Recyclable Postal Evidencing Module Segmentation

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Prior art microprocessor-based postal evidencing modules are not designed for recyclability and remanufacturing, as they are typically sealed, use proprietary microprocessors, and have programming that renders them unusable after a certain date, preventing component salvaging and remanufacturing.

Innovation Solution

A microprocessor-based postal evidencing module with a manually disassemblable enclosure that allows visual identification of ink cartridges, uses commercially available microprocessors, and allows external reprogramming, enabling non-destructive component replacement and remanufacturing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the postal evidencing module is sealed and uses proprietary microprocessors, then security and reliability are improved, but recyclability and remanufacturability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

ImprovesecurityVSAvoidrecyclability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The module is divided into separable components including the housing, microprocessor, ink cartridges, and circuit board. This segmentation allows individual components to be recycled or remanufactured independently while maintaining security features, resolving the contradiction between sealed design and recyclability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The microprocessor programming is modified to allow reprogramming capabilities while maintaining security protocols. The system transitions from a permanently sealed state to a reconfigurable state, enabling remanufacturing while preserving security through controlled parameter changes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Manufacturing precision

If the module is designed as a sealed unit, then manufacturing precision and reliability are improved, but ease of repair and component salvaging deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveassembly precisionVSAvoidcomponent access

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSEase of repair

Solution Approach 1:

The housing is segmented into removable sections with standardized interfaces, allowing precise manufacturing through modular assembly while enabling easy component access for repair and salvaging operations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The housing transitions from a static sealed structure to a dynamic configurable structure that can be opened and closed. This allows the module to maintain precision during operation while providing access during maintenance, resolving the contradiction between sealed design and repairability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If the microprocessor is programmed to render the module unusable after a certain date, then reliability is improved, but loss of substance and waste increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveusage controlVSAvoidwaste

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The microprocessor programming allows flexible modification of usage parameters including expiration dates. This enables the system to maintain reliability through controlled usage while preventing waste by allowing extension or repurposing of modules through parameter reconfiguration

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of permanent disposal after date expiration, the system enables recovery and reuse of the microprocessor and other components by modifying programming parameters, thus reducing waste while maintaining reliability through controlled lifecycle management

Inventive Principle:

Principle #34Discarding and recovering

4Reliability

If proprietary microprocessors are used, then reliability and security are improved, but adaptability and remanufacturability deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveperformance consistencyVSAvoidremanufacturability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The module design incorporates universal interfaces and standardized components that work with multiple microprocessor types. This allows proprietary microprocessors to maintain performance consistency while enabling remanufacturability through interchangeable components and universal mounting configurations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentUS8894192B2Recyclable and remanufacturable microprocessor-based postal evidencing module and method of recycling and remanufacturing

Publication Date: 2014.11.25 CLOVER IMAGING GRP LLC

AI summary

The present invention relates to postal evidencing modules that can be recycled in a non-destructive fashion for reuse and remanufacturing. The modules comprise a cartridge-receiving portion and a lid, which can be manually disengaged from one another by the user in order to assist in reuse and remanufacturing. The modules further comprise flex circuits with one or more microprocessors to electrically engage the ink cartridges and a postage evidencing system. The present invention is designed to use commercially available ink cartridges and microprocessors.