U.S. patent application number 10/198877 was filed with the patent office on 2003-01-30 for method & apparatus for point of sale generated access to remote file.
Invention is credited to Hodes, Mark Brent.
Application Number | 20030019770 10/198877 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26894233 |
Filed Date | 2003-01-30 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030019770 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hodes, Mark Brent |
January 30, 2003 |
Method & apparatus for point of sale generated access to remote
file
Abstract
This invention provides an apparatus for point of sale generated
access to remote files. The method relates to a transaction between
a merchant, content provider transaction manager and a customer. A
point of sale generated activated identification number allows the
customer to remotely download a specific file from a content
provider. A package adapted for holding a data encoded card and a
disk or cartridge is disclosed. The card generally defines a plane
and includes a means to encode data. In the preferred embodiment
the package has first and second panels, retaining means for
securing the card substantially between the first and second
panels, wherein a data encoded stripe is not exposed and means for
exposing the data encoded strip, while the card is secured between
the panels.
Inventors: |
Hodes, Mark Brent; (Memphis,
TN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Mark B. Hodes
Peregrine Marketing, LLC
Suite 750
5350 Poplar Ave.
Memphis
TN
38119
US
|
Family ID: |
26894233 |
Appl. No.: |
10/198877 |
Filed: |
July 19, 2002 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60308080 |
Jul 26, 2001 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
206/308.2 ;
206/807; 70/276 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/06 20130101;
G06F 1/187 20130101; G06F 1/184 20130101; Y10T 70/7057 20150401;
G06K 19/06196 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
206/308.2 ;
70/276; 206/807 |
International
Class: |
B65D 085/57 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A package adapted for holding a card, the card generally
defining a plane, the card having means to encode data; said
package including: (a) first and second panels; (b) retaining means
for securing said card substantially between said first and second
panels, wherein said means to encode data is not exposed; and (c)
means for exposing said means to encode data, while said card is
secured between said panels.
2. The package of claim 1 wherein said means to encode data is a
magnetic stripe.
3. The package of claim 1 wherein said means to encode data is a
computer chip.
4. The package of claim 1 wherein said means to encode data is a
hard drive.
5. The package of claim 1 wherein said retaining means is a
bracket.
6. The package of claim 1 wherein said card contains holes to
receive posts molded into said package.
7. The package of claim 1 wherein said means for exposing said data
encoded strip is a thumb notch.
8. The package of claim 1 wherein a portion of said card is
adhesively affixed to one of said panels.
9. The package of claim 1 wherein said package further includes
means to secure said first and second panels together while package
is on display.
10. The package of claim 1 wherein said means to encode data
provides an identification number.
11. The package claim 1 wherein an identification number is printed
on said card.
12. The package of claim 1 wherein said package includes bar coded
data.
13. The package of claim 11 wherein said identification number is
obscured while on display.
14. The package of claim 11 wherein said identification number is
not obscured while on display.
15. The package of claim I wherein said package is adapted to
contain a disk.
16. The package of claim I wherein said package is adapted to
contain a cartridge.
17. A package adapted for holding a card, the card generally
defining a plane, the card having a data encoded stripe and a
content storage means; said package including: (a) first and second
panels; (b) retaining means for securing said card substantially
between said first and second panels, wherein said data encoded
stripe is not exposed; (c) means for exposing said data encoded
stripe, while said card is secured between said panels; and (d)
means for retaining said content storage mean between said first
and second panels.
18. The package of claim 17 wherein said data-encoded strip
comprises a magnetic strip.
19. The package of claim 17 wherein said retaining means is a
bracket.
20. The package of claim 17 wherein said card contains holes to
receive posts molded into said package.
21. The package of claim 17 wherein said means for exposing said
date encoded strip is a thumb slide.
22. The package of claim 17 wherein said means for exposing said
data encoded strip is a thumb notch.
23. The package of claim 17 wherein a portion of said card is
adhesively affixed to said panel.
24. The package of claim 17 wherein said data encoded strip
provides an identification number.
25. The package of claim 17 wherein said package further includes
means to secure said first and second panels together while package
is on display.
26. The package claim 17 wherein an identification number is
printed on said card.
27. The package of claim 17 wherein said package includes bar coded
data.
28. The package of claim 27 wherein said identification number is
obscured while on display.
29. The package of claim 27 wherein said identification number is
not observed while on display.
30. The package of claim 17 wherein said content storage means is a
disk.
31. The package of claim 17 wherein said content storage means is a
cartridge.
32. A package adapted for holding a card, the card generally
defining a plane, the card having means to encode data; said
package including: (a) first and second panels; and (b) retaining
means for securing said card between said first and second panels
wherein said means to encode data is not exposed, said retaining
means allowing said means to encode data to be oriented towards
said first panel when said means to encode data coded is not
exposed and allowing said means to encode data to be oriented
towards said second panel when said means to encode data is
exposed.
33. The package of claim 32 wherein said means to encode data is a
magnetic strip.
34. The package of claim 32 wherein said means to encode data is a
computer chip.
35. The package of claim 32 wherein said means to encode data is a
hard drive.
36. The package of a claim 32 wherein a portion of said card is
adhesively affixed to one of said panels.
37. The package of claim 32 wherein said card is exposed between
said first and second panels.
38. The package of claim 32 wherein said means to encode data
provides an identification number.
39. The package of claim 32 wherein said identification number is
printed on said card.
40. The package of claim 39 wherein said identification number is
obscured while on display.
41. The package of claim 39 wherein said identification number is
not obscured while on display.
42. The package of claim 32 wherein said package further includes
means to secure said first and second panels together with package
is on display.
43. The package of claim 32 wherein said package is adapted to
contain a disk.
44. The package of claim 32 wherein said package is adapted to
contain a cartridge.
45. A package adapted for holding a card, the card generally
defining a plane, the card having a data encoded stripe and a
content storage means; said package including: (a) first and second
panels; and (b) retaining means for securing said card between said
first and second panels wherein said data encoded stripe is not
exposed, said retaining means allowing said data encoded stripe to
be oriented towards said first panel when said data encoded stripe
is not exposed and allowing said strip to be oriented towards said
second panel when said encoded stripe is exposed.
46. The package of claim 45 wherein said data encoded stripe is
magnetic.
47. The package of a claim 45 wherein a portion of said card is
adhesively affixed to one of said panels.
48. The package of claim 45 wherein said card exposed between said
first and second panels.
49. The package claim 45 where said package further include means
to secure said first and second panels while package is on
display.
50. The package of claim 45 where said date encoded strip provides
an identification number.
51. The package of claim 45 wherein an identification number is
printed on said card.
52. The package of claim 51 wherein said identification number is
obscured while on display.
53. The package of claim 51 wherein said identification number is
not observed while on display.
54. The package of claim 45 wherein said package includes bar coded
data.
55. The package of claim 45 wherein said storage means is a
cartridge.
56. The package of claim 45 wherein said storage means is a disk.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] None
STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT
[0002] Not Applicable
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for
point of sale generated access to remote files and download of
specific files to an optical or magnetic disk. This invention also
relates to packaging for an optical or magnetic computer disk. The
package including a data encoded card with or without bar code that
allows for the download of files to the disk from a provider to a
remote client via the internet or any other means of electronic
commerce (e.g. ISP or DSL).
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] An important issue relating to publishing content e.g.
computer software, video games, compact disks (hereinafter CD) and
digital video disk (hereinafter DVD) is the issue of theft in the
retail store and consumer sharing. Security cases have been
proposed to prevent the theft of these items. Lax, U.S. Pat. No.
5,598,728, Lax U.S. Pat. No. 5,850,752, and U.S. Pat. No.
5,988,376. The security case is a locked box with a security strip
that is inaccessible to the customer. At the check out counter the
security strip is disabled and the customer can leave the store
with the item. If the security strip is not disabled an alarm will
sound if a customer tries to exit the store with the security box
containing the video game, CD or DVD. The boxes are of a particular
industry size to minimize shelf and warehouse space. These security
packages must conform to the size requirements set forth by the
Interactive Entertainment Merchants Association (IEMA)
(www.theiema.com). These requirements also provide that the
packages cannot have tags or other objects projecting from the box
that would take up space on a shelf or in a shipping box.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] This invention relates to a way to solve the security issue
relating to computer software, video games, compact disks, and DVDs
by packaging a disk in a package that contains a data encoded card.
The data encoded card allows for the download of specific
information from a provider to a remote client via the Internet or
any other means of electronic communication i.e. ISP or DSL. More
specifically, this invention relates to a package, with or without
bar code, adapted for holding a card, the card generally defining a
plane, the card having a means to encode data. The package
including: first and second panels; retaining means for securing
the card substantially between the first and second panels, wherein
the means to encode data is not exposed; and means for exposing the
means to encode data, while the card is secured between the panels.
The means to encode data includes magnetic strip; computer chip or
the like. The encoded data includes at least an identification
number. The identification number can be printed on the card. In
one embodiment the identification number is obscured from view
while the package is on display and the package includes a tamper
evident device to prevent someone from observing the identification
number. The primary benefit of the invention provides the ability
to control and/or maintain inventory pilferage, consumer
registration, and consumer sharing. A secondary benefit reduces
inventory value of goods and services to the minimal cost of raw
materials. If the product is stolen only this minimal cost is lost.
The product, goods or services cannot be stolen, because it has not
been activated at POS.
[0006] This invention also provides a package, with or without bar
code, adapted for holding a card, the card generally defining a
plane, the card having a data encoded stripe and a content storage
means. The package including first and second panels, retaining
means for securing the card substantially between the first and
second panels, wherein the data encoded stripe is not exposed,
means for exposing the data encoded stripe, while the card is
secured between the panels and means for retaining the content
storage means between the first and second panel.
[0007] The invention further provides a package, with or without
bar code, adapted for holding a card, the card generally defining a
plane, the card having means to encode data. The package including
first and second panels, and retaining means for securing the card
between the first and second panels wherein the means to encode
data is not exposed, the retaining means allowing the means to
encode data to be oriented towards the first panel when the means
to encode data is not exposed and allowing the means to encode data
to be oriented towards the second panel, when the means to encode
data is exposed.
[0008] The invention also provides a package, with or without bar
code, adapted for holding a card, the card generally defining a
plane. The card having a data encoded stripe and a content storage
means. The package including first and second panels and retaining
means for securing the card between the first and second panels
wherein the data encoded stripe is not exposed. The retaining means
allowing the data encoded stripe to be oriented towards the first
panel when the data encoded stripe is not exposed and allowing the
stripe to be oriented towards the second panel when the data
encoded stripe is exposed.
[0009] This invention also provides a system for point of sale
generated access to remote file. The system including a data
encoded card having a unique identification number and a
transaction manager in communication with a POS terminal, a content
provider and a customer computer in communication with a content
provider.
[0010] This invention further provides a method to provide point of
sale generated access to remote file in a transaction between a
merchant, provider, transaction manager and a customer. This method
involves providing a package adapted for holding a card and a
content storage means, the card generally defining a plane. The
card having means to encode data, the data including an
identification number. The package including: first and second
panels, retaining means for securing the card substantially between
the first and second panels, wherein the means to encode data is
not exposed during display by the merchant. The package further
having means for exposing the means to encode data while the card
is secured between the panels, exposing the means to encode data;
swiping the means to encode data through a point-of-sale terminal
to read the data; transmitting data from the point of sale terminal
to a transaction manager, activating the identification number by
the transaction manager; transmitting the activated identification
number to a file provider from the transaction manager,
transmitting the activated identification number to a file provider
from the transaction manager, accessing the provider's web site by
the customer, providing the identification number to the provider
by the customer to obtain authorization for the customer to access
the file; and downloading authorized files to a content storage
means.
[0011] This invention further proves a method to provide point of
sale generated access to remote file in a transaction between a
merchant, provider and a customer. The method involves providing a
card having a means to encode data, the data including an
identification number; exposing the means to encode data, swiping
the means to encode data through a point-of-sale terminal to read
the data; transmitting the data from the point of sale terminal to
the transaction manager; activating the identification number by
the transaction manager; transmitting the activated identification
number to a file provider from the transaction manager; accessing
the provider's web site by the customer; providing the
identification number to the provider to obtain authorization for
the customer to assess said files; and downloading authorized files
to a storage means.
[0012] This invention provides a method of customer to prepay a
provider for remote access to files. This method involves providing
a package adapted for holding a card and a content storage means,
the card having a means to encode data, the data including an
identification number; swiping the card through a point-of-sale
terminal to read the data; transmitting the identification number
to the transaction manager; activating the identification number by
the transaction manager, transmitting the activated identification
number to a file provider from the transaction manager, accessing
the provider's web site by the customer; providing the activated
identification number to the provider to obtain authorization for
the customer to access provider's files; and downloading authorized
files by the customer to the content storage means.
[0013] This invention also provides a method for point of sale
generated access to remote files. The method involves: providing a
data encoded card having a unique identification number, swiping
the card through a POS terminal, transmitting the identification
number from the POS terminal to a transaction manager; activating
the identification number by the transaction manager; transmitting
the active identification number to a content provider from the
transaction manager; transmitting the active identification number
from the customer computer to the content provider; providing the
customer with access to remote files by the content provider and
accessing the remote files by the customer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] FIG. 1 is a front view of a package containing a DVD and a
data encoded card.
[0015] FIG. 2 is a back view of a package.
[0016] FIG. 3 is a top view of a package panel.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a top view of the package with an exposed data
encoded card.
[0018] FIG. 5 is a side view of a package.
[0019] FIG. 6 is an alternative embodiment.
[0020] FIG. 7 is an alternative embodiment.
[0021] FIG. 8A is an alternative embodiment.
[0022] FIG. 8B is an alternative embodiment.
[0023] FIG. 8C is an alternative embodiment.
[0024] FIG. 8D is an alternative embodiment.
[0025] FIG. 9 illustrates the general architecture of the security
system that operates in accordance with the present invention.
[0026] FIG. 10 illustrates a routine for accessing files by a
customer from a provider.
[0027] FIG. 11 is a front view of package containing a CD and a
card including a computer chip.
[0028] FIG. 12 is a top view of a package panel with a card having
second data storage surface.
[0029] FIG. 13 is a front view of a package containing a cartridge
and a data encoded card.
[0030] FIG. 14 is a front view of a package containing a cartridge
and a hard drive card.
[0031] FIG. 15A is a front view of a sealed package containing a
data encoded card.
[0032] FIG. 15B is a front view of a unsealed package containing a
data encoded card.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION IF THE INVENTION
[0033] A method an apparatus to securely market publisher's content
like computer software, music, written publication, video games,
CDs and DVDs is provided, by packaging a disk or cartridge in a
standard package with or without bar codes. The package also
contains a data encoded card. The data encoded card allows for the
download of specific information from a provider to a remote client
via the Internet or any other means of electronic communication.
More specifically, the method involves a point of sale generated
access to remote files and transfer of specific files to an optical
or magnetic disk or cartridge. The point of sale generated access
is achieved by reading a data encoded card enclosed in the package,
with or without bar codes. In the following description, for
purposes of explanation, numerous specific details are set forth in
order to provide a through understanding of the present invention.
It will be evident, however, to one skilled in the art the present
invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other
instances, well-known structures and devises are shown in block
diagram form in order to facilitate description. All patents
referenced are heretofore incorporated by reference.
[0034] 1. Definitions
[0035] Cartridge. Is a magnetic or optical disk for use in a Play
Station.RTM. (Sony) on Nintendo.RTM. or the like.
[0036] Client-Server. A model of interaction in a distributed
system in which a program at one site sends a request to a program
at another site and waits for a response. The requesting program is
called the "client," and the program which responds to the request
is called the "server." In the context of the World Wide Web
(discussed below), the client is a "Web browser" (or simply
"browser") which runs on a computer of a user; the program which
responds to browser requests by serving Web pages is commonly
referred to as a "Web server."
[0037] Content. To include but is not limited to entertainment
video and music, software file, exe. file, encripted key,
fractional services of any kind.
[0038] DVD. Digital Video disk.
[0039] DISK. A magnetic or optical storage means for content.
[0040] IEMA. (Interactive Entertainment Merchants Association). In
association of merchants that create retail packaging requirements
for entertainment content.
[0041] HARD DISK CARD A card that includes a hard disk. These cards
includes five megabites of intractive, re-writeable and encrypted
storage. See e.g. UltraCard.RTM. (Ultra Card, Inc.) (See e.g.
Smith, Sr. U.S. Pat. No. 6,131,816).
[0042] HTML (HyperText Markup Language). A standard coding
convention and set of codes for attaching presentation and linking
attributes to informational content within documents. (HTML 2.0 is
currently the primary standard used for generating Web documents.)
During a document authoring stage, the HTML codes (referred to as
"tags") are embedded within the informational content of the
document. When the Web document (or HTML document) is subsequently
transferred from a Web server to a browser, the codes are
interpreted by the browser and used to parse and display the
document. Additionally in specifying how the Web browser is to
display the document, HTML tags can be used to create links to
other Web documents (commonly referred to as "hyperlinks"). For
more information on HTML, see Ian S. Graham, The HTML Source Book,
John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1995 (ISBN 0471-11894-4).
[0043] HTTP (HyperText Transport Protocol). The standard World Wide
Web client-server protocol used for the exchange of information
(such as HTML documents, and client requests for such documents)
between a browser and a Web server. HTTP includes a number of
different types of messages which can be sent from the client to
the server to request different types of server actions. For
example, a "GET" message, which has the format GET <URL>,
causes the server to return the document or file located at the
specified URL.
[0044] Internet. A collection of interconnected (public and/or
private) networks that are linked together by a set of standard
protocols (such as TCP/IP and HTTP) to form a global, distributed
network. (While this term is intended to refer to what is now
commonly known as the Internet, it is also intended to encompass
variations which maybe made in the future, including changes and
additions to existing standard protocols.)
[0045] ISBN (International Standard Book Number). A numerical
identifier associated with books, pamphlets, educational kits,
microforms, CD-ROM and braille publications in circulation
throughout the world. The ISBN is a ten-digit number assigned to
each published title that provides
[0046] Provider. Is a Publisher providing content like computer
software, video games, music, CDs or Dvd's, such as MTV.RTM..
[0047] SMART CARD. An electronic or computer chip is added to the
magnetic stripe on either side of the card, to provide additional
data capacity (generally providing 2 KB in data storage
capacity).
[0048] Transaction Manager. Is a site controller connected to the
POS terminal via any communications link.
[0049] URL (Uniform Resource Locator). A unique address which fully
specifies the location of a file or other resource on the Internet.
The general format of a URL is protocol://machine address:
port/path/filename. The port specification is optional, and if none
is entered by the user, the browser defaults to the standard port
for whatever service is specified as the protocol.
[0050] Web Site. A computer system that serves informational
content over a network using the standard protocols of the World
Wide Web. Typically, a Web site corresponds to a particular
Internet domain name. As used herein, the term is generally
intended to encompass both (i) the hardware/software server
components that serve the informational content over the network,
and (ii) the "back end" hardware/software components, including any
non-standard or specialized components, that interact with the
server components to perform services for Web site users.
[0051] World Wide Web ("Web"). Used herein to refer generally to
both (i) a distributed collection of interlinked, user-viewable
hypertext documents (commonly referred to as Web documents or Web
an unduplicated, internationally recognized "identity." The ISBN
number can be a product code.
[0052] MPEG (Moving Pictures Experts Group). The MPEG standard
concerns high-quality coding of possibly interlaced video,
including high definition television (HDTV). A wide range of
applications, bit rates, resolutions, signal qualities and services
are addressed, including all forms of digital storage media, TV
broadcasting and communications.
[0053] Point of Sale (POS) Terminals. POS terminals are used by a
merchant to process a transaction. These terminals can include a
magnetic card reader for acquiring PIN and PAN information, a
Keypad for selecting options, entering transaction amounts, a
display to report progress of transaction and print a receipt.
[0054] PAN (Personal Account Number). A PAN number can be an
alphanumeric data of any length. A PAN is a term transactional
platforms use for host to host transactions. The PAN can include a
provider code, product code and activation code.
[0055] PIN (Personal Identification Number). A PIN number can be an
alphanumeric data of any length. The PIN number correlates with a
specific file and can also correlate with a specific transaction.
The PIN can include a provider code, product code and activation
code.
[0056] Point of Sale (POS) terminals. POS terminals are used by a
merchant to process a transaction. These terminals can include a
magnetic card reader for processing PIN and PAN information, a
keypad for selecting options, entering transaction amounts, a
display to report progress of a transaction and print a receipt.
pages) that are accessible via the Internet, and (ii) the client
and server software components which provide user access to such
documents using standardized Internet protocols. Currently, the
primary standard protocol for allowing applications to locate and
acquire Web documents is HTTP, and the Web pages are encoded using
HTML. However, the terms "Web" and "World Wide Web" are intended to
encompass future markup languages and transport protocols which may
be used in place of (or in addition to) HTML and HTTP.
[0057] 2. Overview of the System Components and Operation
[0058] Disks and cartridges are content storage medium. The stored
content includes software, music, movies, etc. FIGS. 1-9 show a
package for holding a disk and a data-encoded card. A package 2 is
formed according to industry standards for the product to be
provided. Now referring to FIGS. 1-5, a card 3 having data encoded
stripe 8 is affixed in the package 2 in a manner to hold the card 3
securely, but to provide access to the data encoded stripe 8 by a
clerk at point of sale using a POS terminal, such as a
Veriphone.RTM.. A magnetic reader such as a Veriphone.RTM. is used
if the data encoded stripe 8 is a magnetic encoded stripe. The
package 2 has first panel 10 and second panel 12. The card 3
containing the data encoded stripe 8 is retained substantially
between the first panel 10 and second panel 12 by a retaining means
4. During shipment and display in the retail the store the data
enclosed stripe 8 is substantially concealed between the panels 10
and 12. Additionally, during display and shipment a band 19 can be
used to secure panels 10 and 12 together so that the disk or card
cannot be removed prior to sale. At the point of sale the data
encoded stripe 8 can be sufficiently exposed by sliding it down to
allow a clerk to insert the magnetic portion of the data encoded
stripe into a POS terminal, such as a Veriphone.RTM.. The ability
to fully conceal the card inside the package allows for display of
computer software, video games, CDs, or DVDs on standard display
racks available for buyer physical examination.
[0059] A card 3 having data encoded stripe 8 and/or another means
to encode data is affixed in the package 2 in a manner to hold the
card 3 securely but to provide access to the data encoded stripe 8
by a clerk at check-out using a POS terminal, such as a
Veriphone.RTM.. A magnetic stripe on the data encoded card can be
laminated to the exterior of a card or can be rolled onto the
surface of a card. The data encoded on the card can include: a PIN,
PAN, merchant number and/or data that directs the transmission of
this data to the provider. The PIN or PAN number is referred to as
an identification number. The identification number can also
include reference to the specific content to be delivered. The
identification number is unique to each card. The pre-method to
write the data encoded information to the step is known by those
skilled in the art. The card can be plastic, paper or a composite.
The card can be of any shape, but rectangular is the preferred
shape. The card can be permanently attached to the package as it
may or may not be needed after it is scanned at the point of
purchase. The identification number can be encoded on a magnetic
stripe, encoded as a bar code or embossed or printed on the surface
of the card in numerals or provided by any other means known in the
art. In the preferred embodiment the identification number is
obscured from view while the package is on display and the package
includes a tamper evident device to prevent someone from observing
the identification number.
[0060] Now referring to FIGS. 11, 12 and 14, an alternative
embodiment shown wherein the means to encode data is a smart card
110 or hard drive card 140. A smart card or hard drive card, such
as an Ultracard.RTM., can be used for point of sale generated
access to remote files in the same way a magnetic stripe is used to
encode the desired data. In FIG. 11 a smart card 110 is affixed to
the card 3, along with magnetic stripe 8. In FIG. 12, a second data
storage surface 7 is provided on the card 3. This second data
storage medium card can be a hard drive or any known means to
encode data. In FIG. 14 a card 3 including a magnetic stripe 8 and
a hard drive 140 is affixed in retaining means 4. Both storage
surface can be exposed at POS for reading. The stripe can be used
with or without an additional means to encode data. Additionally,
and alternative means to encode data such as s smart chip or hard
drive can be used instead of a magnetic stripe.
[0061] Access to the data encoded information at the point of sale
can be provided by any number of means. For example, in FIGS. 3
& 4 the magnetic stripe 8 is exposed approximately 1/2 inch in
this embodiment by pushing the card 3 out of the package 2 using
thumb slide 6. The card 3 is retained in bracket 4, which is
attached to thumb slide 6. The card 3 is projected through door 18
so that the magnetic stripe 8 can be read using a POS terminal such
as a Veriphone.RTM.. Industry standards establish up to three
tracks to provide encoding. All three tracks may or may not be
used.
[0062] A disk 20 is retained on projection 22 inside package 2. A
plurality of retaining members 24 are used to hold a booklet and a
snap catch 26 can be used to close the package 2. The outer
perimeters 16 of the package 2 can have a pictorial representation
of the product to be delivered to disk 20. The outer perimeters 16
of the package can include a bar code used for tracking the package
or inventory purposes. The outer perimeter can also include the
identification number, preferably concealed with a tamper proof
cover or the like.
[0063] Another feature of the invention is that the magnetic or
optical disks are either blank or have a program that initiates
contact with a designated server. For example, with respect to CDs,
after the buyer installs the CD in the CD drive, the CD initiates
contact with a web site that facilities the remote download of the
desired file.
[0064] In an alternative embodiment as shown in FIG. 6 the magnetic
stripe 8 on card 3 can be exposed by pulling the exposed portion of
the card 32. The exposed portion of the card 32 is exposed by a
thumb slot 34 in package 2. The card 3 cannot be removed from the
package due to a plurality of stops 36 that project from card 3
beyond opening 10. The magnetic strip 8 can be exposed 1/2 inch for
a clerk to pass the magnetic stripe 8 through a magnetic strip
reader.
[0065] In another alternative embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the
card 3 is punched with holes 42 that accept round posts 44 molded
into the package. The card 3 can be slip forward to expose the date
encoded stripe 8, but is retained in the package 2 by the posts
44.
[0066] In another alternative embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 8A-D,
the card 3 is affixed to the inside of panels 10 or 12 with
industrial quality tape 52 such as Mylar.RTM.. A section of tape 52
corresponding to the card is die cut with two release liners. One
release liner is removed and applied to the card 3 and a second
release liner is removed an applied to the package to form hinge
54. A tamper proof seal 56 can be applied to the card 3 so that it
lies flat in the package 2. The taped card 3 is parallel to the
panels 10 & 12 when the package is in the closed position. When
package 2 is opened the card 3 attached to tape 54 can be tilted
out of the package 2 to expose the data encoded card. The card 3 is
secured between closed panels 10 & 12 for reading by a POS
terminal. See FIG. 8D. More specifically, when package 2 is closed
the data encoded stripe is oriented towards panel 12, but when the
data encoded card 3 is exposed for reading the data encoded portion
of the card 8 is oriented towards panel 10.
[0067] The package 2 does not need to be provided with locks, but
if one is desired for extra security the present invention could be
used with global package or retaining band 19. In one embodiment
the first 10 and second 12 panels are secured together until after
the Point of Sale via a band, wrap or other known retaining means
19. In an alternative embodiment the first 10 and second 12 panels
can be freely opened as the disk is blank or pre-written with a
identification number that is not activated.
[0068] With respect to video games, as shown in FIG. 13, a game
cartridge can be packaged in the same way as a disk. A card 3
having a data encoded stripe 8 and/or another means to the encode
data is affixed in package 2 in a manner to hold the card 3
securely, but to provide access to the data encoded stripe 8 by a
clerk at check-out using a POS terminal. A cartridge 21 is retained
using retaining clips 27. A plurality of retaining members 24 are
used to hold a booklet and a snap catch 26 can be used to close
package 2.
[0069] In an alternative embodiment shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B the
data encoded card 3 can be package in a sleave 150. The sleave 150
can be notched or unnotched for access to card 3. The sleave 150
can include seal 152 to prevent the removal of the data encoded
card 3 prior to sale. The sleave 150 can depict the content to be
sold. At the point of sale the seal 152 can be broken and the data
encoded stripes 7 and 8 can be exposed to be swiped through a POS
terminal. Two data encoded stripes are shown, but card 3 can
include any means to encode data. The customer provides the
cartridge or disk depending on the storage means that is
desired.
[0070] FIG. 9 illustrates the general architecture of the security
system that operates in accordance with the present invention,
although various delivery methods are possible. This invention
generally provides a magnetic stripe or the like which can be read
by a device at the point of sale. The device reads the magnetic
stripe or the like and transmits to a server via the Internet, or
any other form of electronic communication. The data encoded on the
card can include an identification number, merchant number or any
data required to facilitate the delivery of the files from the
provider server to a remote client. In one embodiment, the magnetic
stripe 8 encodes a number associated with the store, the product to
be delivered and an identification number. In an alternative
embodiment the magnetic strip also includes billing data so that
the price of the product can be charged to a metered account. See
Fiala et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,918,909. A digital computer can be
linked to POS terminals at many different retail stores. The link
can be via the Internet, or by any form of electronic
communication. A customer will select a package or sleave
containing a disk or cartridge. The package will depict, for
example, a particular video or musical performance. When the data
encoded stripe 8 and/or another means to encode data is read at a
POS terminal, a software, video game, CD and/or DVD provider will
be notified of the purchase.
[0071] More specifically, in operation the merchant computer 60
simultaneously transmits data obtained from the POS terminal 50 to
a provider's web cite 70 or computer program 74 and transaction
manager 90 using a standard Web browser 62, such as Microsoft's
Internet Explorer or Netscape's Navigator, which uses the HTTP
protocol to communicate with a web server 72 of the provider web
cite 70. In the preferred embodiment, POS terminal 50 requests
activation from transaction manager 90 using any form of electronic
communication. A transaction manager 90 is a site controller
connected to the POS terminal via any communications link. The
transaction manager 90 may be in electronic communication with a
bank processor or the like. The transaction manager 90 includes
operating software that recognizes the identification number,
activates the identification number and transmits the activated
status of the identification number to the provider web site 70 or
computer 74 and simultaneously transmits the activated status for
the identification number to POS terminal 50. The combination of
the POS terminal 50, the provider's mechanism to read this data and
the transaction manager 90 to approve the transaction is referred
to as the processing apparatus. With activated status consumer
computer 80 using web browser 82 connects with provider's web
browser 72 which requests the identification number (PIN). Consumer
computer 80 enters the identification number. Provider's computer
program 74 confirms and downloads content to consumer computer
80.
[0072] In one embodiment the URL of the purchased computer
software, video game, CD and/or DVD purchased from the merchant and
the identification number will be encoded on the disk during the
manufacturing process. See eg. Mages et al, U.S. Pat. No.
6,035,329. Now referring to FIG. 10 when the disk is inserted into
the customer's computer 80 standard software will facilitate the
loading of the software. Once a connection is made to the internet
102, the customer will be prompted for an identification number
103. Once the correct identification number 103 is supplied, and
the provider authorizes the transaction 104, the web browser 82
will search for the specific active URL that correlates with the
identification number. The product or portion of the product (the
entire file or special encrypted key) is then remotely downloaded
105 to either a magnetic or optical disk depending on the format.
See Britt, U.S. Pat. No. 5,940,074. The URL will terminate after
the file is downloaded or remain active for a specified period and
then terminate 106. If a computer with a stolen disk assesses the
URL of the specific file, accesses will be denied because code on
the identification number had not been activated by a command from
the merchant computer to the transaction manager 90 which is
communicated to the provider.
[0073] In an alternative embodiment if the manufacture wishes to
use blank optical or magnetic disks the merchant's cash register
could be provided with software that would provide the URL and the
identification number to the purchaser as part of the receipt at
the point of sale. More specifically, in operation the merchant
computer 60 transmits data obtained from the magnetic stripe reader
50 to a provider's Web cite 70 using a standard Web browser 62,
such as Microsoft's Internet Explorer or Netscape's Navigator,
which uses the HTTP protocol to communicate with a Web Server 72 of
the provider Web cite 70. The Web server 62 accesses a catalogue of
documents that correspond to the number encoded on the magnetic
stripe stored in computer 74. The provider web browser 72 send the
merchant web browser, 62 via the Internet, the URL of the specific
file requested. The provider computer 74 will allow access to the
specific URL for that identification number. The merchant computer
62 will print the specific URL and identification number on the
customer's receipt. Once a connection to the Internet is obtained
the customer's web browser 82 will search for the specific active
URL that correlates with the product purchased from the store. The
customer will be prompted for an identification number. Once the
correct identification number is supplied, the product is then
remotely downloaded to either a magnetic or optical disk depending
on the format. See Britt, U.S. Pat. No. 5,940,074. The URL will
remain active until the download is complete or will remain active
for a specified period and then terminate.
[0074] In another alternative embodiment the identification number
is embossed on the card, but the CD is blank. A card having an
identification number magnetically encoded and embossed on the card
is swiped through POS terminal 50. This data is simultaneously
transmitted to provider web site 70 and Platform 90. The
transaction manager 90 authorizes the download by activating the
identification number. The transaction manager 90 communicates this
authorization to provider computer 74. The customer will return
home with the disk and insert the blank disk into his or her
customer computer 80. Standard software will facilitate loading of
the software. When a connection to the internet is obtained, the
customer can access provider's web site 70. The customer will be
prompted for an identification number and once the identification
number is supplied from the embossed card, access to the associated
file will be approved by the provider. The customer can then
download the file to the disk by standard means.
[0075] In an alternative embodiment, a card having a magnetic
stripe 8 and/or another means to encode data is sold. The data
encoded stripe correlates with specific content to be remotely
delivered to the purchase via a personal computer. A customer will
purchase a card associated with specific content to be remotely
delivered. The card is associated with specific content, for
example MTV.RTM. music of the month card. At the point of sale the
card is swiped through a POS terminal. In FIGS. 9 & 10 a
transaction manager 90 connected to the POS terminal 50 via any
communications link will record the sale and activate the
identification number. The provider 70 is notified by the
transaction manager 90 of the sale and the activation of the
identification number. The customer can provide his/or her own
blank disk or cartridge. Once a connection is made to the internet
102, the customer can access the provider's web site 70. The
customer will be prompted for an identification number. Once the
correct identification number is provided, the provider will permit
access to the content associated with the identification number.
The product or a portion of the product can be downloaded 105 on to
the CD or cartridge provided by the customer. The ability to
download may terminate after one use.
[0076] A feature of this invention is that at the time of purchase
a hardware device, such as a POS terminal, provides information to
the provider. This information may include the ISBN of the material
purchased, a provider number of the material purchased, the time of
purchase and the amount of the purchase. This feature can provide
the provider with real-time inventory numbers.
[0077] Various methods may be used for the remote download of
software. With respect to the download of files to an optical disk.
A video program signal is converted to a digital format, and then
compressed and encoded in accordance with one of several known
compression algorithms or methodologies. This compressed digital
system signal, or bitstream, which includes a video portion, an
audio portion, and other informational portion, is then transmitted
to a receiver. Transmission may be over existing television
channels, cable television channels, satellite communications
channels, and the like. A decoder is then typically employed at the
receiver to decompress and decode the received system signal in
accordance with the same compression algorithm used to encode the
signal. The decoded video information may then be output to a
display device, such as a television (TV) monitor. Video
compression and encoding is typically performed by a video encoder.
The video encoder normally produces a compressed digital system
signal that conforms to a recognized standard or specification
agreed to among the senders and receivers of digital video signals.
One such standard is DVD. It includes audio and video compression
technologies, as well as provisions for other information streams.
Decoding technology is known. See e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 6,076,062
issued to Van Steenbrugge and U.S. Pat. No. 6,160,953.
EXAMPLE
[0078] A retail store carries packages containing blank CDs and
point of sale activated card with a date encoded magnetic strip.
The package has first and second panels, retaining bracket for
securing a data-encoded strip substantially between the first and
second panels. The data encoded strip is not exposed while on
display, but the package includes a thumb slide for exposing the
data encoded strip at point of purchase. The data encoded strip has
an identification number that correlated with the MTV.RTM. music
program of the month. At the point of purchase the identification
number is activated by transaction manager 90. The provider is
simultaneously notified of the active status of an identification
number. The CD can be downloaded by accessing the MTV.RTM. web site
via the Internet. Once the web site is accessed the consumer is
prompted for an identification number. The consumer inputs the
active identification number and downloads the desired MTV.RTM.
music program to the blank CD.
[0079] Although the present invention has been described and
illustrated with respect to a preferred embodiment and a preferred
use thereof, it is not so limited since modifications and changes
can be made therein which are within the full scope of the
invention.
* * * * *