US Patent:
20100153309, Jun 17, 2010
Inventors:
David K. Asano - Easton CT, US
Michael Swenson - Danbury CT, US
Alexandra Mack - Monroe CT, US
David W. Beckstrom - Millford CT, US
Joan T. Doutney - Sandy Hook CT, US
Sarah Jurta - Fairfield CT, US
Assignee:
Pitney Bowes Inc. - Stamford CT
International Classification:
G07B 17/02
G06Q 50/00
G06Q 30/00
G06F 3/033
G08C 21/00
US Classification:
705407, 705410, 705408, 178 1901
Abstract:
Systems and methods for dimensionally rating mail pieces including cards, letters, flats, mailers, packages and parcels using a pointing device such as a digital pen are described. In one illustrative configuration the system includes a digital pen, a three dimensional digital pen pattern device, a computer and a printer for printing evidence of postage payment. A mail piece such as a small parcel is placed on the opened three dimensional digital pen pattern device. The user may select a digital pen pattern command box or may otherwise engage or be prompted to begin measurements. For a rectangular parcel, the user selects a bottom right and then a top left measurement point. The system then calculates the dimensions of the parcel, dimensionally rates it and then accounts for and prints a corresponding postage indicium.