초록 ▼

An “audio mailer,”including a tape recorder or other sound recording and reproducing device non-removably encased and configured as a mailer, so that a user can conveniently and confidentially send or receive voice or other sound messages through the mail. The mailer may further have a crevice space

An “audio mailer,”including a tape recorder or other sound recording and reproducing device non-removably encased and configured as a mailer, so that a user can conveniently and confidentially send or receive voice or other sound messages through the mail. The mailer may further have a crevice space for an inserted enclosure, such as a letter, document, photograph or other indicia. A customized or commercially available small tape recorder and audiotape sound storage medium may be employed in the preferred embodiment. The audiotape may be either built-in or contained in a removable microcassette. Duplicate removable audiotape microcassettes may be employed to enable a sender to simultaneously record a copy of a mailed audio message and preserve it for future reference. In an alternate embodiment, computer microchip-based sound recording and reproducing technology and storage medium may be employed. The non-removable casing for the recording and playback device and sound storage medium is made of durable cardboard or other durable lightweight material upon which an address and return address may be placed and postage affixed. The recorder\s controls are positioned at the top of the casing opening and are fully concealed when the casing is sealed. After initial use, the audio mailer may be either preserved as a keepsake for repeat listening, or reused. The mailer in the preferred embodiment is approximately 3½″(width)×7½″(legnth)×¾″(depth) in dimension, weighing approximately 6 ounces.

대표청구항 ▼

An apparatus for conveying through mail or alternate postal-type carriers, voice or other sound information, comprising: (a) a durable casing configured rectangularly as a mailer, having first and second side walls with exterior space for placing an address and affixing postage, said side walls bein

An apparatus for conveying through mail or alternate postal-type carriers, voice or other sound information, comprising: (a) a durable casing configured rectangularly as a mailer, having first and second side walls with exterior space for placing an address and affixing postage, said side walls being of substantially equal size and being joined to one another along three perimetrical edges; (b) a recording/reproducing means for recording and reproducing the voice or other sound information, said recording/reproducing means being fully and non-removably enclosed in said casing, and being secured to one of said first and second side walls of said casing; (c) a storage medium means for storing the voice or other sound information operatively cooperating with said recording/reproducing means, in which sound information recorded by said recording/reproducing means is stored, which sound information may then be reproduced by said recording/reproducing means; (d) a crevice space adapted to receive indicia, said crevice space being situated in between said recording/reproducing means and the other of said first and second side walls of said casing; and (e) means for sealing the apparatus for conveyance, including a sealing flap on said casing integral with one of said first and second side walls which extends and folds over an interior portion of the apparatus to overlie a securing area on the other of said first and second side walls of said casing, with adhesive between the flap and the securing area, to form said means for sealing the apparatus.