Methods for providing custom rubber stamps

Abstract

The present invention relates to an improved retail process and apparatuses for putting customized marking devices, commonly called rubber stamps, in the hands of a customer in a convenient period of time such as five minutes after data entry. Prior art processes make stamps in a batch mode, generally forming text on a separate rubber sheet, cutting the sheet, and adhering individual rubber stamps to stamp mounts taken from inventory. The instant process forms text and/or graphics on stamp mounts that are complete except for the marking data on the rubber and an index card. A special purpose one-stamp-at-a-time laser engraver can be used with the process. As an alternative, a multiple cavity fixture can be used in conjunction with existing laser engravers. A further alternative uses a photopolymer method of producing single stamps. In addition to a convenient time to fill an order for a customer, the instant process is directed toward reducing the number of manual steps and errors resulting from the prior art processes.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.