Method and system for prepaid inserter machine

Details Method and system for prepaid inserter machine Method and system for prepaid inserter machine

2007-10-09

2007-10-09

Tran, Khoi H. (Department: 3651)

Data processing: generic control systems or specific application

Specific application, apparatus or process

Article handling

C700S222000, C700S223000

Reexamination Certificate

active

11071081

ABSTRACT:
In a mail inserting machine that a user uses to process mailpieces for a prepaid quantity, a counter is installed in an inaccessible manner to keep count of the processed mailpieces. The machine is disabled when the prepaid quantity is used up. In order to allow the user to pay for additional quantity, the manufacturer embeds a finite number of unlocking codes in the machine. Each code for the particular machine is activated in sequence. When the user needs to replenish the inserter counter, he calls the service counter and gives his machine serial number. The user is given the next unlocking code after he agrees to pay for the additional amount. The user can enter the code to unlock the additional preset quantity. The same code will not work again. In a further embodiment, the rate of mailpiece processing is also monitored to ensure that design limitations are not exceeded. The machine is automatically shut down when a predetermined processing rate is exceeded.

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