U.S. patent application number 11/082105 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-29 for interactive vending system(s) featuring product customization, multimedia, education and entertainment, with business opportunities, models, and methods.
Invention is credited to Stillman, Suzanne Jaffe.
Application Number | 20050211768 11/082105 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32107972 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050211768 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stillman, Suzanne Jaffe |
September 29, 2005 |
Interactive vending system(s) featuring product customization,
multimedia, education and entertainment, with business
opportunities, models, and methods
Abstract
Individual or multiple-unit vending systems/kiosks with the
ability to create highly customized products at the time of sale,
with audio-visual features, handicap access and additional
abilities and/or components; with multiple delivery abilities of
tangible and/or intangible product(s); new real estate
opportunities and business models, including business opportunities
and/or jobs for disadvantaged people. This invention provides
products for humans, animals and plants, and takes in one or more
of the following product categories, without limitation: water,
beverages, foodstuffs, toys, games contests, greeting cards,
photography/video, audio/music, personal care products; using
converging technologies such as, but not limited to:
telecommunications, wireless data transmission, smart cards, etc.
Benefits include, without limitation: test marketing, focus groups,
and new product introductions using consumer interaction;
education, entertainment, rewards, promotions, advertising,
contests, charitable support, etc.
Inventors: |
Stillman, Suzanne Jaffe;
(Los Angeles, CA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
LINER YANKELEVITZ SUNSHINE AND REGENSTREIF
1100 GLENDON AVENUE, 14TH FLOOR
LOS ANGELES
CA
90024
US
|
Family ID: |
32107972 |
Appl. No.: |
11/082105 |
Filed: |
March 16, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11082105 |
Mar 16, 2005 |
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PCT/US03/32964 |
Oct 16, 2003 |
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60418769 |
Oct 16, 2002 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
235/381 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07F 17/16 20130101;
G07F 11/00 20130101; G07F 17/32 20130101; G07F 17/26 20130101; G07F
17/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/381 |
International
Class: |
A63F 009/24 |
Claims
I claim:
1. A personalized restricted purchase method comprising the steps
of: providing a wearable or carriable data storage device for
storing personal, medical and financial data; storing at least one
of personal data representing identity of an owner individual and
purchase restriction, medical data representing medical conditions
and restrictions relating to an owner-individual and financial data
relating to the owner-individual on said data storage device;
providing an automatic vending unit in communication with a reading
apparatus capable of reading said data stored on said storage
device; and having the owner-individual to present said data
storage device to the reading apparatus whereby purchase of an item
from the vending unit can be made provided the stored financial
data authorize the cost of the purchase and provided the stored
personal and/or medical data authorize the item.
2. The method according to claim 1, wherein said data storage
device is selected from the group consisting a magnetic data
storage device, a microelectronic data storage device, and an
optical data storage device.
3. The method according to claim 1, wherein said data storage
device further comprises automatic communication facilities for
reporting location and identity of the owner-individual.
4. The method according to claim 1, wherein medical data are stored
and the medical data prescribe medication for the owner-individual
and wherein the automatic vending unit dispenses medications
appropriate to the individual.
5. The method according to claim 4, wherein the medications are
intended for emergency use.
6. The method according to claim 5, the vending unit automatically
makes an emergency report to authorities providing identifying and
medical data from the data storage device in response to dispensing
medications intended for emergency use.
7. The method according to claim 1, wherein the medical data and/or
the personal data contain a list restricting consumption of certain
foods and beverages and wherein the automatic vending unit will not
dispense foods and beverages on the list to the
owner-individual.
8. The method according to claim 1, wherein the medical data and/or
the personal data contain a list ranking foods and beverages in
terms of healthiness for the owner-individual and wherein the
automatic vending unit rewards the owner-individual for selecting
foods or beverages with a high healthiness ranking.
9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the owner-individual
receives a free item as a reward.
10. The method according to claim 8, wherein the owner-individual
receives a financial rebate as a reward.
11. The method according to claim 1, wherein said vending unit
further comprises an individual verification device that detects a
physical character of an individual presenting the data storage
device to verify identity between the individual and the
owner-individual.
12. The method according to claim 11, wherein the physical
character is selected from the group consisting of fingerprints,
palmprints, retinal scans, iris scans, and voiceprints.
13. An automated vending system for creating a customized graphic
design comprising: means for displaying a plurality of graphic
sub-components that can be assembled to create a graphic design;
means for inputting images; means for displaying inputted images;
means for selecting and manipulating graphic sub-components and
inputted images to create a graphic design; and means for storing
the graphic design.
14. The automated vending system of claim 13, wherein the graphic
design is for a personalized version of official government
documents and means are supplied to render said official documents
to ensure said documents' legal validity.
15. The automated vending system of claim 14, wherein said official
documents are rendered onto special governmentally authorized
paper.
16. The automated vending system of claim 14, wherein the official
government documents are selected from the group consisting of
currency and customied postage stamps.
17. The automated vending system of claim 13, wherein the means for
inputting photographs is selected from the group comprising a
scanning device, a port to attach a personal digital assistant, a
port to attach a personal computer and a digital camera.
18. The automated vending system of claim 13, wherein the graphic
sub-components include celebrity images trademarks, logos, copy
written material, licensable media characters, with a means for
royalty compensation for the use of the image to the artist.
19. The automated vending system of claim 13, wherein the graphic
sub-components are automatically obtained from a network
20. The automated vending system of claim 13 further comprising
means to render the graphic design into or on to a product.
21. The automated vending system of claim 20, wherein the means to
take possession of the product is within the confines of the
vending system or remotely located from the vending system.
22. The automated vending system of claim 13, wherein the means to
render is selected from a two-dimensional printing device and a
three-dimensional printing device.
23. The automated vending system of claim 13, wherein the graphic
design is selected from the group consisting of a card design, a
playing card design, a trading card design, product label design, a
fabric transfer, and a T-shirt design.
24. The automated vending system of claim 20 further comprising
means to transmit the card design over the Internet
electronically.
25. The automated vending system of claim 24, wherein the
electronically transmitted product includes sound.
26. The automated vending system of claim 20, wherein the system
presents preset graphic designs to serve as test marketing for said
preset designs.
27. The automated vending system of claim 20, wherein the system
collects customer demographic data.
28. An automated vending system for creating a customized foods or
beverages comprising: means for displaying a plurality of food or
beverage components that can be assembled to create a food or
beverage; means for displaying suggested food or beverage
combinations recipes; means for a consumer to select suggested
combinations recipes and food and beverage components to create new
food or beverage combinations recipes or to modify or keep
suggested recipes thereby selecting chosen recipes; and means for
dispensing components to create food and beverages according to
chosen recipes.
29. The vending system according to claim 28 further comprising
means for storing the chosen recipes.
30. The vending system according to claim 28 further comprising
means for transmitting the chosen recipes to third parties with the
consumer's permission and in return for a reward.
31. The vending system according to claim 28, wherein the means for
dispensing components are located in a plurality of separate units
in data communication with each other.
32. The vending system according to claim 31, wherein the consumer
receives a partial product from each of the separate units and
sequentially assembles a final product.
33. The vending system according to claim 28, wherein beverages are
made by combining water and additives inside the integrated system
whereupon the finished product is dispensed
34. The vending system according to claim 33, wherein the water is
municipal water which is purified first.
35. The vending system according to claim 28, wherein the system
supplies containers into which the beverage is dispensed.
36. An automated vending system for creating a customized accessory
comprising: means for displaying a plurality of ornament
sub-components that can be assembled to create a personal ornament;
means for displaying suggested ornament designs; means for a
consumer to select suggested designs and ornament sub-components to
create new ornament or to modify or keep suggested designs thereby
selecting a chosen ornament design; and means for dispensing
sub-components to a personal ornament from the chosen ornament
design.
37. The vending system according to claim 36, wherein data derived
from consumer selection of the suggested accessory designs is used
to test market those designs.
38. The vending system according to claim 36 further comprising
means for storing the chosen ornament design.
39. The vending system according to claim 36 further comprising
means for transmitting the chosen ornament design to third parties
with the consumer's permission and in return for a reward.
40. The vending system according to claim 36 further comprising
means for transmitting the chosen ornament design to third parties
with the consumer's permission on which to build a consumer product
for a business.
41. The vending system according to claim 36, wherein the means for
dispensing ornament sub-components are located in a plurality of
separate units in data communication with each other.
42. The vending system according to claim 41, wherein the consumer
receives a partial product from each of the separate units and
sequentially assembles a final accessory.
43. The vending system according to claim 36, wherein the accessory
is selected from the group consisting of home accessories,
ornaments, jewelry, and hair ornaments.
44. An automated vending system for creating a customized media
collection comprising: means for displaying and sampling a
plurality of audio and video media components that can be assembled
to create a customized media collection means for a consumer to
select and order audio and video media components to create a
customized media collection; and means for delivering the
customized media collection to the consumer.
45. The vending system according to claim 44, wherein the
customized media collection is delivered through storage on a
tangible medium which is dispensed by said system.
46. The vending system according to claim 44, wherein the
customized media collection is delivered through transmission to
the consumer from the vending system, a remote location over a
network.
47. The vending system according to claim 44, wherein the
customized media collection contains multiple language support
allowing consumers speaking different languages to use and enjoy
the customized media collection.
48. A business method using the vending system according to claim
44, comprising the step of lowering a price paid by a consumer when
at least some of the displayed media components contain advertising
promotional material or otherwise compensating the consumer when
including media components containing advertising promotional
material in the customized collection.
49. The vending system according to claim 44, wherein demographic
data relating the consumer and selection and order of media
components are collected.
50. The vending system according to claim 49, wherein the
demographic data are used to test market new artists.
51. A business method of reducing the cost of recorded media
comprising the steps of by having a pre-recorded advertisement,
message, jingle, song, play one or more times over the course of
the recorded media play, and allowing the consumer to select the
contents of the recorded media other than the advertisement,
message, jingle or song
52. The business method according to claim 51 further comprising
the step of a company with a product or service providing the free
downloading of music whereby their advertisement is attached to
each track or specific intervals.
53. The business method according to claim 51 further comprising
the step of a recording company introducing a new artist by
attaching material from the new artist to pre-recorded
advertisement, message, jingle, song.
54. The vending system according to claim 49, wherein suggested
media collections are offered the consumer and the demographic data
are used to test market such collections.
55. An automated vending system for creating a design and/or
prototype of a wearable item comprising: means for displaying a
plurality of design and/or prototype sub-components that can be
assembled to create a wearable item; means for selecting and
manipulating design sub-components to create a novel wearable item
means for originating design and or prototype components; means for
manipulating design and or prototype components; and means for
using the wearable item as a sample for production.
56. An automated vending system of claim 55 further comprising
means for adding advertisement on wearable item to amortize the
cost of the item.
57. An automated vending system of claim 55 further comprising
means to add a charitable affiliation to the wearable item.
58. An automated vending system of claim 55, wherein the wearable
item is sent out to bid anywhere in the world for production by a
company which owns the vending system and or their contractors
59. A business method for time stamping an invention in the vending
system according to claim 55 to prove date and time of invention
comprising the steps of providing means for storing the novel
invention wherein the means for storing can be used to prepare a
machine readable version of the invention means for transmitting
the novel invention wherein the means for transmitting the
invention is over the internet; and means preparing a document copy
of the novel invention for authentication purposes.
60. An automated vending system optimized for gardening comprising:
means for displaying a plurality of garden-related decorative
ornaments, tools, custom compositions, plant food, plants and
pesticides; means inputting customer selection of decorative
ornaments, tools, custom compositions, plant food, plants and
pesticides; means for compounding custom compositions in response
to said selection; and means to dispense at least one of decorative
ornaments, tools, compositions, plant food, plants and pesticides
in response to said input customer selection.
61. The vending system according to claim 60, wherein plants are
selected from the group consisting of vegetative plants, seeds,
bulbs, tubers, corms, rhizomes and roots.
Description
[0001] The present application is a continuation of
PCT/US2003/032964 designating the United States and filed on 16
Oct. 2003 which in turn claimed priority from U.S. Provisional
Application 60/418,769 filed Oct. 16, 2002, which application is
hereby included by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Field
[0003] The present invention relates generally to vending machines
and/or vending kiosks but more particularly to a vending machine
system and/or a vending kiosk systems; which employ multimedia
features, new product delivery technologies, labeling; and
packaging technologies, along with accompanying business models,
methods, and opportunities whereby the system(s) dispense(s)
products that are meant to work in consort, or systems that are to
work in consort, regardless of the field of inventing.
[0004] 2. Description of the Field and Related Art
[0005] The Value of Vending
[0006] Vending machines provide numerous benefits to customers and
operators alike. Vending machines typically provide customers with
the convenience of self-service and twenty-four-hour accessibility.
Likewise, owner's benefit from the ability of vending machines, in
general, to make automated sales of merchandise to customers, often
at unconventional locations and times of day, without substantial
labor costs.
[0007] Background of Inventor, Technologies, and Vocabulary
[0008] The inventor's background is in unique beverage delivery
system's and may be considered foundational for this invention
although the invention is not limited to beverages or even
foodstuffs. Reference can be made to the following patent documents
to understand the inventor's background"
[0009] U.S. Pat. No. 6,248,390: FiberWater: Water Containing
Soluble Fiber
[0010] WO 01/62108 A1: Water containing soluble fiber
[0011] WO 01/70591 A1: Infusion Packet with useful and decorative
elements, Support member, Delivery System and method
[0012] Application 10/244699 which is a continuation in part of
PCT/US01/09171: Method of Hydration; Infusion Package System(s),
Support Member(s), Delivery System(s), and Method(s); with business
Model(s) and Method(s)
[0013] Technologies Used in This Invention
[0014] This invention goes beyond conventional vending systems,
especially with more than one agenda/purpose which may or may not
be obvious at a glance. The invention includes integrated systems
and employs the convergence of many different technologies.
[0015] The inventor has spent considerable time studying the
following (but not limited to the following) technologies, their
place in society as well as their acceptance by consumers. Such
tangible technologies include but are not limited to the history
and background of: vending machines, arcade games, video/computer
games, pinball machines, jukeboxes, the slot machine, telephones,
computers, transistors, sensors, multi-media entertainment, the
Internet, evolution of software (noting that software is getting
smarter with processor and memory power exploding, and that
software that thinks for itself--or at least appears to--will
become a reality), Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM), Asymmetrical
Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL), Assistive technologies for the
handicapped.
[0016] Intangible considerations are directed towards the following
but not limited to: the study (psychology) of the value of
promotions, advertising, rewards, interaction, entertainment,
education, personalization, customization, licensing, and
sanitation. Additional intangible considerations are directed
towards concepts as demonstrated by magicians, the success of the
circus, Las Vegas, Rube Goldberg (delivery systems), etc.
[0017] With the convergence of more than one of the above new
business opportunities, models, and methods come forth as well.
[0018] Assistive Technologies (AT)
[0019] AT comes in many shapes and sizes. The one trait shared by
each example of AT is the power to enhance the life of a person
with a disability. The Washington Assistive Technology Resource
Center describes AT as follows:
[0020] Technology for more independent, productive and enjoyable
living--can be simple or complex. These technology solutions
improve an individual's ability to learn, compete, work and
interact with family and friends.
[0021] People use assistive technology to achieve greater
independence and to enhance the quality of their lives.
[0022] Some AT come easily to mind, such as wheelchairs and
closed-captioned television. Others may be overlooked at first by
the general population, but are still familiar to many people,
including Braille, sign language, and ramps. These inventions,
although useful, have only played supporting roles to the major
stars in the AT revolution.
[0023] The biggest part of this revolution now is in the office.
From multinational corporations to family-run shops, disabled
people are finding that they have an expanding place in the
business world. As computers have assumed a dominant role in the
office environment, AT has made it possible for many people to
compete in the workforce. While many forms of AT have been of great
benefit to the disabled community these technologies hare becoming
foundational for mainstream inventiveness. Ergo technologies under
this category are incorporated into this invention to not just help
those with health challenges and need assistance but converge with
other technologies therefore best serving this vending invention.
Therefore, any part of this invention may have a new type of
handicap access (becoming handicap friendly) even if the user has
to bring a connecting part needed for operation. (any user, even if
not handicapped can bring any connecting part for access, ease and
efficiency of operation).
[0024] Some of the important areas of development relevant to this
inventiveness are (but not limited to) the following:
[0025] Modified or Alternative Computer Input and Output Device
[0026] Computer access is necessary in most new jobs being created
in the corporate world. By using the Braille system to aid and/or
modify computer input and output devices, the blind are enjoying
increased productivity and job satisfaction.
[0027] Perhaps not so familiar is Hand Tapper III by Peter
Grigson--this system makes use of a pad of push-up pins, whereby
resting his or her hand upon the pad of pins, the user is able to
receive a constant stream of output from a computer; the computer
interprets text on-screen and sends the data to the Hand Tapper
III, where every pin corresponds to a symbol or word of text that
the user feels as it is pushed up into the palm and fingers of one
hand; a similar concept is the Braille strip that blind users can
lay in front of a keyboard, which produces Braille symbols one row
at a time while the user's fingers rest on the strip.
[0028] Voice-activated control software for using Graphical User
Interface programs--blind computer users have been challenged with
interpreting the symbols used on-screen in programs such as Windows
or the Macintosh Operating System; because these programs utilize
pictures instead of words to present data to the viewer, software
has been developed that can either read aloud or print out on a
Braille translation device the text that accompanies each icon.
[0029] Many workers with disabilities other than blindness are
utilizing computers with the aid of such tools as: mouthsticks or
headwands--using pointers in the form of headwands or mouthsticks,
people with restricted hand or arm movement can operate computers
by pressing on keys or directing a surrogate mouse; in this manner,
even quadriplegics are able to access computers with the same ease
as individuals with total mobility.
[0030] Trackballs--Trackballs are used as an alternative to the
traditional computer mouse; the device is similar to a mouse that
has been turned upside down, so that only part of the ball's
surface is exposed; the user simulates the movement of a mouse by
moving the ball in the desired direction and thus controlling the
cursor on-screen without moving the entire housing structure.
Trackballs are now more mainstream in fact this inventor uses a
trackball mouse.
[0031] Dvorak keyboards--featuring a different layout than the
standard QWERTY keyboard (referring to the letters at the left side
of the top row on a traditional keyboard interface), the Dvorak
system makes one-handed use of a keyboard easier; keys are arranged
so that frequently-combined letters are placed near each other,
reducing the amount of hand movement that would otherwise be
required.
[0032] Key locks--Key locks allow the user to push down more than
one key at a time; by implementing the use of key locks, people
using mouthsticks or headwands can perform multi-key functions like
Alt-S or Control-P; these are simple tools which attach to the
keyboard and allow the user to push down one key and hold it in
place while rotating an arm of the key lock onto another key
simultaneously.
[0033] Eye-controlled input--This form of input tracks the movement
of the user's eye; keys on an on-screen keyboard are activated when
the user's gaze pauses on a key for a specified length of time,
usually two seconds.
[0034] On-screen keyboards--These keyboards can be controlled by
the touch of a headwand or mouth-stick or through eye-controlled
input.
[0035] Sticky keys--Sticky keys work similarly to key locks, but
are controlled by software rather than a physical tool; programs
instruct the computer to accept a single keystroke as the first
part of a multi-key instruction, and the computer then waits for
the second keystroke before executing any tasks.
[0036] Auto repeat function disablers--This form of software works
by instructing the computer to produce only one letter when a key
is pressed down, ignoring the length of time that the key is
actually depressed; by ignoring the time lapse, the computer knows
to produce a single letter "m" instead of a continuous stream that
would appear "mmmmm."
[0037] Speech Synthesizers and Related Communication Tools for the
Deaf
[0038] Deaf people have overcome many communication challenges with
the aid of AT. Everyday tasks such as knowing when a computer has
beeped and participating in presentations are possible with new
developments, including:
[0039] Messages, and visual beep indicators allow deaf computer
users to stay in touch with these occurrences.
[0040] Electronic note-takers--electronic note-takers produce
printouts of what is being spoken in a room, and deaf people are
able to read the printout while the speaker is presenting
information; these devices are very useful in meetings and
demonstrations; when lip-reading may not be possible.
[0041] Speech synthesizers--speech synthesizers like the Gus
Multimedia Speech System let users construct words and sentences on
a computer screen which are spoken out loud by the system; made
famous through use by Stephen Hawking, speech synthesizers let the
user build custom dictionaries or work from existing dictionaries
of commonly-used words and phrases.
[0042] Automatic Text Interpretation Systems (AT) for the Blind
[0043] With AT tools, the blind are able to process all of the
information presented to sighted people, including business
reports, computerized documents, email, forms and file cards, and
book and magazine articles. Absolutely any printed text can now be
"read" by the blind. Aside from the Braille printers and
translation software tools, mentioned above, the following devices
are also used by blind people accessing non-Braille texts:
[0044] Optical Character Recognition (OCR)--OCR uses scanners to
input books or other printed materials into a computer, which can
then produce either a hard copy of the text in Braille or a
voice-synthesized copy that can be listened to, recorded, and
played back for future reference.
[0045] Voice-output devices--A machine "reads" text through Optical
Character Recognition software, and synthesized speech is used to
present the text to a blind person; using this method, it is
possible to quickly access the information stored on file cards and
forms or in phone directories and hand-written notes.
[0046] Scientific and Mathematical Data Interpretation Systems
[0047] Blind scientists and mathematicians have found that Braille
is inadequate for interpreting numbers and symbols effectively.
Several alternative systems have been developed to address this
limitation, including:
[0048] Nemeth Braille code--This form of Braille utilizes symbols
and non-traditional Braille characters for the presentation of
numbers, especially in complex mathematics; while useful in
calculus and differential equations, some users have found a need
for an alternative that will allow blind computer users to print
out numerical calculations without requiring that the code be
translated into non-Braille characters and symbols; this limitation
led to the development of MNS.
[0049] MNS by Kenneth Frasse--MNS uses text-recognition software in
conjunction with speech-synthesis and printing software to create
audible recordings and printouts of math data that can be used by
sighted students or instructors to follow along with the work done
by a blind person.
[0050] GS* by John Gardner--GS8 uses eight dots instead of the six
dots used in traditional Braille, allowing more combinations of
dots; this method eliminates the need to spell out words such as
plus and minus, replacing the words with symbols created by
incorporating the extra two dots into the standard Braille system;
similarly, numbers are given their own symbols, and are no longer
represented by the letter of the alphabet that corresponds to the
number (1=a, 2=b, 3=c, and so on).
[0051] Audio System for Technical Reader (ASTER)--ASTER uses a
speech synthesizer to read highly technical documents so that even
diagrams and unusual fonts are read aloud; different pitches are
assigned to different types of text, so that the beginning of a
paragraph or an item appearing in subscript sound distinct when
compared to the voice used to read plain text; the user is able to
customize the pitch assignments, as well as the formats in which
numerical equations are presented.
[0052] Dotsplus--Dotsplus prints out charts and diagrams in a
tactile version so that lines are felt rather than seen, combining
Braille for textual representations with symbols for numerical or
illustrative representations.
[0053] Mainstream Technologies
[0054] Cable Modems A cable modem is an electronic device that
enables a personal computer (PC) to connect to a high-speed data
network and send and receive data over the coaxial cable used in
cable television (CATV) systems.
[0055] For an information superhighway with no speed limits, stop
signs, or curbs, the cable modem could change the one-way street of
television into a multi-lane highway with millions of on- and
off-ramps, create opportunity for new ways of communicating, and
focus attention on the PC as a source of information,
entertainment, and personal communications.
The History and use of Cable Telephony
[0056] Cable television and telephone companies are two separate
industries, which secretly at first, then later openly, coveted
each other's business. With the passing of new, more liberal
telecommunications rules and regulations (most notably the
Telecommunications Act of 1996), both the telephone companies and
CATV companies have been given permission to enter the other's
business. For the CATV industry this means transmitting two-way
signals in the form of data and voice. This type of transmission is
cable telephony.
[0057] Convergence means change. Convergence is tearing down
barriers and will therefore also construct barriers as it streaks
and ripples through society, industry, and institutions of all
kinds.
[0058] One's definition of convergence has its roots in the
perception of what is converging and how it will affect our world.
Is it technology or content? Is it communication or information
delivery? Is it a new industry or just new alliances of existing
companies? Is it really convergence at all, or a divergence of
people and ideas?
[0059] Convergence means a world in which people are not denied
access to any ideas or visions that have been written,
photographed, painted, spoken, or performed.
[0060] For some convergence proponents, the end product will be a
massive interconnection of digital technologies. The connection can
be wire or wireless, voice or data, terrestrial or space, but the
goal is to enable all technologies to connect with purpose, speed
and accuracy.
[0061] The technologies involved in convergence are all those used
in the four essential functions--create, display, distribute, and
store--that can be applied to anything comprised of text, visuals,
or sound. The industries of convergence include those that
manufacture and sell products and services used in the creation,
display, distribution, and storage of anything comprised of text,
visuals, or sound.
[0062] These industries include the aforementioned computer,
television, and telephone industries but cannot be limited to these
giants of industry. Movie and television producers, data storage,
radio, publishing, photography, consumer electronics, appliance
manufacturers, home and commercial construction, and utilities.
Libraries, hospitals, schools, universities, government of all
levels, police and fire--each connects with others and the people
they serve. They converge because of the available technologies,
the industries that provide them, and the need for what the
institutions offer are but a few that will be involved in
convergence.
[0063] For many institutions, the convergence is one of ideas. If a
consumer can access medical information from any or all, the
information has converged, and in the process the institutions
themselves, or at least some of their functions have converged.
[0064] Convergence means we must redefine our world and our
interactions within it, but without the limitations and defining
elements of time and distance. Centuries, even decades ago,
decisions were delayed months and days until communications could
be exchanged.
[0065] Convergence drives instant decision-making, which will drive
reactions
[0066] Maybe your future includes a PAN (personal area network) to
connect your personal communication devices via a low-frequency
network inside your body. Electronic devices on or near your body
will exchange digital information through capacitively coupled
picoamp currents. Shaking hands with business contacts will
transfer data to their PAN, including your address, phone number,
and professional information. Now one can transfer personal data to
the vending system.
[0067] Asynchronous transfer mode (ATM), which makes more efficient
use of networks for data, phone and video. In almost any
transmission there are blank spots, or short periods of time in
which no data, voice, or picture is actually being sent. ATM uses
the blank spots in a transmission to send other communications.
Another big plus for ATM is that it can switch streams of
multimedia traffic at mind-boggling speeds. It is conceived that an
ATM machine be connected to a vending machine whereby financial
transactions from the ATM pay for vending
Holography
[0068] Holography is a technique, which allows the recording and
playback of true, three-dimensional images. The image is called a
hologram. Unlike other 3-D "pictures", holograms provide what is
called "parallax". Parallax allows the viewer to move back and
forth, up and down, and see different perspectives--as if the
object were actually there.
[0069] Holography continues to provide the most accurate depiction
of three-dimensional images in the world. Holography allows the
recording and playback of true, three-dimensional images. The image
is called a hologram. Unlike other 3-D "pictures", holograms
provide what is called "parallax". Parallax allows the viewer to
move back and forth, up and down, and see different
perspectives--as if the object were actually there. The concept of
thinking in a spatial, rather than linear manner is at the very
heart of holographic principles.
CD Players and Compact Disc Player
[0070] Found in the home, car, and even the palm of your hand, the
compact disc player is a truly pervasive piece of consumer
electronics equipment. The compact disc player allows anyone access
to studio-quality sound nearly anywhere.
[0071] The laser pickup represents the actual physical interface
between the data on the compact disc media and the player. The
pickup is typically mounted on a movable sled mounted under the
disc. It is comprised of the laser, a system of lenses, a
photo-detector, and a motor, which moves the sled. The actual laser
is a semiconductor-type and emits light at a wavelength of 780
nanometers, just within the infrared spectrum.
[0072] Information on the compact disc is represented by a series
of lands, or flat spots, and pits, or holes. However, when viewed
from the bottom of the disc from where the data is read, the pits
are actually bumps. The difference in height between the pits and
lands is specified, so a unique property of light can be used to
obtain an electrical signal.
Sibling Technologies
[0073] Although the hardware to effectively implement them did not
exist in 1982, the designers of the compact disc standard exercised
a great deal of foresight by allowing for variations on the type of
data stored on the disc. Among these alternative uses are acronyms
such as CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-i, Photo CD, CD-V, CD+G/M, and game discs
(which are merely specialized CD-ROMs). Rather than storing audio
data, all of these formats have the ability to store any type of
digital data (CD-ROM and CD-R), still or motion video images (Photo
CD and CD-V), and a mixed stream of audio, video, and other data
(CD-i and CD+G/M). Regardless of what is stored on these discs, the
fundamentals behind their operation are nearly identical to that of
the audio compact disc.
[0074] Two other technologies in the marketplace that share some
similarities with the compact disc include the video laser disc and
Sony's Mini-Disc. The laser disc stores its information in an
analog format. While this yields the benefits of an optical reading
mechanism, none of the benefits of a digital signal are realized.
Digital Video Disc, recently standardized by Sony and Toshiba,
promises to remedy this. It will offer a digital storage format
several times that of today's compact disc, while maintaining the
same small size of, as well as backward compatibility with, the
compact disc. The Mini-Disc shares many similarities with the
compact audio disc in terms of data representation. However, the
Mini-Disc has a smaller form factor, is stored on a self-enclosed
readable/writable magneto-optical disc, and utilizes data reduction
that slightly lessens its sonic reproduction quality.
[0075] Compact discs have moved from an expensive audio alternative
to an attractive storage and playback medium that has permeated all
aspects of our cultural, social, and work lives. Recent
developments in storage and usage have affirmed the success of the
compact disc, and promise to push the technology even further.
[0076] Identification Possibilities Within the Vending System
[0077] Overview of understanding means by which to catch criminals,
find lost children, and/or the like can be done within the vending
concept of creating, purchasing, and receiving and are especially
valuable when they interconnect and feed into a centralizing area
using A.F.I.S. (Automated Fingerprint Identification System),
Facial feature data bases, and HITS (Homicide Investigation and
Tracking System)
[0078] A.F.I.S. is a computerized database of fingerprints compiled
from the records of national, state, and municipal offices in the
United States.
Facial Feature Database
[0079] Tom Parker created a database of facial features. Using the
faces of over 300 famous public figures, and each one was separated
into such elements as nose, eyes, cheeks, hair, hairline, forehead,
lips, ears, head shape, eyebrows, etc. Police artists can use this
database when rendering drawings of suspects. Witnesses are able to
describe a person by faying that they have the eyes of Ronald
Reagan, the cheeks of Steven Spielberg, the nose of Ginger Rogers,
the hair of Prince Charles, and so on.
[0080] Using such descriptions, composite images may be created by
pulling those facial features from the system. There are several
trillion possible faces that can be created from the database.
People have an easier time describing people according to
well-known images rather than by saying that the suspect has a
broad forehead and deep-set eyes. HITS (Homicide Investigation and
Tracking System)
[0081] The Homicide Investigation and Tracking System (HITS) is a
computerized form completed by investigators, which allows them to
track crimes across the United States. Up to 250 variables can be
entered about each crime, including such vital statistics as the
location of a crime, the nature of the crime, weapon(s) used,
distinguishing evidence left at the scene (such as the presence of
unusual symbols), and time of day.
[0082] The system incorporates information compiled from six
different sources, and is one of seven databases devoted to a
particular type of crime. While HITS is dedicated to murder
investigations, the other six databases track data on sexual
assault, preliminary information (before a type of crime has been
determined), Department of Corrections (when a known convict is
suspected of having involvement in a crime), gang-related crimes,
timeline (the sequence of known or suspected events surrounding a
crime), and the Violent Criminal Apprehension Program (VICAP).
[0083] Of these other six systems, VICAP is the one with which most
people are familiar. VICAP lets agents monitor unsolved violent
crimes and look for patterns between the crimes. Using this system,
officers can identify the trademarks of serial killers who may be
working over wide geographic areas. The National Institute of
Justice makes HITS, as well as the other six databases, available
to agencies throughout the United States. Using this technology,
officers can work together to compare notes and solve crimes.
[0084] As new technologies continue to develop, investigators will
do more crime fighting in the vast dimensions of cyberspace than
ever before. Even now, detectives have access to systems that rival
the fictional tools used by superheroes, and the FBI is leading the
pack by harnessing computer power to solve crimes in radically new
ways.
Desktop Publishing
[0085] Desktop publishing (DTP): Combining text and graphics into
documents such as books, magazines, brochures, and manuals by using
a computer system, special software, and high-resolution output
devices.
Digital Cameras Digital Imaging: From Camera to Computer
[0086] Most digital images form within a blink of the camera's
shutter. In that fragmentary instant, an image made of light is
transformed into a stream of numerical data by a complex web of
technologies. What's more, the image stored within the camera's
memory chip whereby the camera's data is uploaded into a computer.
Here, the photographer can alter and transform the image in almost
any way desired. Digital Music
[0087] Digital Music can send CD-quality music in digital format
across the same coaxial cable was sent in an analog format using an
FM frequency.
Digital Video Disk (DVD): Video Storage:
[0088] DVD is latest advance in digital information storage
technology and a virtual revolution across a wide range of consumer
electronics applications. The advent of DVD has already stimulated
a convergence of computer and entertainment technology that offers
advantages to the consumer including but not limited to the
possibility of obtaining new uses from existing technologies and of
replacing several appliances with a single purchase. In addition,
the power and versatility facilitate applications in areas such as
entertainment, education, and multimedia production t
technologically and will be economically feasible.
Possibilities for Use: Convergence
[0089] The single digital technology represented by DVD offers
possibilities for convergence of multiple technological
applications and for the integration of new and existing
technologies into integrated and flexible systems.
[0090] Regarding the convergence of computer and television
technology, one could, in theory, read and view any DVD title on a
PC equipped with a DVD-ROM drive, so long as the computer was
equipped with the silicon chip and the expansion board necessary to
decode MPEG-2 and Dolby Digital. While few PCs have the audio or
video hardware to take advantage of MPEG-2 and Dolby Digital, a
number of companies are supporting the idea of making PCs that
support Dolby Digital. But to fully combine the functions of
television entertainment and computing into a single system, other
innovative solutions will be required.
[0091] Products are already appearing on the market support the
computer-entertainment convergence. From the PC side, the
convergence of audio, video and computer technology represented by
the DVD will allow a single technology to play, record and edit
huge volumes of content, as well as to create a wide range of
multimedia applications. DVD technology also suggests the
possibility of cheaper and more flexible video production. DVD
video also creates a possible demand for high-definition television
(HDTV), the market status of which remains problematic at this
time, and will undoubtedly facilitate the marketing of computer
games far most sophisticated than those available at the present
time.
[0092] Electronic Cash, Electronic Money: Paying With Data Bytes An
extension of banking processes such as automatic fund transfers and
wire transfers, electronic money is currency in digital form that
can be transmitted through open computer networks and systems such
as the Internet and the World Wide Web, with home computers being
an integral part of the process. Eventually with security reigning
at the forefront of purchasing through vending.
[0093] Consumers will use these same systems to purchase goods and
services from an increasing number of companies who joined the
networks as they grow. Although there were initial concerns over
the security of purchases made through these networks, they soon
diminished as more and more consumers embraced the convenience and
ease these systems presented.
Digital Credit Cards, and Checks, Stored-Value Cards (Smart
Cards)
[0094] There are programs by which to transmit credit card
information which serve as an interface between consumers and
merchants, using encryption programs to protect the details of the
actual transaction. Programs such as Cyber-cash for merchant
affiliates and Cybercast which is designed to protect consumers
against credit card fraud by keeping the actual credit card number
away from the company where the order is being placed can be
adopted to work in a vending operation.
[0095] A similar program developed by First Virtual Holdings issues
a "Virtual PIN" to customers to use in place of credit card
information, eliminating the need for special software or
encryption.
[0096] For consumers who would rather pay by check, virtual check
writing programs are also available that draw funds directly from
real bank accounts. Like other secured payment programs, special
check-writing software creates an electronic wallet on the user's
system. When ready to buy, consumers pay out of the wallet either
by credit card or the program's version of a checking account.
Stored-Value Cards ("Smart" Cards)
[0097] These cards contain a microchip that is preprogrammed with a
specific dollar amount. To make a purchase, the card is swiped
through a special reader, which automatically deducts the amount of
the purchase from the stored value on the card and credits the
amount to the vendor's account. With added information embedded in
the card, the card can become a restrictive card and/or a card that
allows additional benefits. Additional added features will include
medical information, personal identification as well. Further the
cards may include 3D graphics capabilities which will allow the
user to experience 3D virtual worlds in real-time without jerky
motion or blocky objects. Smart cards etc may use the concept of a
Dial-Up Services (Dial-up services require that their customers pay
a monthly subscription fee and connect to their servers using a
modem-equipped computer. These services had email, reference
materials, chat systems, and of course games) whereby the card has
a predetermined amount of time on it in the same way as a
subscription would be. This may work for best for part of the
vending operation. A likely situation would be where you can play
all the games for a month but you have to buy a product to enable
the game play. Other wise there is a charge for the game as
well.
Shared Tenant Services Shared tenant services (STS)
[0098] Shared Tenant Services Shared tenant services (STS) is an
industry that bundles together a variety of services, such as local
and long distance telephone, cable TV, and security and provides
them to residential or office tenants in a building or campus.
[0099] As noted in this application the inventor bundles together a
variety of service potentials (such as the aforesaid),
opportunities, products, etc. but in new and novel ways, providing
methods and opportunities for the user, operator, owner, any or
all.
[0100] The concept of sharing services and providing packages of
services makes interfacing with smart cards in co-operation with
vending opportunities most unique.
[0101] STS began in the true entrepreneurial fashion, with small
companies providing bundled services to buildings or campus-like
business and residential areas. Most real estate and property
management companies don't want to be in the communications
business and welcome the chance to divest themselves of the
responsibility to provide state-of-the-art communication technology
to tenants. Most people who live or work in a residential or
business facility purchase services from a variety of companies,
receiving separate bills each month from their service
providers.
[0102] Types of services can include; local telephone, long
distance telephone, toll-free numbers, calling cards, cable TV, and
office or residential security. An STS provider consolidates all or
some of the types of services into a customizable package and
offers it at a favorable price to a group of people or a facility,
such as an apartment house or office complex such services as basic
telephone, cable TV, and security, STS providers are looking at
bundling services for video conferencing, e-mail, data
transmission, integrated services digital network (ISDN) lines,
Internet access, and voice messaging. For business facilities, the
STS provider can also incorporate copier services, temporary
personnel services, and data and word processing--any services that
could be used jointly by multiple tenants. In this invention one or
more of the above can be bundled with the smart card thus offering
premium opportunities for all involved. Once a vending operation is
designed and equipped to handle the vast array of electronic
services, they move closer to being classified as an "intelligent
vending system." Ergo the name "Smart Vending"
Virtual Reality
[0103] Virtual reality systems use computers to create simulated
environments that can be entered and interacted with by using
special equipment such as goggles and data gloves. Again they can
be supplied at the machine or personally buy the user bringing
assistance and usability to the machine.
[0104] This is critically important to this invention, as it is now
possible to take the user to an environment geographically,
including but not limited to the exploration of future worlds,
experiences using virtual systems, alone and/or combined with
smell, touch, audio, product(s) and more. Virtual reality (VR) is
one of the hottest research and development areas in the computer
industry today, and now can be incorporated into Smart Vending.
[0105] Potential applications range from medical imaging and
interior design to intercontinental videoconferencing and there are
a number of ways in which virtual reality technology can be
employed. Basically its underlying premise, however, is to create
more intuitive ways for humans and computers to work together. Ergo
it is a very significant part of the vending system.
[0106] Just as we have heard of experience theater we are now
inventing experience vending, whereby various elements will be used
to create that total illusion, such as the brain's sensory channels
and the body's motor network. This again is what the inventor calls
"Experience Vending."
[0107] Cinerama created films that could employ the human senses of
sight, sound, scent, and feel. Sensorama simulated all the sensory
experiences of a motorcycle ride by combining 3-D movies, stereo
sound, wind, and aromas. By gripping the handlebars on a specially
equipped motorcycle seat and wearing a binocular-like viewer, the
"passenger" could travel through scenes including California sand
dunes and Brooklyn streets.
[0108] The importance here is the inventors vision of a medium that
combined multi-sensory real and/or artificial experiences is
incorporated into the invention.
[0109] Cinerama and Sensorama gave VR two of its most important
theoretical and visual legacies, but artificial intelligence
research largely formed the scientific platform for VR as it exists
today.
[0110] One area of artificial intelligence research explored
building better interfaces between people and machines. Sketchpad,
the program, used computer technology to create images from
abstract ideas. Using Sketchpad and a pen-like device, a computer
could create sophisticated images on a display screen resembling a
television set. The system responded by rapidly updating the
drawing so that the relationship between the user's action and the
graphical display was clear. Computer-aided design (CAD) grew out
of this. Following this was the development of technology that
would allow computer users to actually enter the world of
computer-generated graphics. Then came the unveiling of the
head-mounted display (HMD), which took users inside a
three-dimensional world by limiting visual contact to the displays
shown by small computer screens mounted in binocular glasses.
Videoplace, one of several experimental artistic environments, used
computers to create "artificial reality," allowing viewers to
interact with computer-generated graphics and projected images.
Artificial Reality is Adaptable to Vending Systems and Their
Creative Appeal to Draw Consumers to the System.
[0111] Researchers at NASA created pilot training system for manned
space missions. This led to the development of the Virtual
Interface Environment Workstation. It was the first system that
combined such standard VR elements as computer graphics and video
imaging, 3-D sound, voice recognition and synthesis, and a
head-mounted display. A data glove, based on an invention designed
to play air guitar, completed the system.
[0112] Most head-tracking displays resemble helmets, from which
viewing devices are displayed. Instrumented gloves use sensors
passing over joints in the user's hand to measure the position of
the fingers and hand. Special devices called trackers are attached
to this equipment. They translate movements into coordinates, which
are then fed back to the computer so that the model of the virtual
world can be appropriately changed.
[0113] Now as it is possible to enter virtual worlds through a
desktop computer, it is also possible to enter virtual worlds from
a vending system.
[0114] You'll Be There (Virtually) From the Jun. 22, 1999 issue of
PC Magazine:
[0115] New technology will let anyone, anywhere, participate in
conversations, take part in classes, engage in discussions, see
live video, and more. Some of this exists today-in chat rooms and
with limited video conferencing-but better virtual reality
software, digital characters, and faster bandwidth may make virtual
conferences much more like the real thing. For example, you'll be
able to have chats with virtual characters that look like your
real-life teachers and classmates. This will have a major impact on
everything including being incorporated into vending
operations.
You May Wear Your Computer (Or It May Wear You)
[0116] Instead of pulling out a computer every time you need one,
why not just wear one? Perhaps a device you wear like a hat, or it
may be eyeglasses that can display a transparent image. Connect
this with a GPS system and it can tell you where you are. Connect
it with the right database and it might show you prices at the
nearest market. Take this to the vending operation for expanded
opportunities.
[0117] Porrazzo Advanced Membrane Technology (AMT) "It is hard to
imagine that something that looks like "Saran-Wrap" can be turned
into a speaker, let alone a microphone or an antenna".
[0118] A new foundational telecommunications technology--a full
digital capable transducer. This Advanced Membrane Technology is a
thin film that can be a wireless antenna, microphone, a loudspeaker
and sensor, simultaneously.
[0119] Using the Porrazzo Technologies will open up the world of
new innovative vending machines/opportunities, with their
integrating systems and inter communicating abilities with other
compatible systems. The Porrazzo Advanced Membrane technology U.S.
Pat. Nos. 5,450,670; 5,377,359.
[0120] A principal technology involves creation, amplification and
transmission of electromagnetic waves, especially radio frequency
waves, described as membrane film transducers. A primary, practical
application of the technology enables the penetration of RF waves
in urban environments, non-line of sight situations, and even
coupled to the earth plane. Intelligent, e.g. computer/software
control and steering of the membrane and simultaneous transmission
and/or reception at different frequencies is contemplated and has
been shown feasible.
[0121] This technology will allow the transmission of energy waves
through sound and light sources, resulting in the development and
production of information systems and communications products.
Applications of the technology involve assimilation, transmission
and reception of information relative to sound, light and other
carrier waves.
[0122] The Porrazzo Membrane has the capability of direct digital
interface with computer systems, network applications including the
Internet, flight and transportation systems, phased array systems,
wireless communications, multimedia, medical electronics, as well
as countless other commercial, military, and consumer
applications.
[0123] For game play and vending machine interfacing using the
Porrazzo System(s) (especially here the combination of sensor and
speaker) which allows the user to generate on screen movement
using, as an example, the movement of your hands to move objects on
the screen while simultaneously from the same surface hear
sounds.
Robotics
[0124] Robotics are advancing at such an amazing pace, and while
today most robots are at work in large companies, doing everything
from sorting and delivering mail to helping to manufacture products
from cars to laptops. Soon they will begin to come home as well.
With the understanding that one day you'll have a simple robot to
help with everyday tasks-perhaps one that will take out the garbage
when it's cold outside it is easily seen how important a role
robotics will play in the vending system in multiple ways.
Computing Is Distributed
[0125] Tomorrow's computing will be distributed, with lots of
computers of all kinds working together to share information,
perform amazing calculations, and track all kinds of data.
Faster Memory and I/O
[0126] There's a trend toward larger caches in today's chips. In
addition to large caches, an incredibly important objective, is to
get as much fast memory as close to the processor as possible and
to reduce latencies to I/O devices. We'll also see a trend toward
System on a Chip (SOC) designs, which incorporate cache, memory
control, I/O control functions, and even embedded DRAM in some
cases. Mainstream notebooks (using external RAM), hand-held PCs,
palm PCs, set-top boxes, and other information appliances are
candidates for such devices. Another category, called chip
multiprocessors (CMPs), will include multiple processor cores on a
single chip. Set-top boxes, video games, and digital TVs are
probable candidates. This inventor sees how CMPs will be able to be
used in this invention by offering more flexibility of hardware,
then software potential.
[0127] It is hopeful that we will have available multiple
intelligent agents simultaneously acquiring and processing data
from external sources, and systems that understand natural
language. There are numerous scenarios this inventor could envision
that would benefit this invention in total and or in part from
multiple processors working simultaneously.
[0128] Further investigations of the following are to be considered
as part of the evolutionary process to get to the present
invention: vending machine(s) system and or the vending/kiosk
system. The use of the following, but not limited to the following,
technologies are also to be considered as foundational and useful
to the present invention: vending machine(s) system and or the
vending/kiosk system
[0129] 1. Magic
[0130] 2. Sensors
[0131] 3. Illusions
[0132] 4. 3-D
[0133] 5. Billboards
[0134] 6. Advertising mediums
[0135] 7. Point of Purchase (POP)
[0136] 8. Toys
[0137] 9. Electronics
[0138] 10. Artificial Intelligence
[0139] 11. Neon
[0140] 12. Radiant barrier technology (mainly that of NASA) and
other technologies as all related to transfer of hot and
cold/electricity.
The Circus Example:
[0141] The circus revolves around promotions and promotion is one
of the key elements in this vending composite . . . the way in
which each part is so carefully crafted as to not just interface
but to promote the entity as a whole. The parts are important, but
the summary of the totality of the parts can purport an even
greater synergy.
[0142] Bamum believed in the line. "We ought to have a big show,"
the public expected and appreciated. But for everyone at THE
GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH.RTM., the real beginning is that moment when
the lights go down and the show is just about to start.
Anticipation! Expectation! 1. Just as a circus has multiple rings
where the action is so it is possible in this invention. Certainly
a circus is a grand theme that has existed for about a century. It
is invented and conceived that the action, perhaps even the center
ring, be the product production attraction . . . mixing, matching
etc. of the product and the rest of the rings be a part of the
action, but to a lesser degree and/or just for entertainment sake.
Sideshows can even be the side panels of the unit and also be
integrated into the theme whether they vend or not.
[0143] a. Aroma of a circus, audio direct and/or via headphones
etc. all are to be considered part of the invention.
[0144] b. Regardless of the product vended the labeling and
branding can match that of the machine. In this instance the
Circus. All theme concepts, by originality, and/or by licensing are
possible. If a beverage is made then the perhaps the dispensing
container etc. will be theme related Las Vegas Example.
[0145] Understanding the glamour of a Las Vegas environment which
can translate to new and novel vending machine systems in ways that
are non obvious to those skilled in the art.
[0146] Casinos continue their evolution toward high-tech wagering
with every applicable breakthrough in modem technology and it is
conceivable that vending will follow the same path.
[0147] Gambling, wagering and/or the like are considered illegal to
those below the age of 21 in the United States. To that the
inventor is respectful.
[0148] Las Vegas with computerized slot machines with poker, keno,
blackjack, bingo and crap games we also have license television
show games such as Wheel of Fortune etc.
[0149] As an example only this concept will also serve to
familiarize users, patrons with resorts, (Las Vegas in this
example) whereby a geographical location can be promoted,
entertainment provided, and even various types of school lessons
can be learned (math, geography, information about cultures {where
appropriate}) while also receiving a vended product(s)
simultaneously, and/or independently with the aforesaid be they
related to locally labeled and/or produced merchandise or
expanded.
[0150] Video Games Video Games of all types are to be considered in
totality and/or in separate and/or multiple components to be part
of this invention with and or without legalized wagering.
[0151] There are many machines of skill and chance to provide both
challenge and entertainment for the player. Video arcades are full
of mechanical devices such as pinball machines, basketball free
throw shooting machines, and punching machines as well as a myriad
of electronic game machines such as video games.
[0152] Arcade game players enjoy games in which their skills are
determinative of their success and in which they have control over
the operation of the game. A game in which the operations of the
mechanisms are clearly predictable and readily discernable is
attractive to the arcade game player providing a challenge to the
player's skills such as hand-to-eye coordination and manual
dexterity.
[0153] Therefore, and proven, has been the concept of a
reward/prize in relation to a vending machine and specially when a
game is involved it is desirable to have prize dispensing machine
which provides the player accommodation whether he has won or
lost.
[0154] U.S. Pat. No. 4,976,440 to Faith titled: Arcade-type prize
dispensing machine . . . teaches that a game or prize dispensing
apparatus and method which transfers prizes or objects from a lower
position in the machine to an upper position of the machine,
releasing the prizes and allowing them to freefall. The player
attempts to strike or grab the falling prize by actuating a
mechanism at the appropriate time. A successfully struck or grabbed
prize may then be dispensed.
Vending Machines to Enhance Skills While Delivering Product
[0155] Arcade game players enjoy games in which their skills are
determinative of their success and in which they have control over
the operation of the game. A game in which the operations of the
mechanisms are clearly predictable, and readily discemable is
attractive to the arcade game player providing a challenge to the
player's skills such as hand-to-eye coordination and manual
dexterity. To encourage play and vend it is considered by this
inventor that it might be desirable to have prize dispensing
machine aspect attached to the concept regardless on location.
Taking Video Games to Talking Vending Machine
[0156] While in many instances talking is not preferential it may
serve further serves many important functions as well. Language
translators within electronics which allows one to give commands in
any language that is programmed into the machine.
[0157] U.S. Pat. No. 5,393,073 to Best teaches a Taking video game.
The invention claims that it is an electronic system for simulating
voice conversations between animated video characters and the
system.
[0158] For children to talk to their favorite characters, learning
better speech patterns and even hearing words in foreign languages
can entertain while educate. Besides children react to characters
and often times will listen better to their suggestions than a
parents. Mickey Mouse asks me to drink this as an example.
[0159] Talking vending machines, especially with interactive voice
dialogue capabilities can both entertain and educate, aside from
their use for assistive necessities.
[0160] U.S. Pat. No. 5,292,125 to Hochstein, et al. titled
Apparatus and method for electronically connecting remotely located
video games teaches that it is possible to integrate the
co-ordination of a computer game from more than one location.
[0161] 1. As applicable to the present invention it is now possible
that the vending machine with interactive gaming possibilities will
not just be able to serve the just said but the game will be able
to be played against the home company which fabricated the game,
still retains ownership, has licensed to another entity, or sold or
another entity.
[0162] 2. This give much feed back not just to the linking of
product with a game with characters, indicia, but moral concepts
that that the company may wish to reach the consumer far cheaper,
on a more one to one basis than advertising.
[0163] 3. Further a reward for winning the game may be given to the
consumer in the form of a free product from the machine, redemption
via regular post or e-mail etc. This is a way for product companies
to do good for you products with the association of all the
aforesaid benefits. Many of our fast food companies Mac Donald's as
one does many cross promotions with Disney as an example. The
Nabisco Company.RTM. owns part of a video game company.
[0164] 4. The game can be changed on the spot with new cartridges
installed or via new direct port to recipient technologies, which
may be controlled from a home base. The game can have different
skill levels by which to determine the sophistication of the
consumer/player.
[0165] 5. It is possible for the consumer to purchase by any means
sets of plays with products included for each play of a series of
multiple plays. Now we start to reward especially kids in a sound
manner for creating good for you products with entertainment and
edutainment.
[0166] U.S. Pat. No. 4,053,740 to Rosenthal titled: Video game
system teaches that a self-contained operator responsive video game
system capable of generating a virtually unlimited number of
games.
[0167] 1. With the foregoing and other limitations and drawbacks of
the prior art in mind, one object of the present invention is to
provide a completely self-contained video simulator which combines
a special purpose digital computer and a display system into a
single unit dedicated to the purpose of providing operator
interactive graphic simulations. The object here is to provide a
programmable video simulator, which is capable of being programmed
and reprogrammed to provide virtually an unlimited variety of games
and other simulations each having its own operational rules and
degree of required skill and difficulty.
[0168] 2. Another object is to provide a programmable video
simulator wherein a substantial number of circuit elements serve
multiple functions.
[0169] 3. A further intentions is to provide a viewer with an
interactive simulator system that generates a high resolution
visual display of controlled objects wherein the system is simple
to manufacture, operate and maintain and uses far fewer components
and is thus far less expensive to manufacture than other units
capable of equally sophisticated performance.
Rube Goldberg (RG) Concepts:
[0170] Rube Goldberg showed through his inventions difficult ways
to achieve easy results. While most machines work to make difficult
tasks simple, his inventions made simple tasks amazingly complex.
Dozens of arms, wheels, gears, handles, cups, and rods were put in
motion by balls, canary cages, pails, boots, bathtubs, paddles, and
even live animals for simple tasks like squeezing an orange for
juice or closing a window in case it should start to rain before
one gets home.
[0171] Rube's inventions are a unique commentary on life's
complexities. They provide a humorous diversion into the absurd
that lampoons the wonders of technology. Rube's hilarious send-ups
of man's ingenuity strike a deep and lasting chord with today's
audience through caught in a high-tech revolution are still seeking
simplicity.
[0172] Whether it be licensing of RG inventions or other inventions
with the same qualities there is a following and certainly visually
externally and/or internally will be a mode of operation for
vending.
Inventor's Vocabulary:
[0173] 4. Vending system to the inventor is to include a new and
novel system within the machine as well as serial machines and/or
to include the term kiosks working independently but related,
multiple units consort, where you can approach the system and enter
the system thereby and move to one or more places within the
system, either in a linear, square, and/or a circular fashion, and
exit through one or more ports. (The feeling of a surrounding
environment)
[0174] a. Product may be tangible and/or intangible and range from
water: to beverage, to food (anything consumed by mouth and/or
enteral feeding), to personal health and beauty care and products,
to accessories, to toys, to information, entertainment,
information, education, gambling, contests, and/or the like.
[0175] b. The system may be indoors, outdoors, or a combination of
both, meaning that part of the machine may be usable from the
outdoors while a portion may remain indoors. Just as an example
would be where a system in built into an exterior wall.
[0176] c. It is only necessary for one part to vend a product,
which is delivered on site and/or designed for later delivery
(regardless of means of delivery, the other portions can have one
or more functions.
[0177] i. One might find this, as an example but not limited to the
just said, where the vending system is built into the wall of a
building much as are some of the ATM machines.
[0178] ii. The system may be accessed from either one or both sides
in relation to carrying out a single function. This covers all
ranges including but not limited to all the selections being made
from one side and product is received from the same side and/or the
opposite side. Each side can present entirely differently with any
or all of the single and/or combined parts of the machine but that
they are tied together in some fashion and one "plays" off of the
other.
[0179] iii. The system may exist in the aisles of a grocery store
so long as a buyer of a product cannot leave the store without
payment.
[0180] (1) Especially critical with custom products
[0181] (2) It is possible for there to exist in a store whereby
individual products can be vended and products selected from the
shelves and paid for at one port of payment.
[0182] (a) It is invented whereby you can enter a venue that sells
many products but payment is with one single transaction.
[0183] (b) It is invented here the terminology, motivational buying
with the goal being that the more you buy the greater the rewards.
Basically whereby that by one method of payment discounts are taken
for the incremental amounts of monies spent, and/or rewarding is
effectuated by any means.
[0184] Motivational buying is hereby invented to expand to the
ability to enter a store with many departments and/or even a
shopping center whereby your participation and/or you purchases
total to one tab.
[0185] d. There is no limitation on products, nor product
categories as to the methodology of dispensing, be it from one
machine or more.
[0186] e. There is no limitation as to size, shape, complexity,
and/or any other limiting restriction.
[0187] f. It is here also covered here that a home version can
exist and be filed by, as example the parents. This can be fun for
recreational rooms parties.
[0188] 5. Support Member is defined as anything, regardless of
material, size shape, color, amount of parts and/or components,
manually operated and/or power sourced, color, and or the like that
brings forth one or more of the following: information, enjoyment,
entertainment, edutainment, motivation to use the product,
increases product chances of success, supports the use of the
product (functionality), services advertising and/or promotional
potentials, reward potential, serves to expose more products to
more people, serves to sell more products to more people and/or the
like.
[0189] 6. Smart Card for Smart Vending or Smart Experience Vending
as defined by this inventor is a card, regardless of material etc.
that has more than one function so that when it is presented to a
system the system reacts in one or more fashions.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0190] The following description is provided to enable any person
skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the
best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his
invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily
apparent to those skilled in the art, since the general principles
of the present invention have been defined herein specifically to
provide improved methods for use with vending systems.
[0191] Presented herein is a vending system comprising one or more
machines in one or more locations, using one or more technologies,
which can communicate with each other and can transmit information
concerning the vending system's activities to one or more parties,
such as the system's owners, participating vendors and/or sponsor
and the like. This vending system allows a consumer to create a
customized product, one unit at a time or in multiples, which
incorporates features or components chosen or created by the
consumer. Product categories may include food and beverages,
clothing and accessories, social expression cards, music delivery
systems, and the like.
[0192] While one vending system is new and novel, the inventor also
wishes to emphasize the expansive possibilities of interrelated
systems.
[0193] An analogy might be that while one department in a
department store may be unique, many unique departments are united
in various ways in a specific area, regardless of size, placement
or configuration, either indoors, outdoors or both.
[0194] Because these vending systems are modular, they can be
moved, changed, expanded, etc.
[0195] Because many options within a system are digitally
controlled, they can be changed by one or more operators from
on-premise or off-premise locations. Therefore, conceived herein is
a consortium of vending systems transmitting and/or receiving data
to each other, locally, nationally or internationally, from one or
more central locations.
[0196] This invention combines and/or encourages participation,
active, passive, and/or interactive, to contribute an added, and/or
perceived value experience for, the user(s) as well as the owners
and/or operators, while offering the ability to buy and/or create a
custom product for purchase, (tangible and/or intangible)
regardless if delivery is immediate and on site, or later delivered
to a real and/or cyberspace point of receivership.
[0197] New equipment allows for new business. This vending system
focuses on the ability to customize products (more
individualization) and for business the ability to introduce and
sell more new products, broader range of the ability to test market
new products, and also provide a broader distribution channel. One
can easily go national within a vending system far easier than one
can go through supermarkets etc. with the need of inventories and
slotting fees, and co-operation advertising. Field of the
invention
[0198] This invention provides for one or more of the following:
multimedia features, new product delivery technologies, labeling,
and packaging technologies, along with accompanying business
models, methods, and opportunities whereby the system(s)
dispense(s) products that are meant to work in consort, or systems
that are to work in consort, regardless of the field of
inventing.
[0199] This invention, vending system, presents a new and novel way
of, what the inventor calls, vending convergence with ancillary
opportunities. (Convergence as defined in the dictionary means to
meet at a point) The underlying summary here is to present totally
new and novel ways of presenting product(s) components, multiple
abilities to develop new product(s), enrich existing product(s) in
an informative, creative, entertaining educating environment.
[0200] As vending operations do not require much hiring of
personnel therefore affording more individualization at a lower
cost while deviating from the one size fits all It affords, for an
example, an individual and/or an entity to custom build a
proprietary product etc. to be used as a prototype/resume, to
accompany a resume presentation in the context of "here is what I
can do", a contest entry, and/or any of the like.
[0201] This system will provide new and novel product(s) which
arise from a new and novel opportunities, distribution of
product(s) , business methods, models, and opportunities as related
to product(s), information (disseminated and collected),
advertising, promotions and cross-promotions, entertainment,
edutainment (educating), communication, identification and
qualification modalities, and/or the like. The vending machine
system will include novel packaging unit designs, and/or already
designed packaging unit designs but delivered, and/or used, in new
and novel ways. Additionally having, independently or in consort,
multiple capabilities employing multiple technologies which may
fall into one or more of the categories of active, reactive,
interactive; whereby multiple components of converging technical
capabilities, regardless of modality, manually operated and/or in
combination with one or more power sources, one or more power
sources; even wireless, in part and/or in whole providing for
and/or for the delivery of product(s), promotions, advertising,
entertainment, education, entertainment, and/or the like.
[0202] For the most part, vending machines do not offer a complete
range of possibilities in a systematic changeable and/or
interchangeable system, context, and environment, delivering real
product(s) intangibles or both while influencing users in a
positive motivational fashion.
[0203] We have a society where, because of mainly advances in
electronics consumers are use to so many choices, the ability to
combine technologies to have the competitive edge, ergo for
personal care and also for profitability. We also know that we are
a convenience-based society whereby ease of use, multi-functional
opportunities and convenience as a time saver is critical in doing
business today. In an age of advancing technologies where a
multiplicity of functions can happen from a small hand held unit we
look at these giant machines and know they can do far more.
[0204] The opportunity for a single individual as a consumer or an
owner is enormous opportunities. (even a child or a health
challenge/disabled person), multiple individuals, as well as the
smallest organization to Fortune 100 Companies worldwide; to
initiate all that is present in this invention.
[0205] This invention is geared to provide more equal opportunities
and provide more power and control to the individual as there are
no huge financial barriers, ethnic prejudices, while providing for
more customization, satisfying more needs goals and desires. f we
look at just nutritive additives to water, beverages of foods we
can see this. An example would be where you go to buy orange juice
and you can have orange juice with one or more of the following
additives, calcium, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Not only is the
consumer confused by this fractionalization, it is very difficult
for supermarkets and the like supermarket such venues to carry so
may choices. Shelf space is at a premium and eye level space is at
an even greater premium.
[0206] In this invention new products and/or product options have a
greater chance of success and they are not buried within the
system. Further more information about each product is provided o a
display or a print out.
[0207] For the inventor the understanding of the beverage business
is important with the cost of bring a Ready To Drink Product to
market where shipping alone is eight pounds a gallon. This is not
even including being bottling plant dependent. Additionally stores
do not have shelf space especially for cold space. So to add an
enormous range of products in restricted environments such as movie
theaters, on airplanes, on trains, on a ship, food courts, fast
food, convenience venues, school and hospital cafeterias and/or the
like is virtually impossible
[0208] In recent years single stores or chain operations have
opened to sell coffee with all kinds of various additives and
creative bents. The most known chain is Starbucks.RTM. which in
addition to all their coffee options has expanded to tea options,
There are now chains of juice and smoothie stores carrying fresh
juices, blended juices, and smoothies with the potential of adding
additional health related additives, such as; minerals, vitamins,
energy enhancers, protein, soy, fiber, and/or the like at the cost
of about $.50 per shot. The result is that the consumer now has a
customized product, by their design, to address their needs and/or
desires.
[0209] If one looks closely one will notice that the coffee etc.
houses are not appropriate for children and/or even teen-agers for
the obvious. The juice establishments are really not for children
either, if for no other reason than the density and intensity of
the product offerings, and/or the size of the portions served if
one was not to waste.
[0210] On the positive side these coffee and juice/smoothie
operations have been able to also address a space restraint problem
as more diverse products (combinations) can be produced in far less
space as compared to the stocking of RTD drinks. The inventor has
just described very successful operations in the drink/liquid
category which illustrates the consumer wants variety and is
willing to pay for variety, and has exampled the tremendous
business booming around customization.
On Customization
[0211] Consumers want to customize products and/or information in
the same way as they personalize their computers. The inventor here
calls this the "consumer in charge generation" This consumer in
charge element provides, besides personal control, a competitive
edge, a deeper motivational reason to use the machine, ergo a sound
business advantage over competitors.
[0212] Customization, while most desired and even needed has not
been available, mainstream, and if so with a very high price ticket
and only affordable by those of means.
[0213] As related to the just mentioned coffee/tea and
juice/smoothie establishments one has to patronize them and that
means that the aforesaid establishments have to have an investment
in real estate and at only certain well populated locations
Sometimes parking costs alone are equal to, or even more than, the
hefty price that the product(s) the consumer buys in one of these
venues.
[0214] This system allows, not just customization and/or the
ability to address target specific desires, needs, health
challenges and/or the like but to provide the just said in more
locations for a lower cost with more options.
[0215] A main goal of this invention is to provide easy access to
customization, at a reduced cost of custom of product, dedicated to
the mass-market consumer, while at the same time be profitable for
the manufacturer;
[0216] With the discovery and introduction of many more healthy
ingredients to the marketplace it is known that these ingredients
need to find a home within a finished product.
[0217] This inventor looks at these machines as mini personalizing
factories playing to customization and also with the opportunity of
affording positive motivation to double reinforce health, safety,
and satisfy the customer.
[0218] With a smart card, which has or has not and financial
transaction abilities personal information can be imbedded that
will allow "extras" and/or restrict/prohibit certain activity. It
is a serious goal of this inventor that this invention, vending
system, accentuate the positive and, if and when possible, provide
reward(s)/compensation for those who make healthy and/or healthier
choices.
[0219] Translating Abilities
[0220] With the world, and especially the United States, being
populated with so many from foreign lands who are living or
traveling here (non-English-speaking), along with the hearing
challenged (deaf), having information made available from these
systems in audible English is not user friendly to this population.
This invention is expanded to include the showing of movies (film),
television, therefore broadcasting of all audio visual mediums is
also to be considered an "add-on" item to the vending system.
[0221] The invention is further expanded to visual language without
audio, and covers any territory whereby technology allows, through
glasses, or using electronics, the opportunity to read indicia,
mainly text language, in one or more languages and/or images not
visible to the naked eye, such as a sign, a hang tag on a garment,
and/or the like.
[0222] It is therefore an object of this invention that there be
special consideration for the aforesaid using embedded text, and/or
simultaneously broadcasting readable text in one or more languages
at the same time which is not visible to the naked eye.
[0223] For illustrative purposes, referenced here is the use of 3-D
glasses, which transform an image from what is seen with the "naked
eye," adding dimension.
[0224] In an audio-visual production for the deaf, this invention
presents whereby wearing glasses permits text in one or more
languages (and perhaps some images which might have meaning to
those who speak one language that would be better expressed with
different images for those who speak a different language) to be
visible so that they can read what others can hear. This would
allow a deaf person to go to the vending system and participate
just as a non hearing impaired individual would be able to do.
[0225] In the movie format, a deaf person can sit next to a person
with normal hearing so they can equally enjoy the film. The hearing
individual will hear the words and the deaf individual would be
able to read the words, closed-captioning, symbols etc. through the
glasses. They can enjoy the same production with the only
differentiating factor being that the deaf would wear glasses.
[0226] The above also applies to anyone who does not speak the
language of the audio portion of a presentation. It is conceivable
that, as an example, 5 people all speaking different native
languages attend the same production and by wearing the glasses
they each can have their language of choice be made available on an
individual basis. This plays into the overall theme of these
systems, which is customization.
[0227] Printed text, on such things as hang tags or advertising,
could be printed in such a way that multiple languages are embedded
in the printing and only one is visible at a time, and the glasses
adjusted in such a way that the glasses screen out all but the text
in the desired language. It is also conceived that items such as
the above which are currently printed using paper and ink might in
the future comprise programmable displays with which the glasses
could interact to select the appropriate language.
[0228] From the production side this will allow more features to be
seen by more people at the same time as one travels the globe or
does not know another language especially of the country they live
in.
[0229] For educational purposes this invention serves as a tool for
learning another language. If another language is being learned the
student has the option of hearing the language desired, and images,
along with reading the corresponding verbiage in a language they
understand.
[0230] A possible means, but not limited to this methodology, would
involve the use of one or more electronic devices (computing), and
if this invention is for movie/television watching, then it is
conceived that the visual portion would be projected and the
subtitling would be handled by the computers. The glasses would
denote the language(s).
[0231] Programmable glasses may be made available for one or more
languages/purposes etc. by a venue for free or for a charge. A
proprietary programming format may be used so that, for example,
glasses usable in one movie theater chain will not work in another.
Another option is that an individual have his/hers own glasses and
if needed have their personal prescription built in.
[0232] Another object of the invention is to converge the
technologies of music, with or without visuals (still images and/or
video), along with the principle of advertising, promotions and
cross-promotions into a finished product with or without the
vending of an actual product.
An Example would be PepsiCo's Contract with Britney Spears.
[0233] This also provides additional job opportunities even for the
disabled as that health-challenged individual might only have the
responsibility of stocking the unburned non-scribed cards, CD's,
DVD's and/or the like.
[0234] In addition to normally considered real estate appropriate
locations this opportunity will open up (as do other parts of this
invention ) target specific and appropriate locations. According to
this example placement such as a music store (chain, co/partnering
like Blockbusters.RTM. Tower Records) is very appropriate.
[0235] It also serves to bring in customers who hopefully will shop
and purchase more merchandise.
The Model:
[0236] 1a. An existing album is produced with a pre-recorded
song/jingle advertising the company's product (Pepsi) and when the
album is purchases Pepsi can offer a free drink.
[0237] 1b. When the drink is purchased compensation may be adjusted
to reduced cost for the purchase of the album.
[0238] 2. It is conceived that a customer be able to take an album
which only contains the prerecorded advertisement and then from a
selection of Britney's material customize an album. (The above
drink combination of beverage with purchase interfacing may or may
not be a part of this version.)
[0239] 3. The pre-recorded be a message and not a song or a
jingle.
[0240] 4. One or more of the following be used and/or used in
combination on the album one or more times according to the
discretion of the owning company.
[0241] 5. Any of the following or more than one combination of the
following message, jingle or song be repeated one or more times,
sequentially or at intervals, whereby any artist can have material
selected by the customer and or pre-exist on an album.
[0242] A message may be a charity information, etc. This obviates
compensation for the product with or without the delivery of a
vended product from the same or different company (cross
promotion). Any other recording artists whose work is available in
this machine (through this venue).
Way to Promote New Talent
[0243] Customer can add own recording to the composition. Follows
same as rest of this description as far as duplicating etc.
[0244] System can provide added photo opportunity. This presents a
co-venture and can include even more additional relationship
activity such as the venue. If in a chain specific venue, if a
photo addition then with a photo company such as Kodak.RTM.
company, the recording company for which Brittany is contracted
under, the computer company whose programs and hard drive and
software are used, and/or the like. If a photo potential then there
can be the restocking of appropriate materials needed etc.
[0245] If a recording artist want to know what songs are the most
popular for the production of an album then this is a test market
business opportunity while making money at the same time. This
inventor has repeatedly, through many of her inventions used test
marketing to pay for itself in, part in whole, and even for a
profit through broad channels of distribution.
[0246] It is an advertising amortization opportunity for PepsiCo in
this instance in many ways, one being that the cost of paying for
her representation comes back through selling her image singing
etc. Also by bringing in other sponsoring companies they can be
charged proportionally as one would be in acting as a landlord to
participate. It is confirmed here that while this is directed
towards a disabled intent it is not limited to. In fact it is a
perfect opportunity to give an average person a chance at being a
business operator.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0247] To avoid unnecessary duplication of many of the same options
provided by this invention, the inventor notes that any
machine/system may incorporate applicable features interchangeably
with any other invention (machine/system) contained herein.
[0248] It is an object of the invention to provide a personal
medical and/or data card with selective/restrictive purchasing
abilities:
[0249] a. Provides for a personal medical data card (item) that can
be read by the machine by any means.
[0250] i. Restricts and/or prohibits the vending of specific items
and/or additives for health reasons (example: diabetics, allergies,
contraindications to medications etc.)
[0251] ii. If the product(s) vended meets the requirements for any
credits/reimbursement (insurance, etc.) it will be automatically
deducted from the cost of the product, and/or provide a method to
issue documentation so that the user can use it appropriately.
(examples: print out a receipt, transfer data electronically
etc.)
[0252] iii. The card can also have any payment ability.
[0253] It is an object of the invention to provide a point of
location for emergency and/or medical assistance (911, fire, police
etc.).
[0254] a. Provides for one or two way communication (send a
signal/automatic connecting with open channels to an emergency
operator). The data on the card can be retrieved by the attending
Emergency Agency/Aid, regardless of form, and/or forwarded to a
medical facility.
[0255] b. If the machine is stocked with emergency medical aids
such as insulin etc. there may be emergency functions, which will
permit dispensing (obviates the need for close monitoring and
controlled rules).
[0256] c. In addition to general uniform emergency contact
abilities, the card may have the ability to contact any entity for
which it is programmed (especially valuable for children, seniors,
and the health challenged).
[0257] d. In addition and/or in place of restrictions, rewards for
healthy selections may also be programmed into the card.
[0258] i. While the user (such as a child) could be prohibited from
buying certain products, due to any restrictions, they may also be
rewarded for a healthy selection, positive reinforcement. (the
reward might be the ability to play a game for free)
[0259] ii. Seniors too, may have restricted cards as governed by
their doctor and/or health care practitioner.
[0260] iii. Restrictive cards especially those that are health
challenged, and/or language challenged, and/or those with specific
needs and/or those on medications are most needed. (product
labeling has importance but also might be very challenging and/or
not provide enough necessary information)
[0261] It is an object of the invention to use personal, body part,
recognition for activating system and/or verifying identities.
[0262] a. Far surpassing codes cards and/or the like(which can be
stolen or passed around) other means of identification might be
used such as fingerprint matching and/or eye recognition.
[0263] b. Fingerprint recognition (every print that touches the
machine may be recorded) will allow the potential of finding lost
children or catching criminals by tracing them through the vending
system so that lost children, criminals, etc. can be traced through
this vending system.
[0264] c. Same premise with eye recognition. (recorded when in
front of the machine making a choice)
[0265] d. As in a very large amusement park a child can have a card
for that park which allows that child privileges to use the vending
and access areas and rides. (child tracker such as at a place like
a Disneyland.RTM.) but also to train a child that if lost he/she
can go to the system to be identified and whereabouts
discovered.
[0266] e. Value in locating criminals and/or track their usages as
criminals are on the run might be more apt to using vending
machines rather than go into an establishment whereby they might be
recognized.
[0267] It is an object of the invention to create a vending system
comprising one or more machines in one or more locations, using one
or more technologies, which can communicate with each other and can
transmit information concerning the vending system's activities to
one or more parties, such as the system's owners, participating
vendors and/or sponsor and the like. This vending system allows a
consumer to create a customized product, one unit at a time or in
multiples, which incorporates features or components chosen or
created by the consumer. Product categories may include food and
beverages, clothing and accessories, social expression cards, music
delivery systems, and the like. EXAMPLES (partially described here
or fully described here):
[0268] a. Cooking, as an example, whereby to purchase all the
needed ingredients spices etc. for a one person meal might be very
expensive and/or then much may go to waste.
[0269] b. Jewelry, such as a charm bracelet whereby you can select
the bracelet and buy one charm at a time (in craft stores you have
to buy sometimes a bag of several when you only need one).
[0270] c. Entry in more than one form of identification and/or a
combination of identifying means may be required.
[0271] d. Provides the customer has the ability to observe as well
as listen to the production process by having the ability to watch
the process occur on a video screen and/or hear information through
an audio system. Also the ability to watch through a clear panel
most likely glass or a composite of clarity.
[0272] e. A greeting card, also called sometimes a social
expression card, vending system combined with personal photo
machine, and/or the addition of sound into this greeting system
with advertising, promotional, and/or reward opportunities. Further
with the ability to make one or more customized units on and/or off
site.
[0273] i. With consideration to U.S. Pat. No. 5,056,029 to Thomas
G. Cannon, (Onkor Ltd. (Loveland Colo.), titled; System for
printing social expression cards in response to electronically
transmitted orders. The Cannon patent discloses a method wherein a
customer is queried to elicit responses, in the form of occasion
parameters, each of which relates to the customer's intended
purpose. This invention provides an efficient means for storing
many different types of social expression cards and for retrieving
and displaying those card designs which match a customer's
criteria.
[0274] ii. Just as websites have banners that advertise it is
possible for these cards to also include a huge potential for
advertising, promotions, rewards, and/or the like to be part of
this new invention. Companies are always looking to advertise
(reach consumers) in new and novel ways. While sometimes brand
placement is various obvious it is also conceived that it not be as
obvious (as direct in your face)
[0275] iii. Greeting cards as a vehicle for incorporating
advertisements, etc. with any type of indicia (Examples would be if
there is a replica of a rendering a child children are eating this
is a place for product branding and/or product placement without
compromising the visual of the card or compromising the integrity
of the product.
[0276] iv. Other examples would be a subliminal logo imbedded or
the like (CBS lower right corner their logo on their TV channel)
Also for cross advertising with a compatible joint venture company
(Disney and McDonald's as an example)
[0277] v. If a company has their brand tied into a personality of
recognition etc. they both can be incorporated into the card.
(Naturally royalties will be commensurate id used.)
[0278] vi. The customer may have her/his picture taken and that
picture be incorporated into the product with or without indicia,
advertising etc. potential.
[0279] f. One can bring any art and/or picture to the machine to be
scanned into the system to be incorporated in whole and/or in part
into the finished product.
[0280] g. There can be a combination of scanned art as well as real
photography
[0281] h. A single unit may be produced (perhaps considered a
master) which can be duplicated by the entity owning the equipment,
or by any contractual agreement, on site or at another location
[0282] i. Good use of this would be in holiday cards whereby the
item produced can act as a master to be duplicated by any means for
the purpose of duplicating in quantity. (Please note objectives of
photo opportunities)
[0283] ii. System can relay information to an off site reproduction
facility for immediate or future duplication (royalties if called
for will remain in place for duplications).
[0284] It is an object of the invention to personalize the photo
opportunity.
[0285] a. Any graphic technology is considered to apply, including
but not limited to 3 D, rotational abilities and angle shootings,
shadowing, silhouetting, etc. and these images may be directly used
on any surface and/or be transferable to an object by having the
backing and/or any other ability to attach, by the requirements of
the process.
[0286] b. Printing can be in relief, for artistic purposes or for
such purposes as marketing to the blind (which may or may not
incorporate Braille).
[0287] c. Personalized information introduced by the buyer can be
duplicated so that for each use the personalized information there
is an additional charge opportunity. This is very applicable for
the visual as well as the audio market.
[0288] d. The personalized information introduced by the buyer can
be so introduced by interfacing the machine/system with a
compatible storage medium or device, such as a disk, personal
digital assistant or the like, with or without additional
charge.
[0289] e. By incorporating other technologies into its base
product, a company can expand its product line. As an example, to
add sound to greeting cards, Hallmark.RTM. can contract with audio
companies for sounds, or other media companies for other material,
or it can expand into audio or other media businesses as the owning
entity.
[0290] i. Making a totally new composition card (calendar, diary,
etc.) or any object that is based on a Hallmark property or a joint
business effort can be made from a stand alone machine and/or is
part of a larger system, regardless where it is placed, for cross
promotions and/or to amortize costs.
[0291] (1) This card (etc.) can printed-out on the spot, or sent
remotely, as a single card, and/or serve as a sample for mass
production to one or more facilities on a per need per project
basis.
[0292] (2) If the item is not generated immediately it can be
produced and sent to the user-decided location(s).
[0293] ii. One can use an existing Hallmark format or a totally
personal production, or a combination; then if desired the material
can be altered by the user within the limitations of intellectual
properties and/or permission-giving devices (payment or other
qualifications etc.). This card (designed unit) can serve as a
sample for mass production and/or sent to the company as a proposed
product for their use.
[0294] f. This also serves a business model whereby a company such
as Hallmark can use this opportunity to get their own and/or shared
mini-satellite venues with their own brand and/or share the
opportunity with a compatible entity . . . ergo their name gets out
in more public aware venues.
[0295] g. Additionally, Hallmark may have a stable of personalities
whose images are in the machine and/or available via the
Internet.
[0296] iii. An individual's photo may be incorporated in the
product with the personalities, therefore generating multiple
business opportunities. Stars can get royalties on a contractual
basis directly and/or have them totally or partially deferred to
another entity, like a charitable organization.
[0297] (1) In some instances the "star" might also be a recording
artist for which the user may decide to use on or more than one
option. There might be the need for compensation to the agent and
or the recording company, movie studio, etc.
[0298] h. Enhancement properties, such as aromas or customized
audio, can be added to the photo experience, either immediately per
the capabilities of the system, or as a special order, in which
instance the company may choose to send a sample for approval
before the order is filled.
[0299] It is an object of the invention to have a photo
machine/photo booth, with or without sound capabilities that may,
or may not, add audio to the finished product regardless of the
technology, and which work in consort, tandem, simultaneously, at
random, or any single or combination of the just mentioned, with
the vending machine(s), with or without any other part of the
invention also being included.
[0300] Photography and the photo machines are a part of our
culture. The black and white photo picture-taking machines, whereby
the user would get a strip of four pictures, was the beginning of a
new wave of photo machines. Certainly bringing in color and
variable sizes in the photos, and then with the addition of
interchangeable back drops, to frame the user with an additional
image, which the consumer can control/select, are public
domain.
[0301] One or more companies can have the backdrop related to their
corporate image, their spokesperson(s), and/or the like, available
in the photo machine and thereby incorporated into the resulting
images generated. The final product created may be realized on any
medium which can either be stocked within the system (such as
labels, iron-on transfers, etc.), or ordered for delivery to the
buyer later (such as coffee mugs or any large quantity of a
printable item). An example is the situation of a photo label for a
canned soft drink.
[0302] (The photo chosen is dispensed exactly to the shape of
whatever item the user chooses--in this example, a can of soda. Now
the user puts his/her picture (or the pet too) on a can of soda. If
used with the company signature, say PepsiCo, then there will be
PepsiCo advertising. The cans can become collector items; therefore
they will save the trashing and "garbaging" the planet. PET bottles
especially are cause a big problem and many dollars to clean the
environment.
[0303] Further, if this drink is dispensed cold, the label may be
backed with a foam and/or an appropriate material (for the same
price and/or an additional price) of a cold retention/or a heat
retention material. The drink will ultimately stay cooler and or
hotter longer with the protection, which is a part of the
inventiveness of the label.
[0304] Pricing is up to the company whereby a picture can be so
much, additional for text, additional for sound . . . builds a
consumer product with extras (like buying a car and adding on the
additional features). Even given for free or any other type of
business arrangement apropos to the circumstances and out come.
[0305] The image can also, for the same price, additional price,
etc. be constructed so that it can be transferred to any item such
as a tee shirt, a coffee mug etc. The buyer will need to specify
transfer product so that the printing can be appropriate (size
graded), etc. Because the same image is to be used on a variety of
items, the cost of creating the image is amortized over the cost of
all the items generated.
[0306] Depending on the transferring capability of the
machine/system and/or the availability of desired components, the
image may need to be electronically sent to a factory, where the
product is made and then delivered or picked up by the customer
later. The user may have a choice of more than one image, text,
sound, which can be selected from a display. The customer is able
to see the picture on the item and authorize approval, thus giving
the consumer a more realistic view of the to-be-completed work.
[0307] The consumer may receive "on the spot" a printout of the
image created and/or a picture of the final product which includes
the image created, with the product be received later on, by
delivery or consumer pickup. This allows the customer to go home
with the picture immediately while waiting for the product. This
printout may be included in the purchase or offered for an extra
charge.
[0308] Sponsoring corporations using these products as an
advertising medium may absorb part of the cost of the product.
Thus, if a consumer elects to use one or more corporate image on
his or her item, the cost of the item to the consumer may be
lowered or, theoretically, even free.
[0309] The resulting image will put the consumer-selected image in
the same frame as a company's image, thus creating a bond in the
consumer's mind between the consumer-selected image and the
corporate image. This resulting image can be sent to the company
electronically, or by any means, for the purpose of being used
commercially under guidelines accepted by both parties. Thus, the
machine can be a way for the company's promoters to discover new
talent.
[0310] One or more companies can have text relative to their
corporate image, their spokesperson(s), and/or the like, available
in the photo machine, and/or offer the user/buyer the option of
creating his/her own messages. Additionally, text can be a
replacement for a design, and/or added to the backdrop design along
with the photo picture (the user's choice).
[0311] There can be choices of text messages and/or the user can
make up an original text message. If the user makes up the text
message then it can be stored in the computer so that the company
can see the messages that have been created, with or without the
originator's contact information. This can provide a company with
original talent for which they would normally pay ad agencies
serious dollars to create. Further, they can compensate the
originator if the message is used.
[0312] By offering a selection of corporate-generated messages, the
company can test-market those messages, alone and/or with the photo
selected. This is so valuable to a company in relation to picking a
slogan, a message, a log line and/or the like serves as a test
market. A company may offer a product for free or for a reduced
price if the user completes a customer survey, with the option of
identifying himself. Thus, the company creates a database of
valuable marketing information.
[0313] There can be different fonts, different sizes of fonts,
different colors, bolded, italics, and the like, which are created
by the machine under the user's choice and design. While a consumer
is engaged in designing his or her customized product, a company
may offer the opportunity for the consumer to purchase another
product, such as a beverage or snack. In exchange for marketing
information being collected during the process and by virtue of the
consumer's choices, this secondary purchase may be offered either
for free or for a reduced price. The secondary product may be
delivered by the same machine or by another machine in the
system.
[0314] The inventive system creates feedback for test marketing,
for example, of new products, new concepts, new designs, product
introduction into a new market and the like. This is possible
because:
[0315] i. the vending machines/system can provide feedback to the
vendor company;
[0316] ii. the location of the machines/system can be readily
changed;
[0317] iii. the vending machines/system can be reconfigured easily
and quickly so that a product can be sold more easily than in a
traditional venue; and
[0318] iv. an immediate reward can be offered to the consumer in
exchange for his/her participation in the test, such as a free or
reduced cost product upon completion of a product selection and/or
survey.
[0319] For example, in advertisement background, company can test
which movie star or Super-hero is preferred, by having several
different ones in the machine for the buyer to choose. This is a
tool of value for the company who does not know whether to spend
money on a costly license or the hiring of a super star and/or
spokes person. Also important for ethnic preferences.
[0320] The inventive system allows the user to make one or more
personalized postage stamps from any appropriate venue. While it is
known to locally print postage, the art does not provide the
ability to produce personalized and customized official
postage.
[0321] Vending personalized postage stamps with the image of the
individual on the stamp from a Post Office location and/or by a
company endorsed by and working with the Post Office of any
country. The price for this produce would naturally include a
premium beyond the price of the postage, and will serve to enhance
the revenues for the Post Office (of any country) and/or the
printing company designated by the Post Office to own and/or
operate the machines.
[0322] The Post Office can set one or more features of the
resulting stamps as an authentication means, such as approved
paper, ink, perforation pattern or the like. The personalized
stamps can sold in any quantity and in any denomination or
combination of denominations.
[0323] Method of operation may vary using the technologies by those
skilled in the art. Guidelines and/or similar are provided here.
From a home computer one can send a picture to a company for
reproduction on a medium with the appropriate authentications
means, and payment as requested by the modalities accepted. Then
the stamps are sent to the buyer.
[0324] Additionally one can pre-buy the materials needed for
authentication, and print the stamps on home computers, office,
etc. However, one can go into a vending picture booth and order the
same, by taking a picture on the spot, or bringing a picture to the
booth and feeding the image to the machine and the image is printed
out the medium with the appropriate authentication means.
[0325] The backdrop of a company for product identification may be
used and the stamps may even be discounted as a trade-off fro
advertising. Certain star personalities may lend their image into
the photo stamp process, for royalties, charity or the like. From
any appropriate venue, stamps for use in another country can also
be generated, by any means, assuming availability of the medium
with the appropriate authentication means.
[0326] Certainly this will create business for the Post Office, as
there will be individuals who will continue and/or go back to
mailing letters to use the stamps. While it may be a gimmick it is
very valuable to the Postal System in increasing revenues. One can
even make postage, which is related/appropriate to another
countries monetary system.
[0327] Another use of the vending system is to make personalized
currency from any appropriate venue. Just as this is invented for
the postal system, it may also apply to money. One can pre-buy the
paper or other medium containing authentication means from the bank
and/or any appropriate institution in person or as in mail
order.
[0328] The government gets the money purchase, then the user can
print whatever is desired on the authenticating medium, so long as
the denomination is clear, accurate, and appropriate to all
governing laws. This can be incorporated into objects which are not
currency but have a monetary value, such as chips in a Las Vegas
casino.
[0329] This would allow the printing of foreign currency as well,
so in anticipation of travel one could print out money in advance.
This can be generated from a owner/user port and/or a public
machine.
[0330] The inventive vending system can also be used for the making
of a sponsored personalized media collection product containing a
consumer's selections, as with a jukebox, from digitally stored
music, entertainment, educational programming, still images
(including picture, graphics, text, and/or the like individually
and or combined in any fashion), audio only, and/or a combination
of any of the above, and also containing advertising from one or
more sponsoring entities, either at a single point or interspersed
throughout the medium.
[0331] In "background of the invention" many technologies are
referenced. This example is based on the original concept of a
jukebox, whereby many musical selections are stored and a customer
can, for compensation, make selections. This invention makes
background use of this principle only. We are very aware that the
world is going towards customization, and that many problems have
existed, and do exist, with the illegal infringements of copyrights
and intellectual properties and/or the like. An example of this is
in the music, television, entertainment, and/or information
business whereby from any of the broadcasting of the just mentioned
an individual can duplicate without re-numeration for the owning
entity. One of the problems, aside from the illegality of the just
said, is that with duplication technology, often the quality is not
professional. Another is the time it may take to make say a
personalized cassette where you have to start and stop many albums,
or wait for them to be played publicly, etc. to create your
personalized product. This invention solves all that and more.
[0332] a. The collection can be delivered to the consumer in one or
more copies.
[0333] b. The collection can be made and delivered instantly, or
sent to the consumer later.
[0334] c. This is a new business opportunity and model and method
whereby an artist, recording, and/or the like gets paid royalties
per selection.
[0335] d. This is a new business opportunity and model and method
whereby an artist, recording, and/or the like can be featured
(promoted, advertised) in any fashion. As an example, there can be
a reduced cost to the consumer for the product if the consumer
picks a selection from a new category of artists in a special
section.
[0336] e. The recording company can use this method before they
sign a new artist(s) to their entity.
[0337] f. This is a new business opportunity and model and method
whereby it is a test marking opportunity for a new artist(s) to
test their material.
[0338] g. This is a new business opportunity and model and method
whereby it is a test marking opportunity for an already popular
artist(s) to test new material.
[0339] h. This is a new business opportunity and model and method
whereby it is possible to create a machine specifically for the
featuring of unsigned talent.
[0340] i. This is a new business opportunity and model and method
whereby the machines/system can serve as a miniature talent agency
whereby the public decides if they want to buy, who they want to
buy, which of their selection they want to buy, if more that one
selection is by an artist(s) is presented.
[0341] j. It is conceived that the user/buyer makes a choice and
then it is transmitted to that individual's web site, e-mail and/or
the like so that it is retained in that venue, as well as being
delivered to a physical address.
[0342] k. This must be handled carefully as there are artists right
and the best modality would be for a one time use.
[0343] For multiple uses a duplication charge may be in order.
There is not an immediate duplication charge then the company is
contacted and they send the amount of duplications requested with
the correct charging. There might be a sliding scale for larger
increments of purchase and/or the like.
[0344] The inventive system provides an expanded franchising
opportunity that provides all the opportunities that a big
companies have to an individual person. The franchise, comprising
the vending system, can be moved to another location. The system
can be cost sensitive and more modules (machines) can be added if
successful. If it is not successful in one location it may be
transported to another location. Further it can exist within the
confines of a trailer and be moved with very little commitment.
[0345] The vending system, because of its unique features, provides
unique opportunities for franchisors.
[0346] Product diversity
[0347] Expansion
[0348] Customizable, by module, by products
[0349] One franchisor's system can communicate with another
franchisor's system for mutual gain.
[0350] Not only does the buyer have the opportunity to buy one item
but by the ability to duplicate this is added business for the
owner of the franchise.
[0351] Vending in general is not labor intensive, may be open 24
hours a day and function even on the days the sun doesn't shine,
thus reducing the number of employees.
[0352] Products can be interchanged within one machine (sodas can
go to snacks). This allows the proprietor flexibility in
merchandise.
[0353] Many franchises can use one duplicating facility as a sound
economic business model.
[0354] The machine configuration can be changed or even moved to
another location if production is not up to par.
[0355] Such an opportunity can attract a greater audience as well
as provide more changeability and mobility.
[0356] Provides opportunities for new product introduction as well
as consumer visibility as compared to going into a store with
slotting fees and so many units necessary to fill the shelf.
[0357] Opens up opportunities for new and more distributors.
[0358] Promotes entrepreneurship: As more franchises open, more
distribution opportunities, product display opportunities, and more
jobs are created. More people are able to have their own unique
business.
[0359] Can start out very small with one system; as it becomes
profitable, more modules can be added.
[0360] Units can be set up in other countries.
[0361] 15. The inventive system is ideal for sample-making or
prototyping. Many countries encourage inventiveness, especially the
United States. However, many designers are hampered in their
ability to design products because they do not have the funds to
set up a situation that is cost-effective for sample-making and/or
production in what will at first most likely be limited
quantities.
[0362] The inventive machine(s) may make one or more samples,
easily allowing for the change in the composition of the product,
may offer a copy of the specifications (in printed or digital form)
of the sample product, its components, pattern and configuration,
retain the specifications of the product in the machine for
duplication, transmit the specifications to any entity, date- and
time-stamp the conception of the product, produce one or more
samples or even short runs, allow for the product to be duplicated
in larger runs by a manufacturing entity, order quantities to use
personally or distribute as promotions, sell and/or any combination
to test consumer compliance and/or acceptability.
[0363] These machines may or may not be tied into a central data
informational bank, regardless of where they are in the world, so
that when a product specification is recorded, "first use" or
"first disclosure" is established for the inventor. The system can
identify (1) suppliers for materials and components and (2)
production facility options. Using the vending system, suppliers
and manufacturers can be contacted immediately and bids submitted
for even small production runs.
[0364] Then, if the product is successful, it can be introduced
into the consumer marketplace through any channel.
[0365] The inventive vending system can be one machine, multiple
machines, and/or what is commonly known as kiosks (whether they be
ones that you approach and/or enter as an entertainment venue)
which may be attached to another object(s) and/or stand alone,
whereby there may also be one or more ports of entry, for one or
more persons to form a surround-around vending system, and/or
elongated system, and/or any footprint and/or any size of amount of
components dispensing, in whole or in part, vended items from the
same category and/or separate categories, be they related or not,
with all user interfaces having a consistent format for ease of
use.
[0366] The vended product may originate (be made) from a home
computer and/or an electronic device. The final product may be
tangible or intangible and delivered in any means be it immediate
and/or in the future. Just as in any duplication, there is a cost
per unit and if the invention is distributed to more than one
recipient the cost will increase proportionately. To reduce the
possibility of illegal copying measures can be used whereby
tracking many options are available.
[0367] The system dispenses items that are put together, combined,
and/or the like, inside the machine and delivered immediately
and/or sent to the consumer at a later date, directly, and/or for
the consumer to "pick up" at a designated time and place. The
system may also dispense one or more parts of a total product, to
be put together at the time of vending, and/or to be taken to
another location for future assembly.
Example Beverage/Food:
[0368] The machine may offer recipes and/or what would be
considered formulations from which the buyer may choose the exact
duplication and/or make personal alterations. Just as we have
smoothie shops that give you a selection of potential combinations
then additional "boosters" at an individual price. Thus, one can
buy water/beverage with different additives, separately, and as
many as the buyer wants in unit doses in relation to the size
container. Examples include decorative pins, patches; appliques,
jewels, etc. to be put on clothing. Examples include packets of
colored beads/stones/pearls, links/string, hooking/closure device,
etc) etc. to make jewelry (shown earlier).
[0369] The systems novelty potential includes, but is not limited
to, displaying finished products that may light up so the machine
attracts consumers, could display examples of finished products,
sketched designs and/or real patterns (transferable or not) and/or
photographs (product only and/or on real people, animals, both. The
vending system allows for said product to be duplicated in
individual units or by formulation and desire by an individual
and/or company for personal and/or commercial use in larger
quantities.
[0370] By hitting a "duplicate" key, the exact item just previously
vended will be duplicated one or more times, in single- or
multi-unit containers as desired: If, for example, the product is a
hot meal to be consumed immediately, this is possible while the
others (the duplications) can be packaged to go regardless of
temperature requested. The vending system may work whereby one
portion of a product, regardless of the category, is dispensed from
one machine and other portions from one or more additional
machines.
[0371] For example, one can create an entire food product and/or
meal this way by building on, with or without customization: e.g.,
salad (with choice of dressings from one machine); noodles/potatoes
(choice of toppings from one machine); the main course, e.g.
steak/chicken/fish (with choice of sauce/toppings or no sauce at
all from another machine); dessert (e.g. whipped cream hot
fudge/caramel, nuts, fruits, from another machine) etc.
[0372] The inventive system takes into consideration that
compensation must be factored into the machine before any vending
takes place. The system can display a sub-total of pending
purchase(s), to allow the user to revise his/her selection before
final purchase.
[0373] The system can accept coupons to allow for discounting.
[0374] The product is advantageously produced internally for
sanitation reasons. This invention avoids the pitfalls of exposing
product to airborne or human contact pathogens.
[0375] The system can retain information pertaining to the custom
selections made by the customer so that the product created can be
duplicated in whatever the unit portions are desired.
[0376] Such as system can offer the opportunity for those on
special diets, and/or with special needs whereby the machine will
be devoted to producing products specifically for that need and/or
desire (e.g. sugar control, sodium control, or cholesterol
control). At the same time the system can disseminate accurate and
quality information to consumers in a comfortable setting.
[0377] Consumers are bombarded with so much information, mainly
from the Internet, but little knowledge and or the method of
presentation. Here this invention allows print out information
and/or on screen viewable in a private vending booth or in the
public. (private vending, just as like in a photo booth, is
possible, as some people do not like to operate in public,
regardless of the reason. It is even conceived that in areas where
it is hot, that the private vending opportunity be in an
air-conditioned space (which can accommodate one or more
machines).
[0378] Therefore, the system can provide a beverage which contains
only water and additives. An example is a machine system which may
contain bottled water or may be connected to a municipal water
supply. When the machine system is connected to a municipal water
supply, it may have the following capabilities:
[0379] Can purify the water;
[0380] Can regulate the temperature;
[0381] Can be still or sparkling water.
[0382] Water can be dispensed at more than one temperature and in
containers appropriate to the temperature requested.
[0383] Provide the opportunity for the consumer to receive one or
more additives for the drink, and/or to mix the additives into the
drinking water under sanitary conditions inside the machine.
[0384] The system can offer a variety of containers, such that a
low-cost container can be included in the price of the beverage, or
a premium container can be purchased directly from the vending
system. The cost of the liquid and the additives to be combined
with it is determined by the volume requested. It is possible for a
consumer/buyer to bring his own container for which the operation
offers a sanitation opportunity.
[0385] The vending machine according to this invention can deliver
products from more than one company such as with tea. It is
possible that the owner/operator stocks with water and provides an
assortment of teas and even from more than one company . . . just
as machines carry a variety of snacks and candies. Naturally with
tea one would suspect that the dispensing would be in a container
that can accommodate heat. By dispensing the bag separately then
the buyer can make the tea to the strength desired, and brew it
himself. For extra cost, additives such as milk/cream, honey or
other sweeter can be purchased in pre-packaged portions for
sanitary reasons.
[0386] A support member such as a stirrer, straw or spoon may also
be offered.
[0387] Where municipality water comes into the machine, the water
undergoes a various process or processes which will change the
structure of the water such as but not limited to micro-clustering,
low plasma.
[0388] It is possible to add extra oxygen to the water within the
machine. It is possible to add additional health benefits to the
water such as changing the molecular structure so that the cells
take up the water more efficiently. It is possible to re mineralize
the water or have flavor or aroma already impregnated into the
water before it is put into a contained with the accepted packet
additives.
[0389] The US FDA has a standard by which they identify a water
with flavor. It is possible to carbonate the water. It is possible
to make a light mineral water with a TDS of under 500 mg/L or a
heavier mineral water with a TDS of 500 mg/L to 1500 mg/L before
selecting an additive.
[0390] The system of the invention must provide the utmost
capabilities of sanitation. When consumers bring there own bottles
to a machine for filling the machine may or may not have a
dedicated portion of the machine for sterilizing the consumers
bottle before filling or after filling to be sure that the product
is as sanitary as possible.
[0391] The additives when dispensed into the liquid are done so
inside the machine under sanitary conditions which are either
viewable to the consumer, not viewable, partly viewable.
Intermittently and/or randomly viewable. Ingredients may go in to
finalizing liquid from a single metered dose from a separate
individualized envelopment/container. Ingredients may go in, as
exampled by a syringe drawing from a secure sanitary container in
the designed/correct dosage, and then by means common in the art of
insertion present to the liquid.
[0392] Protected doses/containers/packets(s) can bere dispensed out
of the machine for the consumer to add them immediately or at will
in total or in part. This gives more control to the consumer to
adjust the strength. This gives the consumer the ability to meter
the dose (1 packet spread over 3 drinks).
[0393] If the consumer wants a much stronger drink or to take a
packet home to mix off premise then additional packets may be
acquired by the acceptable means most likely purchased. It is the
decision of the company what exactly is to come with what
price.
[0394] The system presents unit doses be they packets or any other
enveloping material/container, which brings forth a specific unit
dose regardless of material. The unit dose can be for one or more
servings. The dose can be a completed product or can be an additive
for the purpose of supplementing an existing product.
[0395] The system can provide additives specially designed to be
combined with a flat liquid, additives specially designed to be
combined with a carbonated liquid, and additives that can be
combined either a flat liquid or a carbonated liquid. Additives are
provided that are appropriate for combining with liquid at specific
temperatures.
[0396] The beverage vending system can be able to detect conflicts
among chosen options and disallow them, such as combining cold
water with an additive appropriate only for hot water, or combining
carbonated water with an additive only appropriate for flat
water.
[0397] The water, beverage, food-stuff product of this invention is
for humans and/or animals to be taken internally by mouth, enteral
feeding, separate or in combination which contains one or more
ingredients from the categories, including but not limited to,
nutraceuticals, dietary supplements, amino-acids, digestive and
systemic enzymes, anti-oxidants, diagnostics, pre-biotics,
pro-biotics, herbs, vitamins minerals; to form a complete product
or a product to fortify one or more of the following in the group
known as water, beverages, food stuffs such as:
[0398] A soup, stock, bullion, consomm
[0399] Meal replacement, meal fortification, with or with out
viscosity changes
[0400] Milk, Non-dairy milk and yogurt drinks
[0401] Water, beverage enhancing ingredients (regardless of
source),
[0402] Coffee and additives,
[0403] Tea and additives,
[0404] Soft drinks
[0405] Vegetable and vegetable flavored drinks
[0406] Beverage mixes and flavorings
[0407] Wine and wine coolers
[0408] Energy drinks
[0409] Beer and ale
[0410] HYDRACEUTICAL.TM.,
[0411] Alcohol, low alcohol, alcohol substitutes,
[0412] Sake
[0413] Fruits and flavored drinks
[0414] Health drinks
[0415] Isotonic, Energy producing products
[0416] Liqueurs
[0417] New age beverages and additives,
[0418] Botanicals,
[0419] All baby products both beverages, waters, food stuffs,
[0420] All junior products beverages, waters, food stuffs,
[0421] Desserts;
[0422] Entre mixes
[0423] Poultry and sauces
[0424] Fish and sauces
[0425] Meat and sauces
[0426] Jams jellies, marmalades, sweet butters
[0427] Butters margarines, spreads, condiments
[0428] Nut and seed butters
[0429] Fruits, fruit side dishes, and toppings
[0430] Popcorn and toppings
[0431] Meal replacements and special diet foods
[0432] Sauces, Pizza, pasta
[0433] Vegetable and vegetable side dishes and toppings
[0434] Sweet toppings
[0435] Snacks, other
[0436] Rice and rice side dishes and toppings
[0437] Oil, vinegars
[0438] Mixes other baking and non baking
[0439] Meals, entrees, snacks (regardless of temperature,
sandwiches
[0440] Pastry and baked products
[0441] Candies, confectioneries
[0442] Chips, cookies, crackers
[0443] Bakery goods
[0444] Stuffing's, fillings, spreads for xii and xiii
[0445] Yogurt and Yogurt imitations and toppings,
[0446] Sauces and gravies
[0447] Dairy case foods
[0448] Cheese toppings
[0449] Dips and salad toppings
[0450] aaa. Ice cream, novelties, frozen yogurt, and ices, and
toppings
[0451] bbb. Custards, puddings gelatins and toppings
[0452] Catsups and mustards, hot sauces, relishes,
[0453] ddd. Spices, extracts and seasonings
[0454] eee. An additive to an existing product under the above
number (62)
[0455] fff. Additive may be directed towards a specific
category:
[0456] Age
[0457] Gender
[0458] Animal or human
[0459] Allergies and sensitivities
[0460] ggg. Diagnosed medical condition or challenge short term or
long term including but not limited to the following:
[0461] Cold or flu
[0462] Diabetes
[0463] Glycogen storage disease
[0464] Elevated cholesterol
[0465] Weight loss, appetite suppressant
[0466] Weakened immune system
[0467] Ethnic generic sensitivities
[0468] Intolerances such as lactose
[0469] Aid digestion, breakdown of food, assimilation of
nutrients
[0470] Allergies
[0471] hhh. Elicit a feeling of well being and or a desired feeling
or response including but not limiting to:
[0472] Energy
[0473] Relaxation
[0474] Mood swings
[0475] Stamina
[0476] Support general good health
[0477] May add a formulation designed for diagnostic purposes
humans and and/or animals/pets.
[0478] X-ray
[0479] Dental disclosure
[0480] Object of the invention is to present in various containers
such as but not limited to:
[0481] Pouches regardless of materials
[0482] Packets, regardless of amount of compartments as described
in Stillman's Infusion Packet Patent regardless of materials
[0483] Vials regardless of materials
[0484] Bottles glass or plastic regardless of materials
[0485] Boxes regardless of materials
[0486] Tubes regardless of materials
[0487] Cups regardless of materials
[0488] Bowls regardless of materials
[0489] Bags regardless of materials
[0490] Foils
[0491] Cartridges regardless of materials
[0492] Bottles caps and tops (exchangeable)
[0493] Attached to a member such as a rock candy to a swizzle
stick
[0494] Presentation may be in various forms using interior and
exterior separated and/or in combination
[0495] Object of the invention, when appropriate to the product, is
to present in various forms such as but not limited to:
[0496] Liquids
[0497] Gels
[0498] Granules
[0499] Beads
[0500] Powders
[0501] Pellets
[0502] Tablets
[0503] Gummies/confectioneries
[0504] Pastes
[0505] Capsules
[0506] Elixirs
[0507] Crystals
[0508] Slurries
[0509] Pastes
[0510] Viscosity changers such as the category of gums
[0511] Compressed designs flat or in relief
[0512] All above with or without effervescence
[0513] All above with or without encapsulations
[0514] Object of the invention is to present methods of
operation.
[0515] When in contact with wetting agent
[0516] Automatic releases; quick release to slow release, at one
time or in incremental times
[0517] Need to be manipulated by shaking, stirring, etc.
[0518] Liquid drawn into the packet and then released regardless of
method.
[0519] Liquid impregnates packet causing swelling and ultimate
release.
[0520] Manual release
[0521] Packet has to be opened and ingredients manually put into
the liquid regardless of form of contents inside the packet.
[0522] Inside the machine the opening can occur and be dumped
in.
[0523] Packaging
[0524] Synthetic or non synthetic materials
[0525] Clear or opaque
[0526] Texture/Braille
[0527] Graphics, design, indicia, color, shape, dimension
[0528] With or without one or more support members
[0529] What used for
[0530] By whom
[0531] Under what conditions
[0532] Example of forms with or with support member
[0533] Parachute
[0534] Inside of a bottle top change top
[0535] Origami
[0536] Folded and shape revealed when opened
[0537] Geometric
[0538] Characters
[0539] Straw.
[0540] Peel Off Dot Strips
[0541] The system can be configured to discourage littering and,
where possible, encourage recycling, by making garbage and/or
recycling receptacles which are able to offer reward for their use.
Such receptacles can be employed in any venue where garbage is
generated and/or recyclable materials are sold.
[0542] The system provides the ability to make a complete new
product, enhance and/or enrich an existing product in the
following: water, water-based liquid products; milk products;
alcohol-present or -based (regardless of source); vegetarian, non
vegetarian, and/or both food categories, with or without value
perceived, value added, and/or both. Those would include the
following, and others, which fall under the above descriptions:
[0543] Water and water-based products, regardless of packaging
[0544] All beverages in containers regardless of packaging
[0545] Soups, broths, stocks, consommes,
[0546] Chips (any source) and dips, flavorings, and toppings
[0547] Pasta, toppings and sauces
[0548] Ice cream, yogurt, gelatos, ice like products, water ices,
snow cones, and the like; topping selections, sauces,
[0549] Frostees, Ice products, Smoothies
[0550] Build a meal, meal replacement, and/or both whereby you
already have a finished product but want to add additional
value.
[0551] Spreadables, fillables and/or the like to be used with
crackers, bread, as in a sandwich, pockets, crepes,
[0552] Hot or cold cereals and toppings, fruits, nuts, liquids,
seasonings
[0553] Meat, fish, poultry: flavorings, toppings, sauces,
seasonings and/or the like
[0554] Rice and toppings: flavorings, toppings, sauces, seasonings
and/or the like
[0555] French fries: flavorings, toppings, sauces, seasonings
and/or the like
[0556] Baked potatoes: flavorings, toppings, sauces, seasonings
and/or the like.
[0557] The vending system can dispense food or beverage products at
any temperature, including frozen, chilled, heated or cooked by any
process known in the art.
[0558] The system may use a cross-promotional method of payment.
Example: A hang tag on clothing having Disney indicia may activate
a discount on a purchase of a Coke.
[0559] The system allocates payment automatically at time of
purchase to each supplier company directly, but also in the
appropriate percentage to the owner/operator of the system. This
prevents the delay of payment of override revenues, commissions,
markups, etc. to the vending system owner/operator.
[0560] 36. The system also provides a method of restricting
purchases to a particular category of goods. For example, parents
can configure a credit or debit card for children's use that will
only allow them to buy parent-approved products; a card can be
restricted to products appropriate for diabetics or persons on
other restricted diets.
[0561] The system will accept other purchases, but they would have
to be made via a non-restricted method. With the special card, as
with any owned debit credit, smart, magnetic card and/or the like
it is possible for a company to track important data, not just
related to the product but to the consumer, user of the card, as
well.
[0562] A company card can be used for these machines may ensure
brand loyalty to one or more entities, which may operate
independently or as a consortium.
[0563] A record of the transaction may be stored any where and/or
by any means for future use. As an example with kids, parents can
find out what their kid ate, drank used, etc. if tracking
information was made available to them by the company regardless of
the method of retrieval, for free or at an additional cost.
[0564] The inventive vending machine system can be coupled with an
entertainment, edutainment, informational, active, reactive, or
interactive component in the same machine(s), or more than one
companion machine(s) attached or not, which can operate
independently and/or synergistically. If the machine is in a venue,
which offers one or more other opportunities for a consumer to
participate in, be it entertainment, education, or location for
purchasing additional items, it is conceived that the consumer will
partake in an "add on" opportunity.
[0565] While the product is being formulated/formatted there is
time for which the buyer may partake in an activity within the same
and/or companion machine. This is very psychologically reinforcing,
as pleasure is associate with product. Also accomplished by a small
prize with each product that is vended this relates to the Cracker
Jack Box Presentation.
[0566] The inventive system provides a vehicle for test-marketing
of beverages. This allows more beverages to be tested without
producing them in ready-to-drink format. A custom-created beverage
formula can then be transmitted to a manufacturer for possible
future marketing by the manufacturer.
[0567] The system can also offer products for animals in the same
vending operation as for humans and/or have a vending operation
solely for animals, pets, etc Animals, mainly pets, that may
accompany their owner on a regular basis are usually on a leash and
are afforded the opportunity of being present at various venues
especially vending machines.
[0568] A support member(s) may be offered, because they are also
considered as functional/useful. A support member may be nothing
more than a mixing and/or drinking vessel of normally recognized
design and/or of a special design with one or more features. The
support member is the drinking bowl. Or water is kept in bowls, not
bottles, for pets only. Could have a screw on lid like a wider
mouth bottle. For example, there exists on the market collapsible
cups, which may and/or may not be "throw-aways" ergo one time use
(hopefully biodegradable).
[0569] Considering the variety of cats, dogs, etc., one can program
into the operation the category of the species, the age, the weight
for special consideration and claims. Thus, puppies, (babies) have
different needs. An animal with a special health condition can be
programmed in; e.g., a diabetic dog weighing 50 pounds.
[0570] The inventor also makes note that there exists an
opportunity for testing a potential animal product and/or testing
certain additives which may, or may not, find a home and/or be
packaged with animal/pet food regardless of type of product, amount
of servings provided, container size, shape, and/or the like.
[0571] The inventive system can provide a branded-ability vending
system with tailored individual options. For organizations such as
Weight Watchers International.RTM. who have venues and whose
products are in major chain stores, there can be a branded ability
machine with tailored individual options (a meal with or without
salt).
[0572] Portion controlled and cost appropriate options. An example:
An individual can program in one's category, his/her gender, age,
present weight, height/size needs, desires/goals and the machine(s)
will offer suggestions, variations, product specifics, etc., or can
even offer other information pertinent to the request, for free or
at a fee, based on how much information requested ergo delivered
etc. (examples would be, but not limited to, calories, sodium
content, fiber grams and/or the like).
[0573] The system can be configured to provide handicap access to
the vending system whereby integrated into the general controls or
on a special side of the machine there is a method for all the
necessary operative controls for the vending system to be within
reach of a person in a wheelchair and/or to provide any means so
that a disabled person can activate and retrieve even from a port
on a different side (location).
[0574] The system can provide increased consumer education and
identification of who, how when, the consumer should use the
product if it is deemed to be a responsible decision to do so.
Examples would be:
[0575] Product use for humans only, animals only, or both
[0576] Consumed directly or indirectly whereby the resulting
product goes into another product
[0577] Product labeled by age groups such as children, teens,
seniors
[0578] Labeled by their enhancing properties such as energy drink,
gut health, cholesterol lowering, essentially what they do for
you
[0579] Labeled by vending machine with products options labeled for
health conditions and challenges diabetics, sodium restrictions
[0580] Braille to provide promotions, advertisements, instruct, to
educate, to entertain.
[0581] The system can eliminate and/or reduce the need for
acidulates when formulating a beverage, as the vending machine
dispenses components for a finished product to be mixed on the
spot. The Food and Drug Administration of the United States
requires that for the production of a beverage containing
ingredients with the potential of producing pathogens, if said
beverage is not to be consumed immediately and is not stored under
refrigerated conditions, it must be acidic and hot-filled.
Therefore, all beverages existing in traditional vending machines
are acidic and, for the most part, contain preservatives. The
continuous consumption of acidic beverages may lead to
gastrointestinal problems, including erosion of the esophagus and
acid-reflex disease, which in turn can led to esophageal cancer.
Thus, if a beverage is mixed at the time of purchase, it need not
be as acidic, and can therefore avoid causing gastrointestinal
distress.
[0582] The system as related to a specific product can keep all
active ingredients for use in food or beverage formulations stable
and bio-available to the product being made using technologies such
as encapsulations etc. The system can provide separate airtight and
perhaps sterile environments within the machine for complete
ingestible products with reduced and/or eliminated preservatives,
acids, chemicals, etc.
[0583] The system can utilize multiple machines comprising the
vending system may work in an assembly-line manner whereby the user
takes the product from one machine to another and/or if connected
the machine may be able to pass the item down the line.
[0584] If a vending system is out of an item and/or cannot product
an item, it lets the user know where the closest system is that is
operational, and to the specifications of the user.
[0585] The flexibility of the system allows it to provide a method
for funding a charity(s) whereby a certain percentage of the
profits from a machine may go to a charity and this could be with,
or without, celebrity enrichment and/or endorsement, or the
incorporation of any and/or all of the aspects of this
invention.
[0586] The system is able test price points appropriate for an item
by adjusting price according to location, ethnicity, financial
income, different packaging images, etc.
[0587] Products Now Can be Tested 24 Hours a Day Without Needed
Labor.
[0588] If any attempt is made to steal any portion of the product,
or currencies, the vending system will respond in one or more ways,
such as the ability to take a picture or record a fingerprint or
method of identification, sound an alarm, flash lights, spray a dye
which will coat an individual if tampering.
[0589] The system enables one to design jewelry and accessories for
humans, toys (dolls), pets etc. The customer/designer can virtually
design a product on screen, see a proof, receive a print out and
then have access to receiving the product immediately or at a
future date. One or more of the same products can be ordered.
[0590] The system may also dispense components of the finished
product, resembling a mini craft store but providing just the
number needed for the product.
[0591] The inventor here is most sensitive to peoples needs and
desires who do not live in areas where they have access to all the
choices one would have if they lived in a large urban environment
and have access to craft, and/or the like, stores. Small towns etc.
don't have the abilities to provide many choices and so, as an
example, a young creative child is not exposed to the options that
their urban big city sisters are exposed to. While Internet stores
and infomercials, and catalogues present opportunities for ordering
product it is not possible to make such a custom product
immediately and/or without buying more and/or different components
than is necessary and/or that one will never use.
[0592] An example is a jewelry making machine for making a necklace
and/or a bracelet etc. A wire, string, chain etc. is offered and
may even be precut to measure within the system. A vast amount of
pearls, charms, beads, pearls, etc. are made visible to the buyer
for selection. Also adhesives, closures and other ancillary items
are also available. Patterns will be available. The buyer can
purchase by increments and the purchase be subtotaled before the
actual buying.
[0593] The customer may design object of a screen and watch the
virtual assemble (Can even drag a selection for the composition
onto the piece of jewelry being fabricated to see how it looks. If
it is not appropriate item it can be dragged back to its home of
for time sake be deleted).
[0594] Once approved then the ordering begins following the
guidelines and pre-described options presented in all the aforesaid
material.
[0595] An example is making a custom watch in the inventive vending
system:
[0596] One or more basic movements are available.
[0597] Create a watch whereby the basic movement presents
options/choices and in a few possible modalities, digital, wind up,
with hands without hands etc.
[0598] Customer selects such options, but not limited to the
following: the face, the bezel to go around the face, the band,
cover if desired, it, color, materials, decorations, etc.
[0599] Personalization and monogramming is possible.
[0600] Just as with the above the watch can be assembled virtually
for approval.
[0601] In the case of a sensitive watch with a mechanism that needs
to be protected, then part may be assembled in a clean environment
inside the machine
[0602] If the band has to be attached in a special manner then that
can also be accomplished inside the machine.
[0603] If a certain part cannot fit another part (e.g., the watch
face to the band selected), then the system will notify the
consumer that that choice is not an option. (machine gives feed
back).
[0604] Another example is the production of a custom deck of cards.
Options are to have personalized text and/or pictures (fronts,
backs, or both). Licensable characters (royalty fee appropriate):
One may produce with the proper license as example a baseball card
and/or any cards, and/or any objects whereby the image of the
buyer, and image selected by the buyer, text offered by the
machine, created by the buyer, and/or the like be patterned into
the picture, or on the reverse side, and/or both. Size and shapes
and materials colors decorations styles, etc. are all personal
choices.
[0605] Another example is the creation of personalized labels for
product(s) within the system. Some vineyards offer a personalized
label option where by you can order wine with a personalized name
on it, or a denotation such as "This wine was made for Jane and
Johns 25th Anniversary." Jones Soda offers the public the
opportunity of sending in art work to be selected by the company to
go on their production bottles.
[0606] In inventive system one can design ones own custom label.
All possible ranges of customization, from embroidery to digital
reproduction with color ranges, materials, sizes. Quantities range
from a single label upward and follow all the duplicating abilities
previously stated herein. If there is product(s) in the machine
that label can be affixed to the product before delivered, or
dispensed at the same time for the buyer to label.
[0607] If the product is not in the machine and the label is to be
affixed to product, then all ordering regardless of quantity with
follow the parameters previously stated. If the label is to be put
on manually regardless of the number, then they will need to have
sticking options such as an adhesive backing, peel off an adhesive
back impregnated with or without aroma.
[0608] Further, this custom label can also come with additional
coupons and offerings for the consumer. If the label is made
digitally then the consumer may receive a copy on a disk from the
machine or forward to a designated computer for saving for one's
records and/or later use. If made digitally, and if a famous
personality (licensable character) is incorporated into the design,
then royalties must be paid and the equipment must be able govern
that or not release the data from the system which has the royalty
feature built into it.
[0609] h. The system may serve as "print shop" of sorts, as an
individual may bring in his own disk (or present to the system a
personal electronic device containing the material) for which the
system has a user-friendly connection mode. The data is transferred
and the system then offers the buyer the option of accepting as
presented or use other capabilities of manipulation (formatting,
color, font changes etc.) and embellishment. The newly designed
digital rendition can then be saved and/or override what the buyer
originally had fabricated. Digital reproduction allows the system
to be programmed to permit variations (e.g., in colors) from one
unit to another within a single production run.
[0610] The material that the label is printed on may have
additional benefits such as a backing that if affixed to a cold or
hot product will preserve the temperature of said product.
[0611] The vending systems may also offer perks such as coupons,
free movie tickets, travel discounts, game play opportunities for
the arcade like machines, etc. as enticements to use the system
and/or for rewards.
[0612] The system interfaces with a portable digital device,
allowing the customer to begin the design process off-site and then
transmit information to the vending system for completion of the
process. The vending system is accessible by a customer via an
off-site computer, with appropriate customer identification.
Information about the customers product selections can be sent
ahead to the system, and stored there until the customer retrieves
it.
[0613] Information from the system can be transmitted to the
customer, including scheduling of user time, allowing the customer
to avoid waiting in a line if the system is busy when he arrives
there. This allows a customer who does not have a portable device
or portable storage capability to begin the design process off-site
and transmit the information to the vending system.
[0614] The system facilitates collaboration with other customers,
one or more vending systems can be accessed simultaneously, either
via an off-site computer, or on-site.
[0615] The vending system is equipped with scanning capabilities.
The system also provides the ability to record sounds and/or
receive sounds which have been pre-recorded via digital, analog or
other means.
[0616] 59. The system monitors the amount of time a customer spends
in the design process and provide a means for charging a customer
incrementally for time spent beyond an allotted basic period, so
that the system is not kept busy by customers who are not making
purchases. Customers may be charged an entry fee for a minimum
amount of time before they can begin using the system, further time
being charged incrementally.
[0617] The system may offer to credit the cost of time purchased
against the cost of a purchased item. The amount of time credited
can be related to the final purchase price. Time charges may be
varied for any reason, for example, according to the time of day,
weather condition, promotional specials, etc. Time monitoring is a
way of tracking behavioral patterns, by providing feedback as to
how popular an item is, how long a consumer spends to design it,
how valuable it is to the consumer in time, money, both. (Great for
tourist attraction.)
[0618] The vending system can be used as a broad, non-biased focus
group, since it monitors all details of customer interaction as
well as personalized information entered by the customer. A perk or
reward can be offered to the customer to encourage him/her to
submit personal information.
[0619] The system protects the intellectual property rights of an
inventor, designer, creator. The vending system may record the date
and time of creation of a product and/or concept. The vending
system may, for an additional price, mail a description of the
product and/or concept created to the inventor/designer/creator,
who may keep the mail unopened as documentation his/her ownership
of the product and/or concept and of the date and time of its
creation. If a tamper-proof, unalterable digital means of
transmitting such information becomes available in the future, the
vending system may employ those means instead of mail.
[0620] The vending system may allow an inventor/designer/creator to
document his/her ownership of his/her creation and the date and
time of its creation by generating a disclosure document based on
the product and/or concept to be protected and submitting the same
to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office or the corresponding
governing agency in any other country.
[0621] The vending system can create and maintain a database, for
free or for charge, of any information regarding an inventor and
his/her invention which he/she wishes to be made public, so that
persons or entities searching the database may be able to contact
the inventor regarding business opportunities, and so that
inventors working on similar technologies are able to contact each
other. The database system can include language translation
capability so that users from a variety of countries can use it.
Searching persons or entities may also post information about
inventions that they would be interested in, so that inventors may
contact such searching persons or entities. The database would also
include a list of legal and business professionals, including
patent attorneys, who can assist inventors with the next steps in
developing their invention. The system can also offer a database of
referrals to outside vendors that can facilitate the creation of
the product.
[0622] As a rule, companies do not want to take submissions from
the public, and they follow the Not Invented Here (NIH) principle
to protect themselves from lawsuits. However, with this system,
there is now provided a means of protection for the inventor, thus
making it more difficult for a company to dispute the ownership of
an invention/design/concept.
[0623] The inventor can request, for a charge, a verification
document which is not to be opened to be mailed to himself and/or
his legal counsel. A company such as "firstuse.com" does create
these sort of files for a price.
[0624] A company can sponsor a vending system for which they will
have the right of first refusal for anything created using that
vending system.
[0625] The vending system may operate in modules or stations
whereby the customer can move from station to station, either
sequentially or randomly, as each station completes a portion of
the product being created. The machines have the options of robotic
movable and/or expanding parts so that they are not confined to a
fixed structure:
[0626] An example is an arm or a shelf that extends beyond the
confines of the machine to deliver the product, advertisement,
promotion and/or the like.
[0627] Can be used to deliver product to those who need assistance.
Children are delighted especially.
[0628] As a product exits audio may accompany and be activated by
any means.
[0629] The vending system combines and/or incorporate into the
vending system one or more elements of game machines, to attract
customers to use the vending system and to enhance the overall
experience of the vending system. The sort of game machines that
could be used may include, for example (without limitation):
[0630] arcade and/or video games
[0631] pinball machines
[0632] Pachinko machines
[0633] jukeboxes
[0634] The games may be sponsored and include:
[0635] product branding
[0636] branding associated with television game shows, quiz shows,
talent shows, etc.
[0637] the image, voice pattern or both of a celebrity, character,
or the like that is used as the game moderator, host, facilitator
etc.
[0638] Sponsored games may be free since they are supported by
advertising, while unsponsored games may require payment.
[0639] The vending system can present a scientific display of how a
product is made; or the vending system can present as a Rube
Goldberg experience whereby the machine goes through wacky, for
lack of a better description, machinations until the completed
product is vended.
[0640] The system provides space for banners and messages in any
form whereby the system incorporates the qualities of a billboard
(stationary, moving, etc. best expressed by those skilled in the
art), such as, for example:
[0641] Advertising
[0642] Messages from law enforcement agencies, e.g. the message
"Not to do Drugs."
[0643] Pictures of lost children, animals etc., which may or may
not require the entity posting the picture to pay for the use of
the space.
[0644] The system also provides a means for identifying and
locating children by providing children with a smart card with
their identification on it so that if they wander from home they
can be identified by the card as the machine has a locating system
and if that child is registered with the company we can help find
lost children 6,339,744 like a Global Positioning System.
Especially if the child has a card in a large venue like a
Disneyland or a mall. If a child presents his card the machine may
alert a central office whereby they can talk to the child through a
loud speaker so that a security officer of the like may be
summoned.
[0645] 68. The system conserves energy and use alternate energy
sources when possible. Vending machines that are outdoors can be in
part or in whole solar powered. There is also the possibility of
harvesting solar energy, or energy from any source, to be relayed
to power, in total or in part, the machine.
[0646] Many technologies that use mirrors and foils and metals and
fiber optics and the like can be used to give the look of
additional brightness, dimension, illumination, and/or the like by
which it would seem that more energy in used than actually is. Heat
conducting and transferring technologies such as conduction,
convection, and radiation barrier (NASA) technologies can be used
to regulate temperature and provide better insulation thus conserve
energy. Radiant barrier containers and packaging materials can be
used to insulate the products within the machine and/or the
containers that the products are dispensed in. Radiant barrier
containers will allow a consumer to keep a finished product at an
ideal temperature for an extended period of time.
[0647] The system provides containers that will keep products at an
ideal temperature for an extended length of time. For example,
Radiant Barrier technology developed by NASA will allow, if used
accordingly containers to be so fabricated so as that heat seeks
cool when a product is put in at a temperature that product will
remain at that temperature for a protracted period of time. An
example is that a container of frozen ice cream made it in tact
frozen from Los Angeles to New York still in its frozen state.
Vending machine products, especially temperature sensitive (hot
coffee, cold drinks) are usually consumed when then are received or
they loose their ideal drinking temperature.
[0648] It is very convenient to receive a product from a vending
machine which you can purchase at one time of the day and it will
stay at the ideal time until consumption perhaps many hours later.
Make you ice cream Sunday in the morning and have it for the
afternoon with or without additional refrigeration. Ideally one can
have his gas filled at a station and vend from that station a
breakfast, beverage, snack, lunch etc. And all will be at the right
temperature when ready to consume.
[0649] As a tie in a credit card can be provided that can work in
any of the companies' products or assigned products at full price
or a discounted price. Embedded in this card can be information
that the company wishes the consumer to retrieve and/or information
the consumer wishes to have the company know.
[0650] It is advantageous for the vending machine system be
compatible with a theme regardless of shape or size. The theme may
or may not be carried out through out the looks of the machine, the
operation, the products dispensed and/or the like. An example is a
machine may be designed to look like a waterfall and carry only
water and products to go into water. Another example is that if it
a kids-only machine it would present in that fashion. The entire
machine could be a tribute to a super-hero or a company like
Disney.
[0651] The inventive system can protect the privacy of the user by
providing a place for private viewing of personal material even
when in the midst of public displays of graphics, writing etc.
[0652] Example: A customer may enter payment information in
private
[0653] Example: A customer may not want anyone to know that he is
looking at literature pertaining to certain health conditions.
[0654] Example: A customer may wish to design a product in
private.
[0655] The system can provide a place for private listening to
audio material if desired. One or more headphones and/or the like
maybe present as cane a built-in telephone system. Then the entire
system may be voice activated. A customer can put in a card with
information identifying him/her, including voice pattern, and the
machine will recognize that customer and interaction can take
place.
[0656] The invention can provide consumers with the ability to vote
for products, characters, etc. through vending system. The buyer
may get to vote without making a purchase or with a purchase
only.
[0657] The inventive vending system can be configured in the form
of a shopping center of any size: a strip center, a group of
separate establishments working in consort, even to a huge shopping
mall or the like.
[0658] Benefits to Customers:
[0659] The vending system operates on a group discount and or
interrelated combinations of allowing the customer to benefit in
any manner by staying within the confines of the venue.
[0660] The venue may be inside on one or more levels, outside,
connected units, regardless of formation and/or the like.
[0661] Consumers may receive a discount card by shopping
incrementally at each venue.
[0662] Special invitations and perks and bonuses instead of being
offered by one store is offered buy the center in general.
[0663] Consumers may buy a credit card for shopping at the entire
operation and then receive a general discount at the discretion of
the operator.
[0664] Benefits to Shopkeepers:
[0665] This make the space in a center such as this more valuable
to those who witch to rent, lease space as they are part of a whole
interface.
[0666] This invention combines venues of the same category or any
number more than one of categories.
[0667] It can resemble a department store with different
departments.
[0668] Tenants do not have to participate but it will be to their
advantage.
[0669] Large stores like Wal Mart are making it difficult for the
individualists (the small establishments) By this invention the are
connected to larger unit with advantages.
[0670] Some advantages are that their may be one printer who will
do special work at special rates, insurance benefits (especially if
the tenants form an association or a compatible feature for
employees etc. offering a broad range of opportunities.
[0671] Vending machine in this operation can draw you into a tenant
unit by what they offer.
[0672] The vending system can even be operated in a drive-through
manner.
[0673] The system also permits cross promotional opportunities such
as with Disney and Mac Donalds. A vending system may be situated in
proximity to people waiting in line for any reason, providing
entertainment, food products, and any other purchase opportunity
for which the vending system can be used. The vending system can be
situated on the outside of a store building, either attached to the
building or not. The vending system can be operated even when the
store is closed.
[0674] Food stores or restaurants can make "leftovers" available
via the vending system. Individual units of an item normally sold
in quantity inside the store can be offered in the outside vending
system.
[0675] Pricing can be varied for "off-hours," if desired.
[0676] The vending system will accept payment via food stamps, or
whatever food-restricted social relief may be offered by the
appropriate governmental agency in the future. The vending system
will be able to restrict purchases so made to those items
authorized by the pertinent government regulations.
[0677] Any vending system pertaining to a particular field or
product category may have the ability to make available a database
of intellectual properties relevant to that category. The general
public may use such a database to contact an inventor or patent
owner for information concerning the invention. Potential licensees
may contact patent owners. Inventors or patent owners may use the
database to help them locate entities that may be interested in
developing products from their intellectual properties.
[0678] Another embodiment of the invention is a business model
centered around a vending operation following a "real estate"
metaphor. The vending system may follow a condominium pattern,
where an owner of the system sells units to vendors. An owner of a
space can resell his unit sub-lease etc. with or without the
permission of the owner depending on the terms and conditions of a
mutually acceptable contractual agreement.
[0679] Just as with homeowners' dues, a model can be created
whereby everyone contributes to the maintenance, upgrading etc.
Particulars worked out by the contractual agreement.
[0680] The vending system may follow a rental pattern, where an
owner of the system rents and/or leases one or more units of space
to vendors depending on the terms and conditions of a mutually
acceptable contractual agreement:
[0681] Mutual agreements can have a sublet clause.
[0682] Terms and conditions, length, cancellation and/or the like
arranged mutually.
[0683] Further conceived is that some space may be rented/leased,
while some space sold. This provides leverage.
[0684] The physical position of a unit and its relative visibility
are conceived to be part of the rent/lease/sale transaction, so
that they cannot be changed outside of the control of the vendor
contracting the unit.
[0685] Each unit can have its own payment/compensation ability
and/or use the service of the owner, with or without a management
company.
[0686] Each system can be filled/managed and/or the like on an
individual basis and/or it is conceived that there be a management
company to manage the property as an entity and/or any unit holder
can have his own full and/or partial servicing.
[0687] Tenants may have the benefits analogous to "Share Tenant
Services" (STS) enjoyed by real estate tenants, whereby one or more
industries bundles a variety of services (such as, for example,
utilities, phone, but also duplicating services and others unique
to a vending operation situation) and offers them to tenants at
reduced cost, greater convenience, or the like.
[0688] An association can be formed comprising the tenants of a
single vending system, a regional network of systems, or any such
grouping.
[0689] Group rates may be negotiated for things like maintenance
and insurance costs.
[0690] Health benefits may be made available to association
members.
[0691] Discounts and cross relationships can be available to
association members.
[0692] The owner/manager of the vending system can have the option
of listing available units in what might be called "Vending
Opportunity for rent or lease," just as in the real estate listings
of the multiples and/or the newspapers, Internet, and/or the like,
either directly or through an agent.
[0693] Sale or rental transactions may be handled by brokers or
leasing agents. It is possible to have an entire network of vending
brokers, just like real estate brokers, who can service in the same
manner or differently
[0694] A license be necessary and there becomes laws that have to
be enforced etc. Codes may be written.
[0695] As a business model, that the entire operation compile data
and distribute on an as-best-used basis.
[0696] Each unit holder receive its own data, which may be a
compilation of data pertaining to multiple units in multiple
locations. This business model provides opportunity to test new
products before investing a lot of money to go to market. The
flexibility is huge, as one can obtain units in many markets and
move around from market to market.
[0697] In this model, a vendor is not subject to the sort of
requirements typically imposed by, for example, supermarkets, which
may impose cooperative advertising fees, and wherein the vendor has
no control over its products' positioning within the store. This
allows a company to launch, test market and the like a product in
one or more foreign countries in one or more machines/systems at a
reasonable rate of market entry. The company can have the
flexibility of changing even minute details, such as a label color,
aroma and the like.
[0698] The system offers an independent and/or a large company to
own and/or operate the machine(s)/machine system. This provides
many opportunities including but not limited to the obvious,
especially those who know advertising, marketing, etc. The business
model provides unified services such as co-op advertising and
promotional opportunities.
[0699] Real estate being very expensive, the vending is an
opportunity to be provided to the smallest of possibility (one
owner, one machine) to the very ultimate and as big as the huge
shopping center conglomerates.
[0700] It is conceivable to pay for all purchases made within, as
one and/or more payments. The machine/system can have its own
credit card, individual payment system and/or act in total. It can
be of great benefit to an entity who wants to bring a new product
to market to own an entire vending system, because that owning
entity can reserve more units for its own use than it needs at
first, leasing or renting the reserved units not being used, and
then reclaiming them for use leases expire, tenants leave, etc.,
and as its own operation is ready to expand.
[0701] The vendor occupying a unit can do one or more of the
following and or the like:
[0702] Change pricing
[0703] Change products
[0704] Pay taxes etc., as even a little slot in one machine is a
business.
[0705] The huge slotting fees in stores can be eliminated and a
product still gets exposure.
[0706] The tenant/rentor/leasee/purchaser of space is in control of
the decisions and therefore eliminates the potential of failure due
to a store's mismanagement.
[0707] It is a very important opportunity/venture for a large
company to go into because they can test products from many
different vendors to see what they might want to consider to be
under their umbrella (ownership, distribution, etc.) regardless of
the relationship. It is clear here that the larger the network the
more possibilities and power the owner/operator has.
[0708] q. Products may be tangible and/or virtual.
[0709] A large setup contain a photo opportunity, a music (audio)
opportunity, food/beverage/etc.
[0710] The government is able to set up such an enterprise on
publicly owned property, for the purpose of bringing in additional
revenue, displaying information, posting opportunities in the local
community etc. As part of a sale or rental/lease agreement, the
government may make a small business loan available, provide
opportunities for minorities, etc. Operations may be indoors,
outdoors, both. On-premise storage may be offered. Parking may be
available.
[0711] v. The vending operation may have drive-by and or
drive-through offerings as with all parts of this invention. The
vending operation may be located on a moving transportation
operation, such as a cruise ship. The vending operation may be
placed in large parking structures, especially subterranean, on
flat roof accessible space and/or the like. In these types of
venues you have space that is not generally being used, and
considerable traffic passes, especially in a garage.
[0712] The inventive system can provide gainful employment, with
growth potential, to persons whose opportunities elsewhere are
limited, by creating opportunities for owning, operating, working
in or distributing to vending operate as herein described.
[0713] People for whom such a work environment might be appropriate
include:
[0714] Those with disabilities or health challenges;
[0715] Could manage a vending system without being required to
perform heavy labor;
[0716] Could assemble products for vending machines, perhaps
off-site.
[0717] People who have been on public assistance;
[0718] People with language challenges: either those who do not
speak the language of the country wherein they reside, or those
with language-related cognitive impairment;
[0719] Rehabilitated drug addicts;
[0720] Those who have been incarcerated;
[0721] Those recently discharged from military service;
[0722] Young adults;
[0723] Minorities;
[0724] Retired or elderly people.
[0725] Owning, operating or working in a vending operation would be
ideal for such people because:
[0726] Work hours can be flexible;
[0727] Skilled labor is not required;
[0728] Such work would not require high visibility or a prestigious
appearance, requirements of many other jobs which tend to
disqualify such people;
[0729] There is a low temptation to steal;
[0730] Opportunities would be afforded to them to learn management
skills and taking on increasing responsibility in a relatively
small business environment;
[0731] Working for a large, multi-location vending operation would
give workers an opportunity to work in a variety of locations;
[0732] Such employment would provide a way to build self-esteem and
stimulate a feeling of productivity.
[0733] Compensation to those working in or for such a vending
operation could be via salary/hourly wage, a percentage of profits,
bonus, or a combination thereof.
[0734] Such a vending operation could be owned, operated and/or
maintained by a partnership of people from a variety of
circumstances, including those of limited or compromised
circumstances as listed above.
[0735] Such a vending operation would provide a market for products
produced in job shops for prisoners or former prisoners.
[0736] Employing such people in a vending operation provides a
novel way for a large company to participate in community outreach
or other social responsibility goals.
[0737] A government-owned vending system could be used to
transition people back into the workforce who were previously
unemployable and being managed by the penal system and/or social
service agencies.
[0738] Welfare recipients can be employed in almost any capacity in
such a vending operation.
[0739] Prison workers can be employed assembling products for sale
in a government-owned vending system.
[0740] A vending system could be situated within a government
property and a portion of the profit therefrom paid to the
government, and then, for example, be used to fund government
programs. An example of an opportunity for someone with limited
skills, physical disabilities or any other impediment to holding a
steady, full-time job would be a beverage-vending machine:
[0741] which may be a complete vending operation or part of a
larger operation or a concession within a large venue;
[0742] which features:
[0743] physical accessibility of the machine itself (i.e.,
proximity to parking, on the ground floor) and of the controls and
interior of the machine;
[0744] use of municipal water, so that no heavy bottles need be
loaded, or use of bottled water which the bottled water supplier
has agreed to stock in the machines as part of its supply
agreement; and
[0745] use of additives in small packets, so no large containers of
loose material need be loaded;
[0746] sponsored by a consortium of suppliers of the additives
and/or bottled water as part of their community outreach
programs
[0747] who gain advertising and public relations benefits and
community good will thereby;
[0748] who pay a salary to the operator; and
[0749] who display signage pertaining to their products on or
around the machine;
[0750] which may also have sponsors not related to the products
vended but provide a theme, such as a cartoon character.
[0751] Another embodiment is a machine for vending alcoholic
beverages, which includes age-authenticating controls and is
capable of identifying customers with dietary restrictions
concerning alcohol and prohibiting sale of inappropriate products
to such customers. The system can provide alcoholic beverages which
have been enhanced with added substances which:
[0752] do not naturally occur in the alcoholic beverage;
[0753] provide scientifically proven health benefits; and
[0754] may also alter perception, such as improving flavor and
mouth feel.
[0755] The system can provide alcoholic beverages which have been
enhanced with added soluble fiber, both to improve the mouth feel
and/or change the viscosity of the beverage while simultaneously
providing the health benefits of fiber. While alcoholic beverages
have the potential of being abused, they can also be beneficial.
Polyphenols in red wine has been shown to be beneficial to heart
health. Beverages can be used to reduce tension, especially in
elderly for whom tension-relieving medications might be
contraindicated but alcohol may not be.
[0756] Focus groups have reported that alcoholic beverages enhanced
with soluble fiber have what is called improved "mouth feel"--that
is, they are experienced as smoother, less acidic and less
alcoholic-tasting, and have less of the burning sensation often
associated inexpensive alcoholic beverage products. Improved mouth
feel, or viscosity changes such as thickening, can make alcoholic
beverages easier to swallow for those who might benefit from them
but might otherwise avoid them, such as:
[0757] people with swallowing disorders (dysphasia)
[0758] post-surgical patients, especially oral or facial
surgeries
[0759] Inexpensive wines or other alcoholic products can be
improved, expanding revenue opportunities for sellers and
producers.
[0760] Soluble fiber has been shown to:
[0761] Address obesity and curb appetite;
[0762] Lower serum cholesterol;
[0763] Improve stamina and endurance;
[0764] Stabilize blood sugar; and
[0765] Remove toxins from the body.
[0766] Soluble has been used in bakery and other food products,
both for texture enhancement and health benefits, but not in
alcoholic beverages.
[0767] Fibers to be used, which are often referred to as "soluble
fiber," are between 0.1% and 10% by weight water-soluble
indigestible fiber selected from the group consisting of dextrins,
maltodextrins, galactomannans, cellulose ethers, inulin, alginates,
agar, carrageenan, psyllium, guar gum, gum traganth, gum karya, gum
ghatti, gum acacia, gum arabic, partially hydrolyzed products
thereof and mixtures thereof.
[0768] Under the customization guidelines of this invention
presented, to include that the system have the ability to product
custom personal care products to be used topically, such as
cosmetics in custom colors, uniquely formulated lotions, soaps,
hair care products, perfumes and/or the like.
[0769] The system can provide a multi-vendor venue, such as a
shopping center, theme park, swap meet or the like, which
features:
[0770] An option of using a "smart card":
[0771] Which may act in lieu of a credit card or debit card;
[0772] Which may be used to record shopper identification
information;
[0773] Which may be used to restrict purchases to certain amounts
of money or certain product categories, such as parents restricting
children to certain purchases or from seeing movies with an
inappropriate rating, or for use as a gift certificate.
[0774] The system also provides a central check-out system which
may optionally be used by any vendor in the venue;
[0775] A central information center which:
[0776] Includes a vendor directory for any or all vendors in the
venue, which directory may include:
[0777] Details as to the location of the vendor;
[0778] Product information at whatever level of detail the vendor
chooses, which can certainly be more detailed than what is found on
the sort of static, standing directory typically used in shopping
centers;
[0779] Advertising relating to products offered, sales, specials,
special events, or whatever else the vendor wishes to
advertise.
[0780] May inform shoppers of promotions, sales, special events and
the like taking place anywhere in the venue or in any vendor
location.
[0781] May inform shoppers of emergencies, such as a fire, the
location of the emergency, and the location of the exit nearest
each shopper.
[0782] Allows a shopper to design an itinerary and prioritize
his/her time within the venue.
[0783] Allows a shopper to order from a vendor without actually
visiting the vendor's location, such as reserving movie tickets
while one is eating lunch, or ordering a forgotten item just before
checkout and having it mailed to one's home.
[0784] Can collect marketing and demographic data concerning a
shopper's activities and add this data to a database.
[0785] Can accept information from shoppers that they may wish to
be kept on record, such as medical information, emergency contact
information, family birthdays, or any other data.
[0786] May interface with a shopper's portable device, such as a
Palm Pilot.RTM., or a shopper's home device, such as a personal
computer.
[0787] Can consult a database of marketing and demographic data to
see if data already exists concerning the shopper currently using
the device, and if so, offer a greeting, a record of past
purchases, gift reminders, recommendations for appropriate new
purchases and other customer-specific messages.
[0788] Can be made available over the Internet so that shoppers can
access some or all of these features from a home computer or other
Internet-capable device.
[0789] A hand-held device which is issued to shoppers upon
presenting a credit or debit card, or a "smart card," which
device:
[0790] Connects to the central information system, providing an
input/output means to give shoppers access to the information and
capabilities offered to them by the central information system.
[0791] Must be returned when the shopper leaves the venue to avoid
incurring a replacement charge.
[0792] May be issued in multiples for people shopping together,
such as family members.
[0793] Can incur a usage charge if no purchase is made in the
venue.
[0794] Contains a scanner for recording purchases.
[0795] Accumulates a purchase subtotal both within stores and from
store to store.
[0796] May include an attachment such as a pin or wristband for
putting on a child, elderly person or pet, who can then be located
using a local positioning system.
[0797] May be used as a verbal communication device, like a
telephone or walkie-talkie, within the confines of the venue.
[0798] Shoppers may communicate verbally with each other
[0799] Shoppers may communicate with personnel working in the
venue, such as maintenance or security personnel, or personnel in
individual vendor locations.
[0800] Example: For making restaurant reservations, inquire about
product availability.
[0801] Example: Notifying maintenance personnel of safety hazards,
rest rooms needing maintenance, etc.
[0802] Overcomes the problem that many cell phones do not work in
certain types of structures for a myriad of reasons.
[0803] Can record still or video images with sound and transmit
them to devices carried by other shoppers in the same shopping
group, or to personnel working in the venue.
[0804] Headphones or other private listening means can be used.
[0805] Can display reminders to a shopper, such as when a movie is
about to start, their table is ready for lunch, etc.
[0806] Good for center
[0807] Enables the center to collect demographic data;
[0808] Builds shopper loyalty;
[0809] Offers unique position in the market:
[0810] Security features
[0811] Convenience
[0812] Benefits for vendor tenants:
[0813] Can advertise to every consumer that comes in;
[0814] Can update advertising on a daily basis;
[0815] May be able to reduce staff;
[0816] Easier to maintain;
[0817] Speed of purchasing;
[0818] Less handling of cash transactions (especially advantageous
for vendors who do not accept credit cards, or for swap meets where
venders do not have large amounts of cash on hand).
[0819] The system can provide for creation of a network of
multi-vendor venues having the features described above which can
communicate with each other. Data can be shared among venues,
including shoppers' personal data, demographic data and inventory
control. Analysis of sales data can assist in making inventory
decisions and leasing decisions.
[0820] 92. A vending system incorporating the general features of
vending systems described herein, specifically directed towards the
gardening industry. It can include the duplication features,
customization features, round-the-clock access, flexibility of
configuration, etc. of the overall vending system.
[0821] b. One or more gardening products may be available in the
same vending operation, such as seeds, plant food, insecticides,
small tools, gloves, etc. Plants and plant care products may vended
in small amounts, as for use with a few potted plants, and in
sample sizes.
[0822] Allows consumer to test products before committing to large
purchases.
[0823] Allows manufacturers to test-market a new product or
formulation.
[0824] Uses of customization features:
[0825] Customizing plant care products whereby one can order very
broad or specific care products. Products for roses in general or
specific varieties such as: baby roses, vs. bush roses vs. climbing
roses.
[0826] With so many variable organisms which might need different
insecticides to control small amounts may be ordered according to
the needs of a particular classification of plants and or a variety
within a classification.
[0827] With a movement towards more organic gardening and a getting
away from harsh chemicals it might be difficult to find a ready
made product that will be effective. Therefore it might be
necessary to use one or more treatments sequentially or in any
combination for one or more specific plants.
[0828] With many plants developing insect tolerance and the
continuing laws reducing toxic insecticides a consumer may now be
able to purchase small amounts of approved chemicals to make custom
blends. (especially with a focus on organic gardening)
[0829] Can aid in landscaping and plant design:
[0830] Can accept specifications from a buyer and inform the buyer
of what plants meet those specifications and are compatible with
each other, in what combination and arrangement, that are suitable
to the climate of the intended locale, and are available either at
that vending location or another vending location.
[0831] The system may make gardening-related information available,
from special to planting suggestions in relating to geographical
locations and/or combining elements in the garden for compatibility
and/or beauty.
[0832] Companies offering specials, discounts etc. also can have
posted pages.
[0833] Growers or other interested individuals can post notices
concerning plants for sale, plants wanted.
[0834] The system may offer access to such references as the
databases of intellectual properties concerning plants maintained
by such entities as Cornell University and California State
University/Davis.
[0835] Trade publications may sponsor, nurseries, etc. and also
cross promotions etc with companies that are not in this industry
but close to it (gardening tools, gloves, shoes) and or huge
tractors etc. can participate).
[0836] The system can provide translations from one language into
another of audio signals, text and/or images which might have
meaning for speakers of one language that would be better expressed
with different images for speakers of a different language, by:
[0837] Using embedded text, and/or simultaneously broadcasting
readable text in one or more languages at the same time which is
not visible to the naked eye;
[0838] Providing an interface device, such as glasses, which allows
a user to see the translation text in the language of their
choice.
[0839] The system converges the technologies of recorded
entertainment material, such as music, music videos, still photos
or other material in any combination, with advertising, promotions
and/or cross-promotions into a finished product containing both the
entertainment recording and the advertising, promotional and/or
cross-promotional material, which may accompany some benefit to the
consumer:
[0840] The recording can be compiled with the advertising material
and sold as a finished product.
[0841] The recording can be compiled by the buyer from a selection
of entertainment choices.
[0842] The advertising can be for one or more products, from one or
more advertiser.
[0843] The advertising can include a charitable message.
[0844] The benefit to the consumer could consist of such things
as:
[0845] Reduced price for the recording;
[0846] No charge to the consumer, if another product is being
purchased;
[0847] Opportunity for the consumer to insert his/her own image
into a photo with a featured entertainer, the photo being used on
the packaging or included with the recording;
[0848] Opportunity to dedicate part of purchase price to a
charitable donation.
[0849] The following claims are thus to be understood to include
what is specifically illustrated and described above, what is
conceptually equivalent, what can be obviously substituted and also
what essentially incorporates the essential idea of the invention.
Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various adaptations
and modifications of the just-described preferred embodiment can be
configured without departing from the scope of the invention. The
illustrated embodiment has been set forth only for the purposes of
example and that should not be taken as limiting the invention.
Therefore, it is to be understood that, within the scope of the
appended claims, the invention may be practiced other than as
specifically described herein.
* * * * *