United States Postal Service Patent applications |
Patent application number | Title | Published |
20150324743 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CREATING AND USING A HYBRID-DIGITAL MAILBOX - A method, electronic device, and computer-readable storage medium are. In one embodiment, a method is provided for receiving tracking data regarding a delivery item, determining, based on the tracking data, whether supplemental content is associated with the delivery item, and automatically scheduling delivery of the supplemental content when supplemental content is associated with the delivery item. | 11-12-2015 |
20150052076 | SYSTEM, METHOD, AND ARTICLE OF MANUFACTURE FOR FILTERING MAIL ITEMS BASED ON RECIPIENT PREFERENCE - Methods and systems are provided for filtering of a mail item addressed to a recipient. In accordance with an embodiment, preference information about mail items from the recipient is obtained. The preference information is compared with information on the mail item and based on the comparison, it is determined whether the mail item should be delivered. The preference information may include at least one of a size of the mail stems, a type of the mail items, a classification of the mail items, a weight of the mail items, and preference information abut senders. In accordance with another embodiment, the preference information of a recipient may be provided in a sender so that the sender can determine whether the recipient wants mail items from the sender. | 02-19-2015 |
20140279440 | EXPORT PREPARATION AND SUPPORT SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method of generating customs documentation for the export of goods from a first country to a second country. A database populated with restrictions and/or prohibitions corresponding to thousands of goods is accessed via a computing device. A description and attributes of a good is received and an indicator for the good is determined. Prohibitions and/or restrictions corresponding to the good are presented via the device. A governmental fee for the good is determined. A database with rules to determine a form based at least on the first country, the second country, and the attributes of the good is accessed. The determined form is automatically populated with at least the indicator for the good and the governmental fee, and a label is automatically developed. The indicator and other attributes of the good, the amount of the governmental fee, and identification of the form used are stored in a database for efficient future use. | 09-18-2014 |
20140270401 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IDENTITY VERIFICATION - A system and method of verifying the identity of a user or registrant. The user or registrant provides identification information and registration information. The identification information may be a visual representation of an identifying item associated with location information. In some embodiments, the identification information may be a visual representation of a government issued identity. An identification module verifies the identification information and compares the verified identification information to the registration information. | 09-18-2014 |
20140260115 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROCESSING STACKS OF ARTICLES - A stack of articles having a stack guide disposed thereon is disclosed. The stack guide comprises identifiers which relate to information about the stack and the articles within the stack, and to the orientation of the stack. The stack guide also comprises a guide for binding straps which can be identified during an unloading process. | 09-18-2014 |
20140251852 | RIGID TRAY CONTAINER AND METHOD OF USE - Embodiments of this disclosure include a rigid tray container and methods and equipment for using the rigid tray container in batched process operations. In one embodiment, a mass container is sized and dimensioned to receive one or several rigid tray containers. In other embodiments, equipment is configured to lid/unlid, secure, stack, load/unload, and buffer rigid tray containers. In other embodiments, equipment is configured to stack and stage mass containers. In some embodiments, methods are provided for batch processing items. | 09-11-2014 |
20140181939 | CLOUD COMPUTING EXCHANGE FOR IDENTITY PROOFING AND VALIDATION - An architecture and method to provide a cloud based credential exchange wherein organizations and users can use the services of a centralized and streamlined credential clearing house. A user can provide credentials or verification from a third party credential provider to the credential exchange. The credential exchange can use the third party credentials to provide access to multiple networks affiliated with the credential exchange. | 06-26-2014 |
20140172739 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF COORDINATING DISTRIBUTION OF AN ITEM - A system and method for coordinating item delivery is disclosed. The system includes a control hub configured to receive item information, a dynamic routing system configured to provide routing instructions, and a handheld device configured to receive routing instructions. The control hub controls and coordinates receiving and transmitting item information, including pick-up and delivery schedules, and other item information. | 06-19-2014 |
20140169620 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR IDENTIFYING AND PROCESSING MAIL USING AN IDENTIFICATION CODE - Apparatus and methods consistent with the present invention provide for identifying and processing mail using an identification code on a mailpiece as a redundant source of identification information in a mail sorting system. In one embodiment, this information is stored in a temporary database and used for the identification and processing of mail in a Remote Bar Code System (RBCS). In this embodiment, the identification code enables the automation of mail sorting and other processing tasks, reducing costs and delays in mail delivery services. In another embodiment, the identification and processing of mail occurs in an Identification Code Sorting (ICS) system. In this embodiment, a long-term database allows for mail sorting and other processing tasks on a national or global level. | 06-19-2014 |
20140150350 | LOCK MECHANISM FOR SECURING A LOCKABLE VOLUME - A lock and method of locking a lockable volume is described. The lock may be located on a door of a lockable volume, such as a locker configured to hold an item. The lock may comprise a post and a cam, the cam having an opening corresponding to the size and shape of the post. The cam is rotatable about an axis, wherein the rotation of the cam about the axis releasably secures the post within the opening, thereby locking the door to which the post is attached. | 06-05-2014 |
20140143170 | MANIFEST DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD - There is provided a method and system of determining efficient routing of a mail piece in a delivery system for delivering mail pieces. The system determines whether or not the mail piece requires urgent delivery. The system determines a weight of the mail piece. Also, the system determines, based on the urgency determination and the weight determination, a most cost-effective place in which to introduce the mail piece into the delivery system. | 05-22-2014 |
20140074396 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR CREATING AND USING A LOCATION IDENTIFICATION GRID - A method and system for generating a location identification grid and for using a location identification grid. The location identification grid can include a first geographic area that correspond to a pre-existing area. This pre-existing area can correspond to a postal code such as a zip code, a telephone code such as, an area code, or any other desired pre-existing area. The location identification grid can be subdivided into smaller geographic areas to allow more accurate identification of a location. The location identification grid can include a second geographic area. The second geographic area can be a subdivision of the first geographic area. The location identification grid can be used with signals that identify a location within a location identification grid. These signals can include a first component corresponding to the first geographic area and the second component corresponding to one or more second geographic areas. | 03-13-2014 |
20140058970 | DYNAMIC CHANGE OF ADDRESS NOTIFICATION - A method is described that provides a notification to the sender or mailer of a mailpiece when the addressee of the mailpiece has changed address. One step in the method includes creation of an updated delivery code that may comprise both the forwarding address of the addressee, the sender's address information, and corresponding barcodes. The postal delivery system sends the mailed item to the forwarding address and provides the sender with the updated information for the addressee. The notification can occur by electronic message systems or delivery of a physical notification. | 02-27-2014 |
20140058558 | INTELLIGENT BARCODE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods using intelligent barcodes for processing mail, packages, or other items in transport are provided. Systems and methods allowing end-to-end visibility of a mail stream by uniquely identifying and tracking mail pieces are also provided. Systems and methods include the use of standardized intelligent barcodes on mail pieces, a seamless process for mail acceptance, continuous mail piece tracking, and feedback on mail quality in real time. In one embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to provide enhanced acceptance, sorting, tracking, address correction, forwarding, and delivery services. In another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to identify a mail piece as undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) and determine a final disposition for the mail piece. In yet another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow mailers more visibility into the mail stream and information on the quality of their mailings. | 02-27-2014 |
20140055242 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROVIDING CENTRALIZED MANAGEMENT AND DISTRIBUTION OF INFORMATION TO REMOTE USERS - The invention includes systems, methods, and software applications for centrally maintaining information and automatically distributing relevant portions of the information to remote users. In one embodiment, a central server stores the information, which is maintained on the central server. Periodically, or each time the server information is updated, the server identifies the portion of the information that is relevant to each user and downloads the relevant portion of information to each user, for example to a mobile device such as a Blackberry™. The invention may be used to maintain and timely distribute information related to emergency response procedures, sales or servicing schedules, and delivery schedules, among other things. | 02-27-2014 |
20140032439 | PC POSTAGE.TM. SERVICE INDICIA DESIGN FOR SHIPPING LABEL - Systems and methods of insuring payment of a proper amount of postage, comprise receiving payment for an amount of postage, affixing a postage indicia to a piece of mail, wherein the postage indicia includes the postage amount in a format readable only by machine, and adjusting the postage amount at a time subsequent to receipt of payment. | 01-30-2014 |
20140012804 | ITEM STATUS TRACKING - A method and system for tracking the status of a label. The system can include a memory with a database. The database can include an indicator of the label status. The system can additionally include a processor that operates in accordance with instructions stored in the memory. The processor can receive a request to generate a label, update the first database with an identifier that indicates the existence of the label, receive a signal indicating that a service requested by the label has been provided, and update the identifier in the first database to indicate that the requested service has been provided. | 01-09-2014 |
20140006301 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AN EXPRESS MAIL LABEL | 01-02-2014 |
20130325426 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYZING EQUIPMENT FAILURES AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES - A computer implemented method may be used for analyzing equipment failures and maintenance schedules. An equipment maintenance system generates a model of equipment and components of each piece of equipment. In one embodiment, the model is a tree representation. The equipment maintenance system may then determine estimated failure information for each component based on a selected statistical model. The equipment maintenance system may also generate a maintenance schedule based on the determined estimated failure information for each component of the equipment. In one embodiment, the equipment maintenance system displays the equipment maintenance information. | 12-05-2013 |
20130308819 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DETECTING A BLOCKED APERTURE IN LETTER OR FLAT MAIL IMAGE SENSOR - Embodiments include systems and methods of detecting a blocked aperture in an image device. In certain embodiments, the system and method is used in mail processing of letters and flats. In certain embodiments, the image sensor captures an image of the front of an item. If the aperture of the image sensor is obstructed, a void will appear on the image of the item. The system can detect the void and increment an alarm count until a pre-defined threshold is reached wherein the system signals an alarm so that the blockage can be removed and the affected items can be re-introduced for correct processing. In another embodiment, images obtained when the aperture is expected to be clear of any items. | 11-21-2013 |
20130304662 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR REDIRECTING MAIL - A method for temporarily redirecting a customer's mail from a current mailing address to a temporary mailing address, includes: receiving a request to temporarily redirect the customer's mail; determining a first date to begin mail redirection and a second date to cancel mail redirection; redirecting a first type of mail to a temporary mailing address; instructing a delivery service provider to provide a package to the customer after the customer arrives at the temporary mailing address; instructing the delivery service provider to hold a second type of mail for a time period calculated based on the request; receiving a notification that the customer has arrived at the temporary mailing address; and informing at least one contact specified by the customer that the customer has arrived at the temporary mailing address. | 11-14-2013 |
20130234043 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ITEM AUTHENTICATION AND CUSTOMIZATION - A method of illuminating an item is disclosed. The method includes applying adhesive to the item, interspersing a taggant in the adhesive, illuminating the item with an excitation signal, sensing luminescence emitted by the taggant in response to illumination by the excitation signal, and determining the authenticity of the item based on the sensed emitted luminescence. The item can include any item benefited by authentication, and can include a postage stamp. A method of customizing an item is disclosed. This can include the steps of preparing a substrate, applying a security feature to the substrate, printing non-customized information on the substrate, receiving image information, and printing the image information on the substrate. | 09-12-2013 |
20130226823 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING MAIL USING A MANIFEST - Methods and apparatus for manifesting mailpieces, processing mailpieces from a mail system, and certifying a mail system are provided. A mailpiece is received at a manifest mailing system and mailing information from the mailpiece is obtained. manifest of the mailpiece is created and the mail piece is then delivered using the manifest. Based on a certification of the mail system, an accuracy of a portion of the manifest may be selectively determined. Based on the accuracy of the portion of the manifest, the mailpieces are then conditionally delivered using the manifest. To determine a certification, test information may be provided to a mail system. A manifest generated by the mail system is then received. The accuracy of the manifest based on the test information is determined and a certification level is then assigned to the mail system. | 08-29-2013 |
20130206849 | Method and System for Providing a Barcode Image Over a Network - Methods and systems consistent with the present invention provide a barcode image. A client is operable to create a request for a barcode image and send the request to a server. The request comprises data to be converted to a barcode. The server is operable to receive the request from the client via a network, generate a barcode image from the data, and encode the barcode image. Thereafter, the server provides the encoded image to the client. | 08-15-2013 |
20130204958 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROVIDING AND ELECTRONIC ACCOUNT TO A CUSTOMER - An electronic account is provided to a customer to enable the customer to access electronic services, such as e-mail and electronic transactions. The electronic account links an electronic address of the customer to a physical address of the customer. Using the electronic account, electronic services can be provided to the customer at either the electronic or physical address, or both. The services can be both secure and non-secure and can be provided by any service provider, such as an online merchant, a government agency, or a bank. | 08-08-2013 |
20130166060 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF COORDINATING ELECTRONIC PARCEL LOCKER AVAILABILITY - A system, apparatus, and method for use in delivery of items to a storage unit. The storage unit may include one or several storage receptacles and a control unit that controls and monitors the status of the one or several storage receptacles. The storage unit may be included in a storage unit system that may include one or several storage units and a central control unit. The central control unit may communicate with the one or several storage units, and may receive status and availability updates from the one or several storage units. | 06-27-2013 |
20130144428 | METHOD OF CONTROLLING ITEM DELIVERY TO AN ELECTRONIC PARCEL LOCKER - A system, apparatus, and method for use in delivery of items to a storage unit. The storage unit can include one or several storage receptacles and a control unit that controls and monitors the status of the one or several storage receptacles. The storage unit can be included in a storage unit system that can include one or several storage units and a central control unit. The central control unit can communicate with the one or several storage units, and can receive status and availability updates from the one or several storage units. | 06-06-2013 |
20130064447 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ANALYZING THE QUALITY OF DIGITAL SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION IMAGES - Methods and systems for evaluating an imager that produces bi-chrome images from a scanner or a digital imaging device, the bi-chrome images having pixels of a first and second color. In one embodiment, a method includes generating an image with a hand-held imaging device, the image having pixels of a first color and a second color, analyzing the image to determine information about particles of the first and second color contained in the image, each particle comprising contiguous pixels of the same color, the particle information comprising information on first and second color particle size and count, and determining if the image is unacceptable based on predetermined objective criteria and the particle information. | 03-14-2013 |
20130024326 | CONTENT RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS FOR DISTRIBUTION ITEMS - Systems, methods and apparatus are disclosed for providing content associated with an information item on a distribution item using a computing device. In one aspect a method includes identifying an image of an information item on a distribution item. The method further includes processing, in a processor the image, to generate a data item determined by the information item. The method further includes decoding the data item to determine a set of attributes of the distribution item. The method further includes retrieving content associated with the distribution item using at least one of the attributes in the set of attributes. The method further includes delivering content associated with the distribution item. | 01-24-2013 |
20130013528 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IDENTIFYING SHIPPING ANOMALIES - Systems and method of identifying shipping anomalies are provided. One anomaly detection module is configured to access data related to items in a delivery environment and determine the occurrence of anomalies based on the accessed data. The detected anomalies are evaluated with other accessed data to identify source, destination or routing errors and to correct same. | 01-10-2013 |
20130013102 | INTELLIGENT BARCODE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods using intelligent barcodes for processing mail, packages, or other items in transport are provided. Systems and methods allowing end-to-end visibility of a mail stream by uniquely identifying and tracking mail pieces are also provided. Systems and methods include the use of standardized intelligent barcodes on mail pieces, a seamless process for mail acceptance, continuous mail piece tracking, and feedback on mail quality in real time. In one embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to provide enhanced acceptance, sorting, tracking, address correction, forwarding, and delivery services. In another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to identify a mail piece as undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) and determine a final disposition for the mail piece. In yet another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow mailers more visibility into the mail stream and information on the quality of their mailings. | 01-10-2013 |
20130013101 | INTELLIGENT BARCODE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods using intelligent barcodes for processing mail, packages, or other items in transport are provided. Systems and methods allowing end-to-end visibility of a mail stream by identifying and tracking mail pieces are also provided. Systems and methods include the use of standardized intelligent barcodes on mail pieces, a seamless process for mail acceptance, continuous mail piece tracking, and feedback on mail quality in real time. Systems and methods can use intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to provide enhanced acceptance, sorting, tracking, address correction, forwarding, and delivery services. Systems and methods can use intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to identify a mail piece as undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) and determine a final disposition for the mail piece. Systems and methods can use intelligent barcodes allow mailers more visibility into the mail stream and information on the quality of their mailings. | 01-10-2013 |
20130011053 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ANALYZING THE QUALITY OF DIGITAL SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION IMAGES - Methods and systems for evaluating an imager that produces bi-chrome images from a scanner or a digital imaging device, the bi-chrome images having pixels of a first and second color. In one embodiment, a method includes generating an image with a hand-held imaging device, the image having pixels of a first color and a second color, analyzing the image to determine information about particles of the first and second color contained in the image, each particle comprising contiguous pixels of the same color, the particle information comprising information on first and second color particle size and count, and determining if the image is unacceptable based on predetermined objective criteria and the particle information. | 01-10-2013 |
20130011052 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ANALYZING THE QUALITY OF DIGITAL SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION IMAGES - Methods and systems for evaluating an imager that produces bi-chrome images from a scanner or a digital imaging device, the bi-chrome images having pixels of a first and second color. In one embodiment, a method includes generating an image with a hand-held imaging device, the image having pixels of a first color and a second color, analyzing the image to determine information about particles of the first and second color contained in the image, each particle comprising contiguous pixels of the same color, the particle information comprising information on first and second color particle size and count, and determining if the image is unacceptable based on predetermined objective criteria and the particle information. | 01-10-2013 |
20130008951 | INTELLIGENT BARCODE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods using intelligent barcodes for processing mail, packages, or other items in transport are provided. Systems and methods allowing end-to-end visibility of a mail stream by uniquely identifying and tracking mail pieces are also provided. Systems and methods include the use of standardized intelligent barcodes on mail pieces, a seamless process for mail acceptance, continuous mail piece tracking, and feedback on mail quality in real time. In one embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to provide enhanced acceptance, sorting, tracking, address correction, forwarding, and delivery services. In another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to identify a mail piece as undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) and determine a final disposition for the mail piece. In yet another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow mailers more visibility into the mail stream and information on the quality of their mailings. | 01-10-2013 |
20130006885 | FLEXIBLE MAIL DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD - The principles of the present invention provide the ability to flexibly change the delivery point and time for a mail item, while the item is .en route. The recipient, sender, or mailer may flexibly change the delivery point of the item alone or in combination with each other. While an item is en route between the sending point and the delivery point, a notification is sent to indicate that the item is in transit. In response, the delivery of the item may be changed. For example, the destination specified by the sender (e.g., the delivery address written on the item) may be changed or a delivery time may be specified. The item is then delivered to the new delivery point and/or at the specified delivery time. | 01-03-2013 |
20130006731 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR PROVIDING A SECURE ELECTRONIC MAILBOX - A secure electronic mailbox is provided to a customer having an electronic account. The electronic account links the secure electronic mailbox to a physical address of the customer. The customer can send and receive secure and non-secure messages via the secure electronic mailbox. The customer can also access electronic services such as electronic bill presentment and payment using the secure electronic mailbox. | 01-03-2013 |
20130006442 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CREATING ON-DEMAND ROUTES FOR POWERED INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES - Systems and methods for creating in a facility on-demand routes for powered industrial vehicles to transport cargo efficiently. In one embodiment, an on-demand route generation module receives receiving a request to move cargo. The module analyzes data about the current location, the current tasking, and the driver availability of PIVs in operation. Based on the information, the module creates an on-demand route through the facility and sends a notification to an assigned PIV to pick up the cargo and carry it on the defined on-demand route. | 01-03-2013 |
20130001282 | INTEGRATED DOCUMENT HOLDER AND RFID TAG - An integrated document holder and RFID tag device is disclosed herein. The document holder may take the form of a shipping envelope which is affixed to an item and carries documents related to the item such as a packing list or shipping manifest. The device includes an RFID tag integrated into the shipping envelope which allows both the RFID tag and the shipping envelope to be affixed to the item in a single labor effort. | 01-03-2013 |
20120330858 | DYNAMIC INVENTORY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - Embodiments include systems and methods of delivery DVDs, games, other electronically or computer readable media, or other high value items through the mail or via any other delivery service for return and redelivery to a second customer. For example, in one embodiment, items returned by a first customer are identified during processing of a container or mailer containing the item, the second customer is determined, a new address label is affixed to the container, and the item is delivered to the second customer. | 12-27-2012 |
20120323963 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR APPLYING SECONDARY INFORMATION TO BUSINESS ADDRESSES - Systems and methods are provided for determining secondary address information. In one implementation, a method is provided that uses a data processing apparatus. According to the method, a code word is created for a business name and a building default extended delivery code. A data table is searched using the code word and secondary address information is revealed when a match is found between the code word and data stored in the data table. | 12-20-2012 |
20120311840 | ELASTOMERIC FORCE MITIGATING JOINT - The technology disclosed provides a joint for connecting carrier units together so as to dissipate and absorb axial forces experienced by the carrier units. The joint may be comprised of a joint housing and an elastomeric insert. The housing may be comprised of a body portion and a head portion and the head portion may include an annular flange in which the elastomeric insert is configured to be secured. The elastomeric joint is capable of absorbing and dissipating horizontal, rotational, and vertical forces experienced by the carrier units in non-linear travel along a track. | 12-13-2012 |
20120310853 | ITEM TRACKING AND ANTICIPATED DELIVERY CONFIRMATION SYSTEM AND METHOD - This disclosure describes systems and methods for electronically tracking information. The tracking information may include arrival information regarding an arrival of the item and processing information regarding processing of the item. | 12-06-2012 |
20120271767 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ELECTRONIC TRANSACTION VERIFICATION - A system and method for authenticating a physical address submitted in an online communication is disclosed. An online communication comprising a physical address to be verified is received. A verification identification (VID) is requested and received. A transaction verification document (TVD) comprising an indicia indicative of the VID is generated. An electronic copy of the TVD is transmitted. Verification data produced in response to dispatch of a physical embodiment of the TVD is received, wherein the physical embodiment is generated from the electronic copy. The physical address is authenticated based at least in part on the verification data. | 10-25-2012 |
20120269401 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR ANALYZING THE QUALITY OF DIGITAL SIGNATURE CONFIRMATION IMAGES - Methods and systems for evaluating an imager that produces bi-chrome images from a scanner or a digital imaging device, the bi-chrome images having pixels of a first and second color. In one embodiment, a method includes generating an image with a hand-held imaging device, the image having pixels of a first color and a second color, analyzing the image to determine information about particles of the first and second color contained in the image, each particle comprising contiguous pixels of the same color, the particle information comprising information on first and second color particle size and count, and determining if the image is unacceptable based on predetermined objective criteria and the particle information. | 10-25-2012 |
20120261473 | SYSTEMS, METHODS, AND APPARATUS FOR OVERHEAD SCANNING OF IMAGES IN A MANUAL DISTRIBUTION ENVIRONMENT - This disclosure defines systems, methods and apparatus for scanning in a distribution environment. In one aspect a method is disclosed for expanding a field of view of a camera. The method may include moving a mirror according to a determined pattern of movement and speed and capturing a series of images with a camera while the mirror is moving such that the field of view defining images captured by the camera changes based on the position of the mirror. The method may further include using image data from the series of images to process information located on a target item being imaged. In another aspect, an apparatus is disclosed including a selectively movable mirror positioned relative to an image capture device. A controller is configured to capture an image while the mirror is moving. | 10-18-2012 |
20120254059 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ELECTRONIC TRANSACTION VERIFICATION - A system and method for authenticating a physical address submitted in an online communication is disclosed. An online communication comprising a physical address to be verified is received. A verification identification (VID) is requested and received. A transaction verification document (TVD) comprising an indicia indicative of the VID is generated. An electronic copy of the TVD is transmitted. Verification data produced in response to dispatch of a physical embodiment of the TVD is received, wherein the physical embodiment is generated from the electronic copy. The physical address is authenticated based at least in part on the verification data. | 10-04-2012 |
20120185403 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IDENTIFYING SHIPPING ANOMALIES - Systems and method of identifying shipping anomalies are provided. One anomaly detection module is configured to access data related to items in a delivery environment and determine the occurrence of anomalies based on the accessed data. The detected anomalies are evaluated with other accessed data to identify source, destination or routing errors and to correct same. | 07-19-2012 |
20120179622 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDELIVERY NOTIFCATION USING MAIL IMAGE - Methods and systems are provided for filtering of a mail item addressed to a recipient. In accordance with an embodiment, preference information about mail items form the recipient is obtained. The preference information is compared with information on the mail item and based on the comparison, it is determined whether the mail item should be delivered. The preference information may include at least one of a size of the mail items, a type of the mail items, a classification of the mail items, a weight of the mail items, and preference information about senders. In accordance with another embodiment, the preference information of a recipient may be provided to a sender so that the sender can determine whether the recipient wants mail items from the sender. | 07-12-2012 |
20120179575 | METHODS FOR AUTOMATED ACCESS TO SHIPPING SERVICES - Systems and methods are disclosed for obtaining shipping services information over a network by a telephone call center receiving orders for merchandise. Instructions are received at the telephone call center, which permits the telephone call center to access the shipping information for shipment of the merchandise. The telephone call center sends the request over the network to the server for the shipping services information. Thereafter, the server sends the requested shipping services information to the telephone call center. The shipping service information may be in the format of a label, which may be attached to a package for shipment of the merchandise. | 07-12-2012 |
20120154124 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING SHIPMENT OF ITEMS UTILIZING RFID-TAGS - A system and method of tracking a plurality of items during transfer from a source location to a destination. One embodiment is a method comprising associating information identifying the plurality of items with a radio frequency (RF) tag that identifies a carrier unit. The method further comprises storing said associated information in at least one of the RF tag and a computer memory. The method further comprises communicating with the RF tag to identify the location of the carrier unit. The method further comprises identifying the location of at least one of the plurality of items based at least in part on the location of the carrier unit. Another embodiment is a system configured to perform an embodiment of the method. | 06-21-2012 |
20120011068 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ELECTRONIC AND PHYSICAL MAIL CATEGORIZATION AND TARGETED DELIVERY - Embodiments include systems and methods of a service that allows hard copy and electronic media customers to proactively specify, across a broad range of categories, the hard copy mail and/or electronic media mail that they would or would not like to receive. Embodiments include methods and systems configured to allow customers of delivery services to customize the flow of physical items such as hard copy or other letters or parcels, for delivery or electronic media mail from mailers based on highly specific customer-designated criteria. The delivery service acts as a trusted third party to serve as the intermediary between the recipient of the items and mailers to provide privacy and manage a repository for a customer-selected criteria database. In addition, one embodiment provides verification and/or identification that mail being sent meets the customer's designated criteria. | 01-12-2012 |
20120004765 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING OF MAIL USING A UNIVERSAL CODING SYSTEM - A method of tracking trays through a delivery system. The method comprises: generating an enhanced label, the enhanced label comprising a routing code and a label unique identifier, the enhanced label being applied to the tray; associating a tray with a container, the container having a container unique identifier; and receiving a load container scan, the load container scan associating the container unique identifier with the enhanced label. | 01-05-2012 |
20110282875 | LOCALIZED DATA AFFINITY SYSTEM AND HYBRID METHOD - A method, system, and computer program for processing records is disclosed. The records are associated with record sets. Record sets are associated with processor sets, which include one or more processors. Records are routed to associated processor sets for processing, based on the record set associated with the record. Records are processed on processors in the processor sets. Furthermore, various localized affinities can be established. Process affinity can link server processes with processor sets. Cache affinity can link database caches with processor sets. Data affinity can link incoming data to processor sets. | 11-17-2011 |
20110270775 | MANIFEST DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD - There is provided a method and system of determining efficient routing of a mail piece in a delivery system for delivering mail pieces. The system determines whether or not the mail piece requires urgent delivery. The system determines a weight of the mail piece. Also, the system determines, based on the urgency determination and the weight determination, a most cost-effective place in which to introduce the mail piece into the delivery system. | 11-03-2011 |
20110264677 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DIGITAL EVIDENCE ANALYSIS AND AUTHENTICATION - The system disclosed provides an efficient mechanism for acquiring email and other data from remote systems in a forensically sound manner. Email for users can be requested by investigators from email servers across the country. It is then be automatically acquired and made available to the examiner, subject to approval, and any others he deems have a need-to-know on a web based system. The data can be searched and bookmarked, and the bookmarks shared. Data can also be uploaded manually and combined with email data in the searching, bookmarking, and sharing. | 10-27-2011 |
20110191135 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CREATING ON-DEMAND ROUTES FOR POWERED INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES - Systems and methods for creating in a facility on-demand routes for powered industrial vehicles to transport cargo efficiently. In one embodiment, an on-demand route generation module receives receiving a request to move cargo. The module analyzes data about the current location, the current tasking, and the driver availability of PIVs in operation. Based on the information, the module creates an on-demand route through the facility and sends a notification to an assigned PIV to pick up the cargo and carry it on the defined on-demand route. | 08-04-2011 |
20110186459 | INTEGRATED DOCUMENT HOLDER AND RFID TAG - An integrated document holder and RFID tag device is disclosed herein. The document holder may take the form of a shipping envelope which is affixed to an item and carries documents related to the item such as a packing list or shipping manifest. The device includes an RFID tag integrated into the shipping envelope which allows both the RFID tag and the shipping envelope to be affixed to the item in a single labor effort. | 08-04-2011 |
20110172973 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ANALYZING EQUIPMENT FAILURES AND MAINTENANCE SCHEDULES - A computer implemented method may be used for analyzing equipment failures and maintenance schedules. An equipment maintenance system generates a model of equipment and components of each piece of equipment. In one embodiment, the model is a tree representation. The equipment maintenance system may then determine estimated failure information for each component based on a selected statistical model. The equipment maintenance system may also generate a maintenance schedule based on the determined estimated failure information for each component of the equipment. In one embodiment, the equipment maintenance system displays the equipment maintenance information. | 07-14-2011 |
20110074952 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF DETECTING A BLOCKED APERTURE IN LETTER OR FLAT MAIL IMAGE SENSOR - Embodiments include systems and methods of detecting a blocked aperture in an image device. In certain embodiments, the system and method is used in mail processing of letters and flats. In certain embodiments, the image sensor captures an image of the front of an item. If the aperture of the image sensor is obstructed, a void will appear on the image of the item. The system can detect the void and increment an alarm count until a pre-defined threshold is reached wherein the system signals an alarm so that the blockage can be removed and the affected items can be re-introduced for correct processing. In another embodiment, images obtained when the aperture is expected to be clear of any items. | 03-31-2011 |
20110061428 | CLUSTER BOX MAIL DELIVERY UNIT HAVING SECURITY FEATURES - An apparatus and method for enhancing the security of a cluster box unit which includes a protective enclosure, internal cabinetry, door, hinge and locking system. The cluster box unit may also include outgoing mail compartment doors that are heavily constructed and rigidly reinforced, with the locks carried thereon protectively shielded, and with the extensible bolts of these locks being engaged by brackets that not only lock the outgoing mail compartment doors but also the master loading doors of the cluster box units. The cluster box unit may also include master loading doors are provided with hinges that extend the full height of the doors—hinges that are defined by pivotally interfitting elements of extrusions that very sturdily mount the master loading doors, that prevent prying or bending the doors in the vicinities of their hinges. The interfitting elements of the hinge extrusions also permit the doors to be installed on their surrounding door frames quickly and easily, and permit one or both of the master loading doors to be quickly and easily removed for service or replacement when necessary. | 03-17-2011 |
20100308111 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING LITIGATION HOLD MATERIALS - Embodiments include systems and methods for tracking litigation hold materials. In one embodiment, a litigation hold system is used to track an organization's progress in preserving materials relevant to a litigation matter. In one embodiment, the litigation hold system provides an automated system for sending litigation hold notices and tracking individuals' responses to the received litigation hold notice. The litigation hold system may further automatically send reminder notices to remind an individual of his continuing obligation to comply. The litigation hold system may automate the process of sending release notices once the obligation to preserve materials for the litigation has ended. | 12-09-2010 |
20100282571 | TWO-PIECE WEDGE DIVERTER GATE - A diverter gate generally includes a bracket which connects to an actuator and a flag which releasably engages with the bracket via cooperating engagement members. The cooperating engagement members may be symmetrical, and may comprise one or more tabs and one or more corresponding receptacles. The tabs may be dimensioned slightly larger than the receptacles so as to create a positive interference fit. The bracket and the flag may include openings to receive a fastener extending substantially across the length of the gate. Tightening the fastener compresses the tab(s) against the receptacle(s) to result in a compression fit between the flag and the bracket. The two-piece design allows the flag to be easily removed and reversed or replaced, without disassembling or removing the bracket or the actuator. | 11-11-2010 |
20100230328 | INTELLIGENT BARCODE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods using intelligent barcodes for processing mail, packages, or other items in transport are provided. Systems and methods allowing end-to-end visibility of a mail stream by uniquely identifying and tracking mail pieces are also provided. Systems and methods include the use of standardized intelligent barcodes on mail pieces, a seamless process for mail acceptance, continuous mail piece tracking, and feedback on mail quality in real time. In one embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to provide enhanced acceptance, sorting, tracking, address correction, forwarding, and delivery services. In another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow a mailing service to identify a mail piece as undeliverable-as-addressed (UAA) and determine a final disposition for the mail piece. In yet another embodiment, systems and methods using intelligent barcodes allow mailers more visibility into the mail stream and information on the quality of their mailings. | 09-16-2010 |
20100206945 | CLUSTER BOX MAIL DELIVERY UNIT HAVING SECURITY FEATURES - An apparatus and method for enhancing the security of a cluster box unit which includes a protective enclosure, internal cabinetry, door, hinge and locking system. The cluster box unit may also include outgoing mail compartment doors that are heavily constructed and rigidly reinforced, with the locks carried thereon protectively shielded, and with the extensible bolts of these locks being engaged by brackets that not only lock the outgoing mail compartment doors but also the master loading doors of the cluster box units. The cluster box unit may also include master loading doors are provided with hinges that extend the full height of the doors—hinges that are defined by pivotally interlining elements of extrusions that very sturdily mount the master loading doors, that prevent prying or bending the doors in the vicinities of their hinges. The interfitting elements of the hinge extrusions also permit the doors to be installed on their surrounding door frames quickly and easily, and permit one or both of the master loading doors to be quickly and easily removed for service or replacement when necessary. | 08-19-2010 |
20100138389 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR UPDATING A DATA STORE USING A TRANSACTION STORE - Embodiments include systems and methods for updating a data store in a distributed data store system. In one embodiment, a previous version of a data store is compared to an updated version of the data store in order to create a transaction store. The transaction store may include a cryptographic hash indicative of the previous version of the data store and a cryptographic hash indicative of the updated version of the data store. The transaction store further indicates data differences between the previous and updated versions of the data stores. The transaction store may then be used to update data stores at other locations. | 06-03-2010 |
20090216371 | DYNAMIC INVENTORY DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM - Embodiments include systems and methods of delivery DVDs, games, other electronically or computer readable media, or other high value items through the mail or via any other delivery service for return and redelivery to a second customer. For example, in one embodiment, items returned by a first customer are identified during processing of a container or mailer containing the item, the second customer is determined, a new address label is affixed to the container, and the item is delivered to the second customer. | 08-27-2009 |
20090212098 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A REUSABLE MAILER - Embodiments of an envelope that is reusable and allows for efficient rerouting between intended recipients of the item in the envelope are disclosed. The envelope may be constructed of a durable material and may have various features that allow the envelope to be automatically sent via a carrier from one recipient to another. Thus, when a recipient of the item returns the envelope via the carrier, the envelope can be correctly processed and forwarded on to the next recipient with the same item, without the need of sending the item back to a return center or other entity. The term envelope generally includes envelopes, mailers and packages. Embodiments may include an envelope that facilitates multiple sorting and delivery cycles by the delivery service without the need for reconfiguration, repair, or replacement of the envelope. | 08-27-2009 |
20090210243 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING ELECTRONIC CUSTOMS FORM - Methods and systems are provided for creating and processing an electronic customs declaration manifest. These methods and systems include creating a image of the customs declaration form, converting the image of the customs declaration form into an electronic customs manifest, and transferring the electronic customs manifest to a database. In addition, a image is may also be forwarded electronically to a remote encoding center, where the customs declaration form data is manually converted into an electronic file for storing in a database. Customs services of both the originating and destination countries review the declared information stored in the database. When the international mailpiece arrives at the border, domestic customs service may find a matching unique identifiers on the international mailpieces and customs declaration forms stored in the database. The service provider may load an international mailpiece into an airplane, if a domestic customs service allow the international mailpiece having a matching unique identifier to leave the originating country. A service provider may return an international mailpiece to the domestic customs service if an international mailpiece is not allowed to leave the originating country. | 08-20-2009 |
20090145956 | CLUSTER BOX MAIL DELIVERY UNIT HAVING SECURITY FEATURES - An apparatus and method for enhancing the security of a cluster box unit which includes a protective enclosure, internal cabinetry, door, hinge and locking system. The cluster box unit may also include outgoing mail compartment doors that are heavily constructed and rigidly reinforced, with the locks carried thereon protectively shielded, and with the extensible bolts of these locks being engaged by brackets that not only lock the outgoing mail compartment doors but also the master loading doors of the cluster box units. The cluster box unit may also include master loading doors are provided with hinges that extend the full height of the doors—hinges that are defined by pivotally interfitting elements of extrusions that very sturdily mount the master loading doors, that prevent prying or bending the doors in the vicinities of their hinges. The interfitting elements of the hinge extrusions also permit the doors to be installed on their surrounding door frames quickly and easily, and permit one or both of the master loading doors to be quickly and easily removed for service or replacement when necessary. | 06-11-2009 |
20090132437 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND COMPUTER READABLE MEDIA CONTAINING INSTRUCTIONS FOR EVALUATING THE RETURN ON DIRECT MAIL MARKETING AND FOR EVALUATING SHIPPING SERVICES - A method, system, and computer readable medium including instructions for evaluating and promoting a direct mail marketing campaign includes receiving the cost associated with the campaign and financial information for the campaign. The return on investment is calculated for the direct mail marketing campaign based on the cost and financial information. The return on investment is utilized to evaluate and promote the campaign. | 05-21-2009 |
20090064817 | TWO-PIECE WEDGE DIVERTER GATE - A diverter gate generally includes a bracket which connects to an actuator and a flag which releasably engages with the bracket via cooperating engagement members. The cooperating engagement members may be symmetrical, and may comprise one or more tabs and one or more corresponding receptacles. The tabs may be dimensioned slightly larger than the receptacles so as to create a positive interference fit. The bracket and the flag may include openings to receive a fastener extending substantially across the length of the gate. Tightening the fastener compresses the tab(s) against the receptacle(s) to result in a compression fit between the flag and the bracket. The two-piece design allows the flag to be easily removed and reversed or replaced, without disassembling or removing the bracket or the actuator. | 03-12-2009 |
20090037297 | COST AND CONTRIBUTION SALES CALCULATOR AND METHOD - Embodiments consistent with the invention include a system | 02-05-2009 |
20080308623 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING SHIPMENT OF ITEMS UTILIZING RFID-TAGS - A system and method of tracking a plurality of items during transfer from a source location to a destination. One embodiment is a method comprising associating information identifying the plurality of items with a radio frequency (RF) tag that identifies a carrier unit. The method further comprises storing said associated information in at least one of the RF tag and a computer memory. The method further comprises communicating with the RF tag to identify the location of the carrier unit. The method further comprises identifying the location of at least one of the plurality of items based at least in part on the location of the carrier unit. Another embodiment is a system configured to perform an embodiment of the method. | 12-18-2008 |
20080221727 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF IDENTIFYING SHIPPING ANOMALIES - Systems and method of identifying shipping anomalies are provided. One anomaly detection module is configured to access data related to items in a delivery environment and determine the occurrence of anomalies based on the accessed data. The detected anomalies are evaluated with other accessed data to identify source, destination or routing errors and to correct same. | 09-11-2008 |