Abstract: A modular mail processing method and control system for sorting pieces of incoming, internal, and outgoing mail including a plurality of sorting bins which correspond to either mail stops or zip codes depending on which sort plan is selected. The modular mail processing method and control system permitting mixed pieces of mail of various sizes to be sorted. Additionally, an internal mail envelope, which has address regions consisting of blocks, may be utilized in connection with the modular mail processing method and control system in order to allow accurate detection of handwritten addresses.

Abstract: In a mail sorting system, a transport/stacker module comprises a plurality of mailpiece carriers included in a conveyor moving in an endless serpentine path through a plurality of distributed sorting sites. Each carrier is provided with a door at each of the longitudinally carrier ends, which are opened to permit the raking of mailpieces from laterally arranged compartments of the carrier into underlying bins at the sorting sites by selectively actuating separate rakes of a rake mechanism stationed at each sorting site. The carrier doors are constructed to provide longitudinal extensions of the carrier floor, thereby minimizing the spacing between the carriers in the conveyor while preserving a requisite interior longitudinal dimension of the carrier when the doors are closed.

Abstract: A modular mail processing method and control system that includes a plurality of induction transport modules and a stacker/transport module. The system maintains a real time statistics concerning the mail flowing through the system. The modularity of the system increases its flexibility in adapting to sorting either incoming or outgoing mail. In addition, a variety of readers and printers can be employed in the system to meet the needs of a particular customer.

Abstract: A transport/stacker module provides for a vertical stacking of mail bins. Carriers traveling in a transport path have openable and closable doors at both ends, and a frame of the transport/stacker module is provided with cam actuators to open the doors after the carriers pass turnaround areas and close the doors before the carriers enter the turnaround areas. A rake mechanism disposed above each bin is provided with a snubber which engages a mail piece prior to rake tines of the rake mechanism.

Abstract: A method for the fabrication of a heat transfer member for use with electronic or microwave systems is described. The thermal heat transfer member is a generally planar composite member in which elongated high thermal conductivity fibers are disposed within a matrix material. The method involves molding epoxy matrix material along with conductive graphite fibers and filler material in predetermined geometries. The molded member is then formed in a manner such that the fiber ends are cleanly exposed at the surface of the member in predetermined locations. Metal caps may be formed over the fiber ends to improve heat transfer. Heat is transferred into the member, along the commonly directed fibers, then out of the member at a heat output surface.

Abstract: A thermal heat transfer member is disclosed for use with electronic or microwave systems. The thermal heat transfer member comprises a generally planar composite member is which elongated high thermal conductivity fibers are disposed within a matrix material. The matrix material may be an insulating epoxy or thermoplastic resin, while the fibers are elongated continuous commonly directed graphite fibers. The fiber ends terminate at a thermal contact surface which is interfaced with a heat sink. The thermal contact surface may be the transverse edge of the planar member or can be substantially parallel to the planar member. The fiber ends are inclined at an angle with respect to the plane of the planar member to provide for termination of the fibers at the thermal contact surface parallel to the planar member. Heat into the composite member is transferable along the commonly directed graphite fibers.

Abstract: A thermal heat transfer member is disclosed for use with electronic or microwave systems. The thermal heat transfer member comprises a generally planar composite member in which elongated high thermal conductivity fibers are disposed within a matrix material. The matrix material may be an insulating epoxy or thermoplastic resin, while the fibers are elongated continuous commonly directed graphite fibers. The fiber ends terminate at a thermal contact surface which is interfaced with a heat sink. The thermal contact surface may be the transverse edge of the planar member or can be substantially parallel to the planar member. The fiber ends are inclined at an angle with respect to the plane of the planar member to provide for termination of the fibers at the thermal contact surface parallel to the planar member. Heat into the composite member is transferable along the commonly directed graphite fibers.