software at a time.

Abstract: A method and system for enabling content from a plurality of content sources of one or more types to be searched, displayed, and easily accessed for consumption. A user may concurrently view a plurality of display areas, including a tuned media display area, a page index display area, a search results area, an area for displaying links to alternate guides or search engines. The page index area includes links to pages that contain search results, as well as links to user defined category pages. The search results area displays search results as user-selectable links. Associated with each displayed search result are additional selectable objects that allows a user to search for related content. A display options feature allows a user to select the level of detail presented in the other display areas.

Abstract: A method and system for safe mail transmission is provided. A letter is created with a marking compound that provides contrast in a detection system. The letter is sealed in a protective enclosure and scanned when received.

Abstract: The invention is a method for selecting, producing, and delivering a finished mail piece. The method includes the step of selecting, at an initiating node, a set of parameters which together comprise a mail piece to be produced at a remote location. The selection is made from a series of menus within a program resident within a data processing system. Among the parameters which can be selected or determined are the destination address, type of delivery service to be used, and a choice of the media stock upon which a selected text can be printed. Additionally, a choice of language for the text can be made, and an account number for debiting the cost of the transaction may be entered. The selected parameters are transmitted to a data center which reads the destination address and then determines the most appropriate destination node. It is possible for the data center to be co-located with the initiating node or, to be the destination node.

Abstract: A dimensional weighing apparatus is disclosed which has a weighing scale for determining the actual weight of a carton, and a conveyor means along which cartons are moved after being weighed to pass the cartons through a measuring station at which the length, width and height of the cartons are measured. A first measuring means measures both the height and length as the cartons move through the measuring station by means of a member that rides up the leading vertical face of the cartons to measure the height and then across the top surface thereof to measure the length. A second measuring means measures the width of the cartons as they move through the measuring station by means of carton contact members mounted along the side surfaces of the carton and move in and out of contact with the carton.

Abstract: A separating and feeding machine is disclosed for removing a succession of bound booklets or the like from a supply hopper adapted to hold a stack of the booklets for feeding them to a subsequent apparatus for further processing. The separating and feeding machine includes a reciprocating vacuum feed plate disposed in the bottom of the hopper for advancing the bottom booklet through a discharge opening to a take away feed mechanism, and includes first and second stage separating mechanism which initially maintains at least the bottom two booklets in the hopper in shingled relationship to expose a marginal portion thereof adjacent the bound edge so that a pressing member can maintain a normal force on the exposed marginal portion of the bottom booklet to prevent it from wrinkling and becoming jammed in the discharge opening while the vacuum feed plate is moving it toward the discharge opening.

Abstract: A dimensional weighing apparatus is disclosed which has a weighing scale for determining the actual weight of a carton placed thereon, and associated therewith is a measuring frame and an optical sensing system for measuring the linear distance of the three axes of carton positioned on the scale necessary to determine the volume of the carton. A computer processing unit determines firstly whether the actual volume of the carton is less or greater than a predetermined threshold volume, and provides an operator with a signal indicating that determination.

Abstract: The invention is a method for brokering carrier capacity. The method comprises a dual path; one path that allows entry into a data processing system of available carrier capacity which is comprised of a list of parameters which define that capacity, and the second path which allows access to that capacity. Each entry point to the system has data entry means for either entering carrier capacity or entering a request for available routes, or both. Available capacity entries are confirmed, saved in a transportation database, and assigned a pre-transaction code. Path two involves entering a request for available capacity by defining a requested route based upon a list of parameters. The system compares available capacity with the requested route to determine whether or not a match exists. The system operator selects an appropriate matched entry which must then be confirmed. Upon confirmation, selected matches are saved to a transaction database and assigned a transaction code.