Janet C Hanson

US Patent:

51250756, Jun 23, 1992

Filed:

Feb 5, 1990

Appl. No.:

7/474660

Inventors:

Thomas C. Goodale - Reading MA
Janet Hanson - Londonderry NH
Lee M. Truchon - Andover MA

Assignee:

Wang Laboratories, Inc. - Lowell MA

International Classification:

G06F 1300
G06F 1521
G06F 1556

US Classification:

395200

Abstract:

A mail circulation device enables serial delivery of a unique, non-interchangeable route package containing mail items and a route list of desired recipients, to each listed recipient. The mail items of the route package are originals, as sent by the sender, throughout the circulation. The route list also specifies the type of action each recipient is allowed to take with respect to the route package. Votes of approval and comments of the mail items of the route package by each recipient are recorded in a data file which associates the mail items and route list. The identity of recipients may be validated by requiring each recipient to enter a unique password for voting at the time of voting. The route list may be altered by specified listed recipients such that the mail items and altered route list are circulated, as the route package, to additional recipients or not circulated to initially listed recipients. The delivery and voting status of the package may be recorded in a separate data record such that the originator is able to read the status of the route package at any time during the circulation.