U.S. patent application number 09/799843 was filed with the patent office on 2003-07-24 for system for customizing and ordering personalized postage stamps.
Invention is credited to Patton, David L., Tsaur, Allen K..
Application Number | 20030140017 09/799843 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 23412543 |
Filed Date | 2003-07-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030140017 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Patton, David L. ; et
al. |
July 24, 2003 |
System for customizing and ordering personalized postage stamps
Abstract
A system and method for customizing and ordering an official
postal product. The system includes a central authorizing computer
system for communicating with at least one remote ordering system
over a communication network. The central authorizing computer
system having a computer program for forwarding information to the
at least one remote ordering system for allowing customizing of an
image for use in an official postal product from the at least one
remote ordering system.
Inventors: |
Patton, David L.; (Webster,
NY) ; Tsaur, Allen K.; (Rochester, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Milton S. Sales
Patent Legal Staff
Eastman Kodak Company
343 State Street
Rochester
NY
14650-2201
US
|
Family ID: |
23412543 |
Appl. No.: |
09/799843 |
Filed: |
March 6, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09799843 |
Mar 6, 2001 |
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09378159 |
Aug 19, 1999 |
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09378159 |
Aug 19, 1999 |
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09359152 |
Jul 22, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/410 ;
705/408 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04N 1/00209 20130101;
H04N 1/00453 20130101; G07B 2017/00604 20130101; G07F 17/26
20130101; G07B 17/00435 20130101; H04N 1/00461 20130101; H04N
1/0014 20130101; G07B 2017/00225 20130101; G07B 17/00193 20130101;
H04N 1/00145 20130101; H04N 1/00132 20130101; G06Q 20/045 20130101;
H04N 1/00458 20130101; G06Q 20/102 20130101; H04N 1/34 20130101;
H04N 1/00188 20130101; G07B 17/00508 20130101; H04N 1/0044
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/410 ;
705/408 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/00; G07B
017/02; G06F 009/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system for customizing an official postal product, comprising:
a central authorizing computer system for communicating with at
least one remote ordering system over a communication network, said
central authorizing computer system having a computer program for
forwarding information to said at least one remote ordering system
for allowing customizing of an official postal product from said at
least one remote ordering system.
2. A system according to claim 1 wherein said at least one remote
ordering system comprises a microprocessor having communication
software.
3. A system according to claim 2 wherein said at least one remote
ordering system comprises a personal computer.
4. A system according to claim 1 wherein said information includes
instructions on how to modify an image for use on a postal product
or for ordering said customized official postal product.
5. A system according to claim 1 wherein said information includes
a list of official postal product selections.
6. A system according to claim 1 wherein said information includes
a list of acceptable criteria for image content of images that can
be used on said custom official postal product.
7. A system according to claim 1 wherein said information includes
a selection menu for allowing selection of a prestored image for
use on said custom postage.
8. A system according to claim 1 wherein said computer program
allows the uploading of a custom image from said remote ordering
system.
9. A system according to claim 7 wherein said computer program
further includes means for allowing customizing of said prestored
image at said at least one remote ordering system.
10. A system according to claim 8 wherein said computer program
further includes means for customizing of said custom image.
11. A system according to claim 9 wherein said customizing of said
prestored image includes the capability of selecting and/or
modifying the shape, size, color, or orientation of said prestored
image.
12. A system according to claim 10 wherein said customizing of said
custom image includes the capability of selecting and/or modifying
the shape, size, color, or orientation of said custom image.
13. A system according to claim 9 wherein said customizing of said
prestored image further includes the providing of text on said
custom postage.
14. A system according to claim 9 wherein said customizing of said
custom image further includes the providing of text on said custom
postage.
15. A system according to claim 1 wherein said information further
includes providing a selection of a denomination from a predefined
schedule of postal rates for said custom postage.
16. A system according to claim 15 wherein said computer program
includes automatic means for modifying said selection of a
denomination in accordance with revised postal rates.
17. A system according to claim 1 wherein said information includes
an electronic order form for completion at said remote ordering
system and electronically returning to said central authorizing
computer system.
18. A system according to claim 17 wherein said computer program
provides notification to said at least one remote ordering system
when an order on said order form has been properly or improperly
filled in.
19. A system according to claim 18 wherein said order form includes
means for providing payment for said custom postage.
20. A system according to claim 17 wherein said order form includes
information regarding contact means for allowing contacting of the
originator of the order.
21. A system according to claim 17 wherein said means includes one
of the following: phone number, address, e-mail address.
22. A system according to claim 1 wherein said computer program
further includes means for creating a receipt of said order
form.
23. A system according to claim 22 wherein said receipt includes
one or more of the following: customer order identification, order
information, facsimile of the image to be used on the custom
postage.
24. A system according to claim 8 wherein said computer program
further comprises means for notifying said remote ordering system
that the custom image submitted has been authorized for use on said
custom postage.
25. A system according to claim 24 wherein said authorization
system comprises a verification computer system for entering of an
identification number provided by said receipt for verifying
acceptance or rejection of the order.
26. A system according to claim 1 further comprising a printing
device for printing said custom postal product by said authorizing
computer system.
27. A system according to claim 26 wherein said postal product is a
postage stamp, postcard, or envelope.
28. A system according to claim 8 wherein a portion of the custom
image is combined with a prestored image.
29. A system according to claim 6 further comprising means for
manipulation of the image for use on said official postal
product.
30. A system according to claim 29 wherein said means for
manipulation of said image comprises at least one selection button
for incrementally moving the image a predetermined incremental
amount in at least one direction.
31. A system according to claim 30 wherein said incremental amount
comprises an amount from about 1% to about 5% of the size of said
image.
32. A method for ordering custom postage having a customized image
thereon, comprising the steps of: a) providing a central
authorizing computer system for communication with at least one
remote ordering system over a communication network; and b)
providing said central authorizing computer system with a computer
program for providing information to said at least one remote
ordering system for allowing ordering of custom postage from said
at least one remote ordering system.
33. A method according to claim 32 further comprising the step of:
ordering of said custom postage at said at least one remote
ordering system based on instructions and selections provided by
central authorizing computer system.
34. A method according to claim 33 wherein said various
instructions and/or selections includes an electronic order form,
further comprising the step of: filling out said electronic order
form and electronically returning said electronic order form to
said central authorizing computer system.
35. A method according to claim 34 further comprising the step of:
providing an electronic receipt to said at least one remote
ordering system by said central authorizing computer system.
36. A method according to claim 35 wherein said electronic receipt
includes one or more of the following: customer order
identification, order information, facsimile of the image to be
used on the customized postage.
37. A method according to claim 32 further comprising the step of:
reviewing a custom image at said remote computer system prior to
uploading said custom image to said central authorizing computer
system.
38. A method according to claim 32 further providing the step of:
uploading a custom image from said remote ordering system to said
central authorizing computer system.
39. A method according to claim 38 further comprising the step of:
obtaining approval to use said image on said custom postage from
said central authorizing computer system.
40. A method according to claim 39 further comprising the step of:
printing said custom postage in accordance with said electron order
form after obtaining approval from said central authorizing
computer system.
41. A method according to claim 39 further comprising the step of:
accessing said central authorizing computer to determine if
approval to use said image has been obtained.
42. A computer software product for use in ordering custom postage,
comprising a computer readable storage medium having a computer
program for use in a central authorizing computer system capable of
communication with at least one remote ordering system over a
communication network, said computer software product which when
loaded into authorizing computer system causes the authorizing
computer system to perform the step of: providing said central
authorizing computer system with a computer program for forwarding
information to said at least one remote ordering system for
allowing ordering of custom postage from said at least one remote
ordering system.
43. A computer software product according to claim 42 wherein the
computer software product further causes the computer to perform
the additional step of: ordering of said custom postage at said at
least one remote ordering system based on instructions and
selections provided by central authorizing computer system.
44. A computer software product according to claim 43 wherein said
computer software product further causes the computer to perform
the additional step of: providing an electronic receipt to said at
least one remote ordering system by said central authorizing
computer system.
45. A computer software product according to claim 42 wherein the
computer software product further causes the computer to perform
the additional step of: allowing said remote computer system to
customize images for use in official postal products.
46. A computer software product according to claim 44 wherein said
electronic receipt includes one or more of the following: customer
order identification, order information, facsimile of the image to
be used on the customized postage.
47. A computer software product according to claim 42 wherein the
computer software product further causes the computer to perform
the additional step of: reviewing a custom image at said remote
computer system prior to uploading said custom image to said
central authorizing computer system.
48. A computer software product according to claim 42 wherein the
computer software product further causes the computer to perform
the additional step of: uploading a custom image from said remote
ordering system to said central authorizing computer system in
order to obtain approval to use said image on said customized
postage.
49. A system for ordering customized postage, comprising: a central
authorizing computer system for communicating with at least one
remote ordering system over a communication network, said central
authorizing computer system having a computer program for
forwarding information to said at least one remote ordering system
for allowing custom modification of an image for use on
postage.
50. A system for customizing an official postal product,
comprising: a central authorizing computer system for communicating
with at least one remote ordering system over a communication
network, said central authorizing computer system having a computer
program for forwarding information to said at least one remote
ordering system for allowing customizing of an official postal
product from said at least one remote ordering system, and means
for manipulation of the image for use on said official postal
product.
51. A system according to claim 50 wherein said means for
manipulation of said image comprises at least one selection button
for incrementally moving the image a predetermined incremental
amount in at least one direction.
52. A system for customizing an official postal product,
comprising: a central authorizing computer system for communicating
with at least one remote ordering system over a communication
network, said central authorizing computer system having a computer
program for forwarding information to said at least one remote
ordering system for allowing customizing of an official postal
product from said at least one remote ordering system, means for
manipulation of the image for use on said official postal product
and means for producing an order receipt for order of a postal
product, said receipt having a identification bar code thereon.
53. A system according to claim 52 wherein said system further
includes a reader for reading said identification bar code so as to
provide the status of said order.
54. A system for customizing an official postal product,
comprising: a central authorizing computer system for communicating
with at least one remote ordering system over a communication
network, said central authorizing computer system having a computer
program for forwarding information to said at least one remote
ordering system for allowing customizing of an official postal
product from said at least one remote ordering system, said central
authorizing computer system having at least one prestored image
that can be used in a custom official postal product, means for
manipulation or use of at least a portion of the prestored image
for use on said custom official postal product.
55. A system for customizing an official postal product,
comprising: a central authorizing computer system for communicating
with at least one remote ordering system over a communication
network, said central authorizing computer system having a computer
program for forwarding information to said at least one remote
ordering system for allowing customizing of an official postal
product from said at least one remote ordering system, said central
authorizing computer system having at least one prestored image
that can be used in a custom official postal product, means for use
of at least a portion of the prestored image for use on said custom
official postal product thereby eliminating the need to obtain
content approval before producing of said official postal product.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/359,152, filed Jul. 22,
1999, entitled AUTHORIZING THE PRINTING OF DIGITAL IMAGES, by David
L. Patton and Gustavo R. Paz-Pujalt.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to a system used for ordering and
printing of customized official postage from a central authorizing
computer and printing system.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] U.S. Pat. No. 5,666,215 discloses a method for viewing
photographic images on a personal computer and enabling a consumer
to select images for initial printing, reprinting and ordering
related image products.
[0004] Images that can be used on a consumer's personal computer
for prints and other services can be obtained from a variety of
sources. For example, but not limited to, image files stored in
digital format on floppy disks, Picture CDs, Photo CDs, CD-ROMs
downloaded from the Internet, and negatives and prints scanned
using the consumer's own scanner and displayed on their personal
computer's display.
[0005] Images obtained from various sources are used in a number of
different image products. One of those image products are so-called
"sticker prints," which are images made on a print media having an
adhesive base and arranged so that they can be peeled off and
individually pasted onto another surface. However, these stickers
are not used in situations which require that they be "authentic"
such as postage stamps. For the purposes of this application, use
of the term "authentic" means that the image product indicates with
a high degree of certainty that the image product has been properly
authorized for its intended use.
[0006] Currently, the official postage stamps are printed using a
Gravure process. The Gravure process is capable of creating images
of very high resolution, way beyond the capabilities of most common
printers. The Gravure process is an intaglio process. It uses a
depressed or sunken surface etched into a copper cylinder to create
the image and the unetched surface of the cylinder represents
non-printing areas. The cylinder rotates in a bath of ink and the
etched area picks up the ink and transfers it to the media creating
the image. Gravure printing is considered excellent for printing
highly detailed marks or pictures. High cylinder making expense
usually limits use of Gravure rollers to long printing runs.
[0007] The Gravure process described above for printing stamps does
not lend itself to economically printing small batches of stamps in
small quantities, for example, batches from about of 10 to 1000.
Thus, providing a system which uses a Gravure printing system would
not be economically suitable in a system which permits a consumer
to choose an image and having a relatively small number of postal
products made using that image. A second problem is that not every
personal image is suitable for use as a postage stamp. That is to
say, some images might be offensive, not appropriate, or otherwise
not acceptable.
[0008] U.S. Pat. No. 5,873,605 discloses creating a postage stamp
using an electronic camera to capture an image of oneself via a
vending machine. Likewise, European Patent Application No. 0 893
787, Basington et al, discloses producing a postage stamp using an
electronic camera and a vending machine. There are several problems
that are not addressed using these methods. The first problem is
the user must go to the vending machine to produce the stamp. The
second problem is that there is no method described for checking
the content of the image to insure that the image captured is not
offensive in nature, making it unsuitable for use as an official
stamp. The third problem is it does not permit for creating a stamp
from an image from other digital sources such as a file, print,
negative, Photo CD, CD-ROM, or DVD.
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 4,725,718 discloses using an encrypted message
based upon the postage amount and the mail address as a method to
insure authenticity of the postage. U.S. Pat. No. 4,831,555
discloses a postage applying system where the device used for
printing of postage and the accounting unit are separated from one
another by an unsecured link and the authenticity of the postage is
insured by encryption. Both of these patents disclose printing of
postage using a device such as an off-the-shelf printer. The
postage printed is akin to postage printed using a postage meter.
The postage indicia is applied using a one-color ink. When the
postage is printed using an off-the-shelf printer and not a secured
postage meter, an encryption scheme as described in the patents
previously set forth is used. One of the characteristics of an
official postage stamp printed by the government is how the inks
used to print the stamp absorb and fluoresce when exposed to
certain wavelengths of light. A typical official United States
postage stamp is printed with inks that have a pigment when excited
by ultraviolet light at a peak wavelength of 254 nanometers,
phosphoresce in the visible (green) region of the spectrum with a
peak wavelength of 526 nanometers. Current equipment in the post
office is used for scanning of the postage for verifying that it is
authentic postage. Inks that are used in an off-the-shelf type
printer device do not typically contain pigments with these
characteristics. Therefore, these off-the-shelf type printing
devices are not suitable for the printing of a postage stamp. In
addition, these indicia are typically very rudimentary, and are no
more than line drawings. These printers also do not have means for
insuring that the quality and detail are properly maintained to
meet the standards required of an official postage stamp. Also, if
a user or printer makes a mistake when printing the postage, the
value of the stamp may be lost or difficult for the consumer to
obtain reimbursement.
[0010] U.S. Pat. No. 5,819,240 discloses printing a postage meter
stamp, including the postage amount and a personalized postage
indicia, onto a piece of mail. The personalized postage indicia can
be created by the user or selected from a list of graphics supplied
by the Post Office and placed on a postal storage device. Also
disclosed is the use of two compatible computer programs, one that
runs on a computer at the Post Office and a second that runs on the
user's computer. There are several problems with the system and
method disclosed. The first is that the postage is printed using a
postage meter, which limits the postage printed to indicia
consisting of one-color. Again, as mentioned above, these indicia
are typically very rudimentary and are no more than line drawings.
Another problem is the system requires the use of a postage meter
type printing device and/or a postage storage device. The postage
storage device needs to be taken to the Post Office to be
interfaced with the computer at the Post Office so the postal
employee can add additional postage and graphics to the memory of
the device. The postal employee also enables the user to access the
postage and graphics at the user's location. Finally the
personalized indicia is typically printed in close proximity to the
postage indicia, but is not actually part of the postage
itself.
[0011] U.S. Ser. No. 09/359,152, filed on Jul. 22, 1999 entitled
AUTHORIZING THE PRINTING OF DIGITAL IMAGES, by David L. Patton and
Gustavo R. Paz-Pujalt, assigned to the Eastman Kodak Company,
discloses a method of authorizing the making of customer selected
images on a receiver, such as postage stamps, by a receiving
agency. The method includes electronically transmitting a digital
image file over a channel to a receiving agency; the digital image
file which comprises at least one digital image and authorization
information for making images on a receiving media. The method
further includes receiving the digital image file at the receiving
agency, displaying at least one received digital image and
examining the displayed digital image to determine whether its
contents are acceptable for making images, and examining the
authorization information and printing at a designated location
acceptable digital images on a receiver corresponding to the
transmitted digital image when the authorization information is
approved.
[0012] The present invention provides a method and system for
customizing an official postal product that solves many of the
problems of the prior art. The method and system also provides high
quality images on official postal products having the required
quality, characteristics, and content standards.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there
is provided a system for customizing an official postal product,
comprising:
[0014] a central authorizing computer system for communicating with
at least one remote ordering system over a communication network,
the central authorizing computer system having a computer program
for forwarding information to the at least one remote ordering
system for allowing customizing of an official postal product from
the at least one remote ordering system.
[0015] In accordance with another aspect of the present invention
there is provided a method for ordering custom postage having a
customized image thereon, comprising the steps of:
[0016] a) providing a central authorizing computer system for
communication with at least one remote ordering system over a
communication network; and
[0017] b) providing the central authorizing computer system with a
computer program for providing information to the at least one
remote ordering system for allowing ordering of custom postage from
the at least one remote ordering system.
[0018] In yet another aspect of the present invention there is
provided a computer software product for use in ordering custom
postage, comprising a computer readable storage medium having a
computer program for use on a central authorizing computer system
capable of communication with at least one remote ordering system
over a communication network, the computer software product which
when loaded into an authorizing computer system causes the
authorizing computer system to perform the following step of:
[0019] providing the central authorizing computer system with a
computer program for forwarding information to the at least one
remote ordering system for allowing ordering of custom postage from
the at least one remote ordering system.
[0020] In another aspect of the present invention there is provided
a system for ordering customized postage, comprising: a central
authorizing computer system for communicating with at can be used
ote ordering system over a communication network, the central at
least a mputer system having a computer program for forwarding
oduct. the at least one remote ordering system for allowing custom
ided a of an image for use on postage.
[0021] In still another aspect of the present invention there is
provided a ing with at stomizing an official postal product,
comprising: central a central authorizing computer system for
communicating with at ing ate ordering system over a communication
network, the central istomizing of mputer system having a computer
program for forwarding the central the at least one remote ordering
system for allowing customizing of can be used stal product from
the at least one remote ordering system, and means of the ion of
the image for use on the official postal product. eliminating
[0022] In another aspect of the present invention there is provided
a stal product. stomizing an official postal product, comprising: a
central authorizing computer system for communicating with at
ordering an te ordering system over a communication network, the
central te ordering mputr system having a computer program for
forwarding the at least one remote ordering system for allowing
customizing of ordance with tal product from the at least one
remote ordering system, means for of the image for use on the
official postal product, and means for he operation order receipt
for order of a postal product, the receipt having an 1 and 2; and
bar code thereon. on a display
[0023] In yet another aspect of the present invention there is
provided a n. tomizing an official postal product, comprising:
[0024] a central authorizing computer system for communicating with
at for ordering te ordering system over a communication network,
the central mputer system having a computer program for forwarding
nimunication the at least one remote ordering system for allowing
customizing of omputer 18 tal product from the at least one remote
ordering system, the central ard authorizing computer system having
at least one prestored image that can be used in a custom official
postal product, means for manipulation or use of at least a portion
of the prestored image for use on the custom official postal
product.
[0025] In another aspect of the present invention there is provided
a system for customizing an official postal product,
comprising:
[0026] a central authorizing computer system for communicating with
at least one remote ordering system over a communication network,
the central authorizing computer system having a computer program
for forwarding information to the at least one remote ordering
system for allowing customizing of an official postal product from
the at least one remote ordering system, the central authorizing
computer system having at least one prestored image that can be
used in a custom official postal product, means for use of at least
a portion of the prestored image for use on the custom official
postal product thereby eliminating the need to obtain content
approval before producing of the official postal product.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system for remotely
ordering an official postal product from a central authorizing
system using a remote ordering system;
[0028] FIG. 2 is modified remote ordering system made in accordance
with the present invention;
[0029] FIGS. 3a and 3b together illustrate a block diagram of the
operation of the remote ordering system and central authorizing
system of FIGS. 1 and 2; and
[0030] FIGS. 4-20 illustrate various screens that are provided on a
display device at the remote ordering system by the central
authorizing system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0031] Referring now to FIG. 1, there is illustrated a system 10
for ordering customized postage via a central authorizing computer
system 12 for communicating with at least one remote ordering
system 14 over a communication network 16. The central authorizing
computer system 12 includes a computer 18 having an appropriate
means allowing the computer system 12 to forward information to a
remote ordering system 14 and for allowing for the customizing of
official postal products and/or for ordering of custom official
postal products. For the purposes of the present invention, an
"official postal product" means a product by itself, or as affixed
to another product which shall be recognized as official postage
which can be used to send items through the official governmental
postal system. The remote ordering system 14 comprises a
microprocessor 20 (such as a personal computer) having
communication hardware 19 (such as a communication modem) and
software and includes a display device 21 and appropriate data
entry means 22 (such as a keyboard, mouse, etc.). In place of
computer 20 an interactive TV device, kiosk 30 (FIG. 2), or other
remote communication device may be used. The consumer accesses the
central authorizing computer system 12 via the remote ordering
system 14 at a consumer's location, for example, home, store, or
business. Custom images that can be used by the remote computer
system 14 for creating customized postal products, such as postage
stamps 27, can be obtained from any desired source. For example,
images can be obtained from image files stored in digital format on
floppy and hard disks, Picture CDs, Photo CDs, and CD-ROMs, or can
be a selection of images stored on the central authorizing computer
system 12. Image files may also be downloaded from the Internet
using a system such as Kodak's Photonet, or can be obtained from
negatives and prints scanned using the consumer's own film or print
scanner 24, or images from a digital camera (not shown). The
consumer can also make a selection from images stored on the
central authorizing computer system 12 that are made available to
the consumer.
[0032] The central authorizing computer system 12, in addition to
the server/computer 18, includes a communication link 28 (such as
modem), a display device 25 and a printer 26 for printing of
official postal products. The authorizing computer system 12 is
preferably designed so that it can communicate with multiple remote
ordering systems 14. Therefore, the computer 18 is provided with an
appropriate mass memory device, hardware and computer software.
[0033] The central authorizing computer system 12 receives the
image file and order information via a modem 28, records the image
file and order information using a computer/server 18, and stores
the image file and order information in a mass memory device. The
computer system 12, through appropriate screens sent to the remote
ordering system 14, leads the consumer through the steps necessary
to create and order customized postage products. The computer
system 12 checks the order information for completeness and
validity, and communicates a receipt if the order is complete. If
the order is incomplete or incorrect, an appropriate message is
sent to the remote ordering system 14 so the user can make the
appropriate correction. When using custom images provided by the
consumer, proper authorization may be necessary to assure that the
custom image is appropriate for use on a postal image product.
Therefore, once the authorizing central computer system 12 receives
the order, an order receipt is immediately sent to the remote
ordering system. The receipt may include a receipt number that can
be used for tracking of the order by the customer from the remote
ordering system 14. Since it may be necessary for a person to
review the custom image provided with the submitted order, it may
take some time before final approval can be provided so that the
order can be fulfilled. Once approval of the custom image is
obtained for use on the postal product and the order is accepted,
an acceptance notice is sent from the central authorizing computer
system 12 to the remote ordering system 14.
[0034] The consumer does not need to use the remote ordering system
14 to determine if use of the custom image has been approved and
the order accepted. Alternatively, the consumer can call a
designated phone number, such as a toll free number, whereby the
consumer can enter their unique receipt number to obtain the status
of the order. The status information may advise whether or not the
submitted order was approved, and if not approved, why it was not
approved.
[0035] Referring now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a modified
remote order system 14 for ordering customized postage via a
central authorizing computer system 12. In this embodiment, the
remote ordering system 14 is a kiosk 30, which may be placed at a
business establishment, such as a store, park venue, mall, or in a
postal office, etc. The kiosk 30 includes many of the same
components of the remote ordering system 14 of FIG. 1, like
numerals indicating like parts and operation. The kiosk 30 would
also have payment means 31 for receiving payment. For example, but
not by way of limitation, a device for receiving credit cards
and/or cash, or for accessing an established credit account. In the
embodiment illustrated, the payment means comprises a credit card
reader 33 and cash receiving mechanism 35. The microprocessor 20 in
kiosk 30 is provided with the appropriate hardware and software for
allowing communication with authorizing computer system 12. Any
appropriate source of images may be used by the consumer for
placement on customized postal products as previously discussed
with respect to the embodiment of FIG. 1. In the embodiment
illustrated the kiosk 30 is provided with read devices
37,39,41,43,45 for accepting images stored in digital format on
floppy disc, portable hard disks, Picture CDs, Photo CDs, and
CD-ROMs, respectively. The kiosk 30 may also obtain images from any
other desired source, for example, through an Internet connection
provided on the kiosk 30. The kiosk 30 operates in the same manner
as the system of FIG. 1.
[0036] In order to more clearly understand the present invention, a
description of the operation of the ordering process for custom
postage will be described. FIGS. 3a and 3b illustrate a flowchart
of the steps of this process and will be used in the following
description.
[0037] A consumer using a remote ordering system 14, such as a
personal computer or kiosk 30, logs onto the central authorizing
computer system 12. In the embodiment illustrated, the central
authorizing system 12 may be located at a governmental office (such
as the official post office), or that of a designee. The ordering
process starts with an introduction step 50 which results in
introduction screen 51 (FIG. 4) being displayed on the remote
display device 21 at the remote computer system 12. The
introduction screen 51 explains what creating your own postal
product is about. If the consumer wants more information, they
select the "?" button 48 on screen 51 and the instruction screen 53
(FIG. 5) appears on the display device 21 and the system 12 leads
the process to step 54. The instruction screen 53 explains how the
consumer can create customized postage stamps or other postal
products having custom images using one of their own images or
selecting an image from a gallery of pre-approved images. The
consumer then selects the "right arrow" 55 and the product list
(step 56), which provides a product list screen 57 (see FIG. 6),
which appears on display device 21. The product list screen 57
lists all the types of postage products the consumer can purchase
with their customized image incorporated in the postal product.
Postal products include, but are not limited to, postage stamps,
envelopes, postcards, packages, etc. The consumer then selects the
"right arrow" 55 and goes to Guidelines (step 58) where an image
guideline screen 59 (FIG. 7) appears on the display device 21. The
image guideline screen 59 displays a list of what is appropriate
and not appropriate as image content for your personal image to be
approved for use on a postal product. The user is then led back to
the introduction screen 51 at step 50 by selection of return button
49 and then selects the "right arrow" 55 which takes the user to
decision step 60 wherein a decision screen 61 (FIG. 8) appears on
the display device 21. The decision screen 61 displays options for
the consumer to choose. In the embodiment illustrated, there are
two options, however, there may be any desired number of options.
The first option is for the consumer to choose one of their own
images (step 62) by selecting button 63. When the consumer selects
the button 63, the chosen image source screen 65 (FIG. 9a) appears
on the display device 21. The selected image source screen (FIG.
9a) displays three buttons 66,67,68. When the consumer selects the
"From File" button 66, the consumer is taken to the part of their
computer 18 where their files are stored, screen 65, so they can
choose to open a file containing one of their images, as
illustrated by FIG. 9b. When an image file is selected, it is
displayed in the window 69 on the upload screen 71 (FIG. 10). When
the consumer selects button 67, the consumer is asked for an
external image source such as a flatbed scanner, digital camera, or
other such source. When the image 69 is acquired, the image 69 is
displayed on the screen 71. When the consumer is satisfied with the
image selected, the consumer selects the "Upload" button 68 and the
file of the selected image is uploaded (step 72) to authorizing
computer system 12 and appears in the window 79 of the image
manipulation screen 73 (FIG. 1 1). The process then goes to step
74. The window 79 may be any desired shape or size consistent with
the postal product on which the image is to be placed and is
sufficiently large so as to enable the user to view and manipulate
the image as discussed later herein. At this point, the authorizing
computer system 12 controls further action on the uploaded
image.
[0038] When the consumer selects the "From Collection" button 70 on
decision screen 61 (FIG. 8), the process goes to step 74 and the
image category screen 75 (FIG. 12) appears on the display device
21. The image category screen 75 displays a plurality of
thumbnail-size images 76, which represent different categories of
images, such as animals, flowers, landscapes etc. When the consumer
selects an image 76 representing a category on the image category
screen 75, the consumer goes to step 78, which displays gallery
screen 80 (FIG. 13) comprising a plurality of different thumbnail
size images 76. For example, if the consumer selects the category
"animals," the gallery screen 80 would display thumbnail images of
various animals. The consumer chooses an image by selecting the
thumbnail of the desired image 76 which results in the selected
image appearing in the window of the image manipulation screen 73
(FIG. 14). A benefit of using a pre-approved prestored image is
that any portion of the image may be used to create a postal
product without the need to have the image reviewed for appropriate
content.
[0039] Various selection buttons are provided on the right side of
the image manipulation screen 73 for manipulation of the image,
selection of the desired format, and selection of the desired
denomination. For example, the consumer can zoom, size, rotate and
move the image in the image acceptance window 79, move the location
of the denomination of the stamp, change the denomination of the
stamp, and select one of the different sizes and/or shapes provided
for the stamp. Selection buttons 84 and 86, each time it is
selected, rotate the image 90.degree. clockwise or
counter-clockwise as indicated by the arrow. Selection buttons
87,88,89,90, each time it is selected, move the image a
predetermined incremented amount in the image acceptance window 79
in the direction indicated by the arrow-shaped buttons 87,88,89,90.
By providing movement of the image in predetermined increments in
the four directions, accurate and simple placement of any desired
portion of the image in window 79 can be accomplished by the user.
For example, if selection button 90 is selected, the image 69 is
moved to the left a predetermined incremental amount. The
incremental amount may be any desired amount. Preferably, the
amount is such that the image will be moved across the window 79 by
selecting selection button 90 a reasonable number of times. If
desired, the incremental amount may be divided into two or more
modes, for example, normal and fine adjustment modes. In the normal
mode, the image would be moved about 5% of the width of the image
each time the button is selected, whereas in the fine mode, the
image would be moved about 1% of the width of the image each time
the button is selected. It is, of course, to be understood that the
actual incremental amount may be any desired amount that is deemed
appropriate. The other selection buttons 87,88,89 would operate in
a similar manner.
[0040] Selection button 94 allows selection of the denomination of
the stamp as illustrated by denomination screen 93 (FIG. 15). The
desired denomination for the postal product can be selected by
entry of the amount by selecting the appropriate selection buttons
92 on denomination calculator 97. Referring to FIG. 15, a drop-down
box 99 is provided upon selection of an appropriate selection
button 101 on screen 93 which lists the latest postal rate schedule
for various postage products. Selection button 103 on screen 73
(FIG. 14) brings down a format selection box 105 on screen 93 (FIG.
16), whereby the desired format of the postal product can be
selected. For example, the format selection may comprise the size
and shape of the stamp. Any desired shape and/or size format may be
provided for selection of any desired postal product, including
allowing the user to create any desired shape or size.
[0041] It is, of course, understood that the manipulation screen
may allow for any other modifications to the postal product
desired. For example, but not by way of limitation, text may be
added, or the color of the image, or a portion thereof, may be
adjusted.
[0042] Referring back to FIG. 14, screen 73, selection buttons
96,98,100,102 indicate the position of the denomination 109 on the
stamp or other postal product. Selection buttons 104,106 allow for
zooming up and reducing the image, respectively. By using buttons
87,88,89,90,104,106, the user can easily select any portion of the
desired image for the postal product. Decision step 108 (FIG. 3)
illustrates the consumer deciding whether to continue manipulation
of the postal product. When the consumer is satisfied with the
postal product and the desired manipulation completed, the process
continues to step 110. By using an image editing software package,
such as Adobe Photoshop, the consumer can also combine a portion of
their own image with a prestored image. For example, the consumer
can place their family into a picture of the Grand Canyon. By
selecting the "right arrow" button 55 on manipulation screen 73
(FIG. 14), the order screen 111 (FIG. 17) is displayed. The order
screen 111 lists the products ordered and their costs. The screen
111 also provides entry locations for the filling in of the
customer name, address and appropriate credit card information.
Screen 111 further allows entry of the customer order, for example,
the quantity for each product and a method of delivery. The totals
for what has been ordered and the amount charged for delivery are
automatically calculated and displayed. After the order is
completed, it is first checked by the central authorizing computer
system 12 by selection of "right arrow" button 55. If the order is
not completed correctly and/or all the required information is not
provided, the central authorizing computer system 12 redisplays the
order screen 111 at the remote display device 21 with an
appropriate message or indicator as to what is incorrect or
incomplete. The consumer then corrects the order and the order is
resubmitted for further checking. After the order has been checked,
then the central authorizing computer 12 displays the submit screen
120 (FIG. 18). This brings the user to decision step 116. If the
consumer is satisfied with the order, the consumer selects the
".check mark." button 131 causing the order to be submitted to the
central authorizing computer system 12 for filling, which places
the consumer in the order process to be at step 118 (FIG. 3b). If
the user does not like the order, the user selects the "X" button
132 causing the image manipulation screen (FIG. 14) to be
displayed, which brings the user back to step 74 in the order
process, allowing the consumer to recompose their stamp and change
their order in the same manner previously discussed.
[0043] When the submitted order is received by the central
authorizing computer system and the order and image have been
approved as indicated by step 128 of FIG. 3b, confirmation is
electronically sent to the remote computer system 12 causing
confirmation screen 130 (FIG. 19) to be displayed on display device
21. The confirmation screen 130 (FIG. 19) displays the order
information; the quantity of each product ordered, total cost,
name, address, credit card type, credit card number and credit card
expiration date. The consumer is also shown a receipt number 133
and an image 134 of the stamp or other postal product displayed on
the confirmation screen 130. In addition, a hardcopy receipt can be
printed at the remote computer system 12. This can be accomplished
by a printer 140. In the case of kiosk 30, the hard receipt is
issued through a slot 142. The receipt can include a machine
readable code 144, such as a bar code, that can be read by a
scanner 146 provided in the kiosk so that the order status can be
automatically obtained at the kiosk. Following receipt and
acceptance of the order, the consumer is electronically sent a
thank you message, step 136 (FIG. 3b), which is displayed as the
"Thank You Letter" screen 138 (FIG. 20).
[0044] Once the order has been received by the authorizing computer
system 12, it may be necessary to have the order reviewed by an
individual if it contains images provided by the consumer. If a
pre-approved prestored image is used, the central computer system
12 will recognize this, which in most, if not all cases, eliminate
the need for further review for content. In the case where review
of the order is warranted, the image and/or relevant information is
displayed on display device 25. If all meets with the approval of
the reviewing individual, the authorizing agent, through the
authorizing computer system 12, forwards the order to an
appropriate printer 26 where the order is filled. Since the order
is being filled at an authorized agency, for example, the
governmental post office or its designee, the printer can be
provided with appropriate inks, such as fluoresce inks, that allow
verification that the postal product in genuine by existing
equipment present at current post office facilities. If the order
does not meet the requirements of the authorizing agency, for
example, the image is offensive, inappropriate, or not suitable for
any reason, the order is not approved and an appropriate notice is
sent to the remote computer system 14 along with an explanation why
the order was not accepted. The consumer can then either withdraw
the order or modify, if possible, the order in response to the
explanation and resubmit the order.
[0045] In the preferred embodiment, the postal product is described
as a postage stamp, however, the present invention is not limited
to such. For example, but not limited to, envelopes, postcards,
commemorative sheets, or other products containing official
postage.
[0046] An advantage provided by the present invention is that the
authorizing computer system 12 controls the manipulation of the
image and printing of the order. This removes the need to use an
encryption system for verifying the authenticity of the postal
product or worry about the content of image being used on the
postal product. Additionally, there is no need to update software
at remote locations as the software for running the order
processing computer program is maintained at the central
authorizing computer system 12. Thus, only the software at the
central authorizing computer need be updated as the postal rates
change, new postal products are developed, or improvements are made
to the customizing and ordering process.
[0047] The invention has been described in detail with particular
reference to certain preferred embodiments thereof, but it will be
understood that variations and modifications can be effected within
the scope of the invention.
[0048] PARTS LIST
[0049] 10 system
[0050] 12 computer system
[0051] 14 ordering system
[0052] 16 communication network
[0053] 18 computer
[0054] 19 communication hardware
[0055] 20 microprocessor
[0056] 21 display device
[0057] 22 data entry means
[0058] 24 print scanner
[0059] 25 display device
[0060] 26 printer
[0061] 27 postage stamps
[0062] 28 communication link
[0063] 28 modem
[0064] 30 kiosk
[0065] 31 payment means
[0066] 33 credit card reader
[0067] 35 cash receiving mechanism
[0068] 37 read device
[0069] 39 read device
[0070] 41 read device
[0071] 43 read device
[0072] 45 read device
[0073] 48 "?" button
[0074] 49 return button
[0075] 50 introduction step
[0076] 51 introduction screen
[0077] 53 instruction screen
[0078] 54 step
[0079] 55 "right arrow" button
[0080] 56 product list step
[0081] 57 product list screen
[0082] 58 guidelines step
[0083] 59 image guideline screen
[0084] 60 decision step
[0085] 61 decision screen
[0086] 62 step
[0087] 63 button
[0088] 65 image source screen
[0089] 66 "From File" button
[0090] 67 button
[0091] 68 "Upload" button
[0092] 69 image
[0093] 70 "From Collection" button
[0094] 71 upload screen
[0095] 72 step
[0096] 73 manipulation screen
[0097] 74 step
[0098] 75 image category screen
[0099] 76 thumbnail images
[0100] 78 step
[0101] 79 image acceptance window
[0102] 80 gallery screen
[0103] 84 selection button
[0104] 86 selection button
[0105] 87 selection button
[0106] 88 selection button
[0107] 89 selection button
[0108] 90 selection button
[0109] 92 selection button
[0110] 93 denomination screen
[0111] 94 selection button
[0112] 96 selection button
[0113] 97 denomination calculator
[0114] 98 selection button
[0115] 99 drop-down box
[0116] 100 selection button
[0117] 101 selection button
[0118] 102 selection button
[0119] 103 selection button
[0120] 104 selection button
[0121] 105 format selection box
[0122] 106 selection button
[0123] 108 decision step
[0124] 109 denomination
[0125] 110 step
[0126] 111 order screen
[0127] 116 decision step
[0128] 118 step
[0129] 120 submit screen
[0130] 128 step
[0131] 130 confirmation screen
[0132] 131 ".check mark." button
[0133] 132 "X" button
[0134] 133 receipt number
[0135] 134 image
[0136] 136 step
[0137] 138 "Thank You Letter" screen
[0138] 140 printer
[0139] 142 slot
[0140] 144 machine-readable code
[0141] 146 scanner
* * * * *