System and method for providing computer-based postage stamps

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.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S) [0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09 / 975,532 filed on Oct. 10, 2001 which claimed the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60 / 239,424 filed Oct. 10, 2000 and entitled “A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING COMPUTER BASED POSTAGE STAMPS” the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference as if set forth in full herein.BACKGROUND [0002] A significant percentage of the United States Postal Service (USPS) revenue is from metered postage. Metered postage is generated by utilizing postage meters that print a special mark, also known as postal indicia, on mail pieces. Generally, printing postage and any other value bearing item (VBI) can be carried out by using mechanical meters or computer-based systems. Conventionally, a business or other entity will have a meter at its place of business, and will use the meter to print postal indicia on mail pieces or on labels that are then affixed to the mail pie...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a computer-based system for creating postage that can be used at any time with any recipient. The method includes printing an indicium on label stock using a master serial number and a postage request, which can be verified at a later time. The label stock may also include anti-fraud devices such as micro-printing, watermarks, phosphorescent ink, and color changing ink. The postage request includes a postage amount, class, and an identification of a Licensing Postage Office. The master serial number may be linked to a specific postage printing device. Overall, the invention allows for efficient and secure creation of computer-based postage."

Problems solved by technology

Therefore, while conventional computer-based postage systems allows a user to print a postal indicium at home, at the office, or any other desired place for a particular mail piece with an intended recipient, such systems do not allow the printing of postal indicia onto labels or other print media for future use on any mail piece with a presently unidentified recipient.

Images