U.S. patent application number 09/837408 was filed with the patent office on 2002-09-12 for methods and apparatus for producing a vending machine inventory status signal.
This patent application is currently assigned to Imaging Technologies Pty Limited. Invention is credited to Bruck, Tony, Grondman, Siegmund, Jenkins, Alan Ernest, Smith, Gower.
Application Number | 20020125314 09/837408 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 3779225 |
Filed Date | 2002-09-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20020125314 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Jenkins, Alan Ernest ; et
al. |
September 12, 2002 |
Methods and apparatus for producing a vending machine inventory
status signal
Abstract
Method and apparatus for stocking a vending device are
disclosed. The vending device is structured to receive a product
selection from a user via a user input device. The vending device
then dispenses the selected product and determines if the inventory
associated with the selected product has fallen below a
predetermined threshold. If the inventory of the selected product
has fallen below the predetermined threshold, the vending device
may communicate with a remote host device. Alternatively, or in
addition, the vending device may communicate with the remote host
periodically.
Inventors: |
Jenkins, Alan Ernest;
(Pearcedale, AU) ; Grondman, Siegmund; (Upwey,
AU) ; Smith, Gower; (Kirribilli, AU) ; Bruck,
Tony; (East Lindfield, AU) |
Correspondence
Address: |
GOWER SMITH
ZOOM SYSTEM
3175 17TH STREET
SAN FRANCISCO
CA
94133
US
|
Assignee: |
Imaging Technologies Pty
Limited
New South Wales
AU
|
Family ID: |
3779225 |
Appl. No.: |
09/837408 |
Filed: |
April 18, 2001 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09837408 |
Apr 18, 2001 |
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08716426 |
Nov 25, 1996 |
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6264104 |
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08716426 |
Nov 25, 1996 |
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08387715 |
Jun 1, 1995 |
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6029851 |
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08387715 |
Jun 1, 1995 |
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PCT/AU93/00416 |
Aug 13, 1993 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
235/383 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 9/002 20200501;
G07F 7/00 20130101; G07F 9/02 20130101; G07F 7/06 20130101; G06Q
10/087 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/383 |
International
Class: |
G06K 015/00 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Mar 21, 1994 |
AU |
PM 4610 |
Aug 14, 1992 |
AU |
PL 4129 |
Nov 13, 1992 |
AU |
PL 5839 |
Claims
1. A dedicated electronic catalogue device for enabling a user to
order goods and/or services from a remote location, including a
memory storing a catalogue data base for access by the user, the
catalogue data base including information on products and/or
services available for order, display means for displaying
information from the catalogue data base, communication means for
communicating with a remote host device for automatically placing
orders, identification means for identifying authorised users of
the device, user input means for enabling the user to select
available products and/or services from the catalogue data base for
order, and processing means for controlling operation of the
device.
2. A device in accordance with claim 1, the memory also storing a
user data base, the user data base including information for
identifying authorised users of the device.
3. A device in accordance with claim 2, the device being arranged
to access user credit information to determine the
credit-worthiness of a user and to deny a user order if the credit
of the user is not sufficient.
4. A device in accordance with claim 3, the user data base further
including user credit information for access by the device, the
device being arranged to update the user credit information in
response to orders placed by the user.
5. A device in accordance with any one of claim 2, 3 or 4, the
device being arranged to update information in the user data base
in response to data communicated from the host device via the
communication means.
6. A device in accordance with any preceding claim, the device
being arranged to update information in the catalogue data base in
response to data communicated from the host device via the
communication means.
7. A device in accordance with any preceding claim, wherein, in
response to operation of the user input means by a user to place an
order, the device is arranged to store transaction information in
the memory, the transaction information including information on
the identity of the user and the product and/or service
ordered.
8. A device in accordance with claim 7, being arranged to
automatically upload stored transaction information to the host
device, via the communication means, at predetermined time
intervals.
9. A device in accordance with any preceding claim, further
including an information service menu stored in the memory for
access by the user, the information service menu identifying
information services which are available at the device and which
may be selected by the user on appropriate actuation of the user
input means.
10. A device in accordance with claim 9, an information service
file being stored in the device and including information service
data to enable provision of an information service on selection by
a user.
11. A device in accordance with claim 10, the device being arranged
to update the information service file and/or the information
service menu in response to data communicated from the host device
via the communication means.
12. A device in accordance with any one of claims 10 or 11, the
device further including audio means for providing information in
audible form, the information service file including an audio file
storing audio service data for reproduction as audio
information.
13. A device in accordance with any one of claims 10, 11 or 12, the
information service file including a video file storing video
service data for reproduction as video information on the display
means.
14. A device in accordance with any preceding claim, further
including storage means for storing product on site, a catalogue
data base including information on products which are available on
site as well as products which are only available from a remote
location.
15. A dedicated remote goods/services ordering and supply system,
comprising an electronic catalogue device in accordance with any
one of the preceding claims, and a host device located at a remote
location and arranged to communicate with the electronic catalogue
device via the communication means, to receive orders for
goods/services placed via the electronic catalogue device and to
process the orders.
16. A system in accordance with claim 15, the host device including
a processing means for controlling the host device, a memory, a
user input means and a display, the host device being arranged to
process an order by receiving the transaction information via the
communication means and automatically producing an invoice and a
delivery instruction for delivery of the goods/services to the user
who generated the order at the electronic catalogue device.
17. A system in accorance with claim 15 or claim 16, the host
device being arranged to automatically communicate with the
electronic catalogue device to update data stored in the memory of
the electronic catalogue device.
18. A method of providing for remote ordering and supply of
goods/services, comprising the steps of providing, at a first
location, a processing device incorporating a memory storing a
catalogue data base including information on products and/or
services available for order, and having input means to enable a
user to select available products and/or services from the
catalogue data base for order, providing, at a second location
remote from the first location, a host device, the host device
being arranged to communicate with the processing device to receive
and process information relating to products/services ordered, and
providing a service infrastructure for delivering products/services
ordered to the first location.
19. A method in accordance with claim 18, including the step of the
host device periodically communicating with the processing device
and automatically updating via a communication means the catalogue
data base.
20. A method in accordance with claim, 18 or claim 19, including
the further step of providing information services at the remote
processing device, whereby a user can request information services
via the input means.
21. A method in accordance with claim 20, including the further
step of the host device providing data to the processing device to
update the information services available.
22. A method in accordance with any one of claims 18 to 21 the
proessing device being arranged to store user information for
identifying a user of the processing device, and including the
further step of the host device communicating with the processing
device to update the user information.
23. A method in accordance with any one of claims 18 to 22,
including the further step of making goods available at the first
location and providing the goods at the first location in response
to an order for the goods.
24. A method in accordance with any one of claims 18 to 23,
including the step of enabling the processing device to be used by
a plurality of different users, user information being stored in
the processing device on each user.
25. A method in accordance with any one of claims 18 to 24,
including the step of positioning the processing device in a public
location for access by a plurality of users.
26. A method in accordance pith any one of claims 18 to 25,
including the step of providing a plurality of processing devices
for communication with the host device, each processing device
being positioned in a different location.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates generally to electronic
ordering of goods and/or services and in particular relates to a
dedicated electronic catalogue device and system for enabling
remote ordering of goods/services
[0002] In a further aspect, the invention relates to an electronic
catalogue device which combines a remote ordering facility with a
local vending facility, for vending locally available goods.
[0003] The disclosure of the applicants earlier international (PCT)
application, number PCT/AU93/00416 (publication number W094/04446)
is considered incorporated herein. This earlier application relates
to a recycling apparatus for promoting the recycling of complex
items, such as toner cartridges, ink jet cartridges and the
like.
[0004] Remote electronic, ordering of goods/services is known.
Systems are available where a user having access to a personal
computer (PC) may order a limited number of goods or services from
remote location, e.g. "remote shopping" from the supermarket.
[0005] The extent of available systems is limited and they have a
number of disadvantages.
[0006] A catalogue "data base" is usually provided to the PC user
on data storage media such as diskette, CD-ROM, or the like. The
user accesses the information on the catalogue via his PC and
selects the goods he requires. The PC will then print out an order
form, which is then usually sent to the service provider by
transmission media such as facsimile, post or the like. Such
systems are merely a logical extension of known paper catalogue
marketing techniques The PC is merely a convenient interface for
reading the catalogue and generating printed orders.
[0007] Further a separate accounting system is necessary to process
the user's order. Further, it is quite possible that an
unauthorised user of the PC may make an order which would
unknowingly be charged to the owner/authorised user of the PC.
[0008] Known electronic catalogue systems are generally an
extension of an existing computerised ordering and administration
system and may be quite difficult to use for people unfamiliar with
computers. Further, present systems have no means of storing high
priority goods on site and delivering them to the user instantly.
It is necessary to transmit order information to a remote warehouse
or delivery centre. Known systems are merely concerned with the
delivery of new or replacement articles and have no means for
processing the administrative requirements for collection and
storage of used articles, such as recyclable materials.
[0009] Further, they do not provide untrained users sufficient
assistance to replace the need to make phone enquires upon the
supplier to find out what products they should order for the
particular application requirements. For example, there are no
electronic catalogues for laser printer, ink jet printer, dot
matrix printers, photocopiers, facsimile machines and
multi-functional office machines, that guide the user through the
compatibility lists allowing selection by brand, model, type, or
any other meaningful access method.
[0010] The present invention provides a dedicated electronic
catalogue device for enabling a user to order goods and/or services
from a remote location, including a memory storing a catalogue data
baser for access by the user, the catalogue data base including
information on products and/or services available for order,
display means for displaying information from the catalogue data
base, communication means for communicating with a remote host
device for automatically placing orders, identification means for
identifying authorised users of the device, user input means for
enabling the user to select available products and/or services from
the catalogue data base for order, and processing means for
controlling operation of the device.
[0011] The electronic catalogue device of the present invention is
a dedicated device whidh is preferably suitable for use by a
plurality of different users.
[0012] The electronic catalogue device is preferably positioned in
a public location. That is, a location which is accessible to
service a plurality of users. For example, such an electronic
catalogue device may be located in the foyer of an office building,
to enable access by people throughout the office building.
[0013] Preferably, each user is provided with an identification
means, preferably in the form of a magnetic card, although any
other type of identification means, such as a "pin" number, token,
smartcard, finger print, etc., could be used.
[0014] The device is available for any user in the building to
order goods or services, merely by accessing the device by
presentation of his identification means and then proceeding to
make an order, The goods/services available will be determined by
the availability of goods/services at the remote locations
Generally, any goods or services for which there is a demand, or
for which there is envisaged there may be a demand, may be
proffered.
[0015] The catalogue data base provides information on all the
products/services available. The data base is preferably organised
in the form of a "family tree". The head of the tree comprises more
generic information on a product and the limbs of the tree provide
more detailed information. This arrangement facilitates selection
of the appropriate product even where the user does not have a
detailed knowledge of the product range available to him.
[0016] The device is preferably arranged to store information
relating to orders made by a user as "transaction information". The
device is preferably arranged to communicate with the| host device
at predetermined intervals and upload the transaction information
to the host device during the communication.
[0017] In response, the host device preferably generates an invoice
and a delivery authority or order which will prompt delivery of the
ordered product/service and updating of the user's account. The
host is preferably associated with a service infrastructure to
enable delivery of the goods/services and keeping of user
accounts.
[0018] The electronic catalogue device also preferably stores user
information in a user data base, including information for
identifying authorised users. This information may be used to
confirm the identity of a user accessing the device, and may also
be uploaded in the identify the user who has placed the particular
order.
[0019] The catalogue device preferably has access locally to credit
information to determine the credit worthiness of a user and may
deny a user order if the credit of the user is not sufficient
Preferably, user credit information is stored in the user data base
and the device is arranged to automatically update the user credit
information in response to orders placed by the user. User credit
information may also be updated remotely from the host device via
the communication means, e.g. in response to payment of
invoices.
[0020] The host device is also preferably arranged to update data
stored in the electronic catalogue device. For example, the
catalogue data base may be updated with further information on new
products (goods/services) available, or products which are no
longer available or temporarily unavailable. User data may also be
updated. For example, where it is necessary to identify a new user
of the device, new user data will be added to the user data
base.
[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the electronic catalogue device
also provides information services. For example, a weather report
may We provided, an international news report, educational
services, and other information services. Data relating to these
information services is stored in the memory in an information
service file. The information service files may also be remotely
updated by communications from the host device. Audio and video
files may be used to supplement the information services, The
electonic catalogue device is preferably provided with audio
reproduction means to enable reproduction of an audio file. The
display means preferably enables reproduction of a video file.
[0022] The advantages of a system |such as this are significant.
Any products/services may be offered for sale at a location
convenient for targeted users. For example, if an office worker
requires lunch, all he need do is access his local device with his
identification means and order lunch. The appropriate service would
be provided. Similarly, should office hardware be required, e.g.,
toner cartridges, ink cartridges, other office materials etc., all
the user need do is access the device and make the appropriate
order.
[0023] It will be appreciated that the device has general
application and is not limited to office users.
[0024] Communication between the electronic catalogue device or
devices and the host device may be via any convenient communication
media. Preferably both the host and electronic catalogue device are
provided with a MODEM for automatic communication via a telephone
link. Other suitable data carriers may be used as an interface,
such as electronic data interchange (EDI).
[0025] In a preferred embodiment, a local vending facility is also
provided. In this embodiment, therefore, not only can the device
offer a remote ordering facility, but can also vend any goods which
may be available locally, i.e., from storage means provided with
the device. The user accesses the device and the device is
preferably arranged to indicate, by means of the visual display
unit what goods are available locally and what goods are available
remotely The user can then select his preferred goods.
[0026] A preferred embodiment has a collection function for
crediting and signalling the requirement to collect articles from
the user site, such as recyclable or damaged goods. Storage means
are preferably provided for storing articles returned by users
whether for recycling or for other purposes. The device may be
arranged to automatically signal the host device at the remote area
for the requirement for article collection and is preferably
automatically arranged to credit the users account with any amounts
due to the user because of placement of recyclable articles in the
storage means.
[0027] In particular, a preferred embodiment of the invention is
intended for electronic sales and recycling of complex office
items, such as ink jet cartridges, photocopier and fax cartridges
etc. The device enables easy selection/cross referencing for toner
cartridges, ink jet cartridges, etc, with the users identity and
account, together with an electronic catalogue ordering/dispensing
system for complex office items and any other goods. The system, in
at least preferred embodiments, can replace the need to have a
sales representative to determine user needs, such as what type of
cartridge fits the user laser printer, and the need for that user
to order the cartridge in a separate transaction. The device acts
as a "one-stop shop" and preferably determines credit details,
security levels, pricing, delivery and billing.
[0028] In yet a further embodiment, the device of the present
invention is associated with a recycling and vending apparatus,
such as disclosed in applicants earlier PCT application, referenced
abode.
[0029] The present Invention further provides a dedicated remote
goods/services ordering and supply system, comprising an electronic
catalogue device as discussed above, and a host device located at a
remote location and arranged to communicate With the electronic
cataloge device via the communication means, to receive orders for
goods/services placed via the electronic catalogue device and
process the orders.
[0030] The host device is preferably arranged to process an order
by receiving transaction information via invoice and delivery
instruction for delivery of the products to the user who generated
the order at the electronic catalogue device.
[0031] The present invention further provides a method of providing
for remote ordering land supply of goods/services, comprising the
steps of providing, at a first location, a processing device
incorporating a memory storing a catalogue data base including
information on products and/or services available for order, and
having input means to enable la user to select available products
and/or services from the catalogue data base for order, providing,
at a second location remote from the first location, a host device,
the host device being arranged to communicate wish the processing
device to receive and process information relating to
products/services ordered, and providing a service infrastructure
for delivering products/services ordered to the first location.
[0032] The host device and the electronic catalogue device are
preferably as discussed above.
[0033] The system as a whole preferably comprises a plurality of
electronic catalogue devices connected by a communications link to
a host device at a service centre for servicing product requests
made at the electronic catalogue devices.
[0034] Features and advantages of the present invention will become
apparent from the following description of an embodiment thereof,
by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying
drawings, in which:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating generally a
system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
and including an electronic catalogue device in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 2 is a front elevation of an electronic catalogue
device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention
schematically indicating major components;
[0037] FIG. 3 is flow chart illustrating, generally, operation of a
system and device in accordance with an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0038] FIG. 4 is a representation of an example portion of a
catalogue data base stored in memory in the device of FIG. 2;
[0039] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating functions
and communication tasks of the system;
[0040] FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram illustrating further
operation of the system, and FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram
illustrating content of a typical communication exchange between a
electronic catalogue device and the host device.
[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, a remote electronic ordering system is
schematically illustrated, including a plurality of electronic
catalogue devices 150 connected to a host device 300 by a
communications link. The communications link is preferably by way
of respective MODEMS and a telephone link, but may be by any type
of communications interface.
[0042] As illustrated, each electronic catalogue device comprises a
user input means 500, adapted to enable a user to select available
goods/services for order, a user identification means 700 for
identifying a user of the device and a control unit 600 for
controlling the ordering of ordered goods/services from the remote
location where the host device 300 is situated.
[0043] In this embodiment, the electronic catalogue device 150
further comprises storage space 400 which may store articles to be
vended locally by the device and provide space for the storage of
articles provided by the user for recycling (see applicants earlier
PCT application, referenced above).
[0044] A front elevation of an embodiment of the electronic
catalogue device is shown in FIG. 2. In dedicated for operation of
the device, 208, 208A. A magnetic card reader 210A is provided for
user identification 700. A VDU (visual display unit) 210 is
provided to give information to the user relating to products to be
ordered, storage of products and dispensing of products.
[0045] The storage means are in the form of compartments 201, each
having a separately lockable door. It will be appreciated that the
storage means could have many other configurations (see applicants
earlier PCT application). The device also mounts a computer module
220 which provides the control unit 600. The computer module 220 is
inside the cabinet and inaccessible to the user except via the user
input means. Components of the computer module 220 are
schematically illustrated. A person skilled in the art will be able
to realise an appropriate configuration of the computer module 220
components from this description. Computer module 220 comprises an
INTEL based 486 processor 221; a 14,400 baud external modem 222 for
communication with the host device 300; 420 MB hard disc drive 223,
3.5 inch floppy diskette drive 224 and 4 megabyte of RAM 225,
constituting a memory for the control unit 600; a sound card 226
for the reproduction of audio files as audio information (audio
files and audio computer technology are known. A suitable audio
means must be provided to reproduce sound. A speaker is provided in
the unit 150, although it is not shown in the drawing); an input
and, output controller card 227 for receiving signals indicative of
products being removed from and placed in the compartments 201
compartment door and the placing of a product therein or removal of
a product therefrom are disclosed in the above-mentioned PCT
application and no further description will be given herein). The
input and output controller card 227 detects whether a product is
returned or removed from a compartment and provides appropriate
signals to the processor 221. A receipt printer 228 is also
provided for printing user receipts.
[0046] The keypad 208, 208A, may be any convenient type of keypad
which will enable a user to carry out operation of the device in
accordance with the following description. Generally, it will
comprise numeric keys 0 to 9, scroll keys, to enable scrolling of a
display appearing on the screen 210 and selection keys 208A to make
a selection of a particular item appearing on the screen next to
the particular key 208A.
[0047] The host device 300 (not shown in detail) comprises a
personal computer positioned at a service location for processing
data from the electronic catalogue device and sending data to the
electronic catalogue device, in accordance with the following
description. It includes a MODEM for communication with the
electronic catalogue device, a 486 based computer, a printer for
generating invoices and orders, a user interface to enable a
service provider to input data, a display, means for transmitting
audio files and (if required) video files to an electronic
catalogue device, and appropriate memory means. The host 300 will
be able to be configured by a skilled person to perform the
functions detailed in this description.
[0048] The electronic catalogue device is preferably established in
a convenient location. The location may be public, such as a retail
shop, a foyer of an office building, or, in a large office, in thee
office itself.
[0049] Operation of the device will now be described generally with
reference to FIG. 3. More detailed operation will be described
subsequently.
[0050] The control unit 600 is adapted to control the display unit
210 to produce a number of screens, depending upon user operation
of the device 150. As an initial step, an "introduction screen" 801
is displayed on VDU 210. The introduction screen May give
information to the user as to how to access the device, e.g., where
to place his identification means in order to proceed with a
transaction.
[0051] After reviewing the introduction screen 801, the user
proceeds to step 802 and inserts his magnetic card into card reader
210A, to enable the device 150 to identify him.
[0052] After the user has been identified 803, the control unit 600
controls the VDU 210, to display a "main menu" 804. This may
comprise a single screen or a number of screens through which the
user may scroll, providing the user with a number of choices of
goods/services available for order, and may indicate whether goods
are "on-site" in storage locations 201 or only available from
remote site. Alternatively, this indication may not be given until
later on in operation of the device 150. The display preferably
provides high definition graphical images of catalogue
products.
[0053] In the next step 805, the user selects the product he
requires (either goods/services or both) by actuation of the
keyboard 208. Control means 600 makes a determination as to whether
the product is available locally or remotely, step 806.
[0054] If the product is available locally, in the next step 807
the product is dispensed from one of the storage location 201, the
control unit 6001 operating a latch mechanism to the particular
storage location 201 to enable the user to open the specified door.
The user then takes the product. A suitable latch mechanism and
configuration of the storage location 201 is described in the
earlier PCT application referred to above.
[0055] The preferred embodiment incorporates a recycling function
as well as a vending function (see earlier PCT application). It
enables the user to recycle printers, etc. Step 808 enables a user
to return such a recycled product to an appropriate storage
location 201. This option need not be included, but is preferred.
At step 809, a receipt is printed and provided through slot 211 to
the user. The receipt gives details of the user transaction for his
information.
[0056] If the result of the decision at step 806 is that a product
is not available locally, at step 810 the display requires the user
to indicate, whether his order is confirmed. If the order is
confirmed (by way of keyboard 208) the control unit 600 requests
the order from the host device 300 by way of communications link
200, at step 611.
[0057] At step 812 receipt is printed for the user through slot
211, giving details of the delivery.
[0058] Details of user account transaction are periodically
up-loaded to the host device 300 via the communications link 200
(step 813) to assist in administration of the system (814).
[0059] Control means 600 is also arranged to determine whether a
product which is usually locally vended is in stock, by determining
contents of the storage means 201 and/or using details from
previous transactions.
[0060] In a preferred embodiment, computer diskettes may be vended
from storage means 291. Storage means 201 may be in chute form,
i.e., a stack of diskettes being stacked in the chute and
individually dispence Any other arrangement may be used.
[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates a portion of an example catalogue
database stored in the memo of the electronic catalogue device 150.
The database is organised in a "family tree" format. The
representation shown in FIG. 4 gives an idea of how the database
information will appear on the display 210 when access ed by a
user. The information in the left hand columns is more generic and
more detailed information is provided as one passes to the right in
the diagram. Following login 900, the user will be invited to
select from a menu of generic items with the heads indicated in the
eft hand column of FIG. 4. The user may, for example, select the
"Electronic product_catalogue" 901 by appropriate actuation of the
user interface buttons 208A. A display of the next limb in the
"tree" will then appear, giving a list of items which fall within
the electronic product catalogue 901. The examples given in FIG. 4
are "laser printer and fax supplies" 902, "ink jet printer
supplies" 903, "other office supplies" 904 and "lunch orders" 905.
Any number of items may be included in the electronic product
catalogue 901. If there is not room to display the menu showing all
the items on the screen 210, scroll keys 208 may be actuated by the
user to scroll the screen up or down to view other menu items.
[0062] A particular user may "know" a particular product he
requires in a number of ways. For example he may know of the
product by type (i.e. what type of laser printer it fits) or he may
know it by brand name. The database enables the user to select a
particular product using his knowledge. For example, he may select
by type 906 or by brand 907. If he selects by brand 907, for
example, a display showing a series of brands of laser printers
902, ink jet printer supplies 903, etc, will appear. From this menu
907 he can then select a particular brand. The products available
by brand will then appear on the screen 908 through 913. He can
then select a particular product and proceed to the purchase
transaction screen 914 into which he will enter details such as the
number of products he requires. The information, together with the
identity of the user (and any other information which may be
required by the service provider) will then be loaded into a
transaction 300.
[0063] The catalogue database may include information on any number
of products/services Which are available for purchase.
[0064] For example, an electronic information catalogue 915 is also
provided, for the provision of services at the device 150. Services
may include educational services, "lessons" 916, weather reports,
"weather" 917 and "news," 918, Selection of one of these items may
then prompt the appearance on the screen 210 of a menu giving many
sub-items. For example, "weather" 917 selection may allow options
of "Sydney weather" 918 or "national weather" 919. Selection of
"news" 920 may give options of "Sydney news" 921, "National news"
922 and "International news" 923.
[0065] The memory of the device 150 stores various service files
corresponding to the service menu items available. Each service
file includes data for driving the device 150 to provide the
particular service. The data may be in the form of information to
be produced on the display, giving a rundown of the Sydney weather,
for example, may be in the form of an audio file to be reproduced
audibly (e.g. verbal information giving a rundown of the Sydney
weather) or may be in the form of a video file to provide visual
service information. As discussed later, service files can be
updated from the host device 300.
[0066] In accordance with the invention discussed in the above
referenced PCT application, a "machine cartridge store/exchange"
924 function is also provided and this is also prompted by the same
menu. Menu sub-items for this generic head include, for example,
types of toner cartridge to be exchanged or purchased, 925 through
927. Following selection of a particular cartridge, information for
a return And/or a purchase transaction is prompted 928 on the
screen 210.
[0067] Once a transaction has occurred at the catalogue device 150,
the host must be informed or details of the transaction so that the
product can be provided (if it has not already been provided
locally) and so that the user account information can be updated.
The system must also enable a series of "house keeping" operations.
For example, service files must be updated to ensure that the
services are up-to-date. For examples "Sydney weather" 918 will
need to be updated at regular intervals. Further, account
information on the user database at the electronic catalogue device
150 must also be updated at regular intervals depending upon
purchase information and provision of monies by the user to the
service provider. It will also be necessary at times for the
catalogue database to be updated to reflect availability of
product/addition of new products/price changes for products.
[0068] These requirements are satisfied by data communication
between each electronic catalogue device 150 and the host device
300.
[0069] FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the
operation of the system.
[0070] As transactions occur, each electronic catalogue device 150
stores transaction information (identity of the user, number and
type of products required, and any other information that the
system deems necessary, as will be determined by the service
provider) in a transaction file. The transaction file will include
details of all transactions occurring at the electronic catalogue
device 150 during a predetermined time period. At predetermined
time intervals (for example 0600 hours, 1100 hours, 1500 hours,
2200 hours) the electronic catalogue device 150 dials up the host;
device 300 via the modem and uploads the transaction file including
information on all transactions. Note that, where there are a
plurality of electronic catalogue devices 150 serviced by a single
host device 300, the dialling times for each respective device need
to be staggered so that only one device is communicating with the
host 300 at any one time.
[0071] At 101, therefore, the electronic catalogue device dials the
host 300. At 102, the host answers and then directs various
communication tasks. These communication tasks include the
following:
[0072] 1. The host may ask the electronic catalogue device 150 to
upload transaction files. It may also ask for upload of an
inventory file, which gives details of any stock remaining at the
location of the electronic catalogue-device (e.g. printer
cartridges in compartments --see above-referenced PCT application).
Any other file may also be requested. For example if the host
wishes to check user details, it may request a particular user
file. Such requests may be done at the prompting of the service
provider.
[0073] 2. It may direct downloading of any file. For example, if
the service provider wishes to update a particular service file it
may download a new service file to replace the service file ad the
electronic catalogue device 150. Similarly, it ay download file for
updating the catalogue database 4 with regard to products, prices,
etc.
[0074] 3. It may cause the electronic catalogue device to empty a
file. For example, it is preferred that the transaction file be
cleared at the end of each day (note that the transaction file is
not cleared during every communication. For security reasons, it is
considered advantageous to have the transaction file remain in the
memory of the catalogue device to at least the end of the day).
[0075] 4. It will terminate the communication.
[0076] All data that is to be transferred is compressed and
encrypted 103 (see later).
[0077] The host prepares files for downloading 104. As discussed
above, services files, user riles, catalogue database, and any
other files which may be provided on the electronic catalogue
device 101 require updating from time to time. This is done at the
host end A hoot may prepare files from any number of sources of
information 105. The information may be input by operation of a
user interface (e.g. keyboard, mouse, etc) |by a service provider.
For example, a service file may be updated by entering data by way
of a keyboard. Alternatively, an audio file may be entered, a
visual file, etc. Entering of data may be done at any convenient
time The host may also update data automatically.
[0078] The host also examines the contents of any unloaded files
(e.g. transaction files) 106. On receipt of a transaction file, the
host identifies the user and the type of transaction required and
prompts the service infrastructure to deliver the product and issue
an appropriate debit note. The host will also examine the contents
of any other files, will print relevant reports (monthly, stock low
at location of electronic catalogue device, etc.) 107. Any
operation of the host device which is appropriate for the services
provided can be implemented, as will be realised by a skilled
person.
[0079] Automatic accounting is a possibility 108 and the host may
notify the accountant on his computer screen of the electronic
catalogue device status and what action is required. At night the
host prints daily transactions and directs bare electronic
catalogue device to clear the transaction file 109.
[0080] A FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram which illustrates
further operation of the system, in particular in relation to the
servicing and provision of items which are available locally a;t
the electronic catalogue device location (see above-referenced PCT
application).
[0081] The electronic catalogue device 150 is arranged to
communicate with the host automatically when stock of a particular
item on site is low 151. How low the stock has to be before
communication with the host 300 occurs is a matter of choice of the
service provider. As described previously, the host 300 will answer
and direct the device to perform various communication tasks 152.
For this particular operation, the host 300 will request an
inventory and may also request uploading of the transaction file,
in order to determine what stock is low and requires replacing
and/or what recyclable items have been deposited and require
collection All data that is to be transferred is compressed and
encrypted 153. The host examines the contents of the uploaded files
154 and prints a low stock alert report 155. A number of operations
may then occur.
[0082] An automatic link is made to the accounting system to
perform a stock transfer 159 (alternatively, the link may be
manual, in the sense that the host alerts the accountant to the
fact that a stock transfer is required).
[0083] A service technician is notified to go and restock the
device 157. Again this may occur automatically or "manually",
depending upon the service infrastructure.
[0084] A technician's weekly service schedule is updated 158. Where
there are many electronic catalogue devices being serviced, it is
advantageous that a technician who is to be restock the device and
collect articles for recycling is provided with an appropriate
schedule for servicing the various devices. Provision may be made
for the host to automatically plan the schedule.
[0085] The host notifies the accountant on his computer screen of
the device LOW STOCK status 159. The accountant then takes
appropriate action.
[0086] FIG. 7 shows a preferred format for messages containing data
being transferred between the host device 300 and the electronic
catalogue device 150. All messages are prepared by PKZIP protocol
and are compressed and encrypted for security.
[0087] The transferred information comprises a "message" 180
followed by data 181. The message includes a header 182, which
identifies 183 the particular host device (note that a large system
may have more than one host device at more than one service
centre), an electronic catalogue device identification name 182,
gives an indication of the length of message 183 and identifies the
particular communication task 184 (i.e. upload files, download
files, etc.), That is then followed by a file name 185 which
indicates the name of the file to be transferred 186. The header
182 is then followed by data 187 in compressed and encrypted form
188 to be transferred.
[0088] The following two examples are examples of transactions
which might be made via the electronic catalogue device. The first
transaction is a remote transaction and the second transaction
occurs locally.
[0089] Main Milestones of a Transaction (eg to Purchase a
Chair)
[0090] 1. User logs in. The customer swipes their card, enters
their secret pin code and gains access to the system.
[0091] 2. User selects the electronic product catalogue option.
[0092] 3. User selects the correct category (e.g. Office
furniture)
[0093] 4. User select the chairs sub-category
[0094] 5. User selects the chair with a high back.
[0095] 6. User adjust the quantity required and confirms the
purchase is to proceed.
[0096] 7. The computer registers this order on the hard disk and
also on the floppy diskettes, and prints a receipt.
[0097] Later on the device will send these transactions to the host
control system by modem.
[0098] The host will automatically link to the company's accounting
system which will automatically generate an invoice and packing
slip on the warehouse manager's printer.
[0099] The warehouse manager will then know what materials are to
be transferred to the Swap Shop technician for restocking (an SX
cartridge from our example above), and what materials are to be
dispatched by courier (a chair from our example above).
[0100] Main Milestones of a Transaction (e. to Purchase and Return
an SX Cartridge)
[0101] 1. User logs in. The customer swipes their card, enters
their secret pin code and gains access to the system.
[0102] 2. User selects the option to purchase a cartridge and
return a used cartridge.
[0103] 3. User selects the SX cartridge option.
[0104] 4. User selects to purchase/return a cartridge.
[0105] 5. The door opens and the user places the used cartridge in
the compartment.
[0106] 6. The user closes the door.
[0107] 7. The dor opens and the user removes a new cartridge from
the compartment.
[0108] 8. The user closes the door and the device prints a
receipt.
[0109] Although not described in the above embodiment, the
electronic catalogue device may be provided with an EFTPOS
facility. The K71 interface to the banking system is provided. A
user will input his credit details and this will be processed by
the banking system via the K71. The K71 will then signal the
electronic catalogue device that the consumer has or has not got
credit. The K71 signals may actuate storage locations, i.e. to open
a door if locally available product is required.
[0110] The banking system debits the user's account, as for
standard EFTPOS transactions, and the service provider provided
with appropriate monies by the banking system.
[0111] In a local transaction, when the electronic catalogue device
dispenses an article, the time at which the article is dispensed is
preferably recorded and the identity of the user receiving the
article is recorded. Similarly, when an article is returned or
deposited, the user and time is also recorded,
[0112] It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that
numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the
invention as shown in the specific embodiments without departing
from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The
present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all
respects as illustrative and not restrictive.
* * * * *