(19)
(11) EP 0 282 357 A3

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION

(88) Date of publication A3:
27.09.1989 Bulletin 1989/39

(43) Date of publication A2:
14.09.1988 Bulletin 1988/37

(21) Application number: 88302221.2

(22) Date of filing: 14.03.1988
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC)4: B07C 3/00, B07C 1/00
(84) Designated Contracting States:
CH DE FR GB IT LI SE

(30) Priority: 13.03.1987 US 25304
13.03.1987 US 25444
13.03.1987 US 25552

(71) Applicant: PITNEY BOWES, INC.
Stamford Connecticut 06926-0700 (US)

(72) Inventors:
  • Durst, Robert T., Jr.
    Monroe, CT 06468 (US)
  • Schmidt, Alfred C.
    Wilton, CT 06897 (US)

(74) Representative: Cook, Anthony John et al
D. YOUNG & CO. 21 New Fetter Lane
London EC4A 1DA
London EC4A 1DA (GB)


(56) References cited: : 
   
       


    (54) Letter processing apparatus


    (57) Apparatus (10) is provided which includes structure for preparing a letter including a returnable stationery item (A-D) for sending to an addressee, wherein the returnable stationery item includes a code (A3). In addition, the apparatus includes structure (130) for routing the stationery item, when it is returned, to a selected one of a plurality of locations. The routing structure includes structure (140) for sensing the code. Further, the apparatus includes a computer (180) coupled to the routing structure. The computer (180) is programmed for controlling the routing structure and for storing a dispositive data listing (204) for the code. The dispositive data listing (204) includes information defining the selected location. The computer causes the routing structure (140) to route the stationery item to the selected location when the code (A3) on the stationery item (A-D) is sensed. In addition, structure (216;214) is provided for changing the dispositive data listing (204), whereby the selected location may be changed.







    Search report