JP2002518754A - Technology for generating indicia indicating payment by postal funds - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) Summary The payment system includes a stamping device (103) and a postal security device (PSD) (130) storing postal funds for payment to be replenished through electronic fund transfer. For example, this payment system works differently than merely paying for postal funds, such as the supply of lottery tickets. When paying postal funds, the stamping device (103) is programmed to generate an indicia (400) on a continuous stamp (403). This indicium serves to prove postage payment after subtracting the applicable postage amount to be paid from the postal funds stored in PSD (130). When supplying the lottery ticket, the stamping device (103) connects to the lottery server using a communication network, and sends transaction data relating to the selected lottery number (1207), payment of the lottery participation registration, etc. to the lottery server. Programmed to send. Therefore, the payment system subtracts the payment amount corresponding to the lottery participation registration from the postal funds stored in the PSD (130). Instead, the payment system receives data about the indicia (1300) from the lottery server. Next, the stamping device (103) prints a seal (1300) on the continuous stamp (1303) using the received data, thereby creating a lottery ticket.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to payment systems and payment methods, and more specifically, to payments (e.g.,
The present invention relates to a system and method for producing an indicium on a medium (e.g., stamp) that serves as proof of postage.

[0002]

[Prior Art and Problems to be Solved]

It is ubiquitous to use postage meters, or mailing systems, to generate postage marks, or indicia that serve as proof of postage payment. The format of such postage indicia is specified by the post office to facilitate its inspection.

[0003] In the United States, much attention has been paid to the "Information-based Sealing Program (IBIP)" by the "United States Postal Service" (USPS), which has proposed new requirements, inter alia, for the format of postage indicia. Such new requirements have been announced, for example, in the "Open System Sealing Specification for Information-Based Sealing Program (IBIP)" dated July 23, 1997. For example, the IBIP requires that postage indicia include two-dimensional (2D) barcodes. Such barcodes contain postal information, including postage,
Represents a digital signature that authenticates the postal information based on a public key algorithm.
One such public-key algorithm, for example in some cases is the 1994 "Digital Signature Standard (DSS)" in the May 19 issue of F IPS PUB186 stated in the "Digital Signature Algorithm (DSA)".

In addition, under the IBIP, the requirements for a postal security device (PSD) that supports the generation of postage indicia are described in, for example, “Open System for Information-Based Indicia Program (IBIP)” dated July 23, 1997 Postal security device (P
SD) Specification ”. Based on the IBIP requirements, the PSD is equipped with the aforementioned digital signature in the postage indicia, pays the postal funds stored in the PSD in a secure manner and specifies the details of such postal funds. Reveal. The PSD includes a descending register and an ascending register. In a conventional manner, the descending register is used to keep track of the amount of postal funds available for payment. In contrast, ascending registers are used to keep track of the amount of postage paid. If the value of the descending register decreases below a predetermined limit over time, the PSD will no longer be able to pay postage until the descending register is reset. For example, such a reset can be performed by using a known telemeter setting (
Based on TMS) technology, it is achieved as an electronic fund transfer via a dial-up connection with a central computer facility.

[0005]

[Means for Solving the Problems]

We let PSD remember the ready-to-pay postal funds and transfer the postal funds to T
PSD can actually be a “virtual bank” because it can be replenished through MS transactions
Or it is known to act as an "electronic wallet". According to one aspect of the invention, P
A payment system incorporating SD is used to implement postal payments as well as financial transactions. For example, the payment system may establish a communication connection with a server system to conduct financial transactions with the server system. This financial transaction involves payment to a server system in exchange for a service or product. In such a case, the payment is deducted from the postal funds.
Next, the payment system sends at least first data regarding the payment amount to the server system and receives second data regarding the indicia from the server system. This indicium is printed by the payment system and serves as proof of payment or purchase.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, a payment system includes an indicium (eg,
(Postage indicia). The stamping device interacts with the PSD to account for the payment (e.g., postage) indicated by each indicium before each indicium is printed on a continuous stamp. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to secure a payment system and to drive a printhead assembly in the payment system to protect the payment system from external intrusions that fraudulently print indicia indicating payments that are not revealed in a PSD. That is. Thus, the portion of the payment system that includes the connection that carries the signal to the printhead assembly is encapsulated by the potting material. In accordance with yet another aspect of the invention, the potting material has a high thermal conductivity to help dissipate heat from the encapsulated portion, thereby preventing the portion from overheating and prolonging its life. Become.

It is another object of the present invention to avoid printing postage indicia in the prior art using fluorescent ink, which is relatively expensive. According to another aspect of the present invention, fluorescent marks may be applied to continuous stamps (which are relatively inexpensive) and postage indicia may be printed on such continuous stamps with non-fluorescent ink. The requirements of the post office to use fluorescence to determine the front and orientation of such printed postage stamped mail are met.

[0008] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a system in which, when postal data contained in a printed postage indicium is being transported to a post office for inspection, the indicia may be inconvenient (eg, rainy weather). ) To maintain the integrity (soundness) of this postal data. In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, a backup code is included on or near the postage indicia so that postal data contained in the postage indicia is not compromised. This backup code is designed to assist in the above-mentioned checks, and at least a portion of the postal data, to facilitate delivery of the mail associated with the checks.

Yet another object of the present invention is to facilitate mailing of postal stamped mail. According to yet another aspect of the present invention, the mailing destination for the same mail is first.
And a postage indicium is printed on a second stamp using the stamping device of the present invention. Preferably, the stamps are supplied in pairs. First
The display for associating the stamp with the second stamp is at least one of the first stamp and the second stamp.
Printed on one. For example, the indication may be the postal address of the mailing address and is printed on a second stamp. Since the destination zip code is, of course, part of the mailing address printed on the first stamp, the first stamp is printed on the second stamp based on such display.
The stamps can easily be matched with the stamps of the same mail and placed on the same mail piece.

[0010]

【Example】

Further objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Throughout these figures, the same reference numerals or letters are used to indicate the same features, elements, components or parts of the illustrated system.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a payment system 100 incorporating the principles of the present invention.
By way of example (but not limitation), payment system 100 is used for mailing purposes, thereby generating postage indicia on a medium (eg, continuous stamp). In this illustrative embodiment, system 100 includes a stamping device 103 and a postal security device (PSD) 130. The processor 105 in the stamping device 103 is programmed to integrate the operation of the system 100. Processor 105
A program routine containing instructions for performing this system operation is stored in memory 109. The operation unit 111 includes the following user interface:
It includes a conventionally designed dispenser mechanism for feeding a continuous stamp to the printing mechanism 115.
For example, the continuous stamp may take the form of uninterrupted tape or individual stamps, and may be glued and protected by a liner, or may have no liner or need to be wet for sticking purposes. is there. The stamp stock is made of an opaque, translucent, or transparent composition. Under the control of the processor 105, the printing mechanism 115
Prints, on the continuous stamp received from the operation unit 111, a seal serving as a proof of payment of postage in this case.

[0012] For mailing purposes, the stamping device 103, in this illustrative embodiment, includes a weighing mechanism 117 described below to weigh the mailpiece and determine the appropriate postage for the mailpiece. The stamping device 103 also includes an interface 120 for connecting to an external device (for example, an electronic scale). The weighing mechanism 117 is used to determine the weight of relatively flat and light mail pieces, while the external electronic scale is used to determine the weight of relatively bulky and heavy mail pieces. used. Further, the stamping device 103 includes:
It may also include a communication interface 125 for connecting to a personal computer (PC), workstation, or other general-purpose computer. Further, the stamping device 10
3 is a PCMCI connected to a postal security device (PSD) 130 in this case.
A and / or serial (PCMCIA / serial) interface 127 is also included. In this case, the PSD 130 is an integrated circuit (a peripheral device of the stamping device 103).
IC) cards, ie, "smart" modules.

FIG. 2A provides a cross-sectional view of the stamping device 103. As shown in FIG. 2A, the stamping device 103 includes a housing 201, a cover 203, a printed circuit board (PCB) 205,
A print head assembly 207 in the printing mechanism 115 and a continuous stamp roll (
(Shown at 211) in the operation unit 111. The stamping device 103 also includes a mail receiving tray 215, a spacer 217, and a load cell 21.
9 (both constituting the weighing mechanism 117). The mail carrier 215 has a hole 230 for inserting the mail and is securely placed on a spacer 217 that transmits the weight of the mail to a weighing device 219 (eg, a load cell). In a known manner, the weighing device 219 senses the weight of the mailpiece and outputs an electrical signal representative of the weight.
The control and data signals, including the weight signal, are transmitted to the weighing mechanism 117 and the processor 105.
The data is exchanged through a cable 232 having one end connected to the PCB 205.
The PCB 205 includes an electric circuit connected to the processor 105. Processor 105 exchanges necessary control and data signals with dispenser mechanism 209 and printhead assembly 207 via cable 235.

However, in this illustrated embodiment, the cable 235 is not secure and is susceptible to external intrusion. In particular, data and control signals exchanged between processor 105 and printhead assembly 207 via cable 235 are susceptible to interception and possible tampering. An alternative implementation that eliminates the use of the cable 235 so that such intrusion drives the printhead assembly 207 and reduces the risk of fraudulently printing postage that would otherwise not be accounted for by the PSD 130. An example is described next.

Referring to FIG. 2B, in this alternative embodiment, a printhead assembly 207 is provided on the PCB 205 near the processor 105 and is connected to the PCB 205 through pins 280. The continuous printing roll 211 is a rotary impression cylinder 2 driven by a gear assembly and a control motor, for example, a step motor (not shown).
85. When the stamp material contacts the printhead assembly 207,
The print head assembly 207 presses the stamp material against the rotary impression cylinder 285 to print on the stamp material. According to one aspect of the present invention, printhead assembly 207 (pin 2
80 and the processor 105 comprise the hard opaque potting material 28.
7 (indicated by dashed lines), for example, potted with epoxy resin, so that it is encapsulated and sealed from unwanted external intrusion. In accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, the potting material 287 is selected to be of a high thermal conductivity type such that it also acts as a heat sink to help dissipate heat from the encapsulated components. One such potting material that is particularly suitable for heat dissipation is INSULCAST 147 FR epoxy resin manufactured by Insurukast, Inc. of Roseland, NJ.

Note that any attempt to break into the pins 280 and tamper with the signals carried by the pins 280 to the printhead assembly 207 will be seen as evidence that the potting material 287 has been destroyed. Nevertheless, in order to effectively deter tampering attempts as described above, in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, signal carriers 289, such as severable wires that carry electrical signals, or carry optical signals. The optical fiber is also encapsulated in the potting material 287 and spread over the printhead assembly 207 and the processor 105 in areas of the processor that need to be protected from tampering attempts. In such an alternative embodiment, the PSD 130 may not be outside of the stamping device 103, and the hardware of the PSD 130 may be on the PCB 205, including a cryptographic processor and secure memory as described below.
Enclosed at 87 and protected from unwanted intrusion.

As shown in FIG. 2B, both ends of the signal carrier 289 terminate to a conventional design of control logic 291, which is also encapsulated with a potting material 287. In a well-known manner, the control logic 291 is configured to switch between one of two states.
Works with one. Here, the first condition is normal and undamaged (ie,
The second state corresponds to the carrier 289 being cut as a result of unwanted intrusion. In this case, the control logic 291 controls the operation of the printing apparatus 103 via the processor 105. Under normal conditions, the control logic 291 operates in the first state to maintain normal operation of the printing apparatus 103. However, if carrier 289 is destroyed in an attempt to tamper, control logic 291 will accordingly switch to the second state,
Terminate the operation of the stamping device 103, thereby preventing such tampering attempts. After that, returning the stamping device 103 to operation again may require special measures that require post office intervention.

Referring to FIG. 3, the PSD 130 is inserted into and connected to the stamping device 103.
It includes a CMCIA and / or serial (PCMCIA / serial) interface 301, a cryptographic processor 305, and a secure memory 307. PSD130
The components inside are NETARMOR VMS manufactured by VLSI Technology, Inc.
It is realized using a chipset of the type of 310 chipset or a chipset represented by smart card technology.

The secure memory 307 is a non-volatile memory that stores, among other things, information on the amount of postal funds available for payment. For mailing purposes, memory 307 includes a descending register and an ascending register. The descending register is used to keep track of the total amount of postal funds available for postage payment. In contrast, ascending registers are used to keep track of the amount of postage paid. If the value of the descending register drops below a predetermined limit over time, the system 100 will no longer be able to pay for postage until the descending register is reset.
Such a reset may be dialed up to a central computer using a modem (not shown), for example, an external modem connected to interface 120, or a built-in modem in a PC connected to interface 125. By connecting, it is achieved as an electronic fund transfer, based on the well-known telemeter setting (TMS) technique.

In this case, using the TMS technique, the user does not need to transport the PSD 130 to the post office to get permission to reset the descending register. To initiate a TMS process in system 100, a user may be required to enter a key or password into the following user interface within console 111: Verification of such a password entry ensures that the user is authorized to perform such a process. After verifying the password entry, processor 105 initiates a call through the aforementioned modem to a central computer facility (in this case, also known as a "TMS host system") to request additional postal funds. . Upon receiving this call, the TMS host system verifies the specified encrypted or digitally signed data stored in the secure memory 307 of the PSD 130 to make sure that the funds in the user's pre-funded third party escrow account are available. . After validating the encrypted or digitally signed data and determining that the escrow funds are sufficient, the TMS host system debits the user's account and, accordingly, remotely from the PSD 130 Reset the descending order register. Next, a message confirming the fund transfer is transmitted to the processor 105.

The postal funds stored in the PSD 130 can also be used in an automated teller machine (ATM),
Or refilled with an ATM card, credit card, debit card, charge card, telephone card, telephone prepaid card, or prepaid toll card on a similar machine, or with cash on a vending machine, or Private network, ATM network, electronic fund transfer (
Needless to say, it is replenished using other fund transfer techniques, including EFT, through EFT networks, the Internet, and the like.

In this particular illustrative embodiment, secure memory 307 also includes a known digital signature algorithm (DSA), a secret key, and a corresponding public key based on the DSA. Other known algorithms that replace DSA include the RSA algorithm and the elliptic curve algorithm. This public key may be made available to the public in the PSD certificate. For example, using DSA, cryptographic processor 305 signs the specified postal data with the private key to generate a digital signature included in the postage indicia. The post office also provides a PSD certificate containing the public key to the postage stamp to verify the digital signature and authenticate the postage stamp.

FIG. 4 illustrates a postage indicia 400 generated by the system 100 on a stamp 403 to serve as a postage payment certificate. The stamp 403 is the operation unit 111
Is a part of the continuous stamp supplied by the company. The indicium 400 comprises a human readable portion 405 and a machine readable portion 410. By way of example, part 4
05 includes information on the mailing date, postage, device ID identifying the system 100, originating city and zip code, postal grade, and the like. The machine readable portion 410 includes a two-dimensional barcode representing postal data required by the post office and, as described above, a digital signature that authenticates the postage indicia. Such a two-dimensional barcode can be read using an optical scanner. In this particular illustrative embodiment, 2
The three-dimensional barcode is obtained by using the well-known “Unified Symbol Display Specification” PDF417, by which the device ID for identifying the system 100, the ascending register value, the postage, the digital signature, the mailing date, the authorized postal code of the source address, Represents postal data such as a software ID that identifies application software including program routines, descending register values, PSD certificates, postal grades, and the like.

Further, according to another aspect of the present invention, a fluorescent mark (eg, a fluorescent stripe) is
After printing on a stamp in advance, a seal is printed on the stamp, or a fluorescent mark is printed together with the seal. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the fluorescent stripe 415 is printed along the edge of the stamp 403. Because of the fluorescent ink in the stripe 415, the post office will be scanning the mail with the stamp 403, as required by the post office, and the mail flow, as required by the post office. Can determine the direction of the mail. Conveniently, with the fluorescent stripe 415, the work of printing the postage indicia 400 with fluorescent ink to indicate the front and side of the mail as in the prior art (which is relatively expensive) No longer needed. That is, with the fluorescent stripe 415, the user can freely print the postage indicia 400 with non-fluorescent ink, which is relatively inexpensive. Note that the fluorescent stripe 415 may or may not be visible, depending on the fluorescent ink used.

Further, when the continuous stamp used in the stamping device 103 takes the form of an uninterrupted tape, the above-described fluorescent mark is formed by an uninterrupted stripe or a break along the edge of the tape-shaped stamp. Note also that it consists of the marked marks. If the continuous stamp used is in the form of individual stamps that are backed and spaced apart from one another, it is preferred that the fluorescent marks are pre-printed only on the individual stamps. In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, such a pre-printed fluorescent mark is placed such that the leading edge of the mark coincides with the leading edge of a postage indicium printed on a stamp.
Positioning on an individual stamp, whereby the postage indicia is correctly positioned on the stamp. To that end, an optical sensor (not shown) in the operating part 111 that is sensitive to fluorescence is used to detect the leading edge of the fluorescent mark on each stamp. Upon detecting such a leading edge, the optical sensor sends a signal to the processor 105 which then causes the printing mechanism 115 to replace the leading edge of the postage indicium with the detected leading edge of the fluorescent mark. In the following manner,
Start generating postage indicia on stamps.

In addition, the fluorescent mark may take the form of a barcode (eg, a backup code described below) representing information useful for delivering the relevant mail. To generate the postage indicia 400 on the stamp 403, the user may operate the user interface 500 of FIG. In this figure, the user interface 500 is shown as seen on the cover 203 of FIG. 2A. The user interface 500 includes a display 503, which is a liquid crystal display (LCD), and a keypad 505. For example, the display 503 is used to indicate the weight of mail processed in response to the aforementioned weight signal from the weighing mechanism 117 and information entered by the user using the keypad 505. Such information pertains to postal grade, any special services including insurance, and postage of the mail being processed.

The keypad 505 includes a numeric key for inputting numbers “0” to “9”, a CLEAR key 507 for deleting the last input, an ENTER key 509 for input,
Zero key 511 for zeroing or subtracting the weight of cradle 215 sensed by weighing device 219, SECURITY key 513 for disabling unauthorized use of system 100 using a password, current process EX exit
IT key 515, MENU key 517 that uses various menus, such as menus related to functions other than postage payment, LOA to initiate TMS fund transfer as described above
D FUND key 519, CALC key 521 to activate the calculation function, HIGH to set upper limit value to prevent inadvertent postage payment exceeding such upper limit
A VALUE key 523, a SPECIAL SERVICE key 525 for invoking special services such as insurance, certified mail, etc., a MAIL CLASS key 527 for specifying the mail grade of the mail to be processed, and a METER key 529 for starting the mailing routine. ing.

One of the above mailing routines (shown at 600) is illustrated in FIG. In response to instructions from the routine 600 stored in the memory 109, the processor 105 responds to the weight signal from the weighing mechanism 117 at step 603 by displaying the weight of the mailpiece to be processed on the display of the user interface 500. 503 is displayed. Alternatively, if the metering mechanism 117 is not used,
The user may enter the weight measured by another mechanism on keypad 505. At step 607, the processor 105 prompts for information regarding the postal grade of the mailpiece and receives such information from the user. The mail grades displayed one by one on the display 503 can be selected by the user using the MAIL CLASS key 527, and the user can enter the desired selection items displayed on the display, such as the first mail, into the ENTER field. A key 509 can be pressed for selection. At step 610, the processor 105 prompts for information about any special services for shipping and receives such information from the user. Similarly, special services, including certified mail, insurance, and the like, that can be selected by the user can be selected by the user using the SPECIAL SERVICE key 525. At step 613, the processor 105 directs input of information regarding the postal code of the postal item and receives such information from the user.

At step 615, assuming that the system 100 does not have postage information in this case, the processor 105 instructs the user to enter postage information required for mailing the mailpiece, Such information is received from the user. Otherwise, if system 100 has available postage information (e.g., from a pre-introduced rate module, external scale, or other source), processor 105 may instead replace processor 105 with postal information. Thus, the required postage is calculated based on the postage information. In step 617,
Processor 105 may include postal information signed for authentication purposes, including postage, postal zip code, postal grade information, and other information including software ID, device ID, and PSD certificates (pre-stored in memory 109). Is sent to the PSD 130.

Upon receiving such postal information, the processor 305 in the PSD 130 deducts the postage amount from the postal funds available in the descending order register in the memory 307 and, accordingly, stores the postage amount in the memory 307. In addition to the ascending register in the payout, cause the transaction. In addition, processor 305 generates a digital signature with the DSA that authenticates the received postal information, and ascending and descending register values. At step 620, the processor 105
A digital signature and ascending and descending register values are received from processor 305. At step 623, the processor 105 creates a bitmap for the printed image of the two-dimensional barcode of the machine readable portion 410 representing the required postal information (compiled based on the "Uniform Symbol Display Specification" PDF417). At step 626, processor 105 creates a second bitmap for the print image of human readable portion 405. These bitmaps are temporarily stored in the print memory space allocated to the memory 109.
At step 629, the processor 105 sends the print command to the printing mechanism 115.
Put out Therefore, the printing mechanism 115 takes out the respective bitmaps from the print memory space and prints the postage indicia 400 on the continuous stamp supplied from the dispenser in the operation unit 111.

The printing mechanism 115 with the print head assembly 207 may use various techniques to print indicia on continuous stamp paper. The first technique, known as "thermal transfer printing", involves using a thermal transfer ribbon or tape with a selected color ink applied. Using this technique, the bitmap information-based printhead assembly 207 provides selective spot heating on one side of the ribbon to provide color ink on a continuous stamp in contact with the other side of the ribbon. Transfer the desired indicia. Preferably, the transfer ink on the ribbon comprises not only a single color, for example black, but also a plurality of color inks arranged on the ribbon in a selected pattern, whereby the resulting multicolored Forgery of the seal becomes difficult. In addition, multicolor indicia may spread out the color pixels in random or predetermined locations within the indicium, and may easily spot fraud based on their location of the color pixels. Alternatively, the multicolor indicia may take on a color pattern that is not visually detectable but can be detected by public inspection, thereby effectively preventing fraud.

A second technique, known as “direct thermal printing”, involves the use of thermal stamp stock. Using this technique, the bitmap information-based printhead assembly 207 provides selective spot heating directly on the stamp material itself to achieve an indicium on the stamp material. Therefore, the main difference between the above-described thermal transfer printing and the direct thermal printing here is that the stamp material used for the direct thermal printing is intensified by the pixels of the print head assembly 207 to the heat applied to the stamp material. A color image can be generated based on the duration and / or duration. As a result, direct thermal printing requires special stamping materials to achieve the multicolor indicia described above. The need to obtain such special materials proves to be even less cost effective for any fraudulent attempt to falsify the indicia.

A third technique is based on the bitmap information and print head assembly 207.
However, it is known as "ink-jet printing" in which the ejection of various colors of ink is directly sprayed onto a stamp material so as to be controllable, thereby realizing a seal on the stamp material. This inkjet printing can easily generate the above-described multicolor indicia that prevents fraud.

If the stamp material used in the system 100 is transparent, it may be desirable to print an indicium on the other side of the continuous stamp. Importantly, the indicia printed on the continuous stamp should be such that when the printed stamp is affixed to the mail with the back side attached to the mail, the indicia can be read correctly through the stamp material. Must be a mirror image of the desired appearance on the mailpiece. Advantageously, the indicium is covered and sealed with a stamp stock, thereby protecting it from damage due to environmental conditions (eg, moisture). Further, as long as the stamp is only affixed to the mail piece, the indicia will be severely damaged if the stamp is removed from the mail piece, thereby causing fraudulent reuse of the stamp or the use of the stamp. Tampering is prevented.

If the stamp material is not transparent, a stamp is printed on the front side of the stamp material. To prevent fraudulent reuse of the stamp or tampering with the stamp, the printed stamp may be pasted on the postal item and then removed from the postal item to form tears (and thus self-destruct) It may be desirable to use an encased or sectioned stamp stock. Alternatively, it may be desirable to use a stamp material that will be stressed and deformed when the printed stamp is applied to a mail piece and then removed from the mail piece. When the stamp is deformed, the encoded image, for example, the two-dimensional barcode of the indicia portion 410 on the stamp, is no longer readable by the scanner and cannot be read, thus rendering the indicia useless.

However, with indicia printed on the front side of continuous stamps, those indicia may be exposed to water, dust, dirt, etc. when transported to a post office. As a result, the encoded image, eg, the two-dimensional barcode of the exposed indicia portion 410, may be corrupted and unintelligible when scanned at a post office. Therefore, referring to FIG. 7, the main two-dimensional barcode (70
8 (shown at 8), it may be desirable to include a backup code 705 on the stamp 710. Such a backup code is less secure and may contain less information than the primary code described above. Nevertheless, should this key code be compromised,
The code can be used to help process related mail. As shown in FIG. 7, the backup code 705 is in the form of a one-dimensional barcode, which can also be read by an optical scanner. Backup code 705
Is located on the stamp 710, far from the main code 708, and is printed to reduce the likelihood that both of those codes will be compromised.

For example, backup codes include known error correction and / or
Or based on error detection techniques (eg, Reed-Solomon error correction techniques)
There may be information on error correction or error detection for correcting or detecting errors in the main code. The primary code and backup code on the printed stamp may be used to correct primary code errors (if any) when scanned at the post office. However, depending on the actual data error correction technique used, the number of errors must not exceed a predetermined limit.
If there are too many errors in the primary code to correct, but use the backup code to detect those errors, visually inspect the printed stamp to see if any fraud has occurred. Action will also be determined. Both the primary code and the backup code are compromised, and if fraud is noticed, the associated mail will be rejected.

Note that the backup code 705 is fluorescent and the advantages are the fluorescent marks described above. Alternatively, in order to protect the indicia printed on the front side of the stamp from harmful environmental conditions, the stamping device 103 also supplies a transparent tape which is glued over the indicium on the stamp. Therefore, the resulting stamp is a two-layer stamp,
An indicia is sandwiched between the two layers.

It should also be noted that it is particularly preferred to use continuous stamps in the system 100 in the form of a continuous tape that is glued or needs to be wetted for application. According to one aspect of the present invention, such continuous stamps are supplied in a selected length and the resulting tape-shaped stamps, which are stamped with postage indicia, are used to ( a) sealing the mailpiece (eg, sealing over the drip lid of the package or envelope) and / or (b) enabling information other than the required postal information to be provided on the stamp. In some cases. During the mailing operation, through the user interface 500, the user can access the dispenser mechanism 20.
In some cases, the length of the tape-shaped stamp supplied in step 9 is specified. This particular length is
It depends on the size of the package, if the tape is used for sealing purposes, and / or the amount of additional information printed on the tape (varies from mail to mail). Such additional information pertains to the sender and / or recipient of the mail, and includes, for example, the recipient's account number, packing date, purchase order number, return authorization number, and the like. The additional information is displayed on the tape in a coded or uncoded format. The mail recipient provides some of such additional information (eg, a purchase order number) for the system 100 in the form of barcodes, text, and / or graphics through a communications network; Printing on Tape-shaped Stamping Paper Before Dispatch of Mail As described above, the printing apparatus 103 acts as a host apparatus and may be connected to a peripheral device in order to enhance its functionality. For example, as shown in FIG.
3 is connected. One such scale is described in U.S. Patent No. 5,615,120, issued March 25, 1997 to Schwartz et al. Such an external scale includes a weighing mechanism 117 built into the system 100 and a user
Replaces or supplements major parts of interface 500.
In addition, external scales generally provide postage information, thereby automatically performing postage calculations by the system 100.

Further, as shown in FIG. 9, the stamping device 103 also includes the communication interface 1
25 to the PC 903 in some cases. In such a configuration, it is not necessary to use the user interface 500. In particular, interface 5
The menu options available with the MENU key 517 on 00 are implemented on the PC 903. The user operates a menu option using a keyboard and / or a mouse connected to the PC 903. The processor 105 in the stamping device 103 responds to a user input command and a control command from the PC 903.

Application software may be installed on PC 903 to enhance the functionality of system 100. Such application software includes a mailer application program that allows the mailing address to be entered into PC 903 and formatted and printed on a continuous stamp. According to another aspect of the invention, the continuous stamp used in the stamping device 103 is made up of a complete set of stamps backed and arranged in pairs. FIG. 10 shows one such continuous stamp (indicated by 1001), in which, for example, the individual stamps 1003a and 1003b are paired and supplied simultaneously by the stamping device 103. Using the mailer program described above in order to print the mailing destination on the continuous stamp 1001, the user inputs a destination to the PC 903 in a designated format. For example,
Divide the destination entry into multiple fields. The central processing unit (CPU) 907 in the PC 903 sends those received fields containing data about the destination to the processor 105 in the stamping device 103. One of these fields contains the destination zip code that is part of the destination. Therefore, processor 1
05 receives the mailing destination data field as shown in step 1105 of FIG. Due to the specified order of the data fields received, the processor 10
5 easily finds the destination zip code data field and learns the destination zip code in this data field as shown in step 1107. Next, in step 1109, the processor 105 generates a bitmap for the print image of the mailing destination. In step 1111, the processor 105 causes the printing mechanism 115 to print the mailing address including the destination zip code (in this case, “98765” is exemplified) on the first stamp 1003 a.

For mailing efficiency, it is desirable to generate a postage indicia corresponding to the printed mailing destination on a second stamp 1003b that is affixed to the same mail piece along with the printed destination stamp 1003a. For that purpose, the mailer program 1100
Incorporates steps similar to those of mailing routine 600 described above. However, step 613 is no longer needed because processor 105 has learned the destination zip code from the mailing destination entry. Further, in the steps of the program 1100 corresponding to the steps 603, 607, 610, and 615 of the routine 600, the CPU 907 replaces the role of the processor 105, while the keyboard, display, and mouse of the PC 903 are connected to the user interface 500. Is replaced by the role of. In any case, at step 1115, the processor 105, in accordance with an aspect of the present invention, determines the desired postage indicia (eg, indicia 4).
00) as well as a destination postal code (eg, “98765”), a bitmap for the print image is generated. In step 1117, the processor 105 causes the printing mechanism 115 to print both the postage indicia 400 and the destination zip code indicated by 1010 on the second stamp 1003b, as shown in FIG. It should be noted that the destination zip code 1010 is printed in plain text on the stamp 1003b, as opposed to encoded and hidden in the machine readable portion 410 on the stamp 403. It is. Since the destination zip code 1010 on the stamp 1003b can be read by a human, the stamp 1003b is used for the same postal matter.
b can be easily matched with related destination stamps 1003a that include the same destination zip code, even if the stamps are fed vertically (ie, one by one) rather than in pairs. It is possible.

Further, a shipping / tracking program is installed in the PC 903, and FedEx
, UPS, Emery, etc. may also be used. The user uses the PC 903 to execute such a program, and through the communication network, hosts the respective services of the transportation companies and the usage information regarding the shipping / delivery time, collection / delivery time, the least expensive shipping method, and the like. Establish an online connection to the data center. FedEx Air Cargo Receipt, UPS
Information about facsimile or other documents associated with the shipment is also available through the online connection. Such information is intended for a stamping device 103 that creates a necessary document in the form of a stamp. In addition, information about the advertisement is also obtained through the online connection, such information is intended for the stamping device 103 printing the advertisement in text and / or graphics on the stamp.

Further, the inventors of the present application have also known that the stamp device 103 is used for generating a secure seal other than the postage seal on a stamp. The stamp with such a secure seal may represent, for example, a coupon, a notary public stamp, a certificate stamp, or the like. The information required to generate a secure indicium is downloaded over the communication connection from a host system that issues the indicium. Like postage indicia 400, the secure indicium also includes an encryption or encryption that includes a human readable portion of the indicia in plain text and a digital signature that authenticates the selected data (and thus the indicium). A machine readable portion representing the selected data to be decoded is included.

In addition, the inventors note that the PSD 130 in the payment system 100 can store the ready-to-pay postal funds and replenish the postal funds through the aforementioned TMS transaction, so that the PSD 130 can actually It is also known to act as a "bank" or "electronic wallet". Thus, in accordance with yet another aspect of the present invention, payment system 100 may be used to implement a financial transaction other than payment of postage. For example, using an external modem, payment system 100 establishes a connection through a communication network to a server system connected to the communication network. The server system then engages in a financial transaction with the system 100 through the connection. This financial transaction transfers a portion of the postal funds stored in the PSD 130 as payment to a secure vault (e.g., secure non-volatile memory) in the server system, downloads data regarding indicia for the system 100, Put the indicia on a medium (eg, continuous stamp)
Will be printed. This transaction data is exchanged by a protocol similar to the well-known protocol of TMS transactions, where system 100 acts as a TMS host system that would otherwise be used, and the server system acts as a postage meter. Fulfill. The resulting printed indicium indicates the payment, and the indicium contains information about the product or service to which the user has been entitled to make the payment and receive.

For example, the server system described above may provide a national lottery service using a communication network. In this case, the system 100 includes the interface 1
Connected to an external modem through 20 and programmed to use this lottery service. In order to realize the lottery participation registration, the user must use the system 1
At 00, a menu is invoked by pressing the MENU key 517 of the user interface 500, from which the user selects a routine for the lottery service. Upon receiving an instruction from such a routine, the processor 105
As shown in step 1205 of FIG. 12, the user is instructed to input a desired number for registration of lottery participation on the display 503. In response, the user uses the keypad 505 to enter the selected lottery number.

In step 1207, the processor 105 stores those received lottery numbers in the memory 109. In step 1210, the processor 1
According to 05, the processor 305 in the PSD 130 subtracts a certain amount from the descending register value and increments the ascending register value by the same amount to pay for the lottery entry registration, causing such a transaction. At step 1213, processor 105 instructs to enter a personal identification number (PIN) and receives such a PIN from the user for the following reasons. At step 1215, processor 105 uses an external modem to communicate over a communication network.
Establish a connection with the server system. At step 1220, the processor 1
05 sends these stored transaction data relating to the lottery number, payment amount, and PIN to the server system through the established connection. Such transaction data may be signed, certified, and / or encrypted for security purposes to ensure that it is authentic and non-rejective.

Upon receiving the transaction data, the server system increases the funds stored in the secure vault by the payment amount. Note also that such vaults are designed at the post office, depending on PSD requirements, and, like PSDs, consist of descending and ascending registers. The funds recorded in the vault are audited at the post office and may be returned as cash. The server system encrypts the received PIN using a known encryption algorithm, and then sends data relating to the indicia including the encrypted PIN to the system 100. In step 1223, the processor 10
5, the printing mechanism 115 prints the indicia on the continuous stamp based on the received data. The resulting printed stamp indicates the payment for the lottery entry registration and also includes a stamp on the entry registration that gives the user the right to redeem the prize for cash if the lottery is won. Contains information.

FIG. 13 illustrates one of the above printed stamps (shown at 1303) serving as a lottery ticket obtained from the above transaction. As shown in FIG. 13, similarly to the seal 400 on the seal 403, the seal 13 on the seal 1303.
00 includes a human readable portion 1305 and a machine readable portion 1310. For example, the human readable portion 1305 may include information about a selection number for registration of lottery participation, a registration date, a ticket price, a transaction number, and the like in plain text. Machine-readable part 13
10 includes, in addition to information similar to human readable information, an encryption PIN, a public key, and a digital signature that authenticates the barcode data based on a known public key algorithm (eg, the aforementioned DSA). It may include a two-dimensional PDF417 barcode to represent.

If the stamp 1303 is a winning ticket and the stamp is presented to the lottery administration and a corresponding prize is requested, the lottery administration verifies the digital signature using the public key, and Code data, and thus stamp 1303, may be authenticated based on a public key algorithm. Once this prize is claimed, stamp 13
It should be pointed out that the digital signature unique to 03 is stamped. That is, a copy of the stamp 1303 generated by fraudulent copying is useless. However, fraudulent attempts by a criminal to claim a prize using a fraudulent copy of the stamp 1303 in front of the legitimate owner of the original stamp, or using a stolen or lost original stamp In order to prevent this, the holder of this stamp, or a copy of that stamp, must provide a PIN which may have been entered during the lottery registration transaction when first presenting the stamp for award. Must be provided to the governing body. On the other hand, the lottery administration reads the encrypted PIN from the machine-readable portion 1310 of the presented stamp and decrypts the PIN using a corresponding decryption algorithm. The resulting PIN is checked against the PIN provided by the stamp holder. If these two PINs match each other, it is determined that the stamp holder is a valid winner.

The above description merely illustrates the principles of the invention. Therefore, it is needless to say that those skilled in the art can devise various modifications or variations that are different from the exemplary embodiments described herein and fall within the scope defined by the appended claims. For example, in the disclosed embodiment, each of the machine-readable portions 410 and 1310 illustratively comprises a two-dimensional PDF417 barcode representing information. However, other barcodes such as one-dimensional barcodes; symbols such as data matrix symbols based on "International Symbol Display Specification-Data Matrix" ( AIM International Technical Specifications , AIM International, 1996); Of course, the same information can alternatively be represented using stack code.

In addition, the disclosed techniques for conducting financial transactions (eg, using postal funds to register for a lottery) include the purchase, payment, or purchase of game tickets, theater admission tickets, gift certificates, money orders, and the like. It goes without saying that it has many other uses, including performing any other transaction with a document that acts as a proof of advance payment.

Further, in the disclosed embodiment, during the financial transaction, the person performing the financial transaction provides the PIN, and later the person's identity is verified.
Of course, for identification purposes, the person can provide personal data about the person's biometrics, such as the retinal pattern, DNA composition, fingerprints, etc., rather than the PIN.

Finally, an illustrative embodiment of the present invention is disclosed herein in the form of separate functional blocks performing various data processing functions. These functional blocks may be implemented in various ways and in various combinations using logic circuits and / or appropriately programmed processors, as is well known in the art.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a payment system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a printing device in the system of FIG.

FIG. 2B shows an alternative arrangement for a stamping device.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a postal security device in the system of FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a stamp with a postage indicia generated by the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 shows a user interface in the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a process for generating the stamp of FIG. 4;

FIG. 7 includes a backup code in addition to the postage stamp, FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a stamp generated by the system of FIG.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a first configuration with the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a second configuration with the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a view showing a stamp material containing a pair of stamps used in the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 11 is a flow chart illustrating a process for printing a mailing address on a first stamp and printing a postage indicium on a second stamp related to the postage indicium.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a process for conducting a secure financial transaction using the system of FIG.

13 is a diagram showing a stamp generated by the system of FIG. 1 and serving as a lottery ticket.

[Procedural Amendment] Submission of translation of Article 34 Amendment of the Patent Cooperation Treaty

[Submission date] May 31, 2000 (2000.5.31)

[Procedure amendment 1]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] Claims

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

[Claims]

29. A a payment device for generating indicia indicate to card, in response to at least one of the signals, and the print head assembly for printing a pre-Symbol card indicia, carrying the signal to the print head assembly A sensor for detecting intrusion into a connection line, wherein at least a part of the sensor and the connection line are sealed with a potting material, and the operation of the print head is terminated when the intrusion is detected. An apparatus characterized in that:

30. The sensor comprises a carrier carrying the second signal, the carrier device of claim 29, wherein the provided closer to the connecting line.

31. The second signal is an electrical signal, also the carrier device of claim 30, wherein the including single conductor.

32. The method according to claim 31, wherein the second signal is an optical signal, and the carrier is:
The apparatus of claim 30 , comprising an optical fiber.

33. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein said potting material is characterized by containing an epoxy resin.

34. An apparatus for generating a postage indicium, comprising: a dispenser mechanism for supplying a medium and printing a fluorescent mark on the medium; and a printing apparatus for printing a non-fluorescent postage indicium on the medium. A device comprising: a mechanism.

35. The medium according to claim 3, characterized in that it consists of a continuous stamp
An apparatus according to claim 4 .

36. The printing mechanism according to claim 34, wherein said fluorescent mark nor the postage indicium, characterized in that printed on the medium.

37. The apparatus according to claim 34 , wherein said fluorescent mark is printed before said postage indicia.

38. The apparatus according to claim 34 , wherein said fluorescent marks take the form of stripes.

39. The apparatus according to claim 34 , wherein said fluorescent mark takes the form of a bar code representing information.

40. The apparatus according to claim 34, wherein the printed postage indicia is located on the medium by the location of the fluorescent mark.

41. The fluorescent mark according to claim 3, wherein said fluorescent mark is invisible.
An apparatus according to claim 4 .

42. An apparatus for providing a postage indicia indicating postage payment, comprising: a first machine readable portion and a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion comprises: Moving away from a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion represents postal data, and wherein the second machine readable portion comprises:
A processor that generates a postage indicia to represent second data that restores at least a portion of the postal data in the event of corruption of the first machine-readable portion; and setting the postage indicia on a medium. A device comprising: a mechanism.

43. The apparatus according to claim 42 , wherein said second data includes said at least a portion of said postal data.

44. The apparatus according to claim 42 , wherein said second data includes a code for correcting at least one error in said postal data.

45. The apparatus of claim 42 , wherein said second data includes a code for detecting at least one error in said postal data.

46. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein said first machine readable portion includes a bar code.

47. The apparatus of claim 46, wherein said bar code is a two-dimensional bar code.

48. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein said second machine readable portion includes a bar code.

49. The apparatus according to claim 48, wherein said barcode is a one-dimensional barcode.

50. An apparatus for supplying a continuous stamp, comprising: a two-dimensional bar code indicating an address on a first portion of said continuous stamp and indicating payment of postage.
A postage indicia of the card on a second portion of the continuous stamp, a mechanism for attaching the first portion and the second portion to a postal matter, and attaching the first portion to the second portion. A processor that generates at least one display to be associated and sets the display in at least one of the first part and the second part.

51. The display apparatus of claim 50, wherein the human is readable.

Claims52The display is set in the second part, and the display is
Wherein information about at least a part of the address is included. 50 The described device.

53. The information apparatus of claim 52, wherein the associated zip code of the address.

54. A method for use in stamp device having a housing to pay at least one continuous stamp rolls, the data relating to payments amount due, say outside the accounting unit of the stamp device, the accounting unit the stored funds, supply and process to reduce only the second amount determined by the previous Ki支 amount due, and producing a signal representing at least one image of the front Ki支 payment shown to card marks, the continuous stamp roll process and, in response to said signal, method characterized in that at least the image of the previous SL card indicia and a step of printing on the continuous stamp roll.

55. The method according to claim 54 , wherein said second amount is equal to said payment amount.

56. A pre-SL card method of claim 54, wherein the said applying the print image, further comprising the step of determining the weight of the postal indicia.

57. At least on the basis of the weight, method of claim 56, wherein the front further comprises the step of determining the Ki支 amount due of the mailpiece.

58. The method according to claim 54 , wherein said continuous stamp roll is supplied in a selected length.

59. The selected length The method of claim 58, wherein the determined by the size of the previous SL card said mailpiece to give a print image of the indicia.

60. At least one of i menu <br/> over di different from the image of the previous SL card indicia, said printed on continuous stamp roll, and the length of the selected is, the selection image 59. The method of claim 58 , wherein the size is determined by:

61. The method according to claim 60 , wherein the address information is contained in an image different from the image of the indicium .

62. The continuous stamp is a transparent, adheres to the selected side is subject, also claim 54, wherein printing the image before Symbol certificate mark on the selected side the method of.

63. The said image before Symbol card indicia method of claim 54, wherein the a plurality of elements, i.e., at least two elements having different colors on.

64. A method used by a server to conduct a transaction with a device for purchasing a ticket for an event, the method comprising establishing a communication connection with the device, and at least for payment of the ticket. First information on the fund transfer of
Receiving, from the device, second information regarding at least one preference for venting
And third information relating to a printable indicium serving as proof of said payment of said ticket.
Providing the information.

65. The method of claim 64 , wherein the indicia indicates at least a payment amount.

66. The method of claim 64, wherein said indicia comprises a machine readable portion.

67. The method according to claim 64, wherein said machine readable portion comprises a bar code.

68. The method according to claim 67, wherein said barcode is a two-dimensional barcode.

69. The method according to claim 64 , wherein said indicia includes selection information regarding the purchaser .

70. The method according to claim 64, wherein said indicia selection information is encrypted.

71. The method according to claim 66 , wherein said selection information includes information on biometrics.

72. The method of claim 66, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about a digital signature.

73. The method of claim 64 , wherein the transaction is related to a lottery entry registration.

74. The method of claim 64, wherein further comprising the step of recording the capital amount to obtain use.

75. The method of claim 64, wherein further comprising the step of recording the funds paid.

76. A method for use in an apparatus that includes a printhead assembly that prints a postage indicium indicating payment of postage in response to at least one signal, the connection carrying the signal to the printhead assembly. Providing a sensor near a line; encapsulating at least a portion of the sensor and the connection line using a potting material; and using the sensor to detect any intrusion into the connection line. And terminating the operation of the printhead if an intrusion is detected .

77. A method for use in an apparatus for generating a postage indicium, comprising: supplying a medium and printing a fluorescent mark on the medium; and providing a non-fluorescent postage indicium on the medium. Printing. A method comprising:

78. The method of claim 77 , wherein said fluorescent marks are printed with said postage indicia.

79. The method of claim 77 , wherein said fluorescent mark is printed before said postage indicia.

80. The method of claim 77 , wherein said fluorescent marks take the form of stripes.

81. The method of claim 77 , wherein said fluorescent marks take the form of barcodes representing information.

82. The method of claim 77 , further comprising the step of positioning said printed postage indicia on said media by the location of said fluorescent mark.

83.] claims, characterized in that said fluorescent marking is invisible 7
7. The method according to 7 .

84. A method for providing a postage indicia indicating postage payment, comprising: a first machine readable portion and a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion comprises: Moving away from a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion represents postal data, and wherein the second machine readable portion comprises:
Generating a postage indicia to represent second data that restores at least a portion of the postal data in the event of corruption of the first machine readable portion; and setting the postage indicia on a medium. A method comprising:

85. The method according to claim 84 , wherein said second data comprises said at least a portion of said postal data.

86. The method according to claim 84 , wherein said second data includes a code for correcting at least one error in said postal data.

87. The method according to claim 84 , wherein said second data includes a code for detecting at least one error in said postal data.

88. The method according to claim 84, wherein said first machine readable portion includes a bar code.

89. The method according to claim 88, wherein said barcode is a two-dimensional barcode.

90. The method according to claim 84, wherein said second machine readable portion comprises a bar code.

91. The method according to claim 90, wherein said barcode is a one-dimensional barcode.

[92. A method for use in apparatus for supplying a continuous stamp, the address in the first part of the continuous stamp, also two-dimensional showing the payment of postage barcode
Setting the postage indicia of the code on a second portion of the continuous stamp, attaching the first portion and the second portion to a postal matter, and attaching the first portion to the second portion. A method comprising: generating at least one display to be associated; and setting the display to at least one of the first part and the second part.

93. The method of claim 92 , wherein said indication is human readable.

Claims94The display is set in the second part, and the display is
Wherein information about at least a part of the address is included. 92 The described method.

95. The method of claim 94 , wherein said information relates to a zip code of said address.

[Procedure amendment 2]

[Document name to be amended] Statement

[Correction target item name] 0035

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

If the stamp material is not transparent, a stamp is printed on the front side of the stamp material. To prevent fraudulent reuse of the stamp or tampering with the stamp, the printed stamp may be affixed to the mail and then removed from the mail, resulting in fragments (and thus self-destruct or It may be desirable to use perforated or sectioned stamp stock. Alternatively, it may be desirable to use a stamp material that will be deformed when subjected to the force of removal from the mail piece after applying the printed stamp to the mail piece. When the stamp is transformed, the encoded image,
For example, the two-dimensional barcode of the indicia portion 410 on the stamp is no longer readable by the scanner and cannot be read, thus rendering the indicia useless.

[Procedure amendment 3]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] FIG.

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG. 11

[Procedure amendment 4]

[Document name to be amended] Drawing

[Correction target item name] FIG.

[Correction method] Change

[Correction contents]

FIG.

────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── [Continuation of summary] The device (103) uses the received data to print an indicium (1300) on a continuous stamp (1303) and thereby creates a lottery ticket.

Claims (99)

[Claims] 1. A housing for accommodating at least one continuous stamp roll, a dispenser mechanism for supplying the continuous stamp roll, and data relating to a postage payment amount are transmitted to an external accounting unit and stored in the accounting unit. An interface for reducing the funded amount by a second amount determined by the postage payment; a processor for generating a signal representing at least one image of a postage indicia indicating the postage payment; and responsive to the signal. And a printing mechanism for printing at least the image of the postage indicia on the continuous stamp roll. 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said second amount is equal to said payment amount. 3. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a weighing device housed in said housing. 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said continuous stamp roll takes the form of an uninterrupted tape. 5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the continuous stamp roll is glued. 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said continuous stamp roll is supplied in a selected length. 7. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the selected length is determined by the size of the mail piece on which the printed image of the postage indicium is to be placed. 8. The at least one selected image different from the image of the postage indicia is printed on the continuous stamp roll, and the selected length is determined by a size of the selected image. The apparatus according to claim 6, wherein 9. The apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the selected image includes address information. 10. The stamp of claim 1, wherein the continuous stamp is transparent, a selected side of the stamp is adhered to a mail piece, and an image of the postage indicia is printed on the selected side. Equipment. 11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image of the postage indicia includes a plurality of elements, at least two of the elements having different colors. 12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the continuous stamp is made of a material that breaks down under pressure. 13. The device of claim 12, wherein said material includes at least one hole. 14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the continuous stamp comprises a material that deforms under pressure. 15. A payment system for performing a transaction with a server with a transaction amount, wherein the interface stores a postal fund deducted by the transaction amount and establishes a communication connection with at least an accounting unit for paying postage. A processor for communicating at least first data relating to the transaction amount to the server via the communication connection and receiving second data relating to the indicia from the server; and transmitting the indicium to the medium based on the received data. A system comprising: a mechanism for displaying on the top; 16. The system of claim 15, wherein the indicia indicates at least the transaction amount. 17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the medium comprises a continuous stamp.
The described system. 18. The system of claim 15, wherein said indicia comprises a machine readable portion. 19. The system of claim 18, wherein said machine readable portion includes a bar code. 20. The system according to claim 19, wherein said barcode is a two-dimensional barcode. 21. The system of claim 18, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about a personal identification number (PIN). 22. The system of claim 21, wherein the PIN is encrypted. 23. The system of claim 18, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about biometrics. 24. The system of claim 18, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about a digital signature. 25. The system of claim 15, wherein the transaction is related to a lottery entry registration. 26. The system according to claim 15, wherein said accounting unit comprises a postal security device (PSD). 27. The system according to claim 15, wherein the accounting unit includes a register for recording a usable amount of the postal funds. 28. The system of claim 15, wherein the accounting unit includes a register that records an amount to be paid for the postal funds. 29. An apparatus for generating a postage indicium indicating postage payment, the printhead assembly printing the postage indicium in response to at least one signal; and at least the printing of the apparatus. A potting material encapsulating a portion including the connection line that carries the signal to the head assembly, the potting material being thermally conductive to help dissipate heat from the encapsulated portion. Characteristic device. 30. The apparatus according to claim 29, wherein said potting material comprises an epoxy resin. 31. An apparatus for generating a postage indicium indicative of postage payment, the printhead assembly being responsive to at least one signal to print the postage indicia; and transmitting the signal to the printhead assembly. An apparatus for detecting an intrusion into a carrying connection line, the sensor comprising at least a part of the sensor and the connection line enclosed by a potting material. 32. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein the sensor includes a carrier that carries a second signal, the carrier being provided near the connection line. 33. The apparatus of claim 32, wherein said second signal is an electrical signal and said carrier comprises a single conductor. 34. The method according to claim 34, wherein the second signal is an optical signal, and the carrier is:
The apparatus of claim 32, including an optical fiber. 35. The device of claim 31, wherein the sensor comprises a control device that affects the operation of the device. 36. The apparatus of claim 31, wherein said potting material comprises an epoxy resin. 37. An apparatus for generating a postage indicium, comprising: a dispenser mechanism for supplying a medium and printing a fluorescent mark on the medium; and a printing apparatus for printing a non-fluorescent postage indicium on the medium. A device comprising: a mechanism. 38. The method according to claim 3, wherein the medium comprises a continuous stamp.
An apparatus according to claim 7. 39. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the printing mechanism prints both the fluorescent mark and the postage indicia on the medium. 40. The apparatus according to claim 37, wherein said fluorescent mark is printed before said postage indicia. 41. The apparatus according to claim 37, wherein said fluorescent marks take the form of stripes. 42. The apparatus according to claim 37, wherein said fluorescent mark takes the form of a bar code representing information. 43. The apparatus of claim 37, wherein the printed postage indicia is located on the media by the location of the fluorescent mark. 44. The fluorescent mark according to claim 3, wherein the fluorescent mark is invisible.
An apparatus according to claim 7. 45. An apparatus for providing a postage indicia indicating postage payment, the apparatus comprising a first machine readable portion and a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion comprises: Moving away from a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion represents postal data, and wherein the second machine readable portion
A processor that generates a postage indicia to represent second data that restores at least a portion of the postal data in the event of corruption of the first machine-readable portion; and setting the postage indicia on a medium. A device comprising: a mechanism. 46. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein said second data includes said at least a portion of said postal data. 47. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the second data includes a code that corrects at least one error in the postal data. 48. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein the second data includes a code that detects at least one error in the postal data. 49. The apparatus according to claim 45, wherein said first machine readable portion includes a bar code. 50. The apparatus according to claim 49, wherein said barcode is a two-dimensional barcode. 51. The apparatus of claim 45, wherein said second machine readable portion includes a bar code. 52. The apparatus according to claim 51, wherein said barcode is a one-dimensional barcode. 53. An apparatus for supplying a continuous stamp, comprising setting an address on a first portion of the continuous stamp and a postage indicia indicating payment of postage on a second portion of the continuous stamp, A mechanism for attaching the first part and the second part to a postal matter; and at least one display for associating the first part with the second part, wherein the first part and the second part are generated. A processor configured to set the display in at least one of the parts of: 54. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the indication is human readable. 55. The apparatus of claim 53, wherein the indication is set in the second portion, and wherein the indication includes information regarding at least a portion of the address. 56. The apparatus of claim 55, wherein the information relates to a zip code of the address. 57. A method for use in a stamping machine having a housing for accommodating at least one continuous stamp roll, wherein data relating to postage payments is communicated to an accounting unit external to said stamping machine. Reducing the fund stored in the unit by a second amount determined by the postage payment amount; generating a signal representing at least one image of a postage indicia indicating the postage payment amount; Supplying a roll; and responsive to the signal, printing at least the image of the postage indicia on the continuous stamp roll. 58. The method of claim 57, wherein said second amount is equal to said payment amount. 59. The method of claim 57, further comprising determining a weight of the mail piece that bears the printed image of the postage indicia. 60. The method of claim 59, further comprising determining the postage payment based on at least the weight of the mailpiece. 61. The method according to claim 57, wherein said continuous stamp roll is supplied in a selected length. 62. The method according to claim 61, wherein the selected length is determined by the size of the mail piece that carries the printed image of the postage indicia. 63. at least one of said postage indicia different from said image
62. The method of claim 61, wherein one selected image is printed on the continuous stamp roll, and the selected length is determined by a size of the selected image. 64. The method of claim 63, wherein said selected image includes address information. 65. The method of claim 57, wherein the continuous stamp is transparent, a selected side of the continuous stamp is adhered to the mail piece, and an image of a postage indicia is printed on the selected side. Method. 66. The method of claim 57, wherein the image of the postage indicia includes a plurality of elements, at least two of the elements having different colors. 67. A method for conducting a transaction with a server with a transaction amount, the method comprising: storing a postal fund deducted by the transaction amount and paying at least a postage; and establishing a communication connection. Communicating at least first data relating to the transaction amount to the server via the communication connection; receiving second data relating to an indicia from the server; and transmitting the indicium on a medium based on the received data. And c. Displaying on the method. 68. The method of claim 67, wherein the indicia indicates at least the transaction amount. 69. The method of claim 67, wherein said indicia comprises a machine readable portion. 70. The method of claim 69, wherein said machine readable portion comprises a bar code. 71. The method according to claim 70, wherein said barcode is a two-dimensional barcode. 72. The method of claim 69, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about a PIN. 73. The method according to claim 72, wherein the PIN is encrypted. 74. The method of claim 69, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about biometrics. 75. The method of claim 69, wherein the machine readable portion contains information about a digital signature. 76. The method of claim 67, wherein the transaction involves a lottery entry registration. 77. The method of claim 67, further comprising the step of recording an available amount of said postal funds. 78. The method of claim 67, further comprising the step of recording the amount to be paid for the postal funds. 79. A method for use in an apparatus that includes a printhead assembly that prints a postage indicia indicating payment of postage in response to at least one signal, the method comprising: a connection that carries the signal to the printhead assembly. Providing a sensor near a line; encapsulating at least a portion of the sensor and the connection line using a potting material; and using the sensor to detect any intrusion into the connection line. And a method comprising: 80. The method of claim 79, further comprising the step of detecting the intrusion to affect operation of the device. 81. A method for use in an apparatus for generating a postage indicium, comprising: supplying a medium and printing a fluorescent mark on the medium; and providing a non-fluorescent postage indicium on the medium. Printing. A method comprising: 82. The method of claim 81, wherein said fluorescent mark is printed with said postage indicia. 83. The method according to claim 81, wherein said fluorescent mark is printed before said postage indicia. 84. The method of claim 81, wherein said fluorescent marks take the form of stripes. 85. The method of claim 81, wherein said fluorescent marks take the form of barcodes representing information. 86. The method of claim 81, further comprising the step of positioning said printed postage indicia on said media by the location of said fluorescent mark. 87. The method according to claim 8, wherein the fluorescent mark is invisible.
The method of claim 1. 88. A method for providing a postage indicia indicating postage payment, comprising: a first machine readable portion and a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion comprises: Moving away from a second machine readable portion, wherein the first machine readable portion represents postal data, and wherein the second machine readable portion is
Generating a postage indicia to represent second data that restores at least a portion of the postal data in the event of corruption of the first machine readable portion; and setting the postage indicia on a medium. A method comprising: 89. The method of claim 88, wherein said second data includes said at least a portion of said postal data. 90. The method of claim 88, wherein the second data includes a code that corrects at least one error in the postal data. 91. The method of claim 88, wherein the second data includes a code that detects at least one error in the postal data. 92. The method according to claim 88, wherein said first machine readable portion comprises a barcode. 93. The method according to claim 92, wherein said barcode is a two-dimensional barcode. 94. The method of claim 88, wherein said second machine readable portion includes a bar code. 95. The method according to claim 94, wherein said barcode is a one-dimensional barcode. 96. A method for use in an apparatus for supplying a continuous stamp, comprising: an address on a first portion of the continuous stamp; and a postage indicia indicating payment of postage on a second portion of the continuous stamp. Setting the first part and the second part to a postal matter; generating at least one display that associates the first part with the second part; Setting the indication on at least one of a portion and the second portion. 97. The method of claim 96, wherein said indication is human readable. 98. The method of claim 96, wherein the indication is set in the second portion, and wherein the indication includes information regarding at least a portion of the address. 99. The method of claim 98, wherein said information relates to a zip code of said address.