Patent ID: 6408744
Filing Date: 2002-06-25
Classification: G07B

Abstract:
A machine for postage metering a flat object comprising:a drive mechanism; a frame having a horizontal opening for inserting an object in a longitudinal direction, the frame also having two stops situated at right angles to the longitudinal direction, a fixed upper ceiling having a window, and a lower plate vertically moveable by the drive mechanism; a device for holding the object by gripping the object between the upper ceiling and the lower plate; an ink jet printing device having nozzles disposed inside the window of the ceiling; a sensor for detecting presence of the object in vicinity of a corner of the stops; an electronic control device, responsive to the sensor, for starting the drive mechanism to move the plate for gripping the object and for starting a print cycle; and a device for moving the object in a direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and while the object is being gripped, in front of the printing device.