U.S. patent application number 09/775885 was filed with the patent office on 2001-11-22 for system and method for dispensing digital information from an automated transaction machine.
This patent application is currently assigned to Diebold, Incorporated. Invention is credited to Blackson, Dale, Church, James R., Ramachandran, Natarajan, Smith, Mark.
Application Number | 20010044747 09/775885 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26876373 |
Filed Date | 2001-11-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20010044747 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Ramachandran, Natarajan ; et
al. |
November 22, 2001 |
System and method for dispensing digital information from an
automated transaction machine
Abstract
An automated teller machine (ATM) (10) includes an input device
(16) a card reader (20), a cash dispenser (24), and an output
device (18). The ATM is operative to read account information from
a card with the card reader and validate a user PIN input through
the input device. The ATM may also be operative to dispense cash
with the cash dispenser and dispense digital content with the
output device responsive to user input selections. The ATM may be
further operative to charge a user fee to an account associated
with the card for the dispense of cash and digital content. Digital
content dispensed by the ATM may include sound recordings such as
MP3 files, video files, books, graphics, photographs, and other
digital data. In cases where the ATM dispenses visual content the
output device may include a printer that is operative to output
printed photographs. Photographic image files may be acquired by
the ATM from a remote photo processor or other digital information
source accessible through the Internet or other network. The ATM
may be operated through user inputs to manipulate image files.
Image files may also be selectively received from or dispensed to a
portable storage medium through a reading device or recording
device connected to the ATM. Fees associated with the dispense of
the image files may be transferred from an account associated with
a user.
Inventors: |
Ramachandran, Natarajan;
(Uniontown, OH) ; Blackson, Dale; (Canton, OH)
; Church, James R.; (Kent, OH) ; Smith, Mark;
(North Canton, OH) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RALPH E. JOCKE
231 SOUTH BROADWAY
MEDINA
OH
44256
US
|
Assignee: |
Diebold, Incorporated
|
Family ID: |
26876373 |
Appl. No.: |
09/775885 |
Filed: |
February 2, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60180490 |
Feb 5, 2000 |
|
|
|
60250269 |
Nov 30, 2000 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/16 ;
G9B/27.01 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/1085 20130101;
G06Q 20/123 20130101; G11B 2220/61 20130101; G06Q 40/02 20130101;
G11B 27/034 20130101; G06Q 20/10 20130101; G11B 2220/2575 20130101;
G11B 2220/216 20130101; G06Q 20/04 20130101; G11B 2220/2545
20130101; G07F 17/0014 20130101; G07F 17/16 20130101; G11B 27/032
20130101; G06Q 20/18 20130101; G07F 19/20 20130101; G11B 2220/913
20130101; G06Q 20/327 20130101; G11B 2220/2562 20130101; G11B
2220/218 20130101; G06Q 20/20 20130101; G11B 2220/41 20130101; G11B
27/031 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/16 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
We claim:
1. A method for dispensing image files from an automated
transaction machine comprising: a) receiving a plurality of image
files with the machine from a film processor; b) providing a user
interface on a display device of the machine, wherein the user
interface includes selectable options for dispensing each
individual image file from the machine; c) receiving at least one
first input through at least one input device of the machine that
is representative of a command to dispense at least one image file;
d) dispensing the at least one image file from the machine; and e)
transferring an amount of value through operation of the
machine.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein in step (a) the film
processor is located remotely from the machine.
3. The method according to claim 2, wherein prior to step (a)
further comprising: f) associating a processing identification
number with the plurality of image files; and g) sending at least
one message to the film processor which includes the processing
identification number.
4. The method according to claim 3, wherein step (g) includes
determining a communication address of the film processor
responsive to the processing identification number; wherein the at
least one message is sent responsive to the communication
address.
5. The method according to claim 3, wherein step (g) includes
sending the at least one message to a message gateway router (MGR),
wherein the MGR sends the message to the film processor responsive
to the processing identification number.
6. The method according to claim 3, and prior to step (g) further
comprising: h) reading the processing identification number from a
card with a card reader of the machine.
7. The method according to claim 6, and prior to step (g) further
comprising: i) receiving at least one second input with the at
least one input device of the machine that is representative of a
personal identification number (PIN); and wherein in step (g) the
message includes the PIN.
8. The method according to claim 3, and prior to step (g) further
comprising: h) scanning machine readable indicia representative of
the processing identification number with a scanning device in
operative connection with the machine.
9. The method according to claim 1, wherein step (d) includes
printing the at least one image file using a printer of the
machine.
10. The method according to claim 1, wherein step (d) includes
saving the at least one image file to a portable storage
medium.
11. The method according to claim 1, wherein step (e) includes
initiating a transfer of the amount of value from a credit account
or a debit account.
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein prior to step (e)
further comprising: (f) reading data corresponding to the credit or
debit account from a card with a card reader of the machine.
13. The method according to claim 1, wherein step (e) includes
receiving the amount of value with a cash acceptor of the
machine.
14. The method according to claim 2, wherein in step (b) the user
interface further includes selectable options for performing a
plurality of image processing functions on the image files, wherein
prior to step (d) further comprising: f) receiving at least one
second input through at least one input device of the machine that
is representative of at least one image processing function; and g)
performing the at least one image processing function through
operation of the machine on the at least one image file.
15. The method according to claim 2, wherein in step (b) the user
interface further includes selectable options for selecting the
size and number of copies of the at least one image file to print,
wherein prior to step (d) further comprising: f) receiving at least
one second input through at least one input device of the machine
that is representative of the size and number of copies of the at
least one image file to print; and wherein step (d) includes
printing the at least one image file responsive to the second
input, and wherein in step (e) the amount of value transferred
corresponds to the at least one second input.
16. Computer readable media bearing instructions which are
operative to cause at least one computer in the machine to cause
the machine to carry out the method steps recited in claim 1.
17. A method for dispensing image files from an automated
transaction machine comprising: a) retrieving at least one image
file from at least one external image file source; b) providing a
user interface through a display device of the machine, wherein the
user interface includes selectable options for printing the at
least one image file from the machine; c) receiving at least one
first input through at least one input device of the machine that
is representative of a request to print the at least one image
file; d) printing the at least one image file with a printer of the
machine; and e) transferring an amount of value through operation
of the machine.
18. The method according to claim 17, wherein in step (a) the at
least one external image file source includes a film processor,
wherein the at least one image file is retrieved from the film
processor through a network.
19. The method according to claim 17, wherein the at least one
external image file source includes a portable storage medium,
wherein in step (a) the at least one image file is retrieved from
the portable storage medium with a portable storage medium reader
of the machine.
20. The method according to claim 17, wherein in step (a) the at
least one external image file source includes a camera placed in
operative connection with the machine.
21. Computer readable media bearing installations which are
operative to cause at least one computer in the machine to cause
the machine to carry out the method steps recited in claim 17.
22. An automated transaction machine comprising: at least one
computer processor; at least one data store in operative connection
with the computer processor, wherein the computer processor is
operative to cause a plurality of image files to be retrieved from
at least one film processor located remotely from the machine and
saved in the data store; at least one input device in operative
connection with the computer processor; a cash dispenser device in
operative connection with the computer processor, wherein the
computer processor is operative to cause the cash dispenser to
dispense currency responsive to at least one first input through
the at least one input device; and a printer in operative
connection with the computer processor, wherein the computer
processor is operative to cause the printer to print at least one
of the plurality of image files responsive to at least one second
input through the at least one input device.
23. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22,
wherein the computer processor is operative to cause the machine to
send at least one message to the film processor which includes a
processing identification number, wherein the computer processor is
operative to cause the data store in the machine to receive at
least one image file from the film processor which corresponds to
the processing identification number.
24. The automated transaction machine according to claim 23,
wherein the computer processor is operative to include the
processing identification number in the at least one message
responsive to receipt of at least one third input through the at
least one input device which third input includes data
representative of the processing identification number.
25. The automated transaction machine according to claim 24,
wherein the computer processor is operative responsive to receipt
of at least one fourth input through the at least one input device
that includes a personal identification number (PIN), to include
data representative of the PIN in the at least one message.
26. The automated transaction machine according to claim 23,
further comprising a card reader in operative connection with the
computer processor.
27. The automated transaction machine according to claim 26,
wherein the computer processor is operative to cause the card
reader to read the processing identification number from a
card.
28. The automated transaction machine according to claim 26,
wherein the computer processor is operative to cause the card
reader to read a credit account or debt account number from a card
through the card reader, wherein the computer processor is
operative to cause a charge of an amount of value to be made
against a credit account or a debit account responsive to the
credit or debit account number, wherein the computer processor is
operative to cause the printer to print the at least one image file
responsive to a financial banking system approving the charge of
the amount of value to the credit account or debit account.
29. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22, and
further comprising a cash acceptor in operative connection with the
computer processor, wherein the computer processor is operative to
cause the printer to print the at least one image file responsive
to receipt of currency with the cash acceptor.
30. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22,
further comprising: a portable storage medium reading device in
operative connection with the computer processor, wherein the
computer processor is operative to have the portable storage medium
reading device retrieve a further image file from a portable
storage medium, wherein the computer processor is operative to
cause the printer to print the further image file responsive to the
at least one second input through the at least one input
device.
31. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22,
further comprising: a portable storage medium recording device in
operative connection with the computer processor, wherein the
computer processor is further operative to cause the portable
storage medium recording device to store the at least one image
file onto a portable storage medium.
32. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22,
further comprising: a camera in operative connection with the
computer processor, wherein the computer processor is further
operative to cause the camera to generate further image files.
33. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22 further
comprising a display device in operative connection with the
computer processor, wherein the computer processor is operative to
cause the display device to output the at least one image file
responsive to at least one third input through the at least one
input device.
34. The automated transaction machine according to claim 22,
wherein the computer processor is operative to cause at least one
image processing function to be performed on the at least one image
file responsive to at least one third input through the at least
one input device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This Application claims benefit pursuant to 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) of Provisional Application Serial Nos. 60/180,490 filed Feb.
5, 2000 and 60/250,269 filed Nov. 30, 2000.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This invention relates to the dispensing of digital
information from an automated transaction machine. Specifically
this invention relates to a system and method for downloading and
dispensing digital information such as sound recording files from
an automated transaction machine.
BACKGROUND ART
[0003] Automated transaction machines are known in the prior art.
For purposes of this disclosure an automated transaction machine
shall include any device which is capable of carrying out
transactions including transfers of value. A common type of
automated transaction machine is an automated teller machine (ATM).
ATMs are typically operative to perform banking transactions such
as dispensing cash, transferring value between banking accounts, or
accepting deposits. Many ATMs are located in retail or service
facilities such as stores, gas stations, restaurants and bars. The
owners of these facilities often generate income from the ATMs
through service fees on transactions performed with the ATM. For
example if a user withdraws an amount of cash from the ATM, the
user may be charged a small transaction fee.
[0004] If the ATM has only marginal use, the income generated may
not be sufficient to justify the expense of maintaining the ATM.
For example maintenance and service costs may consume a large
portion of the monthly income generated by an ATM which has low
transaction volumes. Consequently to enable ATMs to generate
additional income there exists a need for an ATM to perform
additional income producing activities that do not significantly
increase the expense of maintaining the ATM.
[0005] Methods for the digital recording of sound are also known in
the prior art. Such digital recordings are typically distributed on
compact disks (CD) for playback on a CD player. As sound systems
have become a standard feature of any new personal computers,
digital sound recordings are also being distributed as computer
files. Common formats for sound computer files include WAV
(Waveform Audio File Format) and MP3 (MPEG-1 Audio Layer-3). To
play such files, computer systems can employ a sound file player
application such as the Windows Media Player. Sound file player
applications read the digital sound files and output corresponding
music through the sound card and speakers of the computer
system.
[0006] Digital sound recordings may also be copied directly from an
audio CD through a process called "ripping." Essentially ripping
refers to the reading of the digital information that represents
audio on the CD and saving the information in a computer readable
sound file. Different formats of sound files have different
characteristics. For example WAV files are typically uncompressed
digital versions of sampled sound. MP3 files are typically created
by compressing a sound sequence into a very small file (about
one-twelfth the size of a corresponding WAV file). However, MP3
files are "lossy" meaning that the compression algorithms remove
digital information that most people cannot hear or cannot
distinguish from other sounds. If a high sampling rate is used to
generate the MP3 files, the sound quality is only slightly inferior
to that of the original audio file. However, the advantage of the
smaller size of the MP3 files is significant. These advantages
include the ability to store more hours of sound recordings per
amount of space in physical storage mediums such as, for example,
hard disks, RAM, and flash memory cards. Also, the smaller size of
MP3 files enables them to be downloaded much faster through a
network such as the Internet.
[0007] Numerous web sites on the Internet offer digital sound files
such as MP3 files for downloading to a personal computer. Also as a
result of the popularity of digital sound files, portable computer
systems have been developed such as the Diamond RIO which are
specifically designed to load and play sound recording files.
[0008] Unfortunately, the technology associated with creating MP3
files from a CD and downloading MP3 files from web sites has
resulted in a significant amount of music piracy and lost revenues
for artists and music recording companies. Anyone with a home PC
can generate an unlimited number of copies of digital sound files.
By placing such pirated files on an Internet web site, unlimited
distribution of pirated sound files is possible.
[0009] To deter copyright infringement and unrestricted piracy of
digital sound recordings, the music industry is promoting an
alternative file format for storing digital recordings called SDMI
(Secure Digital Music Initiative). The SDMI specification for sound
files offers similar compression characteristics as the MP3 file
format; however, SDMI is designed to have built in copyright
protection features which limit the playback and duplication of the
files. In addition Microsoft has developed an alternative
specification for compressing and copyright protecting sound files
called Windows Media.
[0010] Because MP3 files are already wildly accepted as the de
facto standard, it may be very difficult for new file formats to
replace MP3. The popularity of MP3 files coupled with unlimited
sound file piracy may significantly decrease the revenue that
recording labels and artists generate from the sale of music and
other forms of audio. Consequently, there exists a need for a
system of distributing MP3 files that enables the copyright holder
to receive licensing fees for each distribution of an MP3 file.
[0011] Distribution of sound recordings from the Internet makes it
much easier for an individual artist to reach a mass audience for
their work without a recording label. As a result the variety of
music that is available over the Internet is exploding. Many of the
titles can be downloaded without a fee. Unfortunately much of the
music that has no fee is low quality, amateurish, and not very
desirable. If the artist is relatively unknown, it is very
difficult to get users to download music for a fee. This is because
most individuals are hesitant to pay for downloaded MP3 files
before being familiar with the artist.
[0012] If the music is given away on a no-fee basis or even a
low-fee preview basis, it may be difficult to generate any income
from the music. Once the MP3 version of the music is downloaded,
the MP3 file can be played, copied, and distributed an unlimited
number of times without generating income for the artist.
Consequently there exists a need for a system that enables
individuals to test out songs for a small fee, but does not enable
the users to copy or distribute the sound files.
[0013] To take advantage of the benefits of playing sound recording
files rather than CDs or cassettes, a user must have a PC. Although
the cost of a personal computer has dramatically decreased over the
last two decades, computers are still significantly more expensive
than a CD player. Portable sound file players such as the Diamond
RIO are operative to play music independently from a PC; however
they still must be connected to a PC at some point to upload a new
set of MP3 files. Consequently there exists a need for a new system
of distributing sound files that does not require the user to have
a computer.
[0014] The current methods for delivery of forms of audio, visual,
print and other media may also have drawbacks. Consequently there
exists a need for a better way of delivering the content of such
media.
DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION
[0015] It is an object of an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention to provide an automated transaction machine that is
operative to dispense digital information.
[0016] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to dispense digital information to a portable storage
medium.
[0017] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to dispense digital information to a portable
computing system.
[0018] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to dispense digital information in exchange for a user
fee.
[0019] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to output digital information to an output device in
exchange for a user fee.
[0020] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to distribute user fee income generated from the
dispense of digital information among a plurality of entities.
[0021] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to download digital information from a digital
information source located on a network. It is a further object of
an exemplary embodiment of the present invention to provide an
automated transaction machine that is operative to dispense digital
sound recordings.
[0022] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to play digital sound recordings through a sound
system. It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to dispense digital sound recordings onto a portable
storage medium.
[0023] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to dispense digital sound recordings to a portable
digital sound file player.
[0024] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to charge an account of a user in exchange for the
playing of digital sound recordings.
[0025] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to provide a selection of digital sound recordings to
play when the user performs a banking or other transaction at the
machine.
[0026] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide an automated transaction machine that
is operative to offer a selection of digital sound recordings to
play that are downloaded from a network such as the Internet.
[0027] It is a further object of an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention to provide a system and method through which an
automated transaction machine may be used to deliver and manipulate
image content.
[0028] Further objects of exemplary embodiments of the present
invention will be made apparent in the following Best Modes for
Carrying Out Invention and the appended claims.
[0029] The foregoing objects are accomplished in one exemplary
embodiment of the invention by an ATM that is operative to dispense
digital information which is also referred to herein as digital
content. In the exemplary embodiment the digital information
includes digital sound recording files that may be output through
an output device such as a sound system in operative connection
with the ATM. However in alternative embodiments, the digital
information may include other types of information that may be
digitally stored and transported over a network. Other examples of
digital information include digital representations of images,
books, software, audiovisual works, movies, TV shows, magazines,
newspapers, games, compilations, and databases.
[0030] The ATM is in operative connection with storage read/write
devices such as a floppy disk drive, smart card drive, flash memory
drive, or any other device that is operative to read and write
information to a portable storage medium. In the exemplary
embodiment the ATM is operative to save digital information such as
digital sound recording files to the portable medium.
[0031] Alternative embodiments of the ATM may include a portable
computing device communication port that is operative to
communicate with a portable computing device. When a portable
computing device, such as a laptop computer, hand-held computer, or
sound file player is placed in operative connection with the
communication port, the ATM is operative to send digital
information such as digital sound recording files to the portable
computing device. Examples of communication ports that are
operative for use with embodiments of the present invention include
a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, parallel port, RS-232 Serial
Port, Infrared (IR) Port, Radio Frequency (RF) port, or any other
type of physical or wireless communication port.
[0032] The ATM is operatively programmed to accept a fee from a
user in exchange for outputting either digital information or
saving digital information to a portable storage medium or portable
computing device. For ATMs that include a card reader and are in
operative connection with a host banking system, the ATM may be
operative to charge the fee to an account associated with a credit
card, debit card, or smart card for example. For ATMs that include
a currency accepting device, the ATM may be operative to accept
currency in exchange for outputting or saving digital
information.
[0033] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the ATM
is in operative connection with a private network or public network
such as the Internet. The ATM is programmed to enable a user of the
ATM to view and select digital information that is downloaded
across the network. For example the ATM is operative to display
visual outputs corresponding to a plurality of sound recording
files such as MP3 files, that can be executed to reproduce
individual musical performances such as songs. The ATM is further
operative to download one or more of these sound files in exchange
for a fee and to either play the song through a sound system or
send the song to a portable storage medium or computing device.
[0034] In an alternative form of the present invention, the ATM may
be operative to periodically download a selection of digital
information in response to programmed instructions to acquire one
or more categories of digital information. By pre-downloading and
storing digital information, the ATM does not need to be
continually connected to a source of digital information. Also any
delay caused by having to download individually selected
information files across a network is eliminated because the files
are stored locally in the ATM.
[0035] For example when the digital information corresponds to
sound recording files, the ATM may be operative to periodically
download sound files that correspond to the most popular songs for
the week or other time period. In another example if the digital
information corresponds to digital books, the ATM may be operative
to periodically download digital books that correspond to a fiction
or nonfiction best seller list or ranking. In another example if
the digital information corresponds to broadcast TV shows, the ATM
may be operative to periodically download digital files that
correspond to the TV shows that were broadcast over a certain time
period. Of course in other embodiments other types of digital
information may be delivered and stored in the machine for delivery
to users, or downloaded at the time in response to the user's
request.
[0036] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the ATM
may be operative to distribute the user fees for the dispense of
digital information among a plurality of entities, including the
owner of the ATM, the source of the digital information, and/or a
licensing organization. This distribution may be performed for each
user transaction or may be performed on a periodic basis. When the
distribution is performed periodically, the ATM is operative to
calculate an amount of value that corresponds to licensing fees for
digital information that is downloaded or dispensed by the ATM
during a time period. An amount of value equal to this calculated
amount may then be transferred from an account associated with the
ATM such as the operator thereof to the source(s) of the digital
information and/or to licensing organizations.
[0037] When the digital information requires copy protection
features, the ATM may be further operative to include or activate a
copy protection feature responsive to the type of license being
purchased by the user. For example, if the ATM dispenses SDMI or
Windows Media sound recording files, the ATM may be operative to
configure the files to limit where and how long the sound files can
be played as well as whether duplication is allowed.
[0038] Alternative exemplary embodiments provide for the delivery
and manipulation of image files through an automated transaction
machine. In some such embodiments the machine may include a
photographic quality printer and a user may selectively manipulate
and/or print image files from a local source such as storage media
or a digital camera, or a remote source such as a server associated
with a film processor.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0039] FIG. 1 is a schematic view representative of an exemplary
embodiment of an automated transaction machine and system of the
present invention that is operative to dispense digital
information.
[0040] FIG. 2 is a schematic view representative of an exemplary
embodiment of an automated transaction machine and system of the
present invention that is operative to dispense digital sound
recordings.
[0041] FIG. 3 is a schematic view representative of the
distribution of transaction fees from digital information dispensed
by an ATM.
[0042] FIG. 4 is a schematic view representative of an exemplary
automated transaction machine and system that is operative to print
files retrieved from either a portable medium of a consumer or a
processor of digital information.
BEST MODES FOR CARRYING OUT INVENTION
[0043] Referring now to the drawings and particularly to FIG. 1,
there is shown therein a schematic view of an automated transaction
machine of an exemplary embodiment of the ATM 10 of the present
invention. The ATM 10 includes at least one computer processor 12
that is operatively programmed to enable the ATM to perform at
least one banking transaction such as the dispense of cash. The
computer processor 12 is also operatively programmed to enable the
ATM to dispense digital content which is alternatively referred to
herein as digital information. To perform these functions the ATM
further includes in operative connection with the computer
processor 12, at least one data store 13, a display device 14, at
least one input device 16, at least one output device 18, a card
reader 20 which also serves as an input device, and a cash
dispenser 24. The ATM 10 is further operative to communicate with
at least one financial transaction processing computer which is
operative to carry out financial transfers which in this example is
host banking system 30. ATM 10 also is enabled to communicate with
at least one digital information source 32. In the exemplary
embodiment of the present invention the ATM 10 is operative to
download digital information from the digital information source 32
through a network 34 such as the Internet.
[0044] It should be understood that the ATM 10 and system are
exemplary and in other embodiments automated transaction machines
may include other or additional devices and may operate in other
types of systems. For example, embodiments of the present invention
may include in operative connection with the computer processor 12,
a currency acceptor 22, a data store including a storage device
drive 26, and a communication port 28 which serves as an output
device. The storage device drive 26 serves as a local data store
and enables the computer processor to dispense digital information
to a portable storage medium 36. The communication port 28 enables
the computer processor to cause the dispense of digital information
to a portable computing device 38.
[0045] FIG. 2 schematically shows an exemplary embodiment of the
ATM 10 that is operative to dispense both cash and digital content
comprising sound recordings such as music and songs. However, it is
to be understood that the present invention also encompasses the
dispensing of other types of digital information including digital
representations of images, books, software, audiovisual works,
movies, TV shows, magazines, newspapers, games, compilations,
databases and other types of digital content that may be delivered
in a digital format.
[0046] Exemplary ATM 10 includes a display device 14 such as a CRT
monitor or LCD display. The display device is operative responsive
to the processor to output user interface indicia 46. The user
interface indicia may include instructional outputs for operating
the ATM as well as content indicia which are representative of the
portions of digital information that may be dispensed from the ATM
for a fee. In some embodiments the content indicia may include
listings of songs, movies, books or other portions of the digital
content which a user may select to have delivered. Exemplary
embodiments may also include graphical representations regarding
the information, such as pictures of the artist or CD liner in the
case of music files. Audio and/or visual outputs may also be
provided to identify, and in some cases enable the user to sample
the available information.
[0047] Exemplary ATM 10 also includes at least one input device 16
such as a keypad and selection buttons. The input device(s) enable
the user to enter operation inputs such as a personal information
number (PIN) corresponding to an account, an amount of cash to
withdraw, or a selection of a particular digital sound recording or
other portion of the digital content to dispense. Although this
described embodiment includes function keys and a keypad,
alternative embodiments of the present invention may use other or
additional types of input devices for entering information, such as
a touch screen device, a speech recognition system, or a track
ball.
[0048] ATM 10 also includes a cash dispenser 24 and a card reader
20. The card reader 20 is operative to read indicia corresponding
to account information from a user's card. The card may be a bank
card, credit card, debit card, gas card, merchant card, smart card,
or other medium that is operative to store account data and/or
other information which may be used to identify a user or their
accounts. In other embodiments the ATM may include a biometric type
reading device which may identify the user by a characteristic
thereof. Such biometric reading devices may include for example a
fingerprint reader, iris scanner, retina scanner, voice recognition
device, facial recognition reader or other device. The exemplary
ATM 10 is operative to dispense a selected amount of cash to the
user from the cash dispenser 24, and to debit the account of the
user through communication with a financial transaction computer
such as a host banking system. The exemplary ATM 10 is also
operative to debit user fees from the account for dispensing
digital information from the ATM as well.
[0049] In alterative embodiments of the present invention, the ATM
may also include at least one currency accepting device 22. For
users who do not wish to use an account to pay for the dispense of
digital information, the ATM is operative to receive the user fees
in the form of cash such as bills and/or coin, using the currency
accepting device 22.
[0050] In the exemplary embodiment, the digital information
dispensed by the ATM 10 includes digital sound recording files 44.
Examples of digital sound recording files include MP3 files, WAV
files, SDMI files, and Windows Media files. Typically each file
corresponds to an individual music selection or song. However,
sound files may correspond to any collection of sounds of any type
and length. Other examples of sound recording files include
compilations of songs such as are found on music CDs and spoken
textual material corresponding to news articles, stories, speeches
and books.
[0051] In the exemplary embodiment, the ATM 10 acquires sound files
to dispense from at least one remote digital information source 32.
The source 32 may include a web site or FTP site on the Internet,
or sources in other public or private networks. The exemplary ATM
10 is operative to periodically download a plurality of sound files
that match certain customizable programmed criteria. The ATM may
also download corresponding graphics or video files associated with
the sound files. These downloaded files are stored locally at the
ATM in a local content data store 13 such as a hard drive. The ATM
10 is operative to display or output graphical, textual and/or
audio content indicia representative of these sound files with the
display device 14. A user of the ATM 10 may then provide one or
more inputs to select and/or dispense one or more of these sound
files.
[0052] The ATM may be programmably configured with different types
of downloading criteria. For example, if the ATM is located in a
dance club, the downloading criteria may be configured to have the
ATM periodically download the sound files that correspond to the
top 100 most popular dance songs for the month. If the ATM is
located in a book store, the ATM may be configured to periodically
download sound files representative of the best-selling fiction and
nonfiction books for the month.
[0053] In the exemplary embodiment if the data store 13 does not
have already stored therein the sound file that a user desires, the
exemplary ATM is further operative to have the user enter a
selection input corresponding to the desired sound file such as a
title or the name of an artist or group. The ATM is then operative
to query one or more remote content data stores for the requested
sound file(s). A message is returned to the ATM which is operative
to cause the processor to generate a listing of matching sound
files which is displayed on the display device 14 of the ATM 10. In
a response to one or more dispense inputs from the customer, and
for a fee, the ATM 10 is then operative to download and dispense
one or more of the matching sound files from an output device.
[0054] In embodiments of the invention in which a network
connection such as an Internet connection is not available or is
not always used, the ATM may be operative to acquire sound files
from portable storage mediums such as CDs. Such sound files may
then be copied or ripped from the CD and saved locally to the data
store 13 in the machine.
[0055] The exemplary ATM may be operative to dispense digital
information in a plurality of different ways depending on the type
of digital information. For example the ATM described in connection
with FIG. 2 further includes an output device 18 that includes a
sound system 60. The sound system 60 includes a sound signal
amplifier 40 with a plurality of speakers 42. The ATM 10 is
operative to output though the sound system 60, analog or digital
signals that correspond to selected digital sound recording files.
The signal amplifier 40 is operative to output sound through the
speakers 42 that corresponds to the sound file signals. Such an ATM
may then function as a fee-based digital music player or jukebox.
For restaurants, bars, and other facilities that offer music, the
exemplary embodiment of the present invention offers the ability to
generate user fees for both the dispensing of cash and the
dispensing of audible music.
[0056] For other forms of digital information that is visual, such
as text, documents, images or video for example, the ATM may be
operative to output such digital content either through the display
device 14 of the ATM 10 or through an output device 18 that
includes a video system 62 or a printing system 64. A video system
may include one or more monitors, TVs, speakers, LCD displays, or
projection TV. The embodiments of the present invention may include
multiple output devices for outputting multiple forms of digital
information concurrently. A printing system 64 may include a
monochrome or color printer capable of outputting documents and/or
photo quality prints of images or other graphics.
[0057] If multiple sound files or other forms of digital
information have been selected for output through the output
device, the exemplary embodiment may be operative to sequentially
output each song either in the order the digital information was
selected, or in other orders, including alphabetical by title of
song, artist, album, style, or in a random order.
[0058] Alternative embodiments of the present invention may also
dispense digital information such as sound files, to other storage
mediums. For example the ATM 10 may include a storage device drive
26 such as a CD-R or CD-RW drive which is operative to accept a
portable storage medium 36 such as a write-once or rewriteable CD.
For a fee the ATM may be programmed to dispense the sound file by
writing a copy of the sound file on a user supplied CD.
Alternatively, the ATM may include a supply of blank CDs or other
media, and may copy the file onto the media and deliver it to the
user. Examples of other types of storage device drives that are
operative for use with embodiments of the present invention may
include portable hard drive readers such as an Iomega Jaz.RTM.
drive; magneto optical drives such as an Iomega Zip.RTM. drive;
flash memory drives for writing to flash memory devices such as
CompactFlash and Sony Memory Stick.RTM.; DVD-R, DVD-RW, and DVD-RAM
drives, Mini-CD drives, and digital tape drives.
[0059] Alternative embodiments of the present invention may
dispense digital information such as sound files, through an output
device which includes a communication port 18 directly to a
portable computing device. Examples of suitable communication ports
18 include a Universal Serial Bus (USB) port, a serial RS-232 port,
parallel port, an infrared (IR) port, a radio frequency (RF) port
such as Bluetooth, an IEEE-1394 port, or a network port such as a
wired or wireless Ethernet connection. When a portable computing
device such as a Diamond Rio is connected to the port 18, the ATM
may be operative for a fee to download MP3 sound files to the RIO
MP3 player. Examples of other types of portable computing devices
that may receive dispensed digital information such as sound files
include a portable computer such as a notebook computer, a personal
digital assistant (PDA) and a mobile phone.
[0060] In alternative embodiments the present invention may be
operative to dispense digital information to a user through the
Internet by e-mail or FTP for example. In such embodiments the user
may select the information through inputs to the ATM 10. The ATM
would prompt the user to input through at least one input device an
e-mail, FTP or other network delivery address. The ATM would then
be operative through an output device such as a suitable network
interface, to e-mail or FTP the selected digital information to the
user, rather than dispensing the digital information through output
devices, to a portable storage medium or to a computing device
adjacent the ATM. Alternatively the ATM may send one or more
messages through one or more networks to a remote computer, which
messages cause the remote computer to send the selected digital
content to the network address.
[0061] Figure 3 shows a schematic view representative of accounts
that are accessed by the exemplary ATM 10 for distributing user
fees. Because the ATM 10 is in operative connection with a host
banking system, ATM 10 is enabled to deduct a user fee from an
account of the user in exchange for the dispense of digital
information. The exemplary embodiment of the ATM 10 operates by
reading an account number from a card inserted by a user into the
card reader 20. The account number includes data representative of
the institution where the user's account is held. Examples of cards
that are operative for use with some embodiments of the present
invention include credit cards, bank cards, debit cards, merchant
cards, smart cards, or any other portable medium that can store
account or user information and/or data representative of stored
value. The exemplary ATM 10 is operative to communicate with a
financial transaction computer which includes or which can
communicate with, a host banking system which can validate a user
inputted PIN and authorize a transaction requested by the user at
the ATM. If the PIN is valid and the transaction authorized, the
message(s) sent by ATM 10 is further operative to cause the host
banking system to debit user fees from the user's account
corresponding to the requested dispense of cash and/or the
requested dispense of digital information. Transaction fees or
other charges for the convenience of using the machine may also be
charged to the user's account. Alternatively as previously
discussed, embodiments of the present invention may identify users
by biometric information. The biometric data from the user may then
be used by a local or remote computer to identify the user and/or
their associated account information.
[0062] The dispensing of most digital information is limited by the
copyright owner. Typically the copyright owner requires a fee or
royalty to copy, display, publicly perform or otherwise deliver the
work. The amount of the fee may vary depending on how the work is
authorized to be used. For example if the work is a sound
recording, the fee to play the sound file one time in a restaurant
may be much less than the fee to dispense the sound file to a
portable storage medium which may be duplicated an unlimited number
of times. Consequently, an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention is operative to track how digital information is
dispensed and to transfer corresponding licensing fees to a
licensing entity, a digital information source and/or other
entities authorized to receive payment. Likewise stored information
concerning the nature, location, size, contract status or other
information concerning the establishment in which the particular
ATM is located may be used to determine the fee. For example the
fee to play a music file in a small restaurant may be less than in
a large dance club. Similar principles may be applied to charging
for other types of audio files, documents, images, videos,
audiovisual files and pay-per-view type events.
[0063] The exemplary ATM 10 may be operative to debit a user fee
from the user's account 50 for each dispense of digital
information. The user fees may be transferred to a common banking
account 54 of the operator of the ATM 10. Transfers of user fees
may occur either immediately with each dispense and/or may occur
periodically with the ATM 10 transferring data concerning multiple
charges made to credit cards of various users to a financial
transaction computer, such as a settlement host for example, which
is operative to credit and debit accounts of the appropriate
entities.
[0064] Licensing fees for downloading digital information from a
digital information source may be transferred in a similar manner.
The ATM 10 may generate messages or may include data in messages
operative to cause a financial transaction computer to transfer a
licensing fee from the account 54 that corresponds to the operator
of the ATM 10, to an account of the digital information source 32.
Such a transfer may be performed through the host banking system or
through another transaction switch or through interaction of one or
more financial transaction computers. Such transfers may occur with
each download or may occur periodically for a batch of downloads
which have occurred during a prior time period.
[0065] In an alternative embodiment, the ATM 10 is configured with
inputs which include a terminal identifying UserID and a password
for use when connecting through one or more networks to the digital
information source 32. The UserID and password enable the ATM 10 to
access the digital information source 32 and to download digital
information. The digital information source 32 monitors all
downloads that correspond to the UserID and periodically charges
the account 54 that corresponds to the operator of the ATM.
Alternatively for some types of digital information, the charge may
be assessed against an account of the establishment where the ATM
is located or an account of the operator of the establishment. This
may be appropriate in cases where the use associated with the
digital information, as indicated by the transaction messages
received from the ATM and/or based on stored data, is a public
display or performance of the work in the establishment. Of course
other approaches may be used.
[0066] Once digital information has been downloaded to the data
store 13 of the ATM 10, the copyright owner of the digital
information may require that a licensing fee be paid with each
dispense of the digital information to a user or upon each public
display or performance. The ATM 10 or other connected computer is
operative to keep records of each dispense of digital content and
the character of dispense that is made. The exemplary ATM is
farther operative to transfer licensing fees associated with each
dispense to an account of the digital information source 32 or
another licensing entity 52 through the financial transaction
computer. This transfer may be done with each dispense or
periodically for a batch of dispenses.
[0067] In an alterative embodiment, the ATM 10 may be operative to
transfer dispense records to the digital information source or the
licensing entity through the Internet or other network. The digital
information source 32 or licensing entity 52 may then debit or
charge the licensing fees from an account that corresponds to the
user, the operator of the ATM, the operator of the establishment or
other appropriate entity.
[0068] For digital information that includes copy protection
features or other technological measure to limit reproduction,
access or use of the copyrighted work, the ATM 10 may be further
operative to configure or incorporate the protection features and
charge a user fee that corresponds to the copy or other protection
features which are included. For example ATM 10 may be enabled to
have the user select licensing features of a song file such as
unlimited or restricted duplication, expiration dates, or other
features of the sound file that affect the reproduction or use of
the sound file. For example, the protection features used in some
embodiments of the invention may restrict reproduction of the
digital content so that it may only be played in the portable
computing device to which it is initially delivered. Other features
may restrict reproduction by preventing the digital content from
being transferred from or otherwise reproduced in digital form from
the media or device on which it is initially delivered. Other
features may restrict reproduction by limiting the use of the
digital content to a particular time period or to a particular
number of plays. Of course additional or alternative approaches may
be used depending on the system and the digital content involved.
The ATM 10 may be operative to charge the user a corresponding user
fee based on the type of protection features selected. The ATM may
also be operative to cause the corresponding licensing or other fee
to be paid to the source of the digital information or a licensing
entity.
[0069] Alternative embodiments of the present invention may be used
in connection with systems which include stored information
concerning particular users. Such systems may be used to correlate
the identity of the user with marketing or customer preference
data. Such formation may include particular categories of music,
videos, books or other materials or products that can be provided
and/or that are of interest to the particular user. The ATM may
operate to automatically give the user options for selections
tailored to their associated preference information. Alternatively
such information may be used to automatically provide the user with
digital files, visual or audio outputs or other outputs whenever
the user operates an ATM connected to the system. For example when
the ATM is operated as a jukebox, the ATM may operate to
automatically display indicia corresponding to favorite artists or
songs, or to output one or more of the user's favorite songs.
[0070] In certain embodiments of the invention it may not be
desirable for a user to access their financial account each time a
relatively small charge for digital information is assessed to the
user. In such systems the system may be configured so that the user
is required to make a "minimum purchase." This amount may be a
charge reasonably sufficient to offset the costs of accessing the
account, for example $10 or $20. This amount would then be credited
to a content prepay account associated with the user. A prepay
account record indicating a credit associated with the user or
their account would then be stored in one or more data stores. This
credit information may be stored locally on a smart card or other
item, at the ATM or remotely in a computer such as a financial
transaction computer which can be accessed from the ATM. For
example in some embodiments the amount may be credited to a
licensing or other organization. Alternatively, a financial
transaction computer may debit the prepay account of the user as it
is used and route payments to the appropriate entities. The amount
of value associated with the prepay account may then be reduced
each time the user receives a delivery of digital content until the
account is exhausted. Such a system may be advantageously used
where the fees involved in each digital file transaction are small,
such as the cost or playing sound files. Such a system also
provides the system operator, licensing entity, or other entity the
benefit of the "float" on the allocated funds.
[0071] To discourage or limit the unauthorized reproduction of
digital information that may be dispensed, exemplary embodiments of
the present invention may be operatively programmed to modify
features of the digital information before it is delivered for
reproduction on a portable medium and computing device. For example
with digital sound files, the processor in the ATM comprises a
reproduction device that may embed a digital code or certificate in
the sound file that is reproduced on the user's portable digital
sound player or other personal computing device. Such a certificate
may further include an encrypted digital signature that can be used
to detect unauthorized alterations of the file.
[0072] The portable sound player would only be operative to play
the sound file if the digital certificate corresponds to a unique
code or certificate associated with the portable sound player. Also
the portable sound player would only be operative to play the sound
file if the digital signature indicates that the sound file is
authentic. Such features would limit playback of the file to the
user's personal sound player. The sound file would be inoperative
on another personal sound playing device that is associated with a
different certificate or code. Of course the same principles may be
used with files that are downloaded to the ATM itself for storage
in the local data store, when the files are only to be played
through use of the ATM and not transferred to other devices.
[0073] In alternative embodiments the ATM may be operatively
programmed to have the user register with a licensing entity for
the digital content prior to dispensing digital content for the
first time. During the registration process the user would be
associated with a unique license code that may also be used when
purchasing digital content in the future. The ATM may then be
operative to embed the license code in each file that is dispensed
for the user. The next time the user wishes to purchase digital
information, the ATM may then be operatively programmed to accept
the input of the license code from the user.
[0074] For example the license code may be manually input with the
input device 16, read from a card with the card reader device 24,
downloaded from the user's portable computing device 38, retrieved
from another source and/or correlated with other data concerning
the user. The ATM would then be operative to validate the license
code by communicating with the licensing entity. If the license
code is valid and/or is in good standing, the ATM would be
operative to dispense additional digital information with the
embedded license code of the user. Such a unique license code may
be generated by the licensing organization, or may correspond to
the previously described digital code or certificate associated
with the user's computing device.
[0075] These described methods of copy and/or use protection of the
dispensed digital information may be further associated with a
subscription service or club. For example during the previously
described registration process the ATM may prompt the user to sign
up for a digital information service that for a monthly fee enables
the user to dispense a certain amount and/or type of digital
information. For example the service may correspond to the
dispensing of music files or digital book text files. Each month
the user would be entitled to dispense a certain amount of these
files from the ATM for a discount club rate fee or for no
additional fee per dispense transaction.
[0076] When the user first signs up for the service, the ATM may be
further operative to enable the user to associate payment of the
service or club fees to an account of the user for automatic debit
of the monthly club dues or dispense fees from the user's account.
Such automatic payment information may be acquired by reading
account information from a user's credit card or banking card with
the card reader device 20 of the ATM.
[0077] In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the present
invention may be used to retrieve digital information previously
associated with a user from a processor of the digital information.
For example the exemplary ATM may be in operative connection with a
photographic film processor. A consumer may for example input with
an input device 16 of the ATM a processing identification number
associated with photographic film being developed and digitally
scanned by the film processor. The exemplary ATM is operative to
download digital images of the consumer's developed film from the
processor which corresponds to the inputted processing
identification number. The ATM is further operative to display the
images and enable the consumer to select one or more of the images
for printing to the printing system 64. The ATM may further enable
the user to dispense the images to a physical medium and/or
portable computing device of the consumer as previously
described.
[0078] FIG. 4 shows a schematic view of this exemplary alternative
system 60. Here the exemplary ATM 62 includes one or more
transaction function devices 64 and a high resolution photo quality
printer 66. The exemplary ATM 62 further includes a data store 68
that is operative to store a plurality of images files 70. The
exemplary ATM 62 is operative to acquire images files 71 from a
plurality of different external image file sources. The image file
sources for example may include a portable storage medium 72 that
is placed in operative connection with the ATM 62 by a consumer.
The image file sources may further include a digital camera 74 that
is placed in operative connection with the ATM 62. In addition the
image file sources may include one or more film processors 76 in
operative connection with the ATM 62 through a public or private
network connection 78. In one exemplary embodiment the network
connection includes the Internet.
[0079] To use the described exemplary ATM to print images
originally captured on photographic film, the consumer first
forwards the exposed film to a film processor 76. Exemplary film
processors may for example receive film sent through the mail by
the consumer and/or may receive film that has been dropped off at a
film processing booth located at a store or other convenient
facility. To facilitate tracking of the film, a processing
identification number may be forwarded to the film processor with
each individual roll of film. For example, each film being dropped
off at a booth or being sent through the mail may be placed in a
shipping envelope or other container supplied by the film
processor. Each shipping envelope may include a unique processing
identification number such as a film processing number preprinted
on the shipping envelope. The shipping envelope may further include
a tear off receipt that includes a matching film processing number.
The film processing number on the receipt may then be inputted into
an ATM of the present invention to retrieve and print one or more
of the images developed by the film processor.
[0080] In alternative exemplary embodiments, the processing
identification number may correspond to a processing account number
for a film processing account previously established by the
consumer with the film processor. When sending in film to be
developed, consumers may record their processing account numbers on
a shipping container for a roll of film. If a consumer has multiple
roles of film, each may be associated with the consumer's
processing account number prior to sending to the film processor.
The processing account number may then be inputted into an ATM of
the present invention to retrieve and print one or more of the
images developed by the film processor.
[0081] When film is received by the film processor 76, the film is
developed and digitally scanned to produce image files 82
representative of the images exposed on the film. The film
processor 76 is further operative to store the image files 82 in a
data store 80 for later retrieval by one or more ATMs 62 of this
described exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the
images files 82 in the data store 80 are associated with the
previously described processing identification numbers 88 such as a
film processing number or a processing account number of the
consumer.
[0082] The exemplary ATM 62 provides a user interface 86 through a
display device 84 of the ATM which enables the consumer to retrieve
image files generated by the film processor. To facilitate the
retrieval of the image files from the film processor 76 which
correspond to the consumer, the exemplary ATM 62 is operative to
prompt the consumer to input one or more processing identification
numbers 88 which are associated with the image files 82 stored in
the data store 80 of the film processor 76. In one exemplary
embodiment the processing identification numbers may be inputted
though a keypad or keyboard 61 of the ATM 62.
[0083] In alternative embodiments, the exemplary ATM 62 may include
a bar code scanner 67 that is operative to scan and input the
processing identification numbers from a processing receipt,
account processing card, label, or other medium in the possession
of the consumer. In this described exemplary embodiment the
processing receipts, or account processing cards may include a bar
code or other machine readable indicia which enables the scanner 67
to quickly and accurately scan and input the processing
identification numbers into the ATM. In a further alternative
embodiment, the exemplary ATM 62 may include a card reader 63 that
is operative to read processing identification numbers from a
magnetic stripe card or a smart card previously issued to the
consumer. The exemplary ATM 62 may further prompt the consumer to
enter a password or personal identification number (PIN) that is
associated with the processing identification number stored on the
card.
[0084] The ATM 62 is operative to contact the film processor 76 and
forward the inputted processing identification numbers and/or PINs
to the processor 76. In response to receiving the inputted
processing identification numbers and/or PINs, the film processor
is operative to validate the inputted processing identification
numbers and/or PINs. Validations may include for example whether an
inputted processing identification number corresponds to received
rolls of film and/or whether the inputted processing identification
number matches the inputted PIN. If the inputted processing
identification numbers are valid, the film processor is operative
to forward one or more image files 82 to the ATM 62 which
correspond to the inputted processing identification numbers. The
image files 70 received by the ATM 62 are saved in the data store
68.
[0085] When the film processing number does not correspond to image
files stored in the data store 80 of the film processor 76 or the
inputted processing identification number does not match the
inputted PIN, the film processor is operative to send the ATM 62 a
message indicative of the inputted processing identification number
being invalid. The exemplary ATM 62 may then prompt the consumer to
reenter the correct processing identification number and/or
PIN.
[0086] Once the image files have been received or while the image
files are being received, the exemplary ATM 62 is operative to
display with the display device 84 a listing of the image files 70.
In one exemplary embodiment, the listing may include small
thumbnail views of the image files. The exemplary ATM enables the
consumer to select one or more of the retrieved images for
displaying in a larger size on the display screen 84. The exemplary
ATM further enables the consumer to individually select one or more
retrieved images for printing by the ATM with the high resolution
photo quality printer 66. The exemplary ATM also enables the
consumer to individually select one or more image files for saving
by the ATM onto a portable storage medium 72.
[0087] In addition the exemplary ATM of the present invention is
operative to perform a plurality of image processing functions on
image files selected by the consumer. Exemplary image processing
functions performed by the ATM include cropping, red-eye removal,
contrast adjustment, sharpening filters, softening filters, color
adjustment, or any other image manipulation function which is
operative to alter the displayed and/or printed appearance of an
image.
[0088] The exemplary ATM is further operative to provide the
consumer with a plurality of sizing and portrait or landscape
orientation options for printing one or more selected images.
Sizing options for example may include printing a single 8.times.10
(inches) image on a single sheet of photo quality paper with the
printer 66. Sizing options may further include printing four
4.times.5 (inches) images on a single sheet of photo quality paper.
The exemplary four 4.times.5 images may be of the same image file
or may be selected from up to four different images files. Sizing
options also may include printing a plurality of smaller wallet
size images of a single or multiple image files. In addition the
exemplary sizing options may include custom sizes inputted by the
consumer.
[0089] The exemplary ATM 62 of the present invention is operative
to retrieve image files from a plurality of different film
processors. In one exemplary embodiment, the inputted processing
identification numbers include an address portion that is
representative of the communication address of the film processor.
The exemplary ATM 62 of the present invention is operative to
contact the correct film processor through the network 78
responsive to the address portion.
[0090] In one exemplary embodiment, the ATM 62 includes data
representative of the communication addresses which correspond to
the address portions of the inputted processing identification
numbers. Exemplary communication addresses may include a network
address such as a TCP/IP address of a server of the film processor.
The exemplary communication addresses may further include a phone
number of a remote access server of the film processor.
[0091] In a further exemplary embodiment, rather than having the
ATM 62 include data representative of the communication addresses
of a film processor, the ATM may be in operative connection with a
message gateway router (MGR) 90. The MGR 90 is operative to
establish a communication link between a plurality of ATMs and a
plurality of film processors responsive to the address portions of
the inputted processing identification numbers. The exemplary MGR
90 is operative to forward inputted processing identification
numbers and other messages from each ATM to the correct film
processor and return corresponding image files and other processing
messages to the correct ATM. An example of an MGR that may be used
with the present exemplary invention is found in U.S. Pat. No.
6,039,245 of Mar. 21, 2000, which is incorporated herein by
reference in its entirety.
[0092] The exemplary ATM 62 of the present invention may include
alternative configurations based on the speed of the connection
between the ATM 62 and the film processor 76. For example large
high resolution image files may take a considerable amount of time
to download from the film processor to the ATM though a low speed
dial up network connection. As a result, the exemplary embodiment
of the present invention may be operatively configured to initially
download relatively low resolution and/or highly compressed
"thumbnail" versions of the image files to the ATM 62. The ATM may
then output the thumbnails on the display 84 of the ATM 62. Only
after a consumer selects a thumbnail for viewing in a larger
format, for printing, or for exporting to a portable storage
medium, will the ATM 62 send a request to the film processor to
download a corresponding high resolution version of the image file
to the ATM 62
[0093] The exemplary ATM 62 is operative to charge fees to an
account of a user or accept cash from the user for the services of
printing and/or dispensing the images files. Exemplary ATMs 62 may
enable the consumer to pay for printing and/or dispensing image
files with a credit/debit card though use of the card reader 63.
Exemplary ATMs may further enable a consumer to pay for printing
and/or dispensing image files from the ATM by inserting currency
into a currency acceptor 65.
[0094] The exemplary ATM 62 is operative to allocate portions of
the fees received from the consumer among the film processor, the
servicer of the ATM, and/or the operating entity which proves
space, electricity, and a network/phone connection for the ATM. In
one exemplary embodiment the allocations of fees is performed by
transferring portions of the fees to financial accounts associated
with each one of the film processor, servicer, and operator of the
ATM.
[0095] In one exemplary embodiment the ATM 62 is operative to
charge the consumer for the number of images printed or dispensed
to a portable medium. In an alternative exemplary embodiment the
ATM is operative to charge fees based on the amount of paper
required to print the images. For example a single 8.times.10 image
on a single sheet of paper may cost the same as four 4.times.5
prints on a single sheet of paper. In a further exemplary
embodiment, the ATM 62 is operative to charge a processing fee for
the development and scanning of the film and individual printing
fees based on the number of images printed or the amount of printer
paper consumed. In further alternative embodiments other methods of
deriving and allocating fees for the services of printing and
dispensing image files from the ATM 62 may be used.
[0096] In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the exemplary ATM 62
may retrieve image files from a portable storage medium 72, digital
camera 74, or other device of the consumer. The exemplary ATM may
then enable the consumer to selectively print, for a fee,
individual images with the printer 66 of the ATM 62. As discussed
previously, the exemplary ATM 62 may enable the consumer to perform
imaging processing function on the images, and may enable the
consumer to select the desired size and orientation of the images
to be printed.
[0097] In addition to printing image files, the exemplary ATM 62
may further enable the consumer to retrieve other printable
documents from a portable storage medium 72 or other device of the
consumer. Examples of other printable documents, include word
processing documents, Acrobat PDF documents, web pages, CAD files,
Post Script documents, or any other type of digital content that is
capable of being printed to a printer 66 of the ATM 62.
[0098] In a further alternative embodiment of the present
invention, the ATM 62 may include a camera 92 securely affixed to
the ATM. In this described exemplary embodiment the ATM 62 is
operative to enable a consumer for a fee to take digital
photographs with the attached camera 92. The digital photos may
then be dispensed to a portable medium 72 or printed out with the
printer 66 as previously described. In one exemplary embodiment the
camera 92 may be integrated into the fascia of the ATM with the
lens positioned to photograph individuals or other objects standing
in front of the ATM 62. In addition, the ATM 62 may be operative to
display a live image of the field of view of the camera 92 on the
display 84 of the ATM 62. Also the ATM 62 may display selectable
functions with the user interface 86 for optically and/or digitally
zooming between wide angle and telephoto views. The ATM 62 may
further include selectable functions with the user interface 86 for
adjusting the shutter speed, aperture, or any properties of the
camera 92 that effect the captured image.
[0099] In a further alternative exemplary embodiment of the present
invention, the described ATM 62 may include an optical scanner 94
such as a flat bed scanner or a film scanner, which is operative to
generate image files from photographs, slides, and/or negatives.
Consumers may use the exemplary ATM 62 to generate image files by
scanning pre-existing photographs and/or film with the optical
scanner 94 of the ATM. For a fee these scanned-in image files may
be printed out with the printer 66 or dispensed to a portable
medium 72 as previously described.
[0100] The computer processors in the exemplary ATMs 10, 62 of the
present invention operate to perform processes described herein
responsive to software stored in one or more data stores, such as
data store 13, 68. The software stored in data store 13 is loaded
therein from one or more forms of programming media. Such
programming media may include any media from which computer
instructions can be copied such as one or more CDs, diskettes, hard
drives, tapes or other items.
[0101] The present invention may find applicability to numerous
types of situations and may be used to facilitate the tracking of
transactions in the entertainment, education, gaming, investment,
merchandising and banking industries.
[0102] Thus the system and method for dispensing digital
information of the present invention achieves at least one of the
above stated objectives, eliminates difficulties encountered in the
use of prior devices and systems, solves problems and attains the
desirable results described herein.
[0103] In the foregoing description certain terms have been used
for brevity, clarity and understanding, however no unnecessary
limitations are to be implied therefrom because such terms are used
for descriptive purposes and are intended to be broadly construed.
Moreover, the descriptions and illustrations herein are by way of
examples and the invention is not limited to the exact details
shown and described.
[0104] In the following claims any feature described as a means for
performing a function will be construed as encompassing any means
known to those skilled in the art to be capable of performing the
recited function, and will not be limited to the structures shown
herein or mere equivalents thereof.
[0105] Having described the features, discoveries and principles of
the invention, the manner in which it is constructed and operated,
and the advantages and useful results attained; the new and useful
structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations,
systems, equipment, operations, methods and relationships are set
forth in the appended claims.
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