Patent ID: 6192661
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: B31B

Abstract:
A method of using automatic mail opening equipment to automatically process an insert contained in a return envelope, the method comprising the steps of:receiving the insert in a return envelope having top, bottom and side edges that define rectangularly shaped front and rear panels and a generally rectangularly shaped side flap integral with one of the front and rear panels at each of the side edges of the return envelope, wherein the side flaps each have a minimum lateral spacing from an innermost edge to an opposite one of the side edges of the return envelope such that the minimum lateral spacing is less than the width of the insert, and wherein the insert is disposed in the return envelope between the side flaps and the other of the front and rear panels;registering the top edge of the return envelope;slitting the top edge of the return envelope;registering the side edges of the return envelope;slitting the side edges of the return envelope;separating the front and rear panels from the insert; andautomatically removing the insert.