Checks Patents (Class 283/58)
  • Patent number: 5636874
    Abstract: To prevent unauthorized duplication of important security documents, an improvement in security or protected documents is disclosed. The security document includes a substrate having top and bottom surfaces where at least one of the surfaces is adapted to carry printed copy thereon. A colored background is printed on at least a portion of one of the surfaces, such as the surface which is adapted to carry printed copy, using a temperature sensitive ink. The security document also includes copy printed on at least a portion of the one of the surfaces adapted to carry printed copy thereon. With these features of construction, the security or protected document contemplates the copy being printed by utilizing a temperature insensitive ink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1995
    Date of Patent: June 10, 1997
    Assignee: Micro Format, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen A. Singer
  • Patent number: 5634669
    Abstract: A method of making a document, such as a check or stock certificate, having enhanced security against counterfeiting. The document includes a strip of foil having a three dimensional light diffracting image thereon affixed to the document. The strip of foil may be affixed to the document before or after the background printing or face printing of the document is completed. In this manner, the light diffracting strip may be printed on by the background and face printing of the document as desired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: American Bank Note Holographics, Inc.
    Inventor: Gilbert Colgate, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5622388
    Abstract: The invention is a bankable apparatus or post card bank check for sending payments or contributions by mail without the use of any letter envelope. The post card bank check may be used for personal check payments or it may carry with it the dollar value of the instrument of such denominations as the issuing banks may determine and as the buyer may choose for the purpose of sending money from the sender to the recipient. A security strip is provided for use when the payor wishes to conceal the account number.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 22, 1997
    Inventor: Isabelo S. Alcordo
  • Patent number: 5618063
    Abstract: A document capable of providing multiple colors under the application of heat comprising a support having at least one surface bearing a first coating comprising a substantially colorless, heat activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a first color under the application of heat, and a second coating comprising a localized coating of a substantially colorless, heat activatable chromogenic composition capable of producing a second color under the application of heat. Each chromogenic composition comprises a chromogenic compound and a color developer that are substantially colorless solids in physical contact prior to reaction, but which can chemically react to produce a visible colored image by application of heat at temperatures above room temperature. Under the application of heat from a thermal printer, by quickly striking the chromogenic composition with a fingernail or blunt object to produce frictional heat, or other heat application, multicolored images are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 8, 1997
    Assignee: Wallace Computer Services, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. H. Chang, Eric B. Wendler, Vance P. Gregory, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5594226
    Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus for automatically accessing and verifying checking account status based on information contained in a bar code printed on a check, travelers check or money order. A bar code scanner reads the information contained in the bar code and, based on that information, determines a bank code and an account code. Based on the bank code or account code, a proper bank, travelers check company or money order company is automatically contacted. Checking, travelers check or money order account information is then transmitted to the proper bank, travelers check company or money order company. Account status information is received from the bank, travelers check company or money order company and displayed on the merchant's terminal. Finally, a receipt is printed with a bar code matching information on the check, travelers check or money order.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 1995
    Date of Patent: January 14, 1997
    Inventor: Paul Steger
  • Patent number: 5578353
    Abstract: A strip of general admission tickets having a transferrable "body tattoo" on each ticket for transfer to the skin for purposes of identifying a person as having paid for admission. The ticket strip is divided into separable individual tickets by widthwise rows of perforations. Each ticket in the strip includes a substrate and ink indicia coated onto said substrate, which indicia are transferrable to the skin of the party paying admission by wetting with a transfer solution and pressing the ink indicia against the skin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 26, 1996
    Inventor: James H. Drew, III
  • Patent number: 5575508
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the security of a check or negotiable document and deterring the generation of copies of the check or negotiable document. The signature area of a document is imprinted with a pantographic background design different from a pantographic background design covering the remainder of the face of a check. A warning clause describes the color and/or background of the signature area. The endorsement area of a document is also imprinted with a pantographic background design. A warning clause describes the color and/or background of the endorsement area. The endorsement area background may further include a representation of the watermark certification seal to aid an individual in more quickly determining whether the proper watermark seal exist on the check or negotiable document.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1996
    Assignee: Formtronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert I. Diamond
  • Patent number: 5566981
    Abstract: The invention is a bankable apparatus or post card bank check for sending contributions by mail without the use of any letter envelope. The post card bank check carries with it the dollar value of the instrument of such denominations as the issuing banks may determine and as the buyer may choose for the purpose of sending money from the sender to the recipient. The post card check is for deposit only and withdrawable only with the use of the recipient's own bank check making it a safe way to transfer money from donor to recipient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1995
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Inventor: Isabelo S. Alcordo
  • Patent number: 5566980
    Abstract: A Motor Vehicle Document Organizer made of a flexible material with interior pockets designed specifically to house vehicle registration, proof of automobile insurance, accident information card, as well as a flap to secure driver's license for presentation. Motor Vehicle Document Organizer is foldable along a middle portion to form a front and rear cover. Interior pockets are affixed on three sides and unaffixed on the fold to accommodate insertion of said motor vehicle documents. Motor vehicle documents are commonly stored loosely in glove compartment of vehicle. This invention is particularly concerned with the organization and expedient identification of motor vehicle documents in a standardized format, eliminating timely searching for documents when requested by law enforcement or other emergency personnel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 22, 1996
    Assignee: John Fizer
    Inventor: John Fizer
  • Patent number: 5538290
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for enhancing the security of a check or negotiable document and deterring the generation of copies of the check or negotiable document. The signature area of a document is imprinted with a pantographic background design different from a pantographic background design covering the remainder of the face of a check. A warning clause describes the color and/or background of the signature area. The endorsement area of a document is also imprinted with a pantographic background design. A warning clause describes the color and/or background of the endorsement area. The endorsement area background may further include a representation of the watermark certification seal to aid an individual in more quickly determining whether the proper watermark seal exist on the check or negotiable document.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Assignee: Formtronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert I. Diamond
  • Patent number: 5509692
    Abstract: A monetary instrument bearing a machine-only readable indication of information relating thereto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 23, 1996
    Assignee: Be'Eri Printers
    Inventor: Giora Oz
  • Patent number: 5504677
    Abstract: A system and method of collecting payments uses an automated system to generate a draft, payable to the creditor and drawn on the payor's checking account, pursuant to the payor's authorization. The draft is then executed by the debt collector as authorized signatory for the payor, and deposited into the payee's account to complete payment. The automated system has a simple input screen which receives the necessary information for generation of the draft, which may be read to the system operator over the telephone by the authorizing payor. The system verifies the bank and account information by comparing the input information to records in a database associated with the system. Optionally, the system may also generate an inquiry to the bank to determine the availability of funds in the payor's account. When verification is complete, the system generates a paper bank draft payable to the payor, using MICR ink so that the draft can be processed in the banking system like an ordinary check.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 2, 1996
    Inventor: Robert E. Pollin
  • Patent number: 5487567
    Abstract: Disclosed is a method of providing a copy-evident feature to documents and the documents produced thereby. The process allows the printing of a novel security design which is difficult to see with the naked eye when casually inspecting the document, but which will be immediately apparent in a copy if the document is photocopied or transmitted via facsimile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 30, 1996
    Assignee: Francois-Charles Oberthur Group
    Inventor: John R. Volpe
  • Patent number: 5477037
    Abstract: A dispenser produces negotiable money orders, traveler's checks, and the like at remote locations and prints the check amount on the check while also printing summary data of a day's activities on a blank check form, eliminating the need for a separate printer and paper supply. The dispenser prints the check amount using print icons that form a part of each character in the check amount, but are not as large as a complete character or as small as a dot print element. The check forms are connected together by perforation ties, and the dispenser feeds the forms to the printer such that the force with which the dispenser holds the forms is greater than the force needed to tear apart the forms, thus reducing the risk of unauthorized pulling of blank forms from the dispenser.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Assignee: Computer Based Controls, Inc.
    Inventor: Caesar Berger
  • Patent number: 5445418
    Abstract: Security paper having a number of parallel lines having a substantially uniform first spacing, irregularly interrupted by a plurality of stripes having a second spacing greater than the first spacing, is flexographically printed on at least one face of a web which becomes, after further processing, a security document such as a bank check. The parallel lines typically are substantially straight and of substantially uniform thickness and formed of flexo ink, such as the type which becomes invisible when bleached. Alphanumeric indicia are preferably provided within the stripes either oriented parallel to the parallel lines (and alternately extending from top to bottom, and bottom to top), or perpendicular to the parallel lines. A pattern is provided that repeats at an interval significantly greater than the length of the security document formed from the security paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 29, 1995
    Assignee: Moore Business Forms, Inc.
    Inventor: Theodore Blend
  • Patent number: 5441309
    Abstract: A financial instrument that can be fully processed by automatic machinery is presented as the subject of this disclosure. Although many systems exist to facilitate processing of bank checks and the like, they arrive short of the advantages provided for in this invention. A combination of techniques in the art and new technologies taught herein provide a system that is useful to both human users, and machine processors. Since the invention is fully compatible with known processes, data from the document can be used in the old way, using old methods which include human input techniques. Alternatively, a fully automatic machine process is now possible and new processes for clearing checks can be adopted to increase the efficiency of processing. The new document also provides a mechanism that is more fraud and tamper resistant than is provided for in the art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1995
    Inventors: Sergio D'Alessio, Ayna Dp3 Alessio
  • Patent number: 5440106
    Abstract: A printer and system which assists in the preparation and completion of check writing at a point-of-sale. This system employs a printer which prints onto labels the critical areas of the check or negotiable instrument, such as: tendered amount, payee, and date. The labels are removed from their substrate and permanently adhered to the check. Further, a separate label, containing the same information, is supplied the customer for completion of the ledger associated with the check. In this manner, the entire check's writing process is completed quickly and efficiently, increasing the efficiency of the check-out counter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1995
    Assignee: Canard Resources, Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas S. Duck
  • Patent number: 5435600
    Abstract: A prescription pharmacy label comprises a face stock having top and bottom faces with a pressure sensitive adhesive on at least a major portion of the bottom face, and a release liner engaging the pressure sensitive adhesive. A CB coating is provided on a first portion of the top face, and a CF coating on a second portion of the top face, separated by a first fold line, and a third portion of the top face is uncoated. A second fold line is provided in the release liner so that the label may be Z-folded about the fold lines so that the CB and CF coatings are in face-to-face engagement, and underlie the third portion, so that handwriting provided on the third portion is transferred to the CF coating on the second portion. A slit may be provided between the first and third portions to allow part of the adhesive on the bottom face of the third portion to be exposed and to be moved into contact with a prescription medicine container (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 25, 1995
    Assignee: Moore Business Forms, Inc.
    Inventors: Sam Griffiths, Paul A. Phillips, R. James Weber
  • Patent number: 5433483
    Abstract: This is a uniquely designed bank check which integrates the classification grid of expenditures for any household or business; whereupon the payer of the check initially marks only one applicable space from said grid; whereupon the payer's processor utilizes the image-captured, relevant information from the check; whereupon the payer's processor forwards said information, automatically produces a finalized financial report, and sends it to the payer of the check at the end of any monthly/annual check processing cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 18, 1995
    Inventor: Mason K. Yu
  • Patent number: 5427415
    Abstract: A heat sensitive system comprises a document having a localized, non-pressure sensitive, coating of chromogenic composition activated at moderate temperatures. Quickly striking the chromogenic composition with a fingernail or blunt object produces a colored image by frictional heat. The chromogenic composition contains a chromogenic compound and a color developer which are non-pressure sensitive and non-reactive at room temperature. The chromogenic composition can be an intimate mixture of the chromogenic compound and the developer or alternatively separate layers of each of the components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Assignee: Wallace Computer Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. H. Chang
  • Patent number: 5427413
    Abstract: An information pad for checkbooks including a cover of a flexible foldable plasticized material, a plurality of sheets affixed together along a common edge, a backing layer affixed to the plurality of sheets and having a front side and a back side, and a hinge member affixed to the backing layer and extending outwardly beyond the common edge of the plurality of sheets. The hinge member is adhesively affixed to the cover. The cover is a checkbook cover. The hinge member has an adhesive strip extending thereacross for engaging the cover. The hinge member is affixed to the back side of the backing layer. The frontal surface of the hinge member has a display area formed thereon for the display of advertising indicia. The hinge member has a length corresponding to an edge length of the backing layer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1995
    Inventor: Paul G. Garza
  • Patent number: 5419588
    Abstract: A document backer for supporting and carrying damaged checks, drafts and other financial documents through data processing machines. The document backer includes a translucent backing sheet with a vellum strip adhered to the lower edge thereof. The backing sheet includes an adhesive for affixing a check or other document thereto. The vellum strip is suitable for imprinting with magnetically readable characters. The document backer may also include a detachable cover sheet that is removed just prior to use. The document backer is particularly adapted to digital imaging systems, as the face of the check may be supported and presented as originally prepared, with no visual distortion or impairment, while the entire surface of the back of the check may also be photographed or microfilmed through the translucent backing sheet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: May 30, 1995
    Inventor: Daniel J. Wood
  • Patent number: 5395138
    Abstract: A pressure-sensitive, laser printer heat-resistant verification system for preventing unauthorized photoduplication of security documents comprising a support bearing an information area comprising a visible principal image, and a verification area comprising a localized, autogenous coating of a pressure-sensitive chromogenic composition for producing a visible colored image by external pressure. The chromogenic composition comprises (a) pressure-rupturable microcapsules containing a chromogen and (b) a color developer capable of reacting with the chromogen to form a visible image. The pressure-rupturable microcapsules and color developer are substantially coextensive on the support, and the verification area is spaced apart from the information area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Assignee: Wallace Computer Services, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. H. Chang
  • Patent number: 5383685
    Abstract: To facilitate preparation and processing of checks, this invention discloses a specially designed two-section gummed label to be attached on a bill and to be transferred onto a check. On said gummed label is pre-printed billing and paying readable and scannable information for payment in full or in part. A process utilizing said gummed labels for efficient, postage-saving, labor-saving, and envelope-saving consolidated mass billing and check collection is accomplished by an operating firm collecting periodically billing data from billing firms, printing each of all bills with attached said gummed label, and mailing all bills to each household in one envelope. Each consumer sends appropriately prepared checks in one envelope to said operating firm who speedily and electro-mechanically processes all checks to the credit of respective billing firms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 1993
    Date of Patent: January 24, 1995
    Inventor: Ling H. Lee
  • Patent number: 5351994
    Abstract: A system and method of collecting payments uses an automated system to generate a draft, payable to the creditor and drawn on the payor's checking account, pursuant to the payor's authorization. The draft is then executed by the debt collector as authorized signatory for the payor, and deposited into the payee's account to complete payment. The automated system has a simple input screen which receives the necessary information for generation of the draft, which may be read to the system operator over the telephone by the authorizing payor. The system verifies the bank and account information by comparing the input information to records in a database associated with the system. Optionally, the system may also generate an inquiry to the bank to determine the availability of funds in the payor's account. When verification is complete, the system generates a paper bank draft payable to the payor, using MICR ink so that the draft can be processed in the banking system like an ordinary check.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Robert E. Pollin
  • Patent number: 5344192
    Abstract: A method for producing a validation mark on security paper includes printing the mark on the paper using an ink that has the same color as the paper but which has more uniform directional reflectance than the sheet of paper. That is, the dried ink is a more uniform diffuse reflector than is the paper. When the mark is illuminated by a light source located on one side of the mark, the mark appears lighter than the paper around it when viewed from the same side as the light source, but the mark appears darker than the paper around it when viewed from the side opposite the light source. An exemplary formulation is given.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 6, 1994
    Inventor: George K. Phillips
  • Patent number: 5342094
    Abstract: An improved statement in which removable labels are included with the statement. These labels, although removable from the statement, adhere permanently to a negotiable instrument and provide for efficient and exacting completion of the negotiable instrument. A negotiable instrument, such as a check, contains several portions which are blank and are to be completed by the user. These blank portions include such components as: the payee's name, the amount to be paid, and a reference line. The removable labels from the statement are printed with the statement to provide permanent labels to fill-in these components by simple removal from the statement and adhesion to the check. The user simply dates and signs the check for its proper completion. Because labels are used for the critical areas of the negotiable instrument, their processing by the billing entity is more efficient (permitting machine reading of the check) and more exact since bank operators need not struggle with "poor handwriting".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Assignee: Canard Resources Inc.
    Inventor: Thomas S. Duck-Spann
  • Patent number: 5326136
    Abstract: A check book is disclosed which includes checks arranged such that if any one or more of the checks is removed from the check book other then the top, or next check, a stripe printed on a subsequent check will become visible, thus warning that the check has been removed out of turn. An invisible authenticating signature is placed on each check. This can be easily rendered visible after the check is signed. The comparison of the two signatures provides a means for identifying a forgery. A set of symbols are printed on the face of the check. When cashing the check, the bearer may select certain of the symbols. This selection may be compared with a similar set previously chosen by the account holder to assure a bank teller that the bearer is in fact the true account holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 5, 1994
    Inventor: Lawrence R. Doyle
  • Patent number: 5324077
    Abstract: The method and apparatus of this invention permit quality review by medical insurers of ambulatory patient care by gathering medical data on each and every ambulatory visit and by providing a unique data transmission system to timely and accurately report the data for analysis. Negotiable medical data drafts are provided to participating medical care providers, who are authorized to issue the draft to themselves and sign the draft at the conclusion of each patient's visit. In exchange for immediate partial payment for services rendered, the medical service provider is required to enter the requested medical data summarizinq the patient's visit on the data entry portions of the negotiable medical data draft. Deposit in its bank of the medical data draft by the medical care provider returns to the provider immediate cash and places the medical data in a transmission system designed and monitored for accurate and reliable handling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Inventors: Woodrow B. Kessler, Rex K. Kessler
  • Patent number: 5324079
    Abstract: A security element that can be embedded in the form of a thread or strip in a security document, in particular a paper of value, is composed of two carrier sheets, each of which bears each of the marking substances allowing for detection of authenticity. The two carrier sheets are put together in such a way that the marking substances to be protected from mechanical abrasion and other external influences come to lie on the inside.The thread not only offers special protection for the marking substances, but can also be embedded in the paper substance easily due to its symmetrical structure and without showing any tendency to curl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 28, 1994
    Assignee: GAO Gesellschaft fur Automation und Organisation mbH
    Inventors: Wittich Kaule, Wilhelm Ilgmann, Gerhard Schwenk, Gerhard Stenzel
  • Patent number: 5308119
    Abstract: A label for affixing to a container and delivering a foldable document is constructed from an opaque base layer, a folded strip or document, and a transparent outer layer. The outer layer attaches the folded strip or document to the base layer and encloses it between the base layer and outer layer. The outer layer is designed to be severed along one edge so as to allow access to the folded strip or document. The strip or document has at least one line of perforation for separating it into at least two parts. One part is a product information label which forms an outer panel when the strip or document is folded. Another part is a negotiable instrument which is immediately negotiable by either a customer or retailer. The opaque base layer contains indicia which is similar to the product information label, except for some visually noticeable difference.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 3, 1994
    Assignee: Attitude Measurement Corporation
    Inventor: Kenneth S. Roshkoff
  • Patent number: 5292283
    Abstract: A form set for use with an imprinting indicia with dye-based ink on negotiable instruments. The form set comprises at least one negotiable instrument sheet comprised of an absorbing type paper sheet material for absorbing the dye-based ink, whereby when the form set is impacted by the imprinting mechanism of the apparatus, the dye-based ink permeates through the sheet from the printed front surface to the back surface to provide the indicia in mirror image form on the back. The total character face lateral migration of the ink from any character perimeter surface on either surface of the sheet is no greater than about 0.012 inches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 8, 1994
    Assignee: The Paymaster Corporation
    Inventors: Robert P. Koper, Howard R. Konieczka
  • Patent number: 5280962
    Abstract: A check protector comprises a print head operating under microprocessor control to print on a medium two separate patterns of characters, each indicating the same amount, preselected by means of a keyboard, and for printing immediately before one of the patterns an intelligible message indicating that the predetermined amount is a maximum amount, thereby to produce a secure financial instrument which is difficult to alter or forge for the purpose of increasing the amount.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 25, 1994
    Assignee: The Hedman Company
    Inventors: Ronald F. Wochinski, Victor L. Salmons
  • Patent number: 5277451
    Abstract: An information pad for checkbooks including a checkbook cover of flexible member, a slotted member flexibly affixed to a surface of the checkbook cover, and an information receiving pad having a surface received within the slotted member. The slotted member includes an inner planar surface having an edge flexibly attached to the checkbook cover and an outer planar surface having a plurality of edges affixed to the inner planar surface. The information receiving pad includes a surface which is received between the inner planar surface and the outer planar surface. The inner planar surface has an outer edge which is seam welded along an edge of the checkbook cover. The information receiving pad includes a backing layer and a plurality of flexible sheets which overlie the backing layer. The backing layer extends between the inner planar surface and the outer planar surface of the slotted member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 11, 1994
    Inventor: Raul G. Garza
  • Patent number: 5271644
    Abstract: A security-printing device comprising: (i) a substrate; (ii) a toner image adhered to said substrate; and, (iii) a layer of an optically variable material adhered solely to said toner image, whereby said optically variable material is selected to provide a distinct visual appearance and is not readily reproducible or readily available in the general market-place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 21, 1993
    Assignee: Canadian Bank Note Company, Limited
    Inventors: Trevor Merry, Alan R. Boate
  • Patent number: 5267753
    Abstract: A bank draft form may incorporate a hologram as an anti-counterfeit measure. The hologram may extend over a substantial portion of the bank draft form, including the signature entry area and other data entry areas of the form, e.g. the date, payee, and amount areas. The hologram includes an outer layer of a transparent layer of ink compatible material over such areas. The transparent layer of ink compatible material allows the drawer to affix his or her signature within the signature entry area and to enter the various terms of the draft, e.g. the date, amount, payee etc. Writing upon the ink compatible surface of the hologram partially occults the hologram underneath such writing and may cause the embossed surface of the hologram to become etched. The partial effacing of the hologram increases the difficulty of its duplication by a counterfeiter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1993
    Inventor: Ernest Chock
  • Patent number: 5263742
    Abstract: A system and method for taking and developing a fingerprint wherein the subject's fingers are not dirtied or exposed to chemicals. The fingerprint is recorded on a layer of adhesive adhered to a sheet of transparent material. The print is developed by making a copy of it on a sensitized surface by back reflecting radiant energy through the adhesive whereby the print is imaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1992
    Date of Patent: November 23, 1993
    Inventor: John J. Koch
  • Patent number: 5251936
    Abstract: A two-part sheet construction (10) that may be separated into its individual parts without tearing is provided. First (12) and second (22) sheet segments, each segment having front (14, 24) and back (16, 26) sides and first (18, 24) and second (20, 30) opposed edges overlap each other at the second edge (20) of the first sheet segment (12) and the first edge (28) of the second sheet segment (22). The segments (12, 22) are joined together by a coating of a repeatedly releasable self-stick adhesive (32) applied to the first sheet segment (12) where the first sheet segment (12) is overlapped by the second sheet segment (22). Substantially the entirety of each of the front sides (14, 24) of both sheet segments (12, 22) are exposed when the segments are joined. A plurality of the two-part sheet constructions (10) may be stacked and formed into a pad of overlapping sheets (36) by joining the first edges (18 ) of the first sheet segments (12) together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 1991
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1993
    Inventor: Gary W. Fitzgibbons
  • Patent number: 5244235
    Abstract: An article is disclosed for displaying a machine readable character having a predetermined location for receiving a manually marked character and an indicia which is not machine readable formed at the predetermined location. The indicia is formed in a guide pattern capable of being selectively traced manually with a machine recognizable marking material in a plurality of differing traced conformations over respectively differing portions of the guide pattern for selectively producing a corresponding plurality of differing machine readable characters. The guide pattern of the indicia may be arranged for selective formation of the traced conformations in the form of differing numerals or letters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1993
    Inventor: James E. Helgeson
  • Patent number: 5222763
    Abstract: A notepad having a plurality of sheets affixed together along a common edge and a backing layer affixed to the plurality of sheets. The plurality of sheets are adhered together by an adhesive of a quality suitable for permitting the separation of one sheet from another without tearing. The backing layer has a front side and a back side. The plurality of sheets are positioned adjacent to the front side. The backing layer has one surface dimension greater than a corresponding surface dimension of the plurality of sheets so as to form a display area extending outwardly of the plurality of sheets. The display area has a score line extending thereacross so as to define an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion of the display area is foldable relative to the lower portion of the display area. The display area is suitable for receiving advertising indicia printed thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1993
    Inventor: Raul G. Garza
  • Patent number: 5199744
    Abstract: A substrate, such as a banknote or travellers' check, carries a security device including in association at least one embossed transitory image, such as a latent or transient image and an embossed linear area. The arrangement is such that when the embossed region of the substrate is viewed from different angles each image and linear area can be visually discerned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Assignee: De La Rue plc
    Inventor: Colin Shenton
  • Patent number: 5198975
    Abstract: In the transfer of checks between facilities receiving checks and facilities for processing checks, checks are sorted into batches according to selected classifications at the check receiving facilities. The checks are accumulated in bundles and transferred to the check processing facility according to a predetermined schedule. In the present invention, a batch slip is provided with each transferred bundle. The batch slip identifies the type of checks in the batch, identification of the receiving facility and a sequence number. The information is provided both in a bar code format and in a MICR format. The batch slip is kept with the associated batch of checks during the processing in the processing facility. Bar code readers are provided at various processing stations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1993
    Assignee: Valley National Bank
    Inventors: Donna J. Baker, Kerry S. Jones
  • Patent number: 5190318
    Abstract: The document, particularly of the check type, with forgery-prevention means, includes a sheet-like element which has at least one portion for writing indications. In the at least one indication-writing portion, regions made of magnetic material spaced by magnetically blank portions are provided so as to define a code which can be detected by a magnetic reading head. The regions made of magnetic material are impressed with a magnetic material which can be erased by chemical and/or mechanical action.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Assignee: Engimpex Ltd.
    Inventor: Antonio Mantegazza
  • Patent number: 5188562
    Abstract: An accounting device for simplified bookkeeping. The device comprises a spiral binder, a check ledger insertable in the divider and divided into a plurality of rows and columns for recording data thereon, as well as a plurality of snap-fit checks which overlie the ledger in shingled fashion. Each check contains a strip of transfer material so that information recorded on each check is successively transferred to a line of the check ledger. A plurality of spreadsheet forms including matchup boxes are also insertable into the binder. Sums recorded in the matchup boxes are transferable to correspondingly labeled matchup boxes provided on a profit/loss summary form so that profit or loss may be easily calculated, and bank account figures easily reconciled. All of the bookkeeping operations associated with a small or micro business may be performed using the self-contained accounting device of the present invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1993
    Assignee: Big E-Z Bookkeeping Company
    Inventor: Michelle Carley
  • Patent number: 5171040
    Abstract: The text discloses for use in printing valuable documents an allover pattern of warning indicia which is merged by human sensory perception with its background but is distinguished and reproduced by xerographic copying as a result of the employment of two different screen values for the indicia and the background which are respectively within and beyond the reproductive capability of the copier machine when used in the stated context. Adjunctively, document validating indicia are also printable on such documents in a screen value beyond the reproductive capability of xerographic copiers at the lighter settings at which the lesser screen value used for said warning indicia or background will reproduce.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 1991
    Date of Patent: December 15, 1992
    Assignee: Invisible Images, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph E. Orndorff
  • Patent number: 5143279
    Abstract: The present invention combines a provision for giving a monetary gift in the form of a check and a permanent record on the accompanying gift card of the giver and the amount of the check. The invention comprises a combined special gift card and acompanying envelope. In a second embodiment, the envelope carrie a detachable, otherise valid, check which is included with the aforementioned card.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1990
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1992
    Inventor: Alfred L. Gaines
  • Patent number: 5135259
    Abstract: A notepad including a plurality of sheets affixed together along a common edge, a backing surface connected to the plurality of sheets, and an adhesive strip fastened to the backing surface. The backing surface has a front side and a back side. The plurality of sheets are aligned along the front side of the backing surface. The adhesive strip has an adhesive surface on one side opposite the backing surface. This adhesive surface has an adhesive strength of between five ounces per inch of width and eighty-five ounces per inch of width. A second adhesive strip is also fastened to the backing surface and has an adhesive strength equal to that of the first adhesive strip. The adhesive surface is fastened to a flexible foldable cover of a polyvinyl chloride material having plasticizers contained therein.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1991
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1992
    Inventor: Raul G. Garza
  • Patent number: 5121945
    Abstract: There are disclosed herein methods and systems for affecting the accounting functions of debiting and crediting a bank's account records, a payer's bank account records and a corporation's accounts receivable records with their customer's payments, and are based upon the combination of data from two or more sources to prepare an integrated document comprising an invoice (bill) and a negotiable instrument, usually a bank check. These documents form an integrated document and contain all necessary pre-printed machine readable data and are combined to effect a variety of multi-function transactions. By combining all of the required data elements in a single document at the time of initial preparation of the integrated document, including an accounts receivable invoice and the payer's check, the requirement for subsequent redundant, labor intensive processes are eliminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1992
    Assignee: Remittance Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Eric A. Thomson, Stanley M. Josephson
  • Patent number: 5093184
    Abstract: This invention is concerned with security paper for bank notes, cheques and like documents in a security strip of enhanced security which is more difficult to counterfeit than the present bank notes containing window threads.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: March 3, 1992
    Assignee: Portals Limited
    Inventor: David J. Edwards
  • Patent number: 5085470
    Abstract: A process is disclosed for merging promotional information, based on multiple requests and relating to different promotions, into a single stream for the printing and mailing of coupons, checks or other promotional items. The requests relating to a particular promotion are matched with an associated promotion control record, with one or more promotions similarly associated with an account control record in the case of preparing checks. Prior to printing, individual data entries for various promotions are combined, and sorted in a sequence predetermined for qualification for various postal rate classifications, thus to minimize the cumulative cost of mailing the entries. Pertinent information associated with each entry is printed on sheets of card stock, each sheet separable into four individual segments to provide four checks or coupons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Assignee: Fulfillment Systems Inc.
    Inventors: John A. Peach, Paul H. Korba, Kenneth M. Rapp