EP0540292A1 - Mailing machine including apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes - Google Patents
Mailing machine including apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0540292A1 EP0540292A1 EP92309826A EP92309826A EP0540292A1 EP 0540292 A1 EP0540292 A1 EP 0540292A1 EP 92309826 A EP92309826 A EP 92309826A EP 92309826 A EP92309826 A EP 92309826A EP 0540292 A1 EP0540292 A1 EP 0540292A1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- baffle
- microprocessor
- envelope
- flap
- travel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B43—WRITING OR DRAWING IMPLEMENTS; BUREAU ACCESSORIES
- B43M—BUREAU ACCESSORIES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B43M5/00—Devices for closing envelopes
- B43M5/04—Devices for closing envelopes automatic
- B43M5/042—Devices for closing envelopes automatic for envelopes with only one flap
Definitions
- This invention is generally concerned with a mailing machine including apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes, and more particularly with a mailing machine base including apparatus for selectively guiding envelopes toward and away from envelope moistening and sealing structure.
- the flap moistening and sealing structure of the ′037 Patent includes a cam which is manually movable between two positions, a cam follower located upstream from the separating blade and mounted for vertical movement in response to movement of the cam, a spring which is biased for urging the cam follower upwardly into engagement with the cam, and a baffle pivoted to the cam follower and extending downstream therefrom and across the path of travel of envelopes fed to the flap separating blade.
- the spring urges the cam follower upwardly for locating the upstream end of the baffle above the path of travel, whereupon an envelope fed downstream in the path of travel toward the flap separating blade is fed beneath the baffle and guided thereby into engagement with the flap separating blade, which, in turn, guides the envelope flap into engagement with the flap moistening brush.
- the cam follower is urged downwardly thereby, against the force exerted by the spring, for locating the upstream end of the baffle in the path of travel, whereupon an envelope fed downstream in the path of travel toward the flap separating blade is deflected by the baffle over the flap separating blade and moistening brush, and thus out of engagement with the blade and out of moistening relationship with the brush.
- aims of the invention are: to provide a mailing machine including improved moistening and sealing apparatus; to provide a mailing machine including improved apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes; to provide a mailing machine base including apparatus for selectively guiding envelopes toward and away from envelope flap moistening and sealing apparatus; and to provide a mailing machine including an improved process for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes.
- Apparatus for selectively guiding an envelope has a body and a flap
- the apparatus comprising, means for deflecting the envelope flap from the envelope body, means for feeding an envelope in a downstream path of travel toward the flap deflecting means, means for selectively guiding an envelope out of the path of travel, the guiding means including a baffle movable between a first position for guiding an envelope away from the flap deflecting means and a second position for guiding an envelope to the flap deflecting means, the guiding means including a solenoid operable for moving the baffle, means for controlling the guiding means, the controlling means including a microprocessor, the solenoid electrically connected to the microprocessor, the controlling means including a switch electrically connected to the microprocessor, and the microprocessor programmed for causing the solenoid to operate to move the baffle from one of the positions to the other of the positions in response to actuation of the switch.
- an improved mailing machine 10 generally includes an improved mailing machine base 12, and includes a conventional postage meter 14 which is suitably removably connected to the base 12.
- the mailing machine base 12 (Fig. 1) preferably comprises conventional sheet feeding structure 16, including an elongate horizontally-extending deck 17 (Fig. 2), an upright registration fence 17A extending alongside of and longitudinally of the length of the deck 17, and a plurality of rollers 17B, which may be one or more belts, or the like, for feeding successive sheets 18 on the deck 17 through the machine 10 (Fig. 1).
- a given a sheet 18 may be a cut tape 18A, a card, or folded or unfolded letter, or a sealed or unsealed envelope 18B (Fig. 2) having a body 19, and having a flap 19A which bears a strip of moisture soluble glue 19B.
- the envelope body 19 may be stuffed with one or more cards, folded or unfolded letters, invoices, remittance slips or return envelopes, or other sheets 18.
- the mailing machine base 12 (Fig. 1) preferably comprises improved envelope moistening and sealing structure 20, as hereinafter discussed in greater detail, including a suitable source of supply of water.
- the base 12 preferably includes conventional cut tape dispensing structure 22, including a suitable receptacle for receiving and storing a stack of cut tapes 18A, and including conventional structure for feeding the cut tapes 18A one at a time from the receptacle.
- the base 12 preferably includes conventional inking structure 24, such as a suitable source of supply of ink, which may be a reservoir of ink or an ink saturated roller, and such as one or more rollers associated therewith for transferring ink therefrom to printing structure of a postage meter 14 removably connected to the base 12.
- the mailing machine base 12 preferably includes one or more conventional motors 26, which are suitably connected to the sheet feeding structure 16, for operation thereof, and to a conventional drive train 28 which is suitably constructed and arranged for transferring motive power to a postage meter 14 removably connected to the base 12.
- the base 12 preferably includes a conventional microprocessor 30, one or more power amplifiers 32 which are respectively connected between the microprocessor 30 and a different motor 26.
- the base 12 includes a plurality of conventional sensors 34 which are suitably located relative to one or more components of the sheet feeding structure 16, cut tape dispensing structure 22, inking structure 24, motors 26, drive train 28 and the path of travel 36 of respective sheets 18 fed through the machine 10, for providing signals, such as the signal 38, to the microprocessor 30 which are indicative of the angular velocity of the respective motors 26 or of selected components of the drive train and sheet feeding structures, 16 and 28, are indicative of one or more positions of selected components of the structures 16, 22, 24, 26 and 28, the available supply of water or ink, as the case may be, in the moistening and inking structures, 20 or 24, and are indicative of one or more positions of a given sheet 18, including a given cut tape 18A, in the path of travel 36.
- the base 12 additionally comprises a conventional keyboard 40, including a plurality of switches 42 and a suitable display 44 which are conventionally electrically connected to the microprocessor 30 for providing thereto conventional signals, such as the signal 46, for causing the microprocessor 30 to control the base 12, and receiving therefrom conventional signals, such as the signal 48, for driving the display 44.
- a conventional keyboard 40 including a plurality of switches 42 and a suitable display 44 which are conventionally electrically connected to the microprocessor 30 for providing thereto conventional signals, such as the signal 46, for causing the microprocessor 30 to control the base 12, and receiving therefrom conventional signals, such as the signal 48, for driving the display 44.
- the microprocessor 30 is conventionally programmed for, inter alia, responding to signals 38 received from the sensors 34, and to signals 46 received from the keyboard 40 due to manual activation of the switches 42, for timely causing operation of the motors 26, and thus of the drive train and sheet feeding structures, 16 and 28, thereby causing respective sheets 18, including cut tapes 18A, to be transported by the sheet feeding structure 16 through the machine 10, and for timely causing the printing structure of the postage meter 14 to print postage indicia, as hereinafter described, on the respective sheets 18.
- the postage meter 14 (Fig. 1) preferably comprises conventional postage indicia printing structure 50, such as a conventional rotary printing drum, having a suitable indicia printing die and including a drive shaft, or such as a conventional impact printer, having suitable platen and printing die members, and constructed and arranged for interfacing with the drive train 28 of the mailing machine base 12 when the postage meter 14 is removably connected thereto.
- the postage meter 14 additionally includes conventional value selection structure 52, such as a plurality of conventional printing wheels and a drive train therefor, and also includes one or more motors 54, such as stepper motors, which are respectively coupled to the drive trains of the value selection structure 52.
- the postage meter 14 includes a conventional microprocessor 56, and includes one or more power amplifiers 58 which are respectively connected between the microprocessor 56 and a different motor 54. Further, for controlling the postage meter 14, the meter 14 also includes a plurality of conventional sensors 60 which are suitably located relative to one or more components of the printing structure 50, value selection structure 52, motors 54 and the path of travel 36 of respective sheets 18, including cut tapes 18A, fed through the machine 10, for providing signals, such as the signal 62, to the microprocessor 56 which are indicative of one or more positions of selected components of the structures 50, 52 and 54, and of one or more positions of a given sheet 18, including a given cut tape 18A, in the path of travel 36.
- the meter 14 additionally comprises a conventional keyboard 64, including a plurality of suitable switches 66 and a suitable display 68 which are conventionally electrically connected to the microprocessor 56 for providing thereto conventional signals, such as the signal 70, for causing the microprocessor 56 to control the postage meter 14, and for receiving therefrom conventional signals, such as the signal 72, for driving the display 68.
- the meter 14 includes conventional accounting structure 74.
- the accounting structure 74 is conventionally electrically connected to the microprocessor 56 for communicating therewith, and includes, inter alia, data stored therein which corresponds to the current total value of postage available for printing by the meter 14, the current total value of postage printed by the meter 14 and the serial number of the meter 14.
- the microprocessor 56 is conventionally programmed for, inter alia, responding to value selection signals 70 received from the keyboard 64, due to manual actuation of the switches 66, for causing the microprocessor 56 to energize the motors 54, thereby causing the value selection structure 52 to position the print wheels to print a postage value corresponding to the value selection signals 70, and for causing the microprocessor 56 to access the accounting structure 74 to determine whether or not sufficient total postage is available for printing and, if so, to deduct therefrom an amount corresponding to the value selection signals 70 and to add the same amount to the total value printed, and, in addition, for the causing the printing structure 50 to be unlocked to permit the printing of single postage indicia, including the amount corresponding to the value selection signals 70, under the control of the postage meter base 12.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably includes an elongate aperture 80 formed in the sheet feeding deck 17.
- the aperture 80 preferably extends downstream alongside of the registration fence 17A.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably comprises framework 82 for supporting the various components thereof including an elongate, envelope flap deflecting, blade 84, which horizontally extends into the deck aperture 80 so as to define a downstream-extending extension of the deck 17.
- the blade 84 has an inner edge 86 and an outer edge 88, which respectively extend in the direction of the path of travel 36.
- the inner edge 86 is preferably spaced apart from the registration fence 17A so as to define therewith an opening 90 therebetween.
- the blade 84 has an elongate, longitudinally-extending, upstream, leading, knife edge 92 and an elongate, longitudinally-extending downstream, trailing edge 94, which respectively extend between the inner and outer edges, 86 and 88.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably includes an elongate generally rectangularly-shaped arm 96, having opposed inner and outer edges, 98 and 100.
- the inner edge 98 preferably extends downstream in alignment with the inner blade edge 86 and in the direction of the path of travel 36, whereby the arm's inner edge 98 is spaced apart from the registration fence 17A so as to define therebetween an elongation of of the opening 90.
- the arm 96 (Fig.
- the arm 96 includes opposed, longitudinally-extending, leading and trailing edges, 102 and 104, which extend between the arm's inner and outer edges, 98 (Fig. 2) and 100.
- the arm 96 has an upper surface 106, and the leading edge 102 (Fig. 4) of the arm 96 is conventionally hingedly connected to the downstream, trailing, edge 94 of the flap deflecting blade 84 in a manner such that the arm's upper surface 106 extends substantially horizontally downstream from the blade 84, and such that the trailing edge 104 of the arm 96 is resiliently urged downwardly.
- the arm 96 has an irregularly shaped lower surface 108 which is conventionally constructed and arranged for holding, in a manner such that it extends downstream from beneath the arm's trailing edge 104, an elongate, generally rectangularly-shaped, envelope flap moistening, pad 110, made of a suitable fluid wicking material.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 includes an elongate, envelope flap guiding, wall 112.
- the wall 112 extends outwardly from the registration fence 17A and is suitably spaced beneath the blade and arm, 84 and 96, so as to angularly extend gradually upwardly therebeneath as it extends downstream thereunder, for guiding envelope flaps 19A downstream beneath the blade 84 and arm 96 and into moistening engagement with the flap moistening pad 110.
- the flap guiding wall 112 extends downstream, as hereinbefore discussed, beyond the flap moistening pad 110, and has formed therein a plurality of rectangularly-shaped openings 114 (Fig. 2) arranged in a row, beneath the pad 110, which extends parallel to the longitudinal length of the pad 110.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably includes a conventional water receptacle 116 (Fig. 3) which is suitably connected to the framework 82 beneath the openings 114.
- the structure 20 includes a conventional moistening pad 120, which is made of a suitable wicking material dimensioned to be immersed in a quantity of water 122 stored in the receptacle 116 and to extend through the wall openings 114. As thus constructed and arranged, the moistening pad 120 transfers water 122 by capillary action, from the receptacle 116, through the wall openings 114 to the flap moistening pad 110.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 additionally includes one or more rollers 17B of the sheet feeding structure 16, which are located upstream of the flap deflecting blade 84, for feeding respective envelopes 18B toward the flap deflecting blade 84.
- the structure 20 includes one or more additional rollers 17B of the sheet feeding structure 16, which are located downstream of the flap moistening pad 110, for feeding respective envelopes 18B away from the flap moistening pad 110.
- the rollers 17B located downstream of the flap moistening pad 110 are conventionally constructed and arranged for performing the function of urging the moistened strip of glue 19B borne by the envelope flap 19A into sealing relationship with the envelope body 19, for sealing the envelope 18B.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 includes electromechanical structure 130 for selectively guiding envelopes 18B toward and away from the flap deflecting blade 84 and thus toward and away from the flap moistening pad 110.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably includes a conventional solenoid 132, which is suitably connected to the framework 82 upstream of the blade 84 and inboard of registration fence 17A, it being noted that the deck 17 extends outwardly of the fence 17A.
- the solenoid 132 includes an elongate coil 133 and a plunger, 134.
- the plunger 134 preferably includes an outer, yoke-shaped, end portion 136 having an aperture 138 formed transversely therethrough.
- the envelope guiding structure 130 comprises a substantially L-shaped baffle positioning, member 140 (Fig. 3), including an upwardly-extending leg 142 and a laterally-extending leg 144.
- the positioning member 140 is conventionally pivotally attached to the framework 82, as by means of a pin 146 (Fig. 2) which is located upstream of the flap deflecting blade 84 and inboard of the registration fence 17A, such that the laterally-extending leg 144 is located inboard of the fence 17A and extends upstream from the pin 146.
- the upwardly oriented leg 142 (Fig. 3) preferably includes an elongate, uprightly-oriented slot 148 formed therein.
- the solenoid plungers' outer end portion 136 is conventionally connected to the positioning member's leg 142 by means of a suitable pin 150.
- the pin 150 extends through the solenoid plungers' aperture 138 and through the leg's slot 148, in a manner such that the solenoid plunger 134 and the upwardly oriented leg 142 are movable relative to one another.
- the positioning member's laterally-extending leg 144 includes an outer, yoke-shaped free end portion 152 which includes, a slot 154. And, substantially midway between the pin 146 and slot 154, the positioning member's leg 144 has an aperture 156 formed therein.
- the envelope guiding structures 130 includes a conventional spring 160, having one end 162 conventionally secured to the positioning member's leg aperture 156 and having the other end 164 conventionally secured to the framework 82, for biasing the leg 144, and thus the yoke-shaped free end portion 152 thereof, downwardly.
- the envelope guiding structure 130 (Fig. 2) includes a baffle 170 for deflecting envelopes 18B, which are fed toward the flap deflecting blade 84, either into or out of engagement with the blade 84.
- the baffle 170 includes a generally L-shaped portion 172, having elongate, first and second, legs, 174 and 176, and includes a generally triangularly-shaped portion 178 which extends laterally from one of the baffle legs 176.
- the baffle leg 174 (Fig.
- the baffle leg 174 extends from the inboard to the outboard side of the fence 17B, for locating the baffle leg 176 in vertical alignment with the aperture 80 and locating the triangularly-shaped baffle portion 178 in overhanging relationship with the respect to the deck 17.
- the baffle leg 174 has an inner end 182 and an outer end 184 relative to the registration fence aperture 180.
- the leg 174 has an elongate cam follower portion 186 extending transversely from the leg's inner end 182.
- the baffle's triangularly-shaped portion 178 includes an upper wall 190 (Fig. 3) and one or more ribs 192 depending from the upper wall 190, and has a leading, knife, edge 194 (Fig. 2) and a trailing edge 196.
- the vertical height "d" (Fig. 3)
- each of the ribs 192 initially gradually increases and then gradually decreases as it extends downstream from the leading edge 194 toward the trailing edge 196, so as to form a downwardly extending rib apex 200 located substantially two-thirds of the downstream distance "d1" from the axis of the baffle's leg 174 to the baffle portion's trailing edge 196.
- the envelope guiding structure 130 (Fig. 3) includes an adjustable cam 206 which is eccentrically pivotally attached to the framework 82, as by means of a pivot shaft 208, for engagement and disengagement by the baffle leg's cam follower portion 186.
- the cam 206 is conventionally adjustably positionable on the shaft 208, for locating the cam lobe 210 relative to the baffle leg's cam follower portion 186.
- the structure 130 may include a set screw 212 which is threadably mounted in the cam 206 and movable into and out of engagement with the pivot shaft 208 to allow for positioning the cam 206 on the shaft 208.
- the envelope guiding structure 130 includes a resilient stop 220, including an elongate arm 222 which is conventionally pivotably attached to the framework 82, as by means of a pivot shaft 224 located on the inboard side of the registration fence 17A (Fig. 2), so as to extend therefrom, across the fence 17A to the outboard side thereof and into overhanging relationship with the baffle's triangularly-shaped portion 178.
- the resilient stop 220 includes a conventional spring 226 (Fig. 3) having one end 228 suitably secured to the framework 82 and the other end 230 suitably secured to the arm 222, for biasing the arm 222 downwardly towards the baffle 170.
- the positioning member's yoke-shaped, free end, portion 152 raises the baffle leg 174 to an upper position 234 thereof, wherein the stop arm 222 is disposed in engagement with the baffle's upper wall 190 and the stop spring 226 exerts a downwardly directed force 236 against the baffle wall 190 which urges the baffle leg's cam follower portion 186 into engagement with the cam 206.
- the resilient stop 220 and cam 206 cooperate with one another for positioning the baffle 170 relative to the deck 17 such that the trailing edge 194 of the baffle's triangularly-shaped portion 178 is elevated thereabove, and thus out of the path of travel 36 of envelopes 18B fed downstream on the deck 17 toward the flap deflecting blade 84, and such that the baffle's downstream edge 196 is positioned a predetermined distance "d2", depending upon the position of the cam lobe 210, above the leading edge 92 of the flap deflecting blade 84, to permit the passage therebetween of an envelope body 19 having a maximum thickness dimension of "d2".
- the baffle's rib apex 200 is thereby located for engagement by an envelope 18B fed downstream toward the flap deflecting blade 84, to permit the rib apex 200 to depress the envelope portion 18C passing therebeneath into the deck aperture 80 for positioning the flap 19A below the leading edge 92 of the flap deflecting blade 84 as the envelope 18B is fed into engagement therewith.
- the blade 84 may deflect the envelope flap 19A downwardly therebeneath for guidance into engagement with the moistening pad 110.
- the energy stored in the spring 160 causes the spring 160 to compress and exert a decreasing, downwardly directed, force, corresponding to the force 232, on the positioning member 140.
- the positioning member 140 is thereby pivoted clockwise 240, moving the solenoid plunger 134 out of the coil 133, the positioning member's yoke-shaped, free end, portion 152 lowers the baffle leg 174 to a lower position 242 thereof, wherein the stop arm 222 is disposed out of engagement with the baffle wall 190, the baffle leg's cam follower portion 186 is disposed out of engagement with the cam 206 and the leading edge 194 of the baffle member's triangularly-shaped portion 178 is disposed in engagement with the deck 17.
- envelopes 18B which are fed downstream on the deck 17 toward the flap deflecting blade 84 engage the leading edge 194 of the baffle 84 and are guided thereby on to the baffle's upper wall 190. Whereupon the envelopes 18B are fed over the flap deflecting blade 84 and moistening arm 96, and into the nip of the downstream sheet feeding rollers 17B.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably comprises controlling structure 246 including the microprocessor 30, and including an additional power amplifier 32 which is conventionally electrically connected to the microprocessor 30.
- the additional power amplifier 32 is electrically connected to the solenoid 132, as by means a lead 248, for providing thereto signals, such as the signal 250, under the control of the microprocessor 30, for operation or discontinuance of operation of the solenoid 132.
- the additional power amplifier 32 may be an electro-mechanical relay, or a simple, solid state, switching device or a more complex integrated circuit.
- the controlling structure 246 preferably comprises a plurality of manually operable switches, such as switches 42A, 42B and 42C of the array of switches 42 of the keyboard 40, which are each conventionally connected to the microprocessor 30 for providing a signal thereto, such as the signal 46, when the switches 42A, 42B or 42C are respectively actuated.
- the switch 42A is preferably a "print only" switch which is actuatable for causing discontinuance of operation of the solenoid 134 to permit, for example, sealed envelopes 18B, which are fed downstream on the deck 17, to be fed out of the path of trave 36, and thus past the flap deflecting blade 84 and moistening pad 110.
- the envelopes 18B are fed to the printing structure 50, which is conventionally enabled for printing postage indicia on the envelopes 18B.
- the switch 42B is preferably a "seal only" switch which is actuatable for causing operation of the solenoid 132, for example, to permit unsealed envelopes 18B, which are fed downstream on the deck 17, to be fed in the path of travel 36 into engagement with the flap deflecting blade 84 and moistening pad 110, and then to the downstream rollers 17B for sealing thereby.
- the envelopes 18B are fed to the printing structure 50, which is conventionally disabled for preventing printing postage indicia on the envelopes 18B.
- the switch 42C is preferably a "print and seal" switch which is actuatable for causing operation of the solenoid 132, for example, to permit unsealed envelopes 18B, which are fed downstream on the deck 17, to be fed in the path of travel 36 into engagement with the flap deflecting blade 84 and moistening pad 110, and then to the downstream rollers 17B for sealing thereby.
- the envelopes 18B are fed to the printing structure 50 which is conventionally enabled for printing postage indicia on the envelopes 17B.
- the microprocessor 30 is preferably conventionally programmed to respond to actuation of the "print only” switch 42A to enable the printing structure 50 and deenergize the solenoid 132, and to respond to actuation of the "seal only” switch 42B to disable the printing structure 50 and energize the solenoid 132, to respond to actuation of the "print and seal” switch 42C to enable the printing structure 50 and energize the solenoid 132.
- the microprocessor 30 is preferably conventionally programmed to commence operation of a suitably programmed, internal, resettable, timer 30A, having a predetermined time out time interval, whenever the solenoid 132 is actuated by either of the "seal only” or “print and seal” switches, 42B or 42C, and to discontinue operation of the solenoid 132 upon the lapse of the predetermined time interval, such as from one to two minutes from commencement of operation of the timer 30A, or if the "print only" switch 42A is actuated.
- the microprocessor 30 is also preferably programmed to discontinue operation of the solenoid 132 at the end of the predetermined time internal unless, during the predetermined time interval, an envelope 18B is fed downstream in the path of travel 36 to the flap deflecting blade 84 and moistening pad 110.
- the moistening and sealing structure 20 preferably includes additional sensing structure 84A, located upstream in the path of travel 36 from the baffle 178, which is suitably electrically connected to the microprocessor 30 as by means of leads 252, for providing a timer resetting signal, such as the signal 38A, to the microprocessor 30 upon detection of each envelope 18B fed downstream in the path of travel 36.
- the microprocessor 30 is conventionally programmed to cause the timer 30A to be reset in response to the microprocessor 30 receiving, during the each successive out time interval, each reset signal 38A. Further, the microprocessor 30 is also conventionally programmed to cause discontinuance of operation of the solenoid 132 if the microprocessor 30 does not receive a reset signal 38A from the sensing structure 84A before the end of each time out time interval of the timer 30A, and thus within each successive, predetermined, time out time interval.
- the baffle member's triangularly-shaped portion 178 will be lowered into engagement with the deck 17 for deflecting envelopes 18B out of the path of travel and thus out of engagement with the flap separating blade 84 and moistening pad 110.
- the microprocessor 30 is preferably programmed to include a main line program 300, which commences with the step 302 of conventionally initializing the microprocessor 30.
- Step 302 generally includes establishing the initial voltage levels at the interface ports utilized for receiving data from the various sensors, 34 and 34A, and for controlling the various structures 16, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 32 and 44 of the mailing machine base 12, and setting the timers and counters of the microprocessor 30.
- the microprocessor 30 executes the step 304 of initializing the components of the aforesaid various structures.
- Step 304 generally entails causing the microprocessor 30 to scan the microprocessor ports connected to the various sensors, 34 and 34A, and, if necessary, to drive the motors 26 and disable the solenoid 134 for causing various components of the structures 16, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 and 32 to be driven to their respective home positions from which operation thereof, and thus of the mailing machine base 12, may be initiated.
- the program 300 enters into an idle loop routine 306 which commences with the step 308 of determining whether or not a request or command has been received from the keyboard 40 (Fig. 1) and, assuming that it has not been received, step 308 (Fig.
- the program 300 loops to idle, step 306, and reiterates step 308 until a request or command is received.
- the program 300 implements the step 310 of determining whether or not the request or command is from a keyboard switch 42, (Figs. 1, 3 and 4) other than one of the "print only", “print plus seal” or “seal only” switches, 42A, 42B or 42C. Assuming that it is, the program 300 (Fig.
- step 312 implements the step 312 of causing the microprocessor 30 to execute the request or command, for example, by causing operation of one or more of the motors 26, power amplifiers 32 and the drive train 28, and of the sheet feeder 16, inking structure 24 and display, depending on the content of the request or command, in consideration of appropriate input signals 38 from the sensors 34.
- the program 300 implements the step 314 of determining whether or not the "print only" switch 42A has been actuated. Assuming that it has, the microprocessor 30 implement the step 316 of determining whether or not the printing structure 50 is enabled.
- step 316 the microprocessor 30 implements the step 318 of causing the printing structure 50 to be enabled, followed by the step 320 of determining whether or not the solenoid 132 is operated. If, however, the printing structure 50 is found to be enabled, step 316, then the microprocessor 30 directly implements the step 320 of determining whether or not the solenoid 132 is operated. Assuming that the solenoid 132 is not operated, step 320, the program 300 loops to idle 306.
- step 320 the microprocessor implements the step 322 of causing the solenoid 132 to be deenergized, followed by returning processing to idle 306.
- step 324 the microprocessor 30 implements the step 324 of determining whether or not the request or command is due to actuation of the "print and seal" switch 42C.
- the microprocessor 30 implements the step 326 of determining whether or not the printing structure 50 is enabled, and, assuming that it is, directly implements the step 328 of determining whether or not the solenoid 132 is operated. However, if upon implementing step 326 the microprocessor 30 determines that the printing structure 50 is not enabled, then, the microprocessor 30 implements the step 330 of causing the printing structure 50 to be enabled, followed by the step 328 of determining whether or not the solenoid 132 is operated.
- step 328 the microprocessor 30 implements the successive steps, 332 and 334, of causing the solenoid 132 to be operated, followed by starting the timer 30A.
- step 328 the microprocessor 30 makes a determination, step 328, that the solenoid 132 is operated, then the microprocessor 30 directly implements the step 334 of starting (resetting) the timer 30A.
- the program 300 enters into a parallel processing mode of operation of both returning processing to idle 306 and implementing a solenoid time out routine commencing with the step 336 of determining whether or not a timer reset signal 38A has been received before the timer 30A times out at the end of a predetermined time interval, of from substantially one to two minutes. Assuming that the microprocessor 30 makes a determination that a reset signal 38A has been received before the end of the time out time interval, due to an envelope 18B having been detected by the sensor 34A, then, the microprocessor 30 implements the step 336 of looping to reset the time out time interval.
- the microprocessor 30 makes a determination that a reset signal 38A has not been received during the time out time interval, then the microprocessor 30 implements the step 338 of causing operation of the solenoid 132 to be discontinued, followed by returning processing to idle 306.
- the microprocessor 30 determines that the request or command is not due to actuation of the "print and seal" switch 42C, then the program 300 assumes that the request or command is due to actuation of the "seal only" switch 42B. Whereupon the microprocessor 30 implements the step 340 of determining whether or not the printing structure 50 is disabled.
- the microprocessor 30 then implements the step 328 of determining whether or not the solenoid 13A is operated, followed by successive implementation of the steps 332, 334, 336 and 338 as hereinbefore discussed.
- the microprocessor 30 determines that the printing structure 50 is not disabled, step 340, then, the microprocessor 30 implements the step 342 of causing the printing structure 50 to be disabled, followed by implementing the successive steps 328, 332, 334, 336 and 338 as hereinbefore discussed.
- the solenoid 132 Fig.
- the baffle 170 is positioned for guiding envelopes 18B fed downstream on the deck 17 into engagement with the flap deflecting blade 84, whereas when operation of the solenoid 132 (Fig. 3) is discontinued, the baffle 170 is positioned for guiding such envelopes 18B out as engagement with the flap deflecting blade 84.
- a mailing machine including improved apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes, and, more particularly, a mailing machine base including apparatus for selectively guiding envelopes toward and away from envelope flap moistening and sealing apparatus.
- a process for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes has been disclosed.
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Abstract
Apparatus for selectively guiding an envelope (18B) having a body (19) and a flap (19A), the apparatus comprising, structure for deflecting the envelope flap from the envelope body, structure for feeding an envelope in a downstream path of travel toward the flap deflecting structure (84), structure for selectively guiding an envelope out of the path of travel, the guiding structure including a baffle (170) movable between a first position for guiding an envelope away from the flap deflecting structure and a second position for guiding an envelope to the flap deflecting structure, the guiding structure including a solenoid (132) operable for moving the baffle, structure for controlling the guiding structure, the controlling structure including a microprocessor (30), the solenoid electrically connected to the microprocessor, the controlling structure including a switch (42) electrically connected to the microprocessor, and the microprocessor programmed for causing the solenoid to operate to move the baffle from one of the positions to the other of the positions in response to actuation of the switch.
Description
- This invention is generally concerned with a mailing machine including apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes, and more particularly with a mailing machine base including apparatus for selectively guiding envelopes toward and away from envelope moistening and sealing structure.
- As shown in U.S. Patent No. 4,450,037 for an Envelope Flap Sealing Device, issued May 22, 1984 to German Gavronsky and assigned to the assignee of the present invention, it is known in the art to provide a mailing machine comprising envelope flap moistening and sealing structure which includes a plurality of rollers for transporting an envelope in a downstream path of travel, a blade extending into the path of travel for separating the flap of an envelope fed thereto from the body of the envelope, a brush for moistening the glue bearing surface of the envelope flap and structure for guiding the flap into sealing relationship with the envelope body. In addition the ′037 Patent disclosures the provision of manually operable structure for selectively guiding an envelope either into or out of engagement with the flap separating blade and thus into or out of moistening relationship with the flap moistening brush. To that end, the flap moistening and sealing structure of the ′037 Patent includes a cam which is manually movable between two positions, a cam follower located upstream from the separating blade and mounted for vertical movement in response to movement of the cam, a spring which is biased for urging the cam follower upwardly into engagement with the cam, and a baffle pivoted to the cam follower and extending downstream therefrom and across the path of travel of envelopes fed to the flap separating blade. As thus constructed and arranged, when the cam is manually located in one of the positions thereof, the spring urges the cam follower upwardly for locating the upstream end of the baffle above the path of travel, whereupon an envelope fed downstream in the path of travel toward the flap separating blade is fed beneath the baffle and guided thereby into engagement with the flap separating blade, which, in turn, guides the envelope flap into engagement with the flap moistening brush. On the other hand, when the cam is manually located in the other position thereof, the cam follower is urged downwardly thereby, against the force exerted by the spring, for locating the upstream end of the baffle in the path of travel, whereupon an envelope fed downstream in the path of travel toward the flap separating blade is deflected by the baffle over the flap separating blade and moistening brush, and thus out of engagement with the blade and out of moistening relationship with the brush.
- Customer feedback concerning the manual operating characteristics of envelope flap moistening and sealing structures, of the type disclosed in the above U.S. Patent No. 4,450,037, has established that such structures are perceived to be inconvenient and awkward to operate, due to the need to manually move mechanical components against a force exerted by a spring. In addition, it has been found that operators often use the mailing machine in the envelope flap moistening mode of operation and forget to return the manually movable cam to the non-flap-moistening position, wherein the baffle is located for guiding envelopes out of engagement with the flap deflecting blade. Whereupon a subsequent operator who assumes the machine is in the non-flap-moistening mode of operation may feed a sealed envelope through the machine with the result that the envelope is torn open by the flap deflecting blade.
- Among the aims of the invention are: to provide a mailing machine including improved moistening and sealing apparatus;
to provide a mailing machine including improved apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes;
to provide a mailing machine base including apparatus for selectively guiding envelopes toward and away from envelope flap moistening and sealing apparatus; and
to provide a mailing machine including an improved process for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes. - Apparatus for selectively guiding an envelope has a body and a flap, the apparatus comprising, means for deflecting the envelope flap from the envelope body, means for feeding an envelope in a downstream path of travel toward the flap deflecting means, means for selectively guiding an envelope out of the path of travel, the guiding means including a baffle movable between a first position for guiding an envelope away from the flap deflecting means and a second position for guiding an envelope to the flap deflecting means, the guiding means including a solenoid operable for moving the baffle, means for controlling the guiding means, the controlling means including a microprocessor, the solenoid electrically connected to the microprocessor, the controlling means including a switch electrically connected to the microprocessor, and the microprocessor programmed for causing the solenoid to operate to move the baffle from one of the positions to the other of the positions in response to actuation of the switch.
- As shown in the drawings wherein like reference numerals designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views:
- Fig. 1 is a schematic view of one example of a mailing machine according to the invention, including improved apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing an envelope;
- Fig. 2 is a partially fragmentary, and partially schematic, plan view of an apparatus according to the invention, showing structure for selectively guiding an envelope either toward or away from envelope flap moistening and sealing apparatus;
- Fig. 3 is a elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 2, showing the selection structure thereof positioned for guiding an envelope away from the flap moistening structure;
- Fig. 4 is an elevation view of the apparatus of Fig. 2, showing the selection structure thereof positioned for guiding an envelope toward the flap moistening structure and;
- Fig. 5 is a flow chart of a process for operating the apparatus according to the invention.
- As shown in Fig. 1, an improved
mailing machine 10 according to the invention generally includes an improvedmailing machine base 12, and includes aconventional postage meter 14 which is suitably removably connected to thebase 12. - The mailing machine base 12 (Fig. 1) preferably comprises conventional
sheet feeding structure 16, including an elongate horizontally-extending deck 17 (Fig. 2), anupright registration fence 17A extending alongside of and longitudinally of the length of thedeck 17, and a plurality ofrollers 17B, which may be one or more belts, or the like, for feedingsuccessive sheets 18 on thedeck 17 through the machine 10 (Fig. 1). Without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, a given asheet 18, may be acut tape 18A, a card, or folded or unfolded letter, or a sealed orunsealed envelope 18B (Fig. 2) having abody 19, and having aflap 19A which bears a strip of moisture soluble glue 19B. And, theenvelope body 19 may be stuffed with one or more cards, folded or unfolded letters, invoices, remittance slips or return envelopes, orother sheets 18. In addition, the mailing machine base 12 (Fig. 1) preferably comprises improved envelope moistening andsealing structure 20, as hereinafter discussed in greater detail, including a suitable source of supply of water. Moreover, thebase 12 preferably includes conventional cuttape dispensing structure 22, including a suitable receptacle for receiving and storing a stack ofcut tapes 18A, and including conventional structure for feeding thecut tapes 18A one at a time from the receptacle. And, thebase 12 preferably includesconventional inking structure 24, such as a suitable source of supply of ink, which may be a reservoir of ink or an ink saturated roller, and such as one or more rollers associated therewith for transferring ink therefrom to printing structure of apostage meter 14 removably connected to thebase 12. Still further, themailing machine base 12 preferably includes one or moreconventional motors 26, which are suitably connected to thesheet feeding structure 16, for operation thereof, and to aconventional drive train 28 which is suitably constructed and arranged for transferring motive power to apostage meter 14 removably connected to thebase 12. Moreover, for controlling themailing machine base 12, thebase 12 preferably includes aconventional microprocessor 30, one ormore power amplifiers 32 which are respectively connected between themicroprocessor 30 and adifferent motor 26. Further, for controlling thebase 12, thebase 12 includes a plurality ofconventional sensors 34 which are suitably located relative to one or more components of thesheet feeding structure 16, cuttape dispensing structure 22,inking structure 24,motors 26,drive train 28 and the path oftravel 36 ofrespective sheets 18 fed through themachine 10, for providing signals, such as thesignal 38, to themicroprocessor 30 which are indicative of the angular velocity of therespective motors 26 or of selected components of the drive train and sheet feeding structures, 16 and 28, are indicative of one or more positions of selected components of thestructures sheet 18, including a givencut tape 18A, in the path oftravel 36. Still further, for controlling themailing machine base 12, thebase 12 additionally comprises aconventional keyboard 40, including a plurality ofswitches 42 and asuitable display 44 which are conventionally electrically connected to themicroprocessor 30 for providing thereto conventional signals, such as thesignal 46, for causing themicroprocessor 30 to control thebase 12, and receiving therefrom conventional signals, such as thesignal 48, for driving thedisplay 44. And, themicroprocessor 30 is conventionally programmed for, inter alia, responding tosignals 38 received from thesensors 34, and tosignals 46 received from thekeyboard 40 due to manual activation of theswitches 42, for timely causing operation of themotors 26, and thus of the drive train and sheet feeding structures, 16 and 28, thereby causingrespective sheets 18, includingcut tapes 18A, to be transported by thesheet feeding structure 16 through themachine 10, and for timely causing the printing structure of thepostage meter 14 to print postage indicia, as hereinafter described, on therespective sheets 18. - The postage meter 14 (Fig. 1) preferably comprises conventional postage
indicia printing structure 50, such as a conventional rotary printing drum, having a suitable indicia printing die and including a drive shaft, or such as a conventional impact printer, having suitable platen and printing die members, and constructed and arranged for interfacing with thedrive train 28 of themailing machine base 12 when thepostage meter 14 is removably connected thereto. For changing the postage value included in the postage indicia, thepostage meter 14 additionally includes conventionalvalue selection structure 52, such as a plurality of conventional printing wheels and a drive train therefor, and also includes one ormore motors 54, such as stepper motors, which are respectively coupled to the drive trains of thevalue selection structure 52. In addition, for controlling thepostage meter 14, and thus the postagevalue changing structure 52, thepostage meter 14 includes aconventional microprocessor 56, and includes one ormore power amplifiers 58 which are respectively connected between themicroprocessor 56 and adifferent motor 54. Further, for controlling thepostage meter 14, themeter 14 also includes a plurality ofconventional sensors 60 which are suitably located relative to one or more components of theprinting structure 50,value selection structure 52,motors 54 and the path oftravel 36 ofrespective sheets 18, includingcut tapes 18A, fed through themachine 10, for providing signals, such as thesignal 62, to themicroprocessor 56 which are indicative of one or more positions of selected components of thestructures sheet 18, including a givencut tape 18A, in the path oftravel 36. Still further, for controlling thepostage meter 14, themeter 14 additionally comprises aconventional keyboard 64, including a plurality ofsuitable switches 66 and asuitable display 68 which are conventionally electrically connected to themicroprocessor 56 for providing thereto conventional signals, such as thesignal 70, for causing themicroprocessor 56 to control thepostage meter 14, and for receiving therefrom conventional signals, such as thesignal 72, for driving thedisplay 68. Moreover, for controlling thepostage meter 14, themeter 14 includesconventional accounting structure 74. Theaccounting structure 74 is conventionally electrically connected to themicroprocessor 56 for communicating therewith, and includes, inter alia, data stored therein which corresponds to the current total value of postage available for printing by themeter 14, the current total value of postage printed by themeter 14 and the serial number of themeter 14. And, for controlling themeter 14, themicroprocessor 56 is conventionally programmed for, inter alia, responding tovalue selection signals 70 received from thekeyboard 64, due to manual actuation of theswitches 66, for causing themicroprocessor 56 to energize themotors 54, thereby causing thevalue selection structure 52 to position the print wheels to print a postage value corresponding to thevalue selection signals 70, and for causing themicroprocessor 56 to access theaccounting structure 74 to determine whether or not sufficient total postage is available for printing and, if so, to deduct therefrom an amount corresponding to thevalue selection signals 70 and to add the same amount to the total value printed, and, in addition, for the causing theprinting structure 50 to be unlocked to permit the printing of single postage indicia, including the amount corresponding to thevalue selection signals 70, under the control of thepostage meter base 12. - As shown in Fig. 2, according to the invention the moistening and
sealing structure 20 preferably includes anelongate aperture 80 formed in thesheet feeding deck 17. Theaperture 80 preferably extends downstream alongside of theregistration fence 17A. And, the moistening andsealing structure 20 preferably comprisesframework 82 for supporting the various components thereof including an elongate, envelope flap deflecting,blade 84, which horizontally extends into thedeck aperture 80 so as to define a downstream-extending extension of thedeck 17. Theblade 84 has aninner edge 86 and anouter edge 88, which respectively extend in the direction of the path oftravel 36. Theinner edge 86 is preferably spaced apart from theregistration fence 17A so as to define therewith an opening 90 therebetween. And, theblade 84 has an elongate, longitudinally-extending, upstream, leading,knife edge 92 and an elongate, longitudinally-extending downstream,trailing edge 94, which respectively extend between the inner and outer edges, 86 and 88. Further, the moistening andsealing structure 20 preferably includes an elongate generally rectangularly-shaped arm 96, having opposed inner and outer edges, 98 and 100. Theinner edge 98 preferably extends downstream in alignment with theinner blade edge 86 and in the direction of the path oftravel 36, whereby the arm'sinner edge 98 is spaced apart from theregistration fence 17A so as to define therebetween an elongation of of the opening 90. In addition, the arm 96 (Fig. 4) includes opposed, longitudinally-extending, leading and trailing edges, 102 and 104, which extend between the arm's inner and outer edges, 98 (Fig. 2) and 100. Moreover, thearm 96 has anupper surface 106, and the leading edge 102 (Fig. 4) of thearm 96 is conventionally hingedly connected to the downstream, trailing,edge 94 of theflap deflecting blade 84 in a manner such that the arm'supper surface 106 extends substantially horizontally downstream from theblade 84, and such that thetrailing edge 104 of thearm 96 is resiliently urged downwardly. In addition, thearm 96 has an irregularly shapedlower surface 108 which is conventionally constructed and arranged for holding, in a manner such that it extends downstream from beneath the arm'strailing edge 104, an elongate, generally rectangularly-shaped, envelope flap moistening,pad 110, made of a suitable fluid wicking material. Further, the moistening andsealing structure 20 includes an elongate, envelope flap guiding,wall 112. Preferably, thewall 112 extends outwardly from theregistration fence 17A and is suitably spaced beneath the blade and arm, 84 and 96, so as to angularly extend gradually upwardly therebeneath as it extends downstream thereunder, for guidingenvelope flaps 19A downstream beneath theblade 84 andarm 96 and into moistening engagement with the flapmoistening pad 110. Preferably, theflap guiding wall 112 extends downstream, as hereinbefore discussed, beyond the flapmoistening pad 110, and has formed therein a plurality of rectangularly-shaped openings 114 (Fig. 2) arranged in a row, beneath thepad 110, which extends parallel to the longitudinal length of thepad 110. In addition, the moistening andsealing structure 20 preferably includes a conventional water receptacle 116 (Fig. 3) which is suitably connected to theframework 82 beneath theopenings 114. Further, thestructure 20 includes a conventionalmoistening pad 120, which is made of a suitable wicking material dimensioned to be immersed in a quantity ofwater 122 stored in thereceptacle 116 and to extend through thewall openings 114. As thus constructed and arranged, themoistening pad 120transfers water 122 by capillary action, from thereceptacle 116, through thewall openings 114 to the flapmoistening pad 110. - The moistening and sealing structure 20 (Fig. 2) additionally includes one or
more rollers 17B of thesheet feeding structure 16, which are located upstream of theflap deflecting blade 84, for feedingrespective envelopes 18B toward theflap deflecting blade 84. And thestructure 20 includes one or moreadditional rollers 17B of thesheet feeding structure 16, which are located downstream of the flapmoistening pad 110, for feedingrespective envelopes 18B away from the flapmoistening pad 110. Preferably, therollers 17B located downstream of the flapmoistening pad 110 are conventionally constructed and arranged for performing the function of urging the moistened strip of glue 19B borne by theenvelope flap 19A into sealing relationship with theenvelope body 19, for sealing theenvelope 18B. In addition, the moistening andsealing structure 20 includeselectromechanical structure 130 for selectively guidingenvelopes 18B toward and away from theflap deflecting blade 84 and thus toward and away from the flapmoistening pad 110. To that end, the moistening andsealing structure 20 preferably includes aconventional solenoid 132, which is suitably connected to theframework 82 upstream of theblade 84 and inboard ofregistration fence 17A, it being noted that thedeck 17 extends outwardly of thefence 17A. Thesolenoid 132 includes anelongate coil 133 and a plunger, 134. Theplunger 134 preferably includes an outer, yoke-shaped,end portion 136 having anaperture 138 formed transversely therethrough. In addition, theenvelope guiding structure 130 comprises a substantially L-shaped baffle positioning, member 140 (Fig. 3), including an upwardly-extendingleg 142 and a laterally-extendingleg 144. Preferably, the positioningmember 140 is conventionally pivotally attached to theframework 82, as by means of a pin 146 (Fig. 2) which is located upstream of theflap deflecting blade 84 and inboard of theregistration fence 17A, such that the laterally-extendingleg 144 is located inboard of thefence 17A and extends upstream from thepin 146. In addition, the upwardly oriented leg 142 (Fig. 3) preferably includes an elongate, uprightly-orientedslot 148 formed therein. Further the solenoid plungers'outer end portion 136 is conventionally connected to the positioning member'sleg 142 by means of asuitable pin 150. Thepin 150 extends through the solenoid plungers'aperture 138 and through the leg'sslot 148, in a manner such that thesolenoid plunger 134 and the upwardly orientedleg 142 are movable relative to one another. Still further, the positioning member's laterally-extendingleg 144 includes an outer, yoke-shapedfree end portion 152 which includes, aslot 154. And, substantially midway between thepin 146 andslot 154, the positioning member'sleg 144 has anaperture 156 formed therein. In addition, theenvelope guiding structures 130 includes aconventional spring 160, having oneend 162 conventionally secured to the positioning member'sleg aperture 156 and having theother end 164 conventionally secured to theframework 82, for biasing theleg 144, and thus the yoke-shapedfree end portion 152 thereof, downwardly. - In addition, the envelope guiding structure 130 (Fig. 2) includes a
baffle 170 for deflectingenvelopes 18B, which are fed toward theflap deflecting blade 84, either into or out of engagement with theblade 84. Thebaffle 170 includes a generally L-shapedportion 172, having elongate, first and second, legs, 174 and 176, and includes a generally triangularly-shapedportion 178 which extends laterally from one of thebaffle legs 176. Preferably, the baffle leg 174 (Fig. 3) is substantially circularly-shaped in transverse cross-section and pivotably positioned within the positioning member'sslot 154, and thus in bearing engagement with the member's yoke-shapedfree end portion 152, so as to extend through an elongate, vertically-extending, reinforced aperture 180 (Fig. 2) formed in theregistration fence 17A, Thus, thebaffle leg 174 extends from the inboard to the outboard side of thefence 17B, for locating thebaffle leg 176 in vertical alignment with theaperture 80 and locating the triangularly-shapedbaffle portion 178 in overhanging relationship with the respect to thedeck 17. Moreover, thebaffle leg 174 has aninner end 182 and anouter end 184 relative to theregistration fence aperture 180. And, theleg 174 has an elongatecam follower portion 186 extending transversely from the leg'sinner end 182. Further, the baffle's triangularly-shapedportion 178 includes an upper wall 190 (Fig. 3) and one ormore ribs 192 depending from theupper wall 190, and has a leading, knife, edge 194 (Fig. 2) and a trailingedge 196. Preferably, the vertical height "d" (Fig. 3) of each of theribs 192 initially gradually increases and then gradually decreases as it extends downstream from theleading edge 194 toward the trailingedge 196, so as to form a downwardly extendingrib apex 200 located substantially two-thirds of the downstream distance "d₁" from the axis of the baffle'sleg 174 to the baffle portion'strailing edge 196. - Still further, the envelope guiding structure 130 (Fig. 3) includes an
adjustable cam 206 which is eccentrically pivotally attached to theframework 82, as by means of apivot shaft 208, for engagement and disengagement by the baffle leg'scam follower portion 186. Preferably, thecam 206 is conventionally adjustably positionable on theshaft 208, for locating thecam lobe 210 relative to the baffle leg'scam follower portion 186. To that end, thestructure 130 may include aset screw 212 which is threadably mounted in thecam 206 and movable into and out of engagement with thepivot shaft 208 to allow for positioning thecam 206 on theshaft 208. Moreover, theenvelope guiding structure 130 includes aresilient stop 220, including anelongate arm 222 which is conventionally pivotably attached to theframework 82, as by means of apivot shaft 224 located on the inboard side of theregistration fence 17A (Fig. 2), so as to extend therefrom, across thefence 17A to the outboard side thereof and into overhanging relationship with the baffle's triangularly-shapedportion 178. In addition, theresilient stop 220 includes a conventional spring 226 (Fig. 3) having oneend 228 suitably secured to theframework 82 and theother end 230 suitably secured to thearm 222, for biasing thearm 222 downwardly towards thebaffle 170. - As thus constructed and arranged, when the solenoid 132 (Fig. 4) is electrically operated, the
solenoid plunger 134 is moved into thecoil 133, and thebaffle positioning member 140 is pivoted thereby counterclockwise 230, against an increasing, downwardly directedforce 232 exerted by thespring 160, as thespring 160 is expanded and energy is stored therein. In addition, as thebaffle positioning member 140 pivots counterclockwise 230, the positioning member's yoke-shaped, free end,portion 152 raises thebaffle leg 174 to anupper position 234 thereof, wherein thestop arm 222 is disposed in engagement with the baffle'supper wall 190 and thestop spring 226 exerts a downwardly directedforce 236 against thebaffle wall 190 which urges the baffle leg'scam follower portion 186 into engagement with thecam 206. Accordingly, theresilient stop 220 andcam 206 cooperate with one another for positioning thebaffle 170 relative to thedeck 17 such that the trailingedge 194 of the baffle's triangularly-shapedportion 178 is elevated thereabove, and thus out of the path oftravel 36 ofenvelopes 18B fed downstream on thedeck 17 toward theflap deflecting blade 84, and such that the baffle'sdownstream edge 196 is positioned a predetermined distance "d₂", depending upon the position of thecam lobe 210, above the leadingedge 92 of theflap deflecting blade 84, to permit the passage therebetween of anenvelope body 19 having a maximum thickness dimension of "d₂". In addition, the baffle'srib apex 200 is thereby located for engagement by anenvelope 18B fed downstream toward theflap deflecting blade 84, to permit therib apex 200 to depress the envelope portion 18C passing therebeneath into thedeck aperture 80 for positioning theflap 19A below the leadingedge 92 of theflap deflecting blade 84 as theenvelope 18B is fed into engagement therewith. Whereupon, theblade 84 may deflect theenvelope flap 19A downwardly therebeneath for guidance into engagement with themoistening pad 110. Thereafter, when electrical operation of the solenoid 132 (Fig. 3) is discontinued, the energy stored in thespring 160 causes thespring 160 to compress and exert a decreasing, downwardly directed, force, corresponding to theforce 232, on thepositioning member 140. As thepositioning member 140 is thereby pivoted clockwise 240, moving thesolenoid plunger 134 out of thecoil 133, the positioning member's yoke-shaped, free end,portion 152 lowers thebaffle leg 174 to alower position 242 thereof, wherein thestop arm 222 is disposed out of engagement with thebaffle wall 190, the baffle leg'scam follower portion 186 is disposed out of engagement with thecam 206 and theleading edge 194 of the baffle member's triangularly-shapedportion 178 is disposed in engagement with thedeck 17. As a result,envelopes 18B which are fed downstream on thedeck 17 toward theflap deflecting blade 84 engage theleading edge 194 of thebaffle 84 and are guided thereby on to the baffle'supper wall 190. Whereupon theenvelopes 18B are fed over theflap deflecting blade 84 and moisteningarm 96, and into the nip of the downstreamsheet feeding rollers 17B. - For controlling the moistening and sealing structure 20 (Figs. 3 and 4), and, more particularly, the
envelope guiding structure 130, the moistening and sealingstructure 20 preferably comprises controllingstructure 246 including themicroprocessor 30, and including anadditional power amplifier 32 which is conventionally electrically connected to themicroprocessor 30. Preferably, theadditional power amplifier 32 is electrically connected to thesolenoid 132, as by means a lead 248, for providing thereto signals, such as thesignal 250, under the control of themicroprocessor 30, for operation or discontinuance of operation of thesolenoid 132. Without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, theadditional power amplifier 32 may be an electro-mechanical relay, or a simple, solid state, switching device or a more complex integrated circuit. In addition, the controllingstructure 246 preferably comprises a plurality of manually operable switches, such asswitches switches 42 of thekeyboard 40, which are each conventionally connected to themicroprocessor 30 for providing a signal thereto, such as thesignal 46, when theswitches solenoid 134 to permit, for example, sealedenvelopes 18B, which are fed downstream on thedeck 17, to be fed out of the path oftrave 36, and thus past theflap deflecting blade 84 andmoistening pad 110. Whereupon theenvelopes 18B are fed to theprinting structure 50, which is conventionally enabled for printing postage indicia on theenvelopes 18B. Further, theswitch 42B is preferably a "seal only" switch which is actuatable for causing operation of thesolenoid 132, for example, to permit unsealedenvelopes 18B, which are fed downstream on thedeck 17, to be fed in the path oftravel 36 into engagement with theflap deflecting blade 84 andmoistening pad 110, and then to thedownstream rollers 17B for sealing thereby. Whereupon theenvelopes 18B are fed to theprinting structure 50, which is conventionally disabled for preventing printing postage indicia on theenvelopes 18B. Moreover, theswitch 42C is preferably a "print and seal" switch which is actuatable for causing operation of thesolenoid 132, for example, to permit unsealedenvelopes 18B, which are fed downstream on thedeck 17, to be fed in the path oftravel 36 into engagement with theflap deflecting blade 84 andmoistening pad 110, and then to thedownstream rollers 17B for sealing thereby. Whereupon theenvelopes 18B are fed to theprinting structure 50 which is conventionally enabled for printing postage indicia on theenvelopes 17B. Thus themicroprocessor 30 is preferably conventionally programmed to respond to actuation of the "print only" switch 42A to enable theprinting structure 50 and deenergize thesolenoid 132, and to respond to actuation of the "seal only"switch 42B to disable theprinting structure 50 and energize thesolenoid 132, to respond to actuation of the "print and seal"switch 42C to enable theprinting structure 50 and energize thesolenoid 132. - In addition, for controlling the moistening and sealing structure 20 (Figs. 3 and 4) and, more particularly the
envelope guiding structure 130, themicroprocessor 30 is preferably conventionally programmed to commence operation of a suitably programmed, internal, resettable,timer 30A, having a predetermined time out time interval, whenever thesolenoid 132 is actuated by either of the "seal only" or "print and seal" switches, 42B or 42C, and to discontinue operation of thesolenoid 132 upon the lapse of the predetermined time interval, such as from one to two minutes from commencement of operation of thetimer 30A, or if the "print only" switch 42A is actuated. Moreover, themicroprocessor 30 is also preferably programmed to discontinue operation of thesolenoid 132 at the end of the predetermined time internal unless, during the predetermined time interval, anenvelope 18B is fed downstream in the path oftravel 36 to theflap deflecting blade 84 andmoistening pad 110. Accordingly, the moistening and sealingstructure 20 preferably includesadditional sensing structure 84A, located upstream in the path oftravel 36 from thebaffle 178, which is suitably electrically connected to themicroprocessor 30 as by means ofleads 252, for providing a timer resetting signal, such as thesignal 38A, to themicroprocessor 30 upon detection of eachenvelope 18B fed downstream in the path oftravel 36. And, themicroprocessor 30 is conventionally programmed to cause thetimer 30A to be reset in response to themicroprocessor 30 receiving, during the each successive out time interval, eachreset signal 38A. Further, themicroprocessor 30 is also conventionally programmed to cause discontinuance of operation of thesolenoid 132 if themicroprocessor 30 does not receive areset signal 38A from thesensing structure 84A before the end of each time out time interval of thetimer 30A, and thus within each successive, predetermined, time out time interval. Accordingly, whenever themailing machine base 12 is switched to an envelope flap moistening mode of operation thereof, if the "print only" switch 42A is not operated or ifsuccessive envelopes 18B are not thereafter fed to theflap separating blade 84 at time intervals of less than the predetermined time interval, then, the baffle member's triangularly-shapedportion 178 will be lowered into engagement with thedeck 17 for deflectingenvelopes 18B out of the path of travel and thus out of engagement with theflap separating blade 84 andmoistening pad 110. - As shown in Fig. 5, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention the
microprocessor 30 is preferably programmed to include a main line program 300, which commences with thestep 302 of conventionally initializing themicroprocessor 30. Step 302 generally includes establishing the initial voltage levels at the interface ports utilized for receiving data from the various sensors, 34 and 34A, and for controlling thevarious structures mailing machine base 12, and setting the timers and counters of themicroprocessor 30. Thereafter, themicroprocessor 30 executes thestep 304 of initializing the components of the aforesaid various structures. Step 304 generally entails causing themicroprocessor 30 to scan the microprocessor ports connected to the various sensors, 34 and 34A, and, if necessary, to drive themotors 26 and disable thesolenoid 134 for causing various components of thestructures mailing machine base 12, may be initiated. Assuming completion of the initialization steps 302 and 304, then, according to the invention, the program 300 enters into an idle loop routine 306 which commences with thestep 308 of determining whether or not a request or command has been received from the keyboard 40 (Fig. 1) and, assuming that it has not been received, step 308 (Fig. 5), the program 300 loops to idle,step 306, and reiteratesstep 308 until a request or command is received. Whereupon, the program 300 implements thestep 310 of determining whether or not the request or command is from akeyboard switch 42, (Figs. 1, 3 and 4) other than one of the "print only", "print plus seal" or "seal only" switches, 42A, 42B or 42C. Assuming that it is, the program 300 (Fig. 5) implements thestep 312 of causing themicroprocessor 30 to execute the request or command, for example, by causing operation of one or more of themotors 26,power amplifiers 32 and thedrive train 28, and of thesheet feeder 16, inkingstructure 24 and display, depending on the content of the request or command, in consideration of appropriate input signals 38 from thesensors 34. However, assuming that the request or command is from one of the keyboard switches 42A, 42B or 42C,step 310, then, the program 300 implements thestep 314 of determining whether or not the "print only" switch 42A has been actuated. Assuming that it has, themicroprocessor 30 implement thestep 316 of determining whether or not theprinting structure 50 is enabled. Assuming theprinting structure 50 has not been enabled,step 316, themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 318 of causing theprinting structure 50 to be enabled, followed by thestep 320 of determining whether or not thesolenoid 132 is operated. If, however, theprinting structure 50 is found to be enabled,step 316, then themicroprocessor 30 directly implements thestep 320 of determining whether or not thesolenoid 132 is operated. Assuming that thesolenoid 132 is not operated,step 320, the program 300 loops to idle 306. On the other hand, if themicroprocessor 30 determines that thesolenoid 132 is operated,step 320, then the microprocessor implements thestep 322 of causing thesolenoid 132 to be deenergized, followed by returning processing to idle 306. Referring back to step 314, if themicroprocessor 30 determines that the request or command is not due to actuation of the "print only" switch 42A, then, themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 324 of determining whether or not the request or command is due to actuation of the "print and seal"switch 42C. Assuming that it is, themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 326 of determining whether or not theprinting structure 50 is enabled, and, assuming that it is, directly implements thestep 328 of determining whether or not thesolenoid 132 is operated. However, if upon implementingstep 326 themicroprocessor 30 determines that theprinting structure 50 is not enabled, then, themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 330 of causing theprinting structure 50 to be enabled, followed by thestep 328 of determining whether or not thesolenoid 132 is operated. Thereafter, if themicroprocessor 30 determines that thesolenoid 132 is not operated,step 328, themicroprocessor 30 implements the successive steps, 332 and 334, of causing thesolenoid 132 to be operated, followed by starting thetimer 30A. On the other hand, if themicroprocessor 30 makes a determination,step 328, that thesolenoid 132 is operated, then themicroprocessor 30 directly implements thestep 334 of starting (resetting) thetimer 30A. In either event, after implementing thestep 334 of starting thetimer 30A, the program 300 enters into a parallel processing mode of operation of both returning processing to idle 306 and implementing a solenoid time out routine commencing with thestep 336 of determining whether or not atimer reset signal 38A has been received before thetimer 30A times out at the end of a predetermined time interval, of from substantially one to two minutes. Assuming that themicroprocessor 30 makes a determination that areset signal 38A has been received before the end of the time out time interval, due to anenvelope 18B having been detected by the sensor 34A, then, themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 336 of looping to reset the time out time interval. If, on the other hand, themicroprocessor 30 makes a determination that areset signal 38A has not been received during the time out time interval, then themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 338 of causing operation of thesolenoid 132 to be discontinued, followed by returning processing to idle 306. Referring back to step 324, if themicroprocessor 30 determines that the request or command is not due to actuation of the "print and seal"switch 42C, then the program 300 assumes that the request or command is due to actuation of the "seal only"switch 42B. Whereupon themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 340 of determining whether or not theprinting structure 50 is disabled. Assuming that a determination is made that theprinting structure 50 is disabled, ,themicroprocessor 30 then implements thestep 328 of determining whether or not the solenoid 13A is operated, followed by successive implementation of thesteps microprocessor 30 determines that theprinting structure 50 is not disabled,step 340, then, themicroprocessor 30 implements thestep 342 of causing theprinting structure 50 to be disabled, followed by implementing thesuccessive steps baffle 170 is positioned for guidingenvelopes 18B fed downstream on thedeck 17 into engagement with theflap deflecting blade 84, whereas when operation of the solenoid 132 (Fig. 3) is discontinued, thebaffle 170 is positioned for guidingsuch envelopes 18B out as engagement with theflap deflecting blade 84. - There has been described a mailing machine including improved apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes, and, more particularly, a mailing machine base including apparatus for selectively guiding envelopes toward and away from envelope flap moistening and sealing apparatus. In addition, there has been disclosed a process for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes.
Claims (19)
- Apparatus for selectively guiding an envelope having a body and a flap, the apparatus comprising:a. means for deflecting the envelope flap from the envelope body;b. means for feeding an envelope in a downstream path of travel toward the flap deflecting means,c. means for selectively guiding an envelope out of the path of travel, the guiding means including a baffle movable between a first position for guiding an enveloPe away from the flap deflecting means and a second position for guiding an envelope to the flap deflecting means, the guiding means including a solenoid operable for moving the baffle;d. means for controlling the guiding means, the controlling means including a microprocessor, the solenoid electrically connected to the microprocessor, the controlling means including a switch electrically connected to the microprocessor, and the microprocessor programmed for causing the solenoid to operate to move the baffle from one of the positions to the other of the positions in response to actuation of the switch.
- The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the the switch is manually actuatable for providing a signal to the microprocessor to cause the microprocessor to operate the solenoid.
- The apparatus according to Claim 2, wherein the means for causing the solenoid to operate includes a power amplifier electrically connected between the microprocessor and solenoid, and the microprocessor programmed for causing the power amplifier to operate the solenoid for at least a predetermined time interval in response to receiving the signal.
- The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the guiding means includes a spring biased for exerting a force for moving the baffle from the second position to the first position, and the solenoid operating to move the baffle against the force exerted by the spring from the first position to the second position.
- The apparatus according to Claim 4, wherein the guiding means includes a positioning member movably connected between the solenoid and baffle, the solenoid including a plunger connected to the positioning member for movement thereof, the positioning member including a portion thereof disposed in bearing engagement with the baffle, the guiding means including a spring connected to the positioning member and biased for exerting a force for moving the member to move the baffle to said one of the positions thereof, and the solenoid operable for moving the positioning member against the force exerted by the spring to move the baffle to said other of the positions thereof.
- The apparatus according to Claim 1, wherein the deflecting means includes a blade in the path of travel, the baffle having an upstream end and a downstream end, the baffle including a cam follower portion extending from the upstream end, the deflecting means including a cam, and the deflecting means including means for resiliently urging the cam follower into engagement with the cam when the baffle is in the second position for locating the downstream end of the baffle a predetermined distance above the blade to permit feeding therebetween an envelope body having a thickness which is less than or equal to the predetermined distance.
- The apparatus according to Claim 6, wherein the cam is adjustably mounted for changing the predetermined distance.
- A mailing machine base comprising:a. apparatus for selectively guiding an envelope having a body and a flap, the apparatus includingi. means for deflecting the envelope flap from the envelope body,ii. framework,iii. a roller rotatably connected to the framework and disposed for feeding an envelope in a downstream path of travel toward the flap deflecting means,iv. a baffle movable into and out of the path of travel,v. a positioning member connected to the baffle for movement thereof,vi. a spring connected to the positioning member and biased for exerting a force thereagainst for moving the baffle into the path of travel for guiding the envelope away from the flap deflecting means,vii. a solenoid connected to the positioning member and operable for movement of the baffle out of the path of travel against the force exerted by the spring for feeding the envelope to the flap deflecting means,viii. a switch which is manually actuatable for providing a signal;b. a microprocessor programmed for controlling the mailing machine base, the switch electrically connected to the microprocessor for providing the signal thereto;c. a power amplifier connected to the microprocessor for operation thereby, and the microprocessor programming causing the power amplifier to operate the solenoid for at least a predetermined time interval after the switch provides the signal to the microprocessor.
- The apparatus according to Claim 8, wherein the deflecting means includes a blade in the path of travel, the baffle having an upstream end and a downstream end, the baffle including a cam follower portion extending from the upstream end, the deflecting means including a cam, and the deflecting means including means for resiliently urging the cam follower into engagement with the cam when the baffle is in the second position for locating the downstream end of the baffle a predetermined distance above the blade to permit feeding therebetween an envelope body having a thickness which is less than or equal to the predetermined distance.
- The apparatus according to Claim 9, wherein the cam is adjustably mounted for changing the predetermined distance.
- In a process for operating a mailing machine base including means for feeding an envelope, having a body and a flap, in a downstream path of travel, and including means for deflecting the flap, a process for selectively guiding an envelope into and out of engagement with the flap deflecting means, comprising the steps of:a. providing a baffle upstream from the flap deflecting means;b. providing electromechanical means for moving the baffle;c. providing a microprocessor for controlling the baffle moving means, programming the microprocessor to include a resettable timer having a predetermined the out time interval, programming the microprocessor to cause the timer to start the time out time interval when the baffle is moved out of the path of travel;d. programming the microprocessor for normally operating the baffle moving means to move the baffle into the path of travel for guiding an envelope fed therein out of engagement with the flap deflecting means; ande. programming the microprocessor for selectively operating the baffle moving means to move the baffle out of the path of travel for the duration of time interval so that an envelope fed in the path of travel during the time out time interval will be guided into engagement with the flap deflecting means.
- The process according to Claim 11 including the step of resetting the time-out time interval if an envelope is fed toward the flap deflecting means within the time out time interval.
- The process according to Claim 11 including the step of programming the microprocessor to operate the moving means to move the baffle into the path of travel if an envelope is not fed downstream in the path of travel before the end of the time out time interval.
- The process according to Claim 11 including the step of providing a switch actuatable for causing the microprocessor to operate the baffle moving means to move the baffle out of the path of travel.
- The process according to Claim 11 including the step of providing a switch actuatable for causing the microprocessor to operate the baffle moving means to move the baffle into the path of travel.
- The process according to Claim 11 including the steps of providing a switch and programming the microprocessor to reset the time out time interval in response to actuation of the switch.
- The process according to Claim 11 including the step of initializing the microprocessor to cause the microprocessor to implement the programming which operates the baffle moving means to move the baffle into the path of travel whereby the baffle is normally located in the path of travel.
- The process according to Claim 17 including the steps of providing a switch which is selectively actuatable and programming the microprocessor to reset the time out time interval in response to actuation of the switch.
- The process according to Claim 18 including the step of programming the microprocessor to implement at the end of the time out time interval the step of causing the microprocessor to operate the baffle moving means to move the baffle into the path of travel.
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US783584 | 1991-10-28 | ||
US07/783,584 US5217551A (en) | 1991-10-28 | 1991-10-28 | Mailing machine including a process for selectively moistening envelopes fed thereto |
US07/783,583 US5489358A (en) | 1991-10-28 | 1991-10-28 | Mailing machine including apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes |
US783583 | 1997-01-13 |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP0540292A1 true EP0540292A1 (en) | 1993-05-05 |
Family
ID=27120155
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP92309826A Withdrawn EP0540292A1 (en) | 1991-10-28 | 1992-10-27 | Mailing machine including apparatus for selectively moistening and sealing envelopes |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP0540292A1 (en) |
CA (1) | CA2081501A1 (en) |
Cited By (3)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1997028972A1 (en) * | 1996-02-08 | 1997-08-14 | Prinserter Corporation | Printing and post-processing system and method of controlling the same |
EP1224033A1 (en) * | 1999-07-30 | 2002-07-24 | Pitney Bowes Inc. | Mailing machine including a stripper blade having a raised edge |
FR2820082A1 (en) * | 2001-01-29 | 2002-08-02 | Neopost Ind | Automatic mail processing including sealing of envelopes that require moistening, whether the envelopes be of the type with a folded over flap or an open flap, and passing straight through of sealed envelopes |
Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4450037A (en) * | 1983-06-22 | 1984-05-22 | Pitney Bowes Inc. | Envelope flap sealing device |
GB2227234A (en) * | 1988-04-08 | 1990-07-25 | Pitney Bowes Plc | Paper handling device |
EP0420111A1 (en) * | 1989-09-28 | 1991-04-03 | Neopost Industrie | Selective moistening device for envelope flaps |
US5014991A (en) * | 1989-12-15 | 1991-05-14 | Sms Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | Amusement game |
-
1992
- 1992-10-27 CA CA 2081501 patent/CA2081501A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1992-10-27 EP EP92309826A patent/EP0540292A1/en not_active Withdrawn
Patent Citations (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4450037A (en) * | 1983-06-22 | 1984-05-22 | Pitney Bowes Inc. | Envelope flap sealing device |
GB2227234A (en) * | 1988-04-08 | 1990-07-25 | Pitney Bowes Plc | Paper handling device |
EP0420111A1 (en) * | 1989-09-28 | 1991-04-03 | Neopost Industrie | Selective moistening device for envelope flaps |
US5014991A (en) * | 1989-12-15 | 1991-05-14 | Sms Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | Amusement game |
Cited By (4)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
WO1997028972A1 (en) * | 1996-02-08 | 1997-08-14 | Prinserter Corporation | Printing and post-processing system and method of controlling the same |
EP1224033A1 (en) * | 1999-07-30 | 2002-07-24 | Pitney Bowes Inc. | Mailing machine including a stripper blade having a raised edge |
EP1224033A4 (en) * | 1999-07-30 | 2008-04-16 | Pitney Bowes Inc | Mailing machine including a stripper blade having a raised edge |
FR2820082A1 (en) * | 2001-01-29 | 2002-08-02 | Neopost Ind | Automatic mail processing including sealing of envelopes that require moistening, whether the envelopes be of the type with a folded over flap or an open flap, and passing straight through of sealed envelopes |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CA2081501A1 (en) | 1993-04-29 |
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