U.S. patent application number 10/454010 was filed with the patent office on 2003-12-04 for point of sale computer system delivering composited two- and three-dimensional images.
This patent application is currently assigned to EMN8, Inc.. Invention is credited to Brock, Philip J., Feltman, Simon, Humpherys, Jonathan, Kovacs, William, Kurani, Amar, O' Keefe, John, Sidlo, Paul, Whiddett, Andrew.
Application Number | 20030225633 10/454010 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29740832 |
Filed Date | 2003-12-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20030225633 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sidlo, Paul ; et
al. |
December 4, 2003 |
Point of sale computer system delivering composited two- and
three-dimensional images
Abstract
A point of sale computer system that allows a customer to select
and consummate a sale himself. The system may include graphics
storage media configured to store two- and three-dimensional
graphics data relating to the sale, as well as business rules
storage media, configured to store business rules that specify the
graphics that should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process based on input received from the customer. The
technology allows a presentation to be made to the customer that is
entertaining and that maintains the attention of the customer
throughout the sale selection and consummation process.
Inventors: |
Sidlo, Paul; (Santa Monica,
CA) ; Kovacs, William; (Camarillo, CA) ;
Brock, Philip J.; (Santa Barbara, CA) ; O' Keefe,
John; (Montrose, CA) ; Humpherys, Jonathan;
(Playa del Rey, CA) ; Whiddett, Andrew; (Valencia,
CA) ; Feltman, Simon; (Venice, CA) ; Kurani,
Amar; (Los Angeles, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
MCDERMOTT, WILL & EMERY
Suite 3400
2049 Century Park East
Los Angeles
CA
90067
US
|
Assignee: |
EMN8, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
29740832 |
Appl. No.: |
10/454010 |
Filed: |
June 3, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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60386089 |
Jun 4, 2002 |
|
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60392758 |
Jul 1, 2002 |
|
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60388220 |
Jun 12, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/26.8 ;
705/27.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 21/10 20130101;
G07F 7/00 20130101; G06Q 30/0643 20130101; G06F 2221/0797 20130101;
G06Q 20/202 20130101; G06Q 30/0623 20130101; G06F 2221/2117
20130101; G06Q 30/06 20130101; G06Q 30/00 20130101; G06F 2221/2151
20130101; G06F 2221/2115 20130101; G06F 2221/2119 20130101; G06F
2221/2101 20130101; G06F 2221/2121 20130101; G06F 2221/0711
20130101; G06F 21/35 20130101; G06Q 20/20 20130101; G06F 2221/0775
20130101; G06Q 30/0625 20130101; G09F 27/00 20130101; G06Q 10/0637
20130101; G06F 21/34 20130101; G06Q 20/204 20130101; G06Q 30/02
20130101; G06F 2221/2135 20130101; G06Q 30/0633 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/27 |
International
Class: |
G06F 017/60 |
Claims
We Claim:
1. A point of sale computer system that allows a customer to select
and consummate a sale himself comprising: a display configured for
the customer to view during the selection and consummation process;
an input device configured to be operated by the customer during
the selection and consummation process and to generate control
signals in response to operation of the input device by the
customer; graphics storage media configured to store two and
three-dimensional graphics data relating to the sale; business
rules storage media configured to store business rules that specify
the graphics that should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process based on the control signals from the input
device; and a processing system configured to: communicate with the
display, the input device, the graphics storage media and the
business rules storage media; obtain selected two and
three-dimensional graphics data in real time from the graphics
storage media in response to control signals received from the
input device and in accordance with the business rules; composite
the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time
into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation; and
deliver the three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to
the display for viewing by the customer.
2. The system of claim 1 wherein the three-dimensional graphics
presentation entertains the customer during the selection
process.
3. The system of claim 2 wherein the three-dimensional graphics
presentation includes animation relating to the sale.
4. The system of claim 3 wherein the animation includes animated
three-dimensional graphics relating to the sale.
5. The system of claim 1 wherein the business rules also specify
how the graphics should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process.
6. The system of claim 1 wherein the business rules also specify
when the graphics should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process.
7. The system of claim 1 wherein the business rules also specify
where the graphics should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process.
8. The system of claim 1 further including a payment acceptance
device configured to accept payment from the customer for the
consummated sale.
9. The system of claim 7 further including a cash disbursement
device configured to disburse cash to the customer.
10. The system of claim 9 wherein the cash disbursement device is
configured to disburse change in response to overpayment for the
sale.
11. The system of claim 1 wherein the three-dimensional graphics
presentation includes a series of scenes, the content of each of
which is dictated by the input received from the customer.
12. The system of claim 11 wherein the three-dimensional graphics
presentation includes a programmed graphics transition between each
scene.
13. The system of claim 12 wherein the programmed graphics
transition is managed by the business rules.
14. The system of claim 13 wherein the programmed graphics
transition includes an image of a selected item being transferred
to an image of a shopping container.
15. The system of claim 14 wherein the shopping container is a
shopping cart.
16. The system of claim 1 wherein the three-dimensional graphics
presentation communicates in a language and wherein the customer
may select the language that is used.
17. The system of claim 1 further including other data storage
media configured to store other data relating to the sale, wherein
the processing system also communicates with the other data storage
media, and wherein the business rules also specify the graphics
that should be displayed during the selection and consummation
based on the data in the other data storage media.
18. The system of claim 17 wherein the processing system is
configured to seek, obtain and record the identity of the customer
and wherein the other data includes data about the customer.
19. The system of claim 18 wherein the data about the customer
includes data about input received from the customer during a
previous visit to the point of sale computer system.
20. The system of claim 17 wherein the other data includes data
about the inventory of products or services that may be selected by
the customer for the sale.
21. The system of claim 17 wherein the other data includes data
about promotional campaigns relating to the sale.
22. The system of claim 1 wherein the display and input device are
both contained in a kiosk.
23. The system of claim 1 wherein the display and input device are
not both contained in a kiosk.
24. The system of claim 1 wherein the sale is of a product.
25. The system of claim 24 wherein the product is prepared
food.
26. The system of claim 1 wherein the graphics data includes images
of products or services that the customer may select to
purchase.
27. The system of claim 26 wherein an image of the products or
services is represented by three-dimensional graphics data.
28. The system of claim 1 wherein the graphics data includes an
image of a companion for the customer and wherein the business
rules include rules to cause the image of the companion to be
displayed to the customer during the selection process.
29. The system of claim 1 wherein the graphics data includes
cross-promotional graphics that promote a product or service other
than one that the customer may select during the selection and
consummation process and wherein the business rules cause the
cross-promotional graphics to be part of the three-dimensional
graphic presentation.
30. The system of claim 1 wherein the graphics data includes text
in a graphics format.
31. The system of claim 1 further including a sound transducer
configured for the customer to hear during the selection and
consummation process.
32. The system of claim 31 wherein the graphics data include
multimedia data containing both image and sound information
relating to the sale and wherein the processing system causes the
sound to be delivered to the sound transducer when the image
portion of the multimedia data is delivered to the display.
33. The system of claim 31 further including sound storage media
configured to store sound data relating to the sale; wherein the
business rules also specify the sound that should be delivered
during the selection and consummation process based on the control
signals from the input device; and wherein the processing system is
also configured to communicate with the sound storage media, select
sound data in real time from the sound storage media in response to
control signals received from the input device and in accordance
with the business rules, and deliver the selected sound data to the
sound transducer along with the three-dimensional graphics
presentation.
34. The system of claim 1 wherein the graphics storage media is
configured to be updated from a remote source.
35. The system of claim 1 wherein the business rules storage media
is configured to be updated from a remote source.
36. The system of claim 1 wherein the graphics storage media and
business rules storage media are configured to be updated from a
remote source.
37. A method of allowing a customer to select and consummate a sale
himself using a point of sale computing system comprising:
receiving control signals in response to the operation of an input
device by the customer during the selection and consummation
process; selecting two and three-dimensional graphics relating to
the sale in real time from a graphics storage media based on the
control signals received from the input device and in accordance
business rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and consummation process; compositing the
selected two and three-dimensional graphics in real time into a
non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation; delivering the
three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to a display
for viewing by the customer; and displaying the three-dimensional
graphics presentation in real time to the customer.
38. Computer program storage media containing a computer program
that, when loaded in a computer system along with other software,
allows a customer to select and consummate a sale himself with a
point of sale computer system, including: receiving control signals
in response to the operation of an input device by the customer
during the selection and consummation process; selecting two and
three-dimensional graphics relating to the sale in real time from a
graphics storage media based on the control signals received from
the input device and in accordance business rules that specify the
graphics that should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process; compositing the selected two and
three-dimensional graphics in real time into a non-linear,
three-dimensional graphics presentation; delivering the
three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to a display
for viewing by the customer; and displaying the three-dimensional
graphics presentation in real time to the customer.
39. A point of transaction computer system that allows a customer
to select and consummate a business transaction himself comprising:
a display configured for the customer to view during the selection
and consummation process; an input device configured to be operated
by the customer during the selection and consummation process and
to generate control signals in response to operation of the input
device by the customer; graphics storage media configured to store
two and three-dimensional graphics data relating to the
transaction; business rules storage media configured to store
business rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and consummation process based on the control
signals from the input device; and a processing system configured
to: communicate with the display, the input device, the graphics
storage media and the business rules storage media; obtain selected
two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time from the
graphics storage media in response to control signals received from
the input device and in accordance with the business rules;
composite the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in
real time into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics
presentation; and deliver the three-dimensional graphics
presentation in real time to the display for viewing by the
customer.
40. The computer system of claim 39 wherein the business
transaction includes reserving an item to purchase.
41. The computer system of claim 39 wherein the business
transaction includes extending credit.
42. A point of sale computer system that allows a customer to
himself select and receive information about a potential business
transaction that the customer may consummate at the location of the
computer system comprising: a display configured for the customer
to view during the selection and receiving process; an input device
configured to be operated by the customer during the selection and
receiving process and to generate control signals in response to
operation of the input device by the customer; graphics storage
media configured to store two and three-dimensional graphics data
containing information about the potential business transaction
that the customer may consummate at the location of the computer
system; business rules storage media configured to store business
rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed during the
selection and receiving process based on the control signals from
the input device; and a processing system configured to:
communicate with the display, the input device, the graphics
storage media and the business rules storage media; obtain selected
two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time from the
graphics storage media in response to control signals received from
the input device and in accordance with the business rules;
composite the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in
real time into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics
presentation; and deliver the three-dimensional graphics
presentation in real time to the display for viewing by the
customer.
43. An enterprise level point of sale computer system for an
enterprise having several geographically-separated point of sale
locations that allows customers at the various locations to select
and consummate a sale themselves comprising: a local computer
system at each point of sale location in the enterprise comprising:
a display configured for a customer to view during the selection
and consummation process; an input device configured to be operated
by the customer during the selection and consummation process and
to generate control signals in response to operation of the input
device by the customer; graphics storage media configured to store
graphics data; business rules storage media configured to store
business rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and consummation process based on the control
signals from the input device; and a processing system configured
to: communicate with the display, the input device, the graphics
storage media and the business rules storage media; obtain selected
graphics in real time from the graphics storage media in response
to the control signals received from the input device and in
accordance with the business rules; composite the selected graphics
in real time into a non-linear, graphics presentation; and deliver
the graphics presentation in real time to the display for viewing
by the customer; and a global computer system configured to
communicate with each local computer system and to deliver graphics
and business rules to each local computer management system for
storage in its graphics storage media and business rules storage
media.
44. The system of claim 43 wherein at least one local computer
system further includes a manager station configured to control and
update the graphics and business rules that are stored in its
graphics and business rules storage media.
45. The system of claim 44 wherein the manager station is further
configured to selectively subscribe to classes of graphics and
business rules to be delivered from the global computer system.
46. The system of claim 45 wherein the manager station is further
configured to selectively load graphics data in the graphics data
storage media and business rules in the business rules storage
media.
47. The system of claim 46 wherein at least portions of the
selectively loaded graphics data and business rules are tailored to
the point of sale location associated with the manager station.
48. The system of claim 43 wherein: the graphics storage media is
further configured to store two and three-dimensional graphics data
relating to the sale; and the processing system is further
configured to: obtain selected two and three-dimensional graphics
data in real time from the graphics storage media in response to
control signals received from the input device and in accordance
with the business rules; composite the obtained two and
three-dimensional graphics data in real time into a non-linear,
three-dimensional graphics presentation; and deliver the
three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to the display
for viewing by the customer.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to the
following provisional patent applications: U.S. Provisional Serial
No. 60/386,089, filed Jun. 4, 2002, entitled "Real Time Engine;"
U.S. Provisional Serial No. 60/392,758, filed Jul. 1, 2002,
entitled "Real Time Engine with 2D/3D Detail;" and U.S. Provisional
Serial No. 60/388,220, filed Jun. 12, 2002, and entitled
"Customer-Operated Ordering System and Method." The content of each
of these applications is incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of Invention
[0003] This application relates to computer terminals at which
orders are placed and, more particularly, to computer terminals at
the point of sale that are operated directly by customers.
[0004] 2. Description of Related Art
[0005] The consummation of a sale of a product or service at a
point of sale location has traditionally required the investment of
time. Even for commodity items such as the menu items served at
quick service restaurants, employee time must be spent receiving
and entering selections made by customers. Time must also often be
spent collecting money and providing change. The costs of such
personnel, of course, add to expenses, often reducing profit.
[0006] To reduce this overhead, customer-operated point of sale
computer systems have been proposed. These systems allow customers
to themselves obtain information about products and services and to
consummate sales for their purchase.
[0007] Unfortunately, many customer-operated, point of sale
computer systems have not proven to be successful. They are often
difficult to operate and viewed by the customer as unfriendly and a
burden or impediment, discouraging the very sales that they were
intended to promote. In many of these systems, moreover, it is
often difficult to make frequent changes in the products or
services that are offered, in their descriptions and in their
pricing.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
[0008] A point of sale computer system may allow a customer to
select and consummate a sale himself.
[0009] The system may include a display configured for the customer
to view during the selection and consummation process; an input
device configured to be operated by the customer during the
selection and consummation process and to generate control signals
in response to operation of the input device by the customer;
graphics storage media configured to store two and
three-dimensional graphics data relating to the sale; business
rules storage media configured to store business rules that specify
the graphics that should be displayed during the selection and
consummation process based on the control signals from the input
device; and a processing system.
[0010] The processing system may be configured to communicate with
the display, the input device, the graphics storage media and the
business rules storage media; obtain selected two and
three-dimensional graphics data in real time from the graphics
storage media in response to control signals received from the
input device and in accordance with the business rules; composite
the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time
into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation; and
deliver the three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to
the display for viewing by the customer.
[0011] The three-dimensional graphics presentation may entertain
the customer during the selection and consummation process.
[0012] The three-dimensional graphics presentation may include
animation relating to the sale. The animation may include animated
three-dimensional graphics relating to the sale.
[0013] The business rules may specify how, when and/or where the
graphics should be displayed during the selection and consummation
process.
[0014] The system may further include a payment acceptance device
configured to accept payment from the customer for the consummated
sale.
[0015] The system may include a cash disbursement device configured
to disburse cash to the customer. The cash disbursement device may
be configured to disburse change in response to overpayment for the
sale.
[0016] The three-dimensional graphics presentation may include a
series of scenes, the content of each of which is dictated by the
input received from the customer. The three-dimensional graphics
presentation may include programmed graphics transitions between
each scene. The programmed graphics transitions may include an
image of a selected item being transfer to an image of a shopping
container. The shopping container may be a shopping bag or cart.
The programmed graphics transitions may be managed by the business
rules.
[0017] The three-dimensional graphics presentation may communicate
in a language and the customer may select the language that is
used.
[0018] The system may further include other data storage media
configured to store other data relating to the sale. The processing
system may communicate with the other data storage media. The
business rules may specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and consummation based on the data in the data
storage media.
[0019] The processing system may be configured to seek, obtain and
record the identity of the customer and the other data may include
data about the customer. The data about the customer may include
data about the input received from the customer during previous
visits to the point of sale computer system.
[0020] The other data may include data about the inventory of
products or services that may be selected by the customer for the
sale.
[0021] The other data may include data about promotional campaigns
relating to the sale.
[0022] The display and input device may or may not both be
contained in a kiosk.
[0023] The sale may be of a product, such as prepared food.
[0024] The graphics data may include images of products or services
that the customer may select to purchase. An image of a product or
service may be represented by three-dimensional graphics data.
[0025] The graphics data may include an image of a companion for
the customer, and the business rules may include rules to cause the
image of the companion to be displayed to the customer during the
selection process.
[0026] The graphics data may include cross-promotional graphics
that promote a product or service other than one that the customer
may select during the selection and consummation process, and the
business rules may cause the cross-promotional graphics to be part
of the three-dimensional graphic presentation.
[0027] The graphics data may include text in a graphics format.
[0028] The system may further include a sound transducer configured
for the customer to hear during the selection and consummation
process.
[0029] The graphics data may include multimedia data containing
both image and sound information relating to the sale, and the
processing system may cause the sound to be delivered to the sound
transducer when the image portion of the multimedia data is
delivered to the display.
[0030] The system may further include sound storage media
configured to store sound data relating to the sale. The business
rules may specify the sound that should be delivered during the
selection and consummation process based on the control signals
from the input device. The processing system may be configured to
communicate with the sound storage media, select sound data in real
time from the sound storage media in response to control signals
received from the input device and in accordance with the business
rules, and deliver the selected sound data to the sound transducer
along with the three-dimensional graphics presentation.
[0031] The graphics storage media and/or the business rules storage
media may be configured to be updated from a remote source.
[0032] A method may allow a customer to select and consummate a
sale himself using a point of sale computing system. The method may
include receiving control signals in response to the operation of
an input device by the customer during the selection and
consummation process; selecting two and three-dimensional graphics
relating to the sale in real time from a graphics storage media
based on the control signals received from the input device and in
accordance business rules that specify the graphics that should be
displayed during the selection and consummation process;
compositing the selected two and three-dimensional graphics in real
time into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation;
delivering the three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time
to a display for viewing by the customer; and displaying the
three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to the
customer.
[0033] Computer program storage media may contain a computer
program that, when loaded in a computer system along with other
software, allows a customer to select and consummate a sale himself
with a point of sale computer system. The loaded program may allow
receiving control signals in response to the operation of an input
device by the customer during the selection and consummation
process; selecting two and three-dimensional graphics relating to
the sale in real time from a graphics storage media based on the
control signals received from the input device and in accordance
business rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and consummation process; compositing the
selected two and three-dimensional graphics in real time into a
non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation; delivering the
three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to a display
for viewing by the customer; and displaying the three-dimensional
graphics presentation in real time to the customer.
[0034] A point of transaction computer system may allow a customer
to select and consummate a business transaction himself.
[0035] The system may include a display configured for the customer
to view during the selection and consummation process; an input
device configured to be operated by the customer during the
selection and consummation process and to generate control signals
in response to operation of the input device by the customer;
graphics storage media configured to store two and
three-dimensional graphics data relating to the transaction;
business rules storage media configured to store business rules
that specify the graphics that should be displayed during the
selection and consummation process based on the control signals
from the input device; and a processing system.
[0036] The processing system may be configured to communicate with
the display, the input device, the graphics storage media and the
business rules storage media; obtain selected two and
three-dimensional graphics data in real time from the graphics
storage media in response to control signals received from the
input device and in accordance with the business rules; composite
the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time
into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation; and
deliver the three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to
the display for viewing by the customer.
[0037] The business transaction may include reserving an item to
purchase and/or extending credit.
[0038] A point of sale computer system may allow a customer to
himself select and receive information about a potential business
transaction that the customer may then consummate at the location
of the computer system.
[0039] The system may include a display configured for the customer
to view during the selection and receiving process; an input device
configured to be operated by the customer during the selection and
receiving process and to generate control signals in response to
operation of the input device by the customer; graphics storage
media configured to store two and three-dimensional graphics data
containing information about the potential business transaction
that the customer may then consummate at the location of the
computer system; business rules storage media configured to store
business rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and receiving process based on the control
signals from the input device; and a processing system.
[0040] The processing system may be configured to communicate with
the display, the input device, the graphics storage media and the
business rules storage media; obtain selected two and
three-dimensional graphics data in real time from the graphics
storage media in response to control signals received from the
input device and in accordance with the business rules; composite
the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time
into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics presentation; and
deliver the three-dimensional graphics presentation in real time to
the display for viewing by the customer.
[0041] An enterprise level point of sale computer system for an
enterprise having several geographically-separated point of sale
locations may allow customers at the various locations to select
and consummate a sale themselves.
[0042] The system may include a local computer management system at
each point of sale location. Each local computer may include a
display configured for a customer to view during the selection and
consummation process; an input device configured to be operated by
the customer during the selection and consummation process and to
generate control signals in response to operation of the input
device by the customer; graphics storage media configured to store
graphics data; business rules storage media configured to store
business rules that specify the graphics that should be displayed
during the selection and consummation process based on the control
signals from the input device; and a processing system.
[0043] The processing system may be configured to communicate with
the display, the input device, the graphics storage media and the
business rules storage media; obtain selected graphics in real time
from the graphics storage media in response to the control signals
received from the input device and in accordance with the business
rules; composite the selected graphics in real time into a
non-linear, graphics presentation; and deliver the graphics
presentation in real time to the display for viewing by the
customer
[0044] The system may include a global computer management system
configured to communicate with each local computer management
systems and to deliver graphics and business rules to each local
computer management systems for storage in their respective
graphics storage media and business rules storage media.
[0045] At least one local computer management system may further
include a manager station configured to control and update the
graphics and business rules that are stored in its graphics and
business rules storage media.
[0046] The manager station may be further configured to selectively
subscribe to classes of graphics and business rules to be delivered
from the global computer management system.
[0047] The manager station may be further configured to selectively
load graphics data in the graphics data storage media and business
rules in the business rules storage media. At least portions of the
selectively loaded graphics data and business rules may be tailored
to the point of sale location associated with the manager
station.
[0048] The graphics storage media may be further configured to
store two and three-dimensional graphics data relating to the sale;
and the processing system may be further configured to obtain
selected two and three-dimensional graphics data in real time from
the graphics storage media in response to control signals received
from the input device and in accordance with the business rules;
composite the obtained two and three-dimensional graphics data in
real time into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics
presentation; and deliver the three-dimensional graphics
presentation in real time to the display for viewing by the
customer.
[0049] These, as well as still further features, objects and
benefits will now become clear upon reviewing the following
detailed description of illustrative embodiments and accompanying
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0050] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a point of sale computer
system.
[0051] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an enterprise level point of
sale computer system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0052] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a point of sale computer
system.
[0053] One function of this system may be to allow a customer to
select and consummate a sale himself. The selection may be of one
or more products, such as items of food, information or
services.
[0054] A kiosk 101 may be positioned so that it is readily
accessible to the customer and can be easily operated by the
customer. The kiosk 101 may include a display 103, an input device
105, a sound transducer 107, a payment acceptance device 109 and a
cash disbursement device 111.
[0055] The kiosk 101 may communicate with the customer through the
display 103 and the sound transducer 107 based on input received
from the customer from the input device 105. The communication may
be in an entertaining manner so as to maintain the interest of the
customer and to thus entice the customer to select and consummate a
sale.
[0056] The kiosk 101 may be positioned at any location at which a
product or service is provided. It may be at a retailing venue,
such as a quick service restaurant, fast casual restaurant or a
concession stand. It might be positioned in an amusement park, a
theater, stadium or in a bank. It could be part of an automatic
teller machine (ATM).
[0057] The kiosk 101 may be positioned in a public area, in a home,
on its own without any surrounding business, or as part of another
apparatus, such as a food delivery counter.
[0058] The display 103 may be configured for the customer to
directly view during the selection and consummation process. It may
operate in a graphics mode and may include an electroluminous
display, such as a CRT, plasma display, LCDs or even LEDs. The
display 103 may include a front or rear projector. The display 103
could be the display on a laptop owned by the customer. In this
embodiment, the laptop could communicate wirelessly with the other
components of the point of sale computer system. The display 103
might be any other type of known or hereinafter invented display,
as well as a combination of such devices.
[0059] The display 103 may be positioned in close proximity to the
customer or at a distance. It might be a display that is shared by
the customer with other customers.
[0060] The input device 105 is configured to be operated by the
customer during the selection and consummation process. In response
to operation of the input device 105 by the customer, the input
device 105 generates control signals.
[0061] The input device 105 may be a touch screen, keyboard, mouse,
panel buttons, microphone, telephone, wireless device (e.g., a
laptop with a wireless connection), mobile phone, cell phone or
PDA. The input device 105 might be a remote control of the type
used to control televisions using infrared or RF. The input device
105 might be a joystick. The input device 105 might be a RF ID tag.
The input device 105 might be any other type of known or
hereinafter invented input devices, as well as a combination of
such devices.
[0062] The input device 105 may be part of the kiosk 101, as shown
in FIG. 1. It might be separate from the kiosk 101. It may be near
the display 103 or far from the display 103.
[0063] The sound transducer 107 may be included to produce sound
for the customer to hear. It may be a loudspeaker, headphones, or a
wireless apparatus that communicates to a remote sound transducer,
such as a speaker contained in a laptop. The sound transducer 107
may be within the kiosk 101, or outside of it.
[0064] The payment acceptance device 109 may be included in the
kiosk 101 or elsewhere to accept payment for the transaction from
the customer. The payment acceptance device 109 may be configured
to receive and verify credit cards, such as a charge card or a
debit card, such as an ATM card. It may be configured to receive
bills and/or coins. It may be configured to receive currency issued
by different countries.
[0065] The cash disbursement device 111 may be included to disburse
cash to the customer in the form of bills, coins or otherwise. As
with the payment acceptance device 109, the cash disbursement
device 111 may disburse cash in currency issued by different
countries.
[0066] The cash disbursement device 111 may be located within the
kiosk 101 or elsewhere.
[0067] The point of sale computer system shown in FIG. 1 may
include graphics storage media 121 for storing graphics data
representative of two- and three-dimensional graphics. The graphics
storage media 121 may include magnetic media, such as hard disks
and floppies, optical media, such as CDs or DVDs, or electronic
media, such as a ROM. The media could be single device or multiple
devices. The media could be any other type of storage device now
known or later developed.
[0068] The graphics storage media 121 may be configured in
association with other well known systems, such that its content
can be updated locally and/or remotely.
[0069] The graphics storage media 121 may store a broad variety of
graphics data. It may be a database of rich media of broadcast or
film quality.
[0070] Included within the graphics that may be stored within the
graphics storage media 121 are two-dimensional and
three-dimensional graphics.
[0071] References to "two-dimensional" and "three-dimensional" are
not intended to refer to the actual image that is produced. Rather,
and as is known in the art, they are intended to refer to the type
of data that is representative of these images and, in turn, the
type of processing that may be readily performed on this data.
[0072] Two-dimensional image data, for example, can usually be
filtered, layered, warped, composited and presented in a sequence
as an animation.
[0073] Three-dimensional image data can usually be processed in all
of the ways that two-dimensional image data can be processed.
Unlike two-dimensional image data, however, three-dimensional image
data contains information sufficient to allow the image to be
generated as it would appear if it were viewed from different
perspectives.
[0074] A two-dimensional image of a block, for example, looks like
a three-dimensional object in the image. However, the image data is
usually not sufficient to allow any other perspective of the block
to be shown. Three-dimensional graphics image data, on the other
hand, is sufficient to allow an image to be created that accurately
depicts the block from several viewing perspectives.
[0075] Three-dimensional graphics data may include geometry that
represents physical objects and surfaces, lights to illuminate the
scene, transforms to position the geometry in space, materials or
texture maps to describe the surface attributes of the geometry,
cameras to represent viewpoints from which the images are
generated, and elements to describe the scene, such as shaders and
environment parameters, such as fog and haze.
[0076] Three-dimensional graphics data may be represented as a
direct acyclic graph (DAG) that permits grouping, parent/child
relationships and hierarchical constructs.
[0077] The images that are represented by the two- and
three-dimensional graphics data in the graphics storage media 121
can vary widely.
[0078] The images may be still or video images of the products or
services that the customer may select. The images may include
information related to the products or services, such as
descriptions, general information, pricing, terms of purchase and
legal disclaimers.
[0079] The images may include material that is not directly related
to the sale. For example, the images may contain cross-promotional
messages to promote products or services not available for purchase
at the point of sale location, or from the point of sale computer
system. For example, a point of sale computer system at a fast
service restaurant may include a preview for an upcoming movie. The
images may be targeted to establishing or enhancing a brand
name.
[0080] The graphics may be designed such that, when presented, they
entertain the customer and entice the customer to make a selection
and to consummate the sale. The graphics may include amusing
material. It may include a virtual escort, friend or companion that
accompanies the customer during the selection and/or consummation
process. It may include a virtual salesperson that speaks to the
customer.
[0081] One or more of the images may be animated. The animation
data may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional.
[0082] The graphics data may include scene transitions, that is,
one or more transitional segments that are displayed between
scenes.
[0083] One example of such a scene transition is graphics that
illustrates a selected food item being moved from the selection
area on the screen to a container, such as a bag or shopping
cart.
[0084] The graphics data may include imbedded soundtracks or text
characters that are played or displayed, respectively, while the
graphic image is being displayed.
[0085] The graphics data may include textual information in the
form of a two-dimensional or three-dimensional graphic image.
[0086] The graphics data may include the same image in different
data formats. These formats might be selected to match variations
in the hardware environment, thus insuring that a particular image
can be displayed on primitive hardware, while providing the
opportunity for that same image to be displayed in a more
sophisticated format on more sophisticated hardware.
[0087] Image information about products or services could similarly
be stored in different formats to facilitate different product
promotional strategies, such as special sales or combination
packaging.
[0088] The point of sale computer system may include a business
rules storage media 131.
[0089] From a hardware perspective, the business rules storage
media 131 may be of any of the types that are discussed above in
connection with the graphics storage media 121. As with the
graphics storage media 121, the business rules storage media 131
may be configured in association with other systems to be able to
be updated locally and/or remotely.
[0090] A broad variety of business rules may be stored in the
business rules storage media 131.
[0091] The business rules may specify which, how, where and when
the graphics in the graphics storage media 121 should be displayed
on the display. This specification may depend upon the input
signals received the input device 105 from the customer.
[0092] For example, the business rules might specify that the
display 103 display a graphic animation of a child enjoying a Big
Mac and fries and, perhaps with it, sounds of happy children in the
background. Upon receiving an input at the input device 105
signaling that a customer has input a request for a menu, the
business rules might specify that the animation of the child eating
the Big Mac should be reduced in size and volume and positioned in
the upper left hand corner of the display. The rules might further
specify that an image of a menu be displayed in the main area of
the screen at the same time. The rules might further specify that
an animation of a virtual guide appear at the right side of the
screen and that the soundtrack of a voice asking "What would you
like to eat?" be played in synchronism with lips moving on the
animation.
[0093] Upon receipt of an input signal from the input device 105
indicating that the customer has selected a Big Mac from the menu,
the business rules might specify that an animation be played as a
scene transition showing the selected food item being moved into a
bag, followed by the bag being placed in the upper right hand
corner of the screen, followed by a return to the menu for further
selections.
[0094] The business rules may specify other functionality of the
system, such as the delivery of pricing information, including the
price of a package of selections, such as a Happy Meal.
[0095] The business rules may specify varying modes of the
operation of the input device 105. For example, the business rules
might specify that, after a customer selects a particular item, the
input device controls movement of that selected item, allowing the
customer to rotate the item so that he may see it from various
angles. To accomplish this, the business rules might dictate that a
three-dimensional graphic image of the item that is stored in the
graphics storage media be retrieved and displayed on the screen and
that its data set should be manipulated by the control signals from
the input device 105.
[0096] The business rules may specify the graphics that should be
displayed in the absence of customer input, including while the
kiosk 101 is not being used by any customer or after a sale has
been completed. The business rules may specify the graphics that
should be displayed if the customer fails to provide any input
after a pre-determined amount of time.
[0097] The business rules may be used to control aspects of the
transaction, other than communications with the customer. For
example, the business rules may be used to direct the order that
the customer places to an ordering section of the business for
fulfillment. Similarly, the business rules might an invoice for the
purchase to be created and delivered to an inventory or accounting
section of the business.
[0098] The business rules may be configured to direct the delivery
of promotional messages to the customer using other image data in
the graphics storage media 121.
[0099] The business rules may be used to control the language in
which the point of sale computer system communicates with the
customer. With this feature, the business rules might be configured
to deliver images from the graphics storage media 121 to the
customer that invite the customer to select a desired language, and
to thereafter select the graphics that are stored in the graphics
storage media 121 that are in this language.
[0100] A control data storage media 141 may be used as part of the
point of sale computer system. The control data storage media 141
may be used to store information that is intended to affect the
presentation to the customer by the kiosk 101. For example, the
control data storage media 141 might specify the hardware
environment so that the optimum graphics data can be selected from
the graphics storage media 121. It might specify changes in the
presentation that should be made as a function of time, date,
season, geographic location, temporary promotional campaigns,
customer data (e.g., the identity of the customer or the customer's
usage history) or inventory.
[0101] The control data storage media 141 may include any of the
hardware types of storage media that are described above in
connection with the graphics storage media 121. It may similarly be
updated locally and/or remotely.
[0102] The business rules storage media 131 may include business
rules that test for the presence of one or more types of control
data in the control data storage media 141 and, based on the
results of this test, modify the graphics presentation that the
business rules dictate.
[0103] The point of sale computer system may include sound data
storage media 151. This media may contain sound files that, under
the management of the business rules in the business rules storage
media 131, may be played through the sound transducer 107 during
the selection and consummation process. Unlike a soundtrack
recorded as part of a graphic image, the sound data stored in the
sound data storage media 151 need not always be associated with a
particular graphic image.
[0104] The hardware used to implement the sound data storage media
151 may be any of the types discussed above in connection with the
graphics storage media 121. As with the graphics storage media 121,
the sound data storage media 151 may be updated remotely and/or
locally.
[0105] The point of sale computer system may include text data
storage means 161 for storing text data files. As with the sound
data, the text data may similarly be displayed on the display 103
or played on the sound transducer 107 (using a speech synthesizer)
during the selection and consummation process. Like the sound data
files in the sound data storage media 151, the text data need not
always be displayed in association with any particular'graphic
image. The display of the text data may be subject to the control
of the business rules in the business rules storage media 131. The
text data storage media may be any of the types described above in
connection with the graphics storage media 121. The text data
storage media may be updated locally and/or remotely.
[0106] The point of sale computer system may include a processing
system 171. The processing system may communicate and ultimately
control each of the other components in the point of sale computer
system, such as the display 103, the input device 105, the sound
transducer 107, the payment acceptance device 109, the cash
disbursement device 111, the graphics storage media 121, the
business rules storage media 131, the control data storage media
141, the sound data storage media 151 and the text data storage
media 161.
[0107] The processing system 171 may consist of a single
microprocessor or several microprocessors. It may include
associated interface, memory and communication devices. It may
include one or more complete computer systems. The processing
system 171 may all be in a single location, such as in the kiosk
101, along with the graphics, business rules, sound data, control
data and text data storage media 121, 131, 141, 151 and 161, or
these components may be in other locations. The components may all
be located together, or they may be at separate locations.
[0108] The processing system 171 may monitor the control signals
received from the input device 105. In response, the processing
system 171 may consult the business rules in the business rules
storage media 131 to determine what action should be taken.
[0109] The business rules may direct the processing system 171 to
obtain selected two- and three-dimensional graphics data from the
graphics data storage media 121. The business rules may direct the
processing system 171 to obtain selected sound data, control data
and/or text data from the sound data storage media 151, the control
data storage media 141 and the text data storage media 161,
respectively.
[0110] The processing system 171 may then composite this retrieved
data in real time into a non-linear, three-dimensional graphics
presentation. The processing system 171 may then deliver that
graphics presentation to the display 103 and, if it contains audio,
to the sound transducer 107. The presentation is then displayed
and, if a sound transducer is present, played.
[0111] The phrase "real time" as used in this application is
intended to reflect the concept of the graphics presentation being
composited and displayed promptly in response to control signals
from the input device 105. Of course, it is to be understood that
at least segments of this presentation might be composited before
receiving any control signals from the input device 105. This might
occur as an intrinsic part of the business rules that are stored in
the business logic storage media 131. It might be a pre-conceived
presentation that is stored as a single movie file in the graphics
storage media 121.
[0112] The phrase "non-linear" as used in this application is
intended to reflect the concept that the sequence of graphics that
are presented on the display 103 during the sale selection and
consummation process is not entirely pre-conceived, but rather
varies as a function of the input provided by the customer to the
input device 105. Of course, it is to be understood that segments
of this non-linear presentation may be pre-conceived, either in the
form of an animation in the graphics storage media 121 and/or in
the form of pre-determined business rules in the business rules
storage media 131.
[0113] The business rules in the business rules storage media 131
may include rules that direct the processing system 171 to present
more than one graphic image from the graphics storage media 121 on
the display at the same time. In this instance, the business rules
may specify exactly which images to display, where on the display
the images should be displayed, and/or how they should be
displayed.
[0114] Business rules that specify how a two-dimensional image
should be displayed may specify that the image be filtered, warped
or layered with other images.
[0115] Business rules that specify how three-dimensional images
should be displayed may specify the perspective of the image that
should be shown, as well as any variations in that perspective that
should take place as a function of time, customer input to the
input device 105, or other criteria; the lighting of the image; and
shaders and environment parameters, such as fog and haze.
[0116] The business rules may specify that both two- and
three-dimensional images be displayed at the same time.
[0117] The composite prepared by the processing system 171 under
the direction of the business rules may constitute a
three-dimensional graphics presentation. This means that at least
certain elements in the presentation, at at least certain times,
will be three-dimensional graphic elements, i.e., elements
comprised of data that permit the elements to be displayed from
more than a single desired perspective.
[0118] As should be apparent to those skilled in the art, there are
a broad variety of ways to composite two- and three-dimensional
images into a three-dimensional graphics presentation.
[0119] One such way is for the processing system 171 to work with
the graphical user interface of the display 103 by way of a wrapper
that may be a layer of C.sup.++ classes and functions. The core
classes and functionality may specify what, how and where both two-
and three-dimensional graphics should be presented within a scene,
e.g., within a window being displayed on the display 103. The
processing system 171 may include appropriate software for defining
and managing user interactions within the context of the visual
scene.
[0120] A scene may be conventionally represented as a Direct
Acyclic Graph (DAG) that permits grouping, parent/child
relationships and hierarchical constructs. Two-dimensional elements
may be added to this scene through the use of an overlay. These
overlays may be part of the scene, but not part of the DAG.
Resources (such as bitmaps) can nevertheless be shared between the
overlays and materials.
[0121] The compositing operation may be performed on every frame of
a bitmap.
[0122] Each type of three-dimensional and two-dimensional element
(e.g., light, material, camera, geometry, modifier) may be
represented by its own class. A scene may contain an element list
for each class. It would then contain both a 3D DAG for
three-dimensional elements and a 2D DAG for two-dimensional
elements. Hierarchical elements may be implemented within the 3D
DAG, including transformations, material inheritance, visibility
inheritance and group picking. Hierarchical methods may be
implemented within the 2D DAG, including transformations and
visibility. Overlay classes may be used to represent where on the
display device an image should be displayed. They may contain or
reference a full compositing tree of operations. Interactive and
GUI methods (e.g., picking, business logic and screens) may be
applied to the relevant 2D and 3D classes.
[0123] The graphics, business rules, control data, sound data and
text data that is stored, respectively, in the graphics storage
media 121, business rules storage media 131, control data storage
media 141, sound data storage media 151 and text data storage media
161, may be stored in one or more database structures.
Communications with these databases may include ODBC and/or MAPOP
plug-ins. ODBC plug-ins can be used to connect certain scene
classes to dynamic data sources, such as relational databases, GPS
data feeds or flat files. This may allow such things as
language-sensitive buttons to be created that would query a
relational database for the words, language and font that would be
used on the button. It might allow the system to respond to
external events, such as an ATM-type device.
[0124] MAPOP plug-ins may be used to represent custom 2D
compositing/image processing operations that are not already
supported. These can facilitate operations such as creating a
bitmap from a live video feed or performing a custom spin blur.
[0125] A class element called a screen may be included. This may be
a GUI element that references 2D and 3D elements that themselves
are within the respective DAGs. The screen class can organize an
entire rich media application into one or more screens that are
navigated through by a user. Each screen may describe the screen
elements to be displayed when that screen is made visible. The
screen may contain screen specific parameters for its elements that
should be applied/assigned when the screen is made visible.
[0126] The rich media database may contain the properties of 2D and
3D animation of its elements. The screen may describe two
transitions: onactivate and ondeactivate. The onactivate transition
may be used when the screen goes from visible to invisible, and the
ondeactivate transition may be used when the screen goes from
invisible to visible. The transition may have a time period
(duration) associated with it and the various screen elements used
to animate one or more of their parameters (such as position,
orientation or visibility). Transitions may define the way in which
a screen is transitioned into or out of any other screen.
[0127] The processing system 171 may maintain a list of previous
screens that have been displayed, thereby permitting the customer
through appropriate interface controls to go back to an earlier
screen to undo or reconsider a selection that may have been
made.
[0128] The processing system 171 may manage the payment acceptance
device 109 and/or the cash disbursement device 111 in accordance
with the transaction that is performed. This may be done under the
control and guidance of the business rules in the business rules
storage media 131.
[0129] The processing system 171 may communicate with other aspects
of the business in which the point of sale computer system is being
used. For example, it may direct orders to an order fulfilling
department and/or billing information to an accounting department.
This may be done under the control of the business rules.
[0130] By combining database technology with graphics technology
and business rules, the point of sale computer system shown in FIG.
1 can provide a wide degree of flexibility, while at the same time
making an extremely effective and, optionally, entertaining
presentation to induce the customer to consummate a sale.
[0131] The database structure that may be used in conjunction with
the graphics, business rules, control data, sound data and text
data storage media 121, 131, 141, 151 and 161, respectively, allows
very substantial and frequent changes in the presentation that the
customer receives, without complex program modifications.
[0132] The business rules in the business rules database may be
updated very frequently and easily to effectuate pricing changes,
changes in the products or services that are offered, new
promotions, etc. Similarly, the graphics, control data, sound data
and text data can just as easily be changed, making desired changes
to the format of the presentation that is made.
[0133] Other databases may be accessed in connection with the point
of sale computer system. For example, databases containing data
relating to customer loyalty and affinity programs may be accessed
by the processing system and the business rules may be consulted
for direction on the effect that this data should have. For
example, the data might affect the graphics that are selected from
the graphics storage media 121, as well as other information that
is selected from the other storage media. The data from the other
databases could affect the prices, products, services and
promotions that are offered or emphasized.
[0134] In many situations, several kiosks can advantageously be
used at a single point of sale location. Similarly, a single point
of sale location may itself be a member of a larger business having
other point of sale locations. If a business is large enough, the
various points of sale locations may be segregated into regions,
sub-regions, etc.
[0135] In many businesses, the products and services that are
offered, as well as their prices and the manner of their
presentation, might be managed by a main office. In some
situations, it might instead be managed by a regional office or at
the local store level. In still other situations, portions of the
presentation might be managed by the main office, other portions by
a regional office, and still further portions by a local store.
[0136] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an enterprise level point of
sale computer system that addresses these needs. It illustrates one
example of an enterprise level topology in which the point of sale
computer system shown in FIG. 1 might be used.
[0137] As shown in FIG. 2, a plurality of kiosks 201 may be located
in a plurality of local stores 203. Although not required, each
local store 203 may itself contain a plurality of kiosks 201 and
may be geographically-separated from the other local stores
203.
[0138] In FIG. 2, each kiosk 201 may include all of the components
shown in FIG. 1, including the kiosk 101, the processing system
171, and the graphics, business rules, control data, sound data and
text data storage media 121, 131, 141, 151 and 161, respectively.
Alternatively, the payment acceptance device 109, the cash
disbursement device 111, at least portions of the processing system
171, and the graphics, business rules, control data, sound data and
text data storage media 121, 131, 141,151 and 161, respectively,
may be contained outside of the kiosk 201. One or more of these
components may in certain configurations be shared by all of the
kiosks 201 within a particular store 203.
[0139] Each local store 203 may include a local manager station
205. Among other functions, the local manager station 205 may be
configured to allow changes to be made locally in the content of
the graphics, business rules, control data, sound data and/or text
data storage media 121,131,141,151 and 161, respectively.
[0140] The enterprise may include one or more regional offices 207.
Each regional office 207, in turn, may include a regional manager
station 209. Each regional manager station may be configured to
load and update the content of the graphics, business rules,
control data, sound data and/or text data storage media 121,131,
141, 151 and/or 161, respectively, to the local stores 203. Each
regional manager station 209 may be used to completely control the
content of the storage media, or may do so only in part or only in
certain of the local stores 203. Each local manager station 205, in
turn, may be provided with the ability to modify or supplement the
data that has been provided under the control of a regional manager
station 209.
[0141] The enterprise may include a main office 211. A main manager
station 213 may be associated with the main office 211 and manage
the content of the graphics, business rules, control data, sound
data and text data storage media 121, 131, 141, 151 and 161,
respectively, at the regional level and/or at the local level. This
is much like the regional manager station 209, except that the main
manager station 213 may be configured to have the authority to
manage this content in any or all of the local stores 203.
[0142] Of course, it is to be understood that the enterprise might
be smaller, having only a single local store 203. In this
situation, however, the graphics, business rules, control data,
sound data and text data storage media 121,131, 141, 151 and 161,
respectively, might still be shared among the various kiosks 201
within this local store.
[0143] In a medium-size enterprise, there might be no regional
offices 207 or regional manager stations 209. In this situation,
each local store 203 might communicate with and be controlled
directly by the main office 211 in association with its main
manager station 213.
[0144] In a larger enterprise, on the other hand, there might be
sub-regional offices, as well as different or additional types of
divisions. The topology shown in FIG. 2 can readly be modified
accordingly.
[0145] Through the use of such an enterprise-level structure, a
great deal of flexibility and efficiency can be achieved. Global
loading and changes of the information stored in the various
regional and local storage media can be made under a single
directive, such as a directive issued by the main manager station
213. Changes that are required to be made on a regional or local
level can similarly be made by a regional manager station 209 or,
at the local level, by a local manager station 205.
[0146] The degree of allowable control by each manager station may
be specified. For example, limits may be placed on the types of
changes that each local manager station 205, regional manager
station 209, or the main manager station 213 can implement.
Conversely, each local manager station 205 may be given the
authority to subscribe at its option to various content offerings
and classes of content from its regional office 207 and/or its main
office 211.
[0147] Although not shown, appropriate storage facilities may be
provided in the regional office 207 or in the main office 211 to
store the data that may be delivered to its subordinate office or
offices.
[0148] Mechanisms may be provided to automate the updating process.
For example, one or more of the systems in the enterprise may be
programmed to periodically deliver or receive updates, such as
during evening times when the local stores may be closed.
[0149] Of course, the local store 203 may need the ability to
communicate with its respective regional office 209 and/or main
office 211, and the regional offices may need the ability to
communicate with its main office. Any communication system now
known or later developed may be used. Such systems may include
network communication systems implemented over the Internet, phone
lines or even by satellite.
[0150] As should be apparent, software may be needed to implement
the various functions of the systems and subsystems shown in FIGS.
1 and 2. The necessary software, as well as portions of the
necessary software, may be provided on any of the types of media
that are described above in connection with the graphics storage
media 121. The needed software may be delivered at each computing
location on such storage media, or it may be downloaded from such
storage media over a network, such as the Internet.
[0151] Although the discussion has thus-far been focused on the
consummation of a sale, it is to be understood that the systems
that have been described have utility in connection with the
consummation of any business transaction. For example, the systems
described may be used to facilitate a customer's selection and
reservation of an item to purchase. It may similarly be used for
the purpose of allowing a customer to obtain credit or to open a
charge account.
[0152] The systems that have been discussed may be used to enable a
customer to select and obtain information about a product or
service that is offered for sale at the location of the point of
sale system. Such a configuration may or may not allow the customer
to consummate a sale for an item determined to be of interest.
[0153] The descriptions that have now been provided are of
illustrative embodiments and should enable a person of ordinary
skill in the art to make and use the technology that is set forth
in the claims below without undue experimentation. Numerous
modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to
those skilled in the art, and the principles defined in this
discussion may be applied to other embodiments, without departing
from the spirit or scope of the technology that is set forth and
covered by the claims below.
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