U.S. patent application number 11/505484 was filed with the patent office on 2007-07-12 for method, apparatus and processes for real-time interactive online ordering and re-ordering and over the counter purchasing with rebate, saving, and investing processes.
Invention is credited to Morris Edward Lewis.
Application Number | 20070162348 11/505484 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 37072509 |
Filed Date | 2007-07-12 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070162348 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lewis; Morris Edward |
July 12, 2007 |
Method, apparatus and processes for real-time interactive online
ordering and re-ordering and over the counter purchasing with
rebate, saving, and investing processes
Abstract
The Invention encompasses a system comprising a novel Volume
Purchase Rebate Business Method, Volume Purchase Rebate Appliance
sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate Online-Interactive Showroom
sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate Online-Interactive Showcase
sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate Online-Interactive SalesPerson
sub-system and Online-Interactive Ordering or Online-Interactive
Re-Ordering sub-systems, and methods and processes for purchasing
or volume purchasing or excess inventory purchasing or excess
capacity purchasing for a plurality of purchasers who are in fact
group purchasing yet purchasing individually from merchants for
goods, products and services and obtaining and investing rebates
while purchasing over the counter or real-time interactive online
direct ordering and automatic re-ordering of said goods and
services.
Inventors: |
Lewis; Morris Edward; (Camp
Springs, MD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Morris E. Lewis
6104 Joyce Drive
Camp Springs
MD
20748
US
|
Family ID: |
37072509 |
Appl. No.: |
11/505484 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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09339059 |
Jun 23, 1999 |
7120592 |
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11505484 |
Aug 17, 2006 |
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60090698 |
Jun 24, 1998 |
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60133532 |
May 10, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/17 ;
705/26.2; 705/27.2 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0605 20130101;
G06Q 30/0643 20130101; G06Q 30/0641 20130101; G06Q 20/387 20130101;
G07F 9/002 20200501; G06Q 30/0613 20130101; G06Q 20/204 20130101;
G06Q 20/12 20130101; G06Q 30/0234 20130101; G06Q 30/06 20130101;
G06Q 30/0617 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/026 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 30/00 20060101
G06Q030/00 |
Claims
1. A system for purchasing merchandise, while real-time
interactively direct ordering or reordering by a plurality of
purchasers, who are purchasing individually or purchasing
individually, yet in fact group purchasing, and for arranging
rebates or group purchase rebates paid into retirement accounts,
the system comprising: (a) one or more purchasing cards, said
purchasing cards identifying buyers, and financial institutions and
one or more card readers; (b) at least one buyer Purchase Appliance
or buyer on-site computer system comprising one or more servers,
one or more recording system modules, one or more alarm modules,
one or more metering modules, one or more microprocessors, one or
more universal barcode ROM microprocessor systems modules, one or
more control/relay modules, one or more microprocessor buses, one
or more computer/server buses, one or more control/relay buses, one
or more power buses, and one or more auxiliary batteries; (c) one
or more purchasing agent ordering sub-systems; (d) one or more
communication means by which said at least one buyer Purchase
Appliance or on-site computer communicates with one or more seller
Purchase Appliances; (e) at least one seller Purchase Appliance or
seller on-site computer system in communication with said at least
one sensor, said seller Purchase Appliance or seller on-site
computer system comprising one or more cameras, said seller
Purchase Appliance or seller on-site computer further comprising
means for receiving signals for the purchase of goods or services,
said signals being received from at least one sensor; (f) at least
one Purchase hub computer comprising at least one database module
or at least one relational database module or at least one look-up
module; (g) said at least one seller Purchase Appliance or seller
on-site computer system being in communication with at least one
remote product demonstration sub-system, or one or more seller
showrooms, or one or more seller tradeshow booths; and (h) said at
least one remote product demonstration sub-system, seller showroom,
or seller tradeshow booths containing or communicating with at
least one merchandise display sub-system which allows real-time
interactive remote viewing of physical merchandise, enabling at
least one buyer to communicate with said at least one remote
product demonstration sub-system, or one or more seller showrooms,
or one or more seller tradeshow booths via said at least one seller
Purchase Appliance or seller on-site computer, to view physical
merchandise, enhancing said buyer's view of said physical
merchandise by using said at least one seller Purchase Appliance or
on-site computer to interactively move said physical merchandise;
and (i) said at least one merchandise display sub-system comprising
at least one of a motorized revolving hanger rack or a motorized
revolving platform, said physical merchandise being suspended from
the motorized hanger rack or being located upon said motorized
revolving platform, and said at least one merchandise display
sub-system enabling the buyer to move said physical merchandise by
remotely controlling said at least one of a motorized revolving
hanger rack or a motorized revolving platform; (j) whereby the one
or more purchasing cards identifying buyers are credit, debit, or
other funds transfer cards, by which funds are transferred from
buyers' credit or debit accounts to sellers' accounts in payment
for goods or services bought by buyers, and whereby a portion of
said funds transferred from a buyer's credit or debit account when
a purchase is made by that buyer are transferred to a second
account of said buyer, said second account being an account for the
benefit of said buyer in retirement.
2. The system of claim 1, the system being in communication with
one or more financial institutions, comprising: one or more credit
unions, one or more seller banks, or one or more purchaser account
financial institutions.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one purchasing agent
ordering subsystem comprises at least one means for arranging
volume purchasing transactions by buyers, at least one Purchase hub
computer, at least one means for arranging volume purchasing
transactions by agents known as certified purchasing planners, or
at least one certified purchasing planner computer.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein at least one Purchase hub
computer is a Volume Purchase Rebate Investing Computer and
comprises: at least organization module, at least one membership
module, at least one broker module, at least one merchant module,
at least one meter consumption module for goods and products, at
least one monitoring alarm module for services, at least one
control module, at least one purchasing module, at least one volume
purchasing module, at least one excess inventory purchasing module,
at least one excess capacity purchasing module, at least one rebate
module, at least one saving account module, and at least one
investing account module.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein said at least one buyer can also
enhance said buyer's view of said physical merchandise by
controlling the position of one or more cameras through which said
physical merchandise is viewed.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more cameras comprised
in said seller Purchase Appliance or seller on-site computer
comprise at least one of a finger bracket camera, a cap camera, a
covert camera, or a camera mounted on a tripod.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein said at least one buyer Purchase
Appliance or buyer on-site computer system communicates with said
at least one said seller Purchase Appliance which is a seller
Volume Purchase Rebate Investing Appliance or seller on-site
computer by means of at least one of a direct wire, infrared signal
transmission, optical signal transmission, or laser signal
transmission.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein said at least one buyer Purchase
Appliance or buyer on-site computer system is located in a buyer's
home;
9. The system of claim 1, wherein said buyer Purchase Appliance is
a buyer Volume Purchase Rebate Investing Appliance; whereby the
buyer receives Volume Purchase Rebate Investing information on
Volume purchases of merchandise and/or services;
10. The system of claim 1, wherein said second account of said
buyer comprises at least one financial investment instrument, and
said second account of said buyer comprises at least one IRA
account.
11. A system for implementing the individual purchase or volume
purchase of merchandise, and for causing rebates to be credited to
a retirement account of a buyer, the system comprising: (a) at
least one real-time interactive show-room containing interactive
online video and/or audio capturing, processing, or recording
means, merchandise displaying means, camera mounting or
transversing means, communications, and purchasing facilitation
means; (b) at least one merchandise display case whereon
merchandise is placed for real. time interactive online viewing of
said merchandise; (c) said at least one merchandise display case
further comprising at least one camera, and means for dial-up
real-time interactive viewing; (d) means for lighting said at least
one merchandise display case; (e) means for changing a scene
presented to remote viewers of said merchandise; (f) means for
enabling a remote buyer to interactively move said merchandise
placed on said display case, enabling said remote buyer to vary or
improve said remote buyer's view of said merchandise; and (g) means
for a remote buyer to transfer funds to a seller of said
merchandise, in payment for purchase of said merchandise by the
remote buyer, or in payment for purchase of other merchandise, or
in payment for purchase of services; (h) wherein a portion of said
payment is rebated to an account of said buyer, said account being
an account for the benefit of said buyer in retirement.
12. The system of claim 11, wherein said at least one real-time
interactive show-room contains a closed circuit television
purchasing system or elements thereof, the closed circuit
television purchasing system including means for enabling cameras
mounted on a track, in a dome, or on a stand, to pan, tilt, or
zoom, signals from the cameras being processed or digitally
recorded, thereby allowing real-time interactive online viewing of
said at least one real-time interactive show-room.
13. The system of claim 11, wherein said at least one merchandise
display case comprises track-mounted pan, tilt, or zoom cameras, or
lights.
14. The system of claim 11, wherein said at least one real-time
interactive show-room further comprises track-mounted pan, tilt, or
zoom cameras, glass counters or show cases, system transmission or
reception means, or at least one Purchase Appliance for control
purposes, or for dial-up real-time interactive viewing purposes and
means for lighting said at least one merchandise display case
and/or said means for changing a scene presented to remote viewers
of said merchandise, comprise one or more of: track lights,
multi-colored backlights, a white back-drop, or a rear view
projection system and means for enabling a remote buyer to
interactively move said merchandise comprises: motorized rotating
product hanger racks or motorized rotating product platforms;
15. The system of claim 11, wherein said buyer Purchase Appliance
is a buyer Volume Purchase Rebate Investing Appliance; whereby the
buyer receives Volume Purchase Rebate Investing information on
Volume purchases of merchandise and/or services and said account
for the benefit of said buyer in retirement comprises at least one
financial investment instrument, and said account for the benefit
of said buyer in retirement comprises at least one IRA account.
16. A method for purchasing of goods, products or services, by one
or a plurality of buyers, who are purchasing individually or
purchasing individually, yet in fact group purchasing, and for
arranging rebates or group purchase rebates paid into retirement
accounts and credited to the buyer or buyers, the method
comprising: (a) inputting one or more purchasing cards into at
least one card reader; (b) operating at least one buyer Purchase
Appliance or buyer on-site computer comprising one or more servers,
one or more recording system modules, one or more alarm modules,
one or more metering modules, one or more microprocessors, one or
more universal barcode ROM microprocessor systems modules, one or
more control relay modules, one or more microprocessor buses, one
or more computer/server buses, one or more control/relay buses, one
or more power buses, and one or more auxiliary batteries; (c)
operating at least one purchasing agent sub-system; (d) said at
least one buyer Purchase Appliance or on-site computer
communicating with one or more seller Purchase Appliances; (e)
operating at least one seller Purchase Appliance or on-site
computer system in communication with said at least one sensor,
said seller Purchase Appliance or on-site computer comprising one
or more cameras, said seller Purchase Appliance or on-site computer
receiving from at least one sensor signals for the purchase of
goods or services; (f) viewing physical merchandise remotely and
interactively by at least one buyer, said buyer using said at least
one sensor to communicate with at least one remote product
demonstration module via said at least one Purchase Appliance or
on-site computer; and (g) interactively moving, by at least one
buyer, said physical merchandise, the moving of said physical
merchandise being accomplished by remotely controlling at least one
of a motorized revolving hanger rack or a motorized revolving
platform, said physical merchandise being suspended from the
motorized hanger rack or being located upon said motorized
revolving platform; (h) ordering said physical merchandise, or
other physical merchandise, or services, by at least one buyer; (i)
transferring payment for merchandise or services from a first
account of a buyer to an account of the seller of said merchandise
or services; and (j) transferring a portion of said payment to a
second account of said buyer, said second account being an account
for the benefit of said buyer in retirement.
17. The method of claim 16, further comprising processing of said
one or more purchasing cards, wherein said processing comprises:
(a) processing smart cards, debit cards, or other payment cards for
payment transactions or rebate transactions or investment
transactions at a credit union; or (b) processing smart cards,
debit cards, or other payment cards for payment transactions or
rebate transactions or investment transactions at a seller's bank;
or (c) processing smart cards, debit cards, or other payment cards
for payment transactions or rebate transactions or investment
transactions at any other financial institution.
18. The method of claim 16, wherein operating at least one sensor
detects or collects product information.
19. The method of claim 16, wherein to effect purchase
transactions, members of said purchasing agent sub-system
communicate with at least one buyer Purchase Appliance or buyer
on_site computer, or at least one seller Purchase Appliance or
seller on_site computer, or at least one Purchase hub computer, or
at least one agent known as a certified purchasing planner, with at
least one certified purchasing planner computer and further
comprising automatically replenishing a stock of goods or products,
wherein automatically replenishing a stock of goods or products
comprises at least one seller Purchase Appliance or seller on-site
computer communicating with said at least one sensor, said at least
one seller Purchase Appliance or seller on-site computer receiving
signals for the purchase of goods or services, said signals being
received from at least one remote ordering subsystem.
20. The method of claim 16, wherein real-time viewing of
merchandise is carried out by said at least one seller Purchase
Appliance or seller on-site computer communicating with at least
one remote product demonstration module, or at least one seller's
subsystem, said least one remote product demonstration module or at
least one seller's subsystem being contained in at least one seller
showroom, or at least one seller tradeshow booth and said at least
one shopper also enhancing said at least one shopper's view of said
physical merchandise by controlling the position of one or more
cameras through which said physical merchandise is viewed.
21. The method of claim 16, wherein interactive viewing of
merchandise comprises a shopper viewing merchandise images obtained
by at least one of a finger bracket camera, a cap camera, a covert
camera, or a camera mounted on a tripod, said camera of whichever
type being in physical proximity to the physical merchandise being
viewed.
22. The method of claim 16, wherein said at least one sensor
communicates with said at least one said seller Purchase Appliance
or seller on-site computer by means of at least one of a direct
wire, infrared signal transmission, optical signal transmission, or
laser signal transmission and said at least one sensor is located
or operated in a buyer's home and further comprising remotely
operating a closed circuit television purchasing system including
operating enabled cameras mounted on a track, in a dome, or on a
stand, to pan, tilt; or zoom, signals from the cameras being
processed or digitally recorded, thereby allowing real-time
interactive online viewing of at least one real-time interactive
show-room.
23. The method of claim 16, wherein said buyer Purchase Appliance
is a is a buyer Volume Purchase Rebate Investing Appliance; whereby
the method further comprising the buyer receiving Volume Purchase
Rebate Investing information on Volume purchases of merchandise
and/or services and said second account of said buyer comprises at
least one financial investment instrument, to include a Roth IRA
and said second account of said buyer comprises at least one IRA
account
Description
[0001] This is a Divisional Application of application Ser. No.
09/339,059 and I hereby claim the priority benefit of application
Ser. No. 09/339,059 which further claim the benefit of provisional
applications 60/090,698, filed Jun. 24, 1998, and 60/3033,532,
filed May 10, 1999, and application Ser. No. 09/190,152 filed
application Nov. 11, 1997. This invention relates to a system
comprising a novel Volume Purchase Rebate Business Method, Volume
Purchase Rebate Appliance sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate
Online-Interactive Showroom sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate
Online-Interactive SalesPerson sub-system and Online-Interactive
Ordering or Online-Interactive Re-Ordering sub-system and methods
and processes for operating this system. The system is used for
purchasing or volume purchasing or excess inventory purchasing or
excess capacity purchasing for a plurality of purchasers who are in
fact group purchasing yet purchasing individually from merchants
for goods, products or services and who obtain rebates which are
invested. The system is further used while real-time interactive
online direct ordering and automatic re-ordering of said goods or
services by way of real-time interactive online transactions in
showrooms (CyberShowRooms) and showcases (CyberShowCases) and while
directly communicating with the servicing salesperson
(CyberSalesPersons). The present invention also encompasses means
for interfacing with wholesaler warehousing and distribution
systems. The purpose for the present invention is to bring forth a
means for an extremely unique purchasing experience whereby
individual consumers and individual merchants can purchase all
types of goods and services and take advantage of the savings
brought about by volume purchasing of these goods, products and
services. It is further envisioned that the savings realized by
volume purchasing will be placed in consumer's retirement investing
accounts thereby giving the consumer added funds for retirement and
other purposes. The present invention solves these problems.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Field of Invention
Rebates, Saving and Investing:
[0002] The Need For Action. American workers generally need three
elements to ensure financial security in retirement: (1) Social
Security; (2) an employer-provided pension plan; and (3) personal
retirement savings. Currently, Social Security is the sole sthece
of income for 18 percent of all elderly Americans, and the primary
sthece for two-thirds of all senior citizens. For over five years,
the President has worked with Congress to expand pension coverage,
make pensions more secure, and simplify pension plan
administration. Despite these achievements, the personal savings
rate among Americans remains too low, and many workers do not have
pension coverage through their employers. Research shows that:
[0003] More than 50 million employees--half of All-American
workers, are not covered by a pension plan;
[0004] Only 305 percent of private sector workers under age 25 are
covered by a pension plan;
[0005] Only 21 percent of private sector workers earning under
$305,000 a year are covered by a pension plan;
[0006] Only 24 percent of full-time workers in firms with fewer
than 100 employees are covered by a pension plan
DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART
[0007] I could find no prior art relating to a system comprising a
novel Volume Purchase Rebate Business Method, Volume Purchase
Rebate Appliance sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate
Online-Interactive Showroom sub-system, Volume Purchase Rebate
Online-Interactive Showcase sub-system, and Volume Purchase Rebate
Online-Interactive SalesPerson sub-system and Online-Interactive
Ordering or Online-Interactive Re-Ordering sub-system methods and
processes for operating this system. Nor, could I find prior art
for purchasing or volume purchasing or excess inventory purchasing
or excess capacity purchasing for a plurality of purchasers who are
in fact group purchasing yet purchasing individually from merchants
for goods, products or services and who obtain rebates which are
invested while real-time interactive online direct ordering and
automatic re-ordering of said goods or services by way of real-time
interactive online showrooms (CyberShowRooms) and showcases
(CyberShowCases) and directly communicating with the servicing
salesperson (CyberSalesPersons)
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The Invention encompasses technology that relates to a
system comprising a novel Volume Purchase Rebate Business Method,
Volume Purchase Rebate Appliance sub-system , Volume Purchase
Rebate Online-Interactive Showroom sub-system, Volume Purchase
Rebate Online-Interactive Showcase sub-system, Volume Purchase
Rebate Online-Interactive SalesPerson sub-system and
Online-Interactive Ordering or Online-Interactive Re-Ordering
sub-system and methods and processes for operating this system. The
system will greatly facilitate the sale of goods and services while
providing customers with a means to painlessly funding their
Individual Retirement Accounts. While doing so, the present
invention provides a novel volume purchasing and rebate business
method sub-system having a volume purchasing rebate that addresses
a purchaser's long term need to provide for his retirement
security. In accordance with the principles of the present
invention, a volume purchasing and rebate system is disclosed in
which a monetary volume purchasing rebate for volume purchasing or
purchasing of excess inventory and capacity is transferred to the
purchaser's retirement account. The volume purchasing and rebate
system of the present invention thereby provides the purchaser with
volume purchasing rebate for volume purchasing goods and services
and purchasing excess inventory and capacity that addresses the
purchaser's long-term need of providing for his retirement
security.
[0009] It is another primary object of the present invention to
provide technology that will greatly facilitate the volume purchase
and sale of goods and services and to provide a means for real-time
interactive online ordering and the re-ordering of said goods and
services while also providing customers with a means to painlessly
fund their Individual Retirement Accounts.
[0010] The present invention also provides a method for purchasing
goods, products or services and obtain and invest rebates using a
plurality of purchasers who have an option of volume purchasing and
obtaining rebates and/or purchasing excess inventory and obtaining
rebates. This option derives from many factors to include,
consultation with the Certified Purchasing Planner (CPP), or as a
result of a decision based upon researching volume purchasing and
excess inventory or capacity purchasing opportunities and options
with the ordering or control monitoring unit and the purchasing
facilitation systems unit (VPR Appliance or On-site Computer) of
the present invention. Volume purchasing or excess inventory or
capacity purchasing opportunities and options can also be
downloaded to the purchaser based upon the purchasers past
purchasing trends and desires. The reordering reader or the opening
station can be used for reordering of goods, products or services
Purchasers will use various purchasing cards to include VPR credit
cards, VPR debit cards, VPR smart cards or any other type card
suitable for present invention purchasing. Input devices such as
card reader, and terminal, interfacing with the VPR Appliance or
On-site Computer, which can allow said VPR credit cards, VPR debit
cards, VPR smart cards or any other type card pay for the selected
goods, products or service and facilitate rebates for the
purchasers investment account.
[0011] Another segment of the present invention brings forth a
means for the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer generally to
interfaces with ShowRooms, ShowCases containing or Salespersons
systems and using remote means to for the VPR Appliance or On-site
Computer to control closed-circuit television purchasing systems
using either cameras in a fixed location or cameras that are
mounted for movement along a track, dome or stand to provide
automatic acquisition of a product object in response to an command
signal or the like.
[0012] The present invention also includes methods of simulating
the motion of real-time shopping through the VPR Appliance or
On-site Computer controlling the use of pan, tilt and zoom cameras,
which enhance product presentation through motion etc. In the case
of an operator-attended purchasing system, the human operator may
attempt to respond to the command signal by operating system
controls to reposition the camera carriage and to adjust the camera
direction, etc. so that an image of the product is obtained.
[0013] The present invention also includes means and methods
whereby shoppers/buyers use the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer
to virtually shop at regional as well as international
establishments without leaving the comfort of their homes and
businesses. However, purchased products are pre-positioned at
strategic locations to speed up delivery to the purchaser etc.
[0014] This segment of the present invention also interfaces with
the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer and relates to a new and
improved merchant's CyberShowCase which has for its principal
purpose to provide a moving and adjustable CCTV system for
motorized revolving platform and hanger systems on which the
product to be pictured rests and also for a multi-colored backdrop
system which is positioned behind the product in the line of sight
of the camera. The multi-colored backdrop is preferably illuminated
from behind with rear view projection or from the front with either
a white light or a light having appropriate color filter. The
projectioned or multi-colored backdrop provides a wide variety of
scenes as background for the product being photographed.
[0015] This apparatus also encompasses means and methods of giving
the presented product motion through the use of pan-tilt-zoom
cameras and moving platforms and racks located in the
CyberShowCase. Not only do these devices provide motion, but they
also present multiple viewing angles to make product presentation
more appealing.
[0016] The CyberShowCase may be used either as a stationary or
mobile showcase. Accordingly, it is a principal product of the
present invention to provide an equipment bay on wheels, which
contains the equipment and systems to facilitate CCTV
production.
[0017] Another feature of the Cybershowcase is the fact it is
readily transportable, easily adjustable in many different
positions and adaptable to a wide variety of conditions to
photography products.
[0018] The present invention further encompasses means and methods
of simulating the shopper actually being in the showroom with a
salesperson known as a CyberSalesPerson showing the product. The
CyberSalesPerson is equipped with the means to effectively
communicate (audio and video) online real-time with the shopper
(retail customer) or buyer (wholesale customer) being serviced.
These systems interface with the VPR Appliance or On-site
Computer.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 Illustrates the modular structure of the Real-time
interactive online product and services ordering and re-ordering
system.
[0020] FIG. 2 Illustrates the Real-time interactive online Volume
Purchase Rebate Appliance.
[0021] FIG. 3 Illustrates Online Buyer's and Seller's
(CyberSalesPerson) Sub-Systems.
[0022] FIG. 4 Illustrates the Real-time interactive online product
and services re-ordering sub-systems.
[0023] FIG. 5 Illustrates a systems diagram showing the Real-time
interactive online product and services ordering re-ordering
sub-systems and VPR Appliance or On-site Computer, which are
located in Homes.
[0024] FIG. 6 Illustrates a systems diagram showing the Merchant
Real-time interactive online product and services ordering
re-ordering sub-systems and VPR Appliance or On-site Computer,
which are located in Commercial Buildings.
[0025] FIG. 7 Illustrates a systems diagram showing a home and
commercial building with the Real-time interactive online product
and services ordering and re-ordering System, VPR Appliance or
On-site Computer payment card and terminal.
[0026] FIG. 8 Illustrates the Real-time interactive online,
over-the-counter purchasing systems network diagram.
[0027] FIG. 9 Illustrates the WorldWholesaler Concept for Merchant
Buyers.
[0028] FIG. 10 Illustrates the WorldMall Concept for Individual
Shoppers.
[0029] FIG. 11 Illustrates a Top View of the CyberShowRoom
Concept.
[0030] FIG. 12 Illustrates an End View of the CyberShowRoom
Concept.
[0031] FIG. 13 Illustrates the Remote Operated Online Product
Demonstration System (CyberShowCase) Concept Comprising.
[0032] FIG. 14. Illustrates Normal Distribution and Mark-Up.
[0033] FIG. 15 Illustrates Individual Internet Purchasing and
Distribution Cycle.
[0034] FIG. 16 Illustrates Commercial Purchaser Internet Purchasing
and Distribution Cycle
[0035] FIG. 17 Illustrates How Mark-Up is Eliminated and Rebates
Added.
[0036] FIG. 18 Illustrates Over-The-Counter Purchasing and
Rebates
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0037] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the
principles of the invention, references will now be made to the
embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will
be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood
that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby
intended. Any alteration and further modification in the described
embodiment, and any further applications of the principles of the
invention as described herein are contemplated as would normally
occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.
[0038] FIG. 1 Illustrates the modular structure of the Real-time
interactive online product and services ordering and re-ordering
sub-system in accordance with the present invention. The diagram
shows a remote re-ordering sub-system 1, a product
opening/unsealing station with a ordering sub-system 2, with a
barcode type reader 2A, and a RF type reader 2B, a monitor 3(touch
screen or regular) and a VPR Appliance 100.
[0039] FIG. 2 Illustrates the Real-time interactive online Volume
Purchase Rebate Appliance; The VPR Appliance 100 or On-site
Computer 3A consist of the main computer/server with recording
systems module 102 the monitoring, metering etc., microprocessor
and universal bar-code ROM microprocessor systems module 104, the
control/relay module 105, the microprocessor bus 106, the
computer/server bus 110, the control/relay bus 107, the power bus
108, and the aux. battery 101.
[0040] FIG. 3 Illustrates Online Buyer's and Seller's
(CyberSalesPerson) Sub-Systems; The Buyers Sub-System includes a
product opening/unsealing station with a ordering sub-system 2,
with a barcode type reader 2A, and a RF type reader 2B, a camera
system 6 with microphone 6C and video display monitor 3 interfaced
with the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A that communicates
5 & 6A by wireless, online or otherwise with the Seller
Sub-System (which includes various cameras such as; a finger
bracket camera 8-8E, eyeglass, cap, beeper etc. covert cameras 9A
and various other camera systems which are mounted on tripods 10,
or any other type stand or mount) the CyberShowCase and the
CyberShowRoom systems. The CyberSalesPerson is also equipped with a
R/T capable Headset 7, that has a microphone 7A, earphones 7B and
mini-radio unit w/antenna 7C.
[0041] FIG. 4 Illustrates the Real-time interactive online product
and services re-ordering sub-systems; These sub-systems 1,
interface with a VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A by way of
direct wire 4A, Infrared frequency signal 4B, RF Signal 4C and
Laser Signal 4D to the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer
communication bus 4K, whereby signals are processed in the
communications module 4G.
[0042] FIG. 5 Illustrates a systems diagram showing the Real-time
interactive online product and services ordering re-ordering
sub-systems and VPR Appliance or On-site Computer, which are
located in Homes; The diagram shows a layout of the system modules
with a signal 11A from the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A
being transmitted to the Area/Local VPR Computer 301 which
interface with other VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A which
further interface with real-time interactive online showrooms
(CyberShowRooms) and showcases (CyberShowCases) and with servicing
salesperson (CyberSalesPersons) where transactions are made for
purchases of appliances, clothing, groceries and many other types
of consumer and commercial goods and services. Area/Local Business
Owners can also advertise other goods or products for Excess
Inventory Purchasing and advertise their services here for Excess
Capacity Purchasing instead of with costly TV, Yellow Pages etc.
The Regional VPR Computer 303 interface with other VPR Appliance
100 or On-site Computer 3A which further interface with real-time
interactive online showrooms (CyberShowRooms) and showcases
(CyberShowCases) and with servicing salesperson (CyberSalesPersons)
where transactions are made for purchases to include security, fire
and carbon monoxide monitoring monitoring services,
telecommunications, natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, and other
HVAC products and services. Purchase funds are debited from the
purchasers account at the VPR System Credit Union 304 with payment
going to the seller's bank 305, and rebates going to the purchasers
investment company 306. The Certified Purchasing Planner 17 uses a
system computer 17A to monitor and advise the purchaser of the best
means to increase rebates etc.
[0043] FIG. 6 Illustrates a systems diagram showing the Merchant
Real-time interactive online product and services ordering
re-ordering sub-systems and VPR Appliance or On-site Computer,
which are located in Commercial Buildings; The diagram shows a
layout of the system with a card reader 1, and terminal 9,
interfacing with the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A,
which can allow the use of VPR credit cards 1B, VPR debit cards 1A,
VPR smart cards 1C or any other type card. The signal from the VPR
Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A being transmitted to the
Area/Local VPR Computer 301 which interface with other VPR
Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A which further interface with
real-time interactive online showrooms (CyberShowRooms) and
showcases (CyberShowCases) and with servicing salesperson
(CyberSalesPersons) where wholesale transactions are made for
purchases of appliances, clothing, groceries and many other types
of consumer and commercial goods and services. Area/Local Business
Owners can also advertise other goods or products for Excess
Inventory Purchasing and advertise their services here for Excess
Capacity Purchasing instead of with costly TV, Yellow Pages etc.
The Regional VPR Computer 303 interface with other VPR Appliance
100 or On-site Computer 3A which further interface with real-time
interactive online showrooms (CyberShowRooms) and showcases
(CyberShowCases) and with servicing salesperson (CyberSalesPersons)
where wholesale transactions are made for purchases include
security, fire and carbon monoxide monitoring monitoring services,
telecommunications, natural gas, electricity, fuel oil, and other
HVAC products and services. Purchase funds are debited from the
purchasers account at the VPR System Credit Union 304 with payment
going to the seller's bank 305, and rebates going to the purchasers
investment company 306. The Certified Purchasing Planner 17 uses a
system computer 17A to monitor and advise the purchaser of the best
means to increase rebates etc.
[0044] FIG. 7 Illustrates a systems diagram showing a home and
commercial building with the Real-time interactive online product
and services ordering and re-ordering System and VPR Appliance 100
or On-site Computer 3A; The diagram shows a layout of the system
modules located in Homes 11 and Commercial Buildings 18 wherein
Purchasers will use various purchasing cards to include VPR credit
cards 1B, VPR debit cards 1A, VPR smart cards 1C or any other type
card suitable for present invention purchasing. Input devices such
as card reader 1, and terminal 9, interfacing with the VPR
Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A, which can allow said VPR
credit cards 1B, VPR debit cards 1A, VPR smart cards 1C or any
other type card pay for the selected goods, products or service and
facilitate rebates for the purchasers investment account. It also
shows a signal from the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A
being transmitted to the Area/Local VPR Computer 301 where orders
from all over the area are combined and volume purchases are made
from local vendors for appliances and gifts 301A, clothing 301B,
groceries 301F, autos 301 C, sports and entertainment 301D and many
other types of consumer and commercial goods and services 301E.
Area/Local Business Owners can also advertise other goods or
products for Excess Inventory Purchasing and advertise their
services here for Excess Capacity Purchasing instead of with costly
TV, Yellow Pages etc. The Regional VPR Computer 303 facilitates
non-local volume purchases. To include security, fire and carbon
monoxide monitoring services 303E, telecommunications 303G, natural
gas and fuel oil 303B, electricity 303A, airline tickets etc. 303D
and other products 303C and 303F and services.
[0045] FIG. 8 Illustrates the Real-time interactive online,
over-the-counter purchasing systems network diagram; The diagram
shows the product and services ordering and re-ordering System and
VPR Appliance or On-site Computer, which are located in the home 11
or in a variety of establishments that represent the various type
businesses (food 20A, housing 20B, apparel 20C, transportation 20D,
health care and insurance 20E, entertainment and recreation 20F)
the government uses for economic indicators. The diagram shows all
types of persons that make Over-The-Counter Volume Purchases 19,
who make over the counter purchases from merchants who have the VPR
Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A. The diagram further shows the
interface between the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A and
network local/area mainframes 301 and regional super computers 303.
The mainframe 301 and super computer 303 contain as much as
possible the complete universal barcode database and they
constantly monitor and query each other as well as the databases of
affiliate wholesaler's 303C and manufacturers 303H.
[0046] FIG. 9. Illustrates the WorldWholesaler Concept for Merchant
Buyers; The diagram shows countries around the world 26 and the
product and services ordering and re-ordering CyberSalesPerson
Sub-System (represented by headsets) and CyberShowCases or
CyberShowRooms (represented by cameras) interfacing with VPR
Appliance 100, which are located in a variety of establishments
that represent wholesaler venues 23, factories 24, small retail
establishments 25, To accomplish this strategy, the VPR
Organization will acquire or affiliate with all types of stores,
shops, 18, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, and other establishments
from around the world. The VPR Organization will use these stores,
shops, 18, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, and establishments as
Cyber showrooms etc., and ship goods to customers from more
centralized warehouses etc.
[0047] FIG. 10 Illustrates the WorldMall Concept for Individual
Shoppers; The diagram shows countries around the world and the
product and services ordering and re-ordering CyberSalesPerson
Sub-System (represented by headsets) and CyberShowcases or
CyberShowRooms (represented by cameras) interfacing with VPR
Appliance 100, which are located in a variety of establishments
that represent small retail establishments 25, and home office
establishments 27. To accomplish this strategy, the VPR
Organization will acquire or affiliate with all types of stores,
shops, 18, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, and other of
establishments from around the world. The VPR Organization will use
these stores, shops, 18, 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20F, and
establishments as CybershowRooms etc., and ship goods to customers
from more centralized warehouses etc.
[0048] FIG. 11 Illustrates a Top View of the CyberShowRoom Concept;
It shows the interior of a shop, showroom, or tradeshow booth 28 in
which there is installed a CCTV purchasing system in accordance
with the present invention. The CCTV purchasing system includes
pan, tilt, and zoom cameras that are mounted on a track 28C, or in
domes 28B or on a variety of stands 28F. The pan, tilt, zoom
cameras are movably supported on an elongated tracks or rails or in
domes which are suspended from the ceiling or from the walls of the
CyberShowRoom. Signals from the cameras are processed, digitally
recorded in the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A and
transmitted as the situation dictates. These cameras allow
real-time interactive online viewing of the shop, showroom, or
tradeshow booth floor or see inside glass counters 28D and
showcases 28E from anywhere in the world. The systems brings
movement and interactive functionality to a web site allow users to
see and interact with each other and to virtually visit and browse
through venues worldwide. In essence, the video systems become
proxy eyes and the audio systems become the proxy ears and voices
of the clients. Thus, if two of more people are a long distance
apart and have a need for face to face discussion, or a need to
view information or objects while conducting the face to face
discussion, using the technology will save them a great deal of
time and money. The systems will be easy to use and relatively low
in cost.
[0049] FIG. 12 Illustrates an End View of the CyberShowRoom
Concept; It shows an Over-the Counter-Shopper 19 in the interior of
a CyberShowroom, or tradeshow booth 28A in which there is installed
a CCTV purchasing system in accordance with the present invention.
The CCTV purchasing system includes pan, tilt, and zoom cameras
that are mounted on a track 28C, or in domes 28B. The pan 28G, tilt
28H, zoom 28I, cameras are movably supported on an elongated tracks
or rails or in domes which are suspended from the ceiling or from
the walls of the CyberShowRoom. Signals from the cameras and from
wireless receiving and transmitting devices such as Buyers and
Sellers Sub-Systems are received by the wireless antenna 28J and
transmitted from the wireless transmitter antenna 28K whereupon the
signals are conveyed to, processed, and digitally recorded in the
VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A and transmitted as the
situation dictates. These cameras and other showcase cameras 28M,
allow real-time interactive online viewing of the shop, showroom,
or tradeshow booth floor or see inside glass counters 28D and
showcases 28E from anywhere in the world. The venue entry and exit
detection beam 29K automatically notify shop personnel when an
Over-The-Counter shopper 19 enters or leaves the site and makes
adjustments to the VPR Appliance 100 or On-site Computer 3A as
appropriate. The systems brings movement and interactive
functionality to a web site allow users to see and interact with
each other and to virtually visit and browse through venues
worldwide. In essence, the video systems become proxy eyes and the
audio systems become the proxy ears and voices of the clients.
Thus, if two of more people are a long distance apart and have a
need for face to face discussion, or a need to view information or
objects while conducting the face to face discussion, using the
technology will save them a great deal of time and money. The
systems will be easy to use and relatively low in cost.
[0050] FIG. 13 Illustrates the Remote Operated Online Product
Demonstration System (CyberShowCase) Concept Comprising:
[0051] A merchandise display apparatus that allows real-time
interactive online viewing of objects or information. The apparatus
includes means for a shopper to use his/her VPR Appliance 100 or
On-site Computer 3A as appropriate and call up the unit, view the
merchandise and if desired, get a much better full view of the
displayed merchandise by controlling the motorized revolving hanger
rack 29B, the motorized revolving platform 29H, cameras 29D, and
other components of the unit. During normal operations, the cameras
29D view the merchandise from a position forwardly of the motorized
revolving hanger rack 29B and the motorized revolving platform 29H
which is above the equipment bay 29I of the unit. Displayed
merchandise is illuminated by one or more track mounted floodlights
29C and adjustable light rails 29F. To the CCTV camera 29D, the
displayed merchandise stands out in space, the motorized revolving
platform 29H and motorized revolving hanger rack 29B being
concealed by the direction from which the product is viewed. When
it is desired to position the camera above the product the lower
edge of the backdrop may be curved forwardly all along the
motorized revolving platform 29H thereby concealing the motorized
revolving platform from the picture taken. A principal feature of
the present invention is the means for changing the scene
comprising a multi-colored backlight system 29M, a rear screen
projection system 29N, and a white backdrop system 29O. The unit's
communication system is contained in the VPR equipment bay 29I
allows full-duplex communications with signals being conveyed
through the system antenna 29A or by some other means. The unit
also allows wide adjustability of components, the pan, tilt, and
zoom cameras 29D are adjustable in elevation by moving the cameras
mounting slide along the adjustable camera racks w/conduit 29G.
[0052] FIG. 14 Illustrates Normal Distribution and Mark-Up, it
shows the normal goods, products or services distribution chain and
shows how the cost of said goods, products or services increase as
they move through the distribution chain from manufacturer to
Regional Distribution who add mark-up on to the retailer who add
additional mark-up prior to sale to the consumer/merchant purchaser
who pays a considerable amount more than for the item than if
purchased directly from manufacturer.
[0053] FIG. 15 Illustrates Individual Internet Purchasing and
Distribution Cycle of the present invention. It shows the home
purchaser 11 in a transaction with manufacturers or regional
distributor and direct purchasing using the proprietary technology
of the present invention, which is in effect group purchasing yet
purchasing as an individual and obtaining volume purchasing prices
and benefits while doing so. These transactions will provide high
quality goods, products or services that are conveniently organized
into departments by brand and category such as food products and
services, housing products and services, apparel products and
services, transportation products and services, health care
products and services, insurance products and services,
entertainment and recreation products and services. While the
illustration is not actually showing all of the novel items and
means brought forth in this invention on this illustration, it is
hereby noted that these items are used separately or together for
the real-time interactive purchasing transactions to include volume
purchasing, or excess inventory purchasing or excess capacity
purchasing of goods, products or services.
[0054] FIG. 16 Illustrates Commercial Purchaser Internet Purchasing
and Distribution Cycle of the present invention. It shows the
commercial purchaser 18 in a transaction with manufacturers or
regional distributor and direct purchasing using the proprietary
technology of the present invention, which is in effect group
purchasing yet purchasing as an individual and obtaining volume
purchasing prices and benefits while doing so. These transactions
will provide high quality goods, products or services that are
conveniently organized into departments by brand and category such
as food products and services, housing products and services,
apparel products and services, transportation products and
services, health care products and services, insurance products and
services, entertainment and recreation products and services. While
the illustration is not actually showing all of the novel items and
means brought forth in this invention on this illustration, it is
hereby noted that these items are used separately or together for
the real-time interactive purchasing transactions to include volume
purchasing, or excess inventory purchasing or excess capacity
purchasing of goods, products or services.
[0055] FIG. 17 Illustrates How Mark-Up is Eliminated and Rebates
Added--and shows the cumulative affect of using the online
real-time interactive ordering and re-ordering Volume Purchasing
Rebate Investing technology of the present invention for purchasing
transactions. It further shows the eliminations of most mark-up and
obtaining rebates, which would normally be this mark-up, and the
placing of said rebates into the purchasers investment account.
[0056] FIG. 18 Illustrates Over-The-Counter Purchasing and Rebates
and shows the cumulative affect of using the real-time interactive
over-the-counter Volume Purchasing Rebate Investing technology of
the present invention for purchasing transactions. It further shows
a purchaser making over-the-counter Volume Purchasing transactions
of all types goods, products or services and obtaining rebates
which are placed into the purchasers investment account.
Purchasing
[0057] The Invention encompasses technology that will greatly
facilitate the sale of goods and services while providing customers
with a means to painlessly fund their Individual Retirement
Accounts. The present invention will facilitate the offering of
tens of thousands of products from several hundred manufacturers
through online stores on the Internet, through [Over-The-Counter
Purchase] Over-The-Counter Volume Purchase with local merchants and
contractors and through Real-time Interactive purchases with
merchants and wholesalers around the world. The Invention provides
an online shopping experience that incorporates traditional
shopping mall and mail order features into an interactive,
easy-to-use and compelling online environment. Online technology,
and the Internet in particular, is an advantageous medium for the
selling of merchandise relative to traditional retail stores and
mail-order catalogs. Leveraging online technology and the global
reach of the Internet, the online retailing and wholesaling model
of the present invention provides virtually unlimited online shelf
space and the ability to reach a geographically unlimited customer
base, without the costs associated with constructing traditional
retail stores and distributing mail-order catalogs. The Invention's
strategy is to offer quality merchandise, provide effective
customer service, and capitalize on the inherent economies of the
online retailing model by allowing the purchaser to purchase excess
inventory and excess capacity from merchants and vendors of all
types.
[0058] The Invention provides for transacting with merchant in
online stores over the Internet or by over-the-counter stores in
malls or other venues. The Invention's online stores will provide
high quality color video camera images and detailed information
relating to products or services that are conveniently organized
into departments by brand and category such as food products and
services, housing products and services, apparel products and
services, transportation products and services, health care
products and services, insurance products and services,
entertainment and recreation products and services.
[0059] Shoppers can search for, browse and select products
throughout the stores and place selected merchandise in virtual
shopping carts that facilitates the process of collecting items,
subtotaling purchases and reaching the purchase decision.
Furthermore, The Invention will establish strategic relationships
with manufacturers, which allow most products to be rapidly shipped
directly from the manufacturer. Manufacturer direct shipping
enables the VPR Organization by way of the Certified Purchasing
Planner to assist merchants in avoiding inventory-related risks;
limit overhead costs and provides prompt delivery. As part of its
marketing strategy, the VPR Organization using the Certified
Purchasing Planner will form strategic alliance with local
merchants and contractors pursuant to a marketing agreement. In
addition, the Certified Purchasing Planner plans to establish
strategic alliances with other online companies and begin a
targeted advertising campaign to attract additional customers to
the its online stores. It is believed that both online and
traditional media exposure are critical to maximizing brand
recognition and driving traffic to its online stores.
Products
[0060] The present invention's brick and mortar stores or store on
the Internet will offer tens of thousands of products from several
hundred manufacturers. Products or services range widely in price
Internet products or services will be featured with a high quality
color picture and detailed information relating to product or
service specifics, service care or purchasing instructions. The
present invention's store on the Internet is designed to
accommodate the needs of both the browser and the directed shopper.
The browser can view an array of products or services by simply
clicking on one of the feature departments or service categories.
The directed shopper is able to quickly locate a specific product
or service by category or brand by using the store's search
function or store directory. By clicking on the picture of a
product or service, the customer is presented with detailed
information relating to product or service specifics, service, care
or purchasing instructions.
[0061] The present invention seeks to provide a compelling shopping
environment that will attract customers and encourage shoppers to
purchase. The present invention intends to add sound and video
features to its Internet store that will guide shoppers through the
store and announce special offers. The present invention also aims
to make the shopping experience as simple and convenient as
possible. The present invention features a virtual shopping bag
function that allows the shopper to accumulate merchandise for
purchase while browsing through the store. Items can be added to or
subtracted from the shopping cart at any time. As a registered
member, the customer is able to retain items in the shopping cart
indefinitely, even after leaving the store or logging-off. After
selecting an item to purchase, the customer is prompted to complete
an order. In choosing a payment method when placing an order,
customers have the option of securely submitting credit card
information online or telephoning or faxing the information to
customer service representatives. The present invention also
provides the option of payment by check or money order. The present
invention sends e-mail notifications that confirm the order and
shipment and promote special offers and events.
[0062] Worldwide Shopping and Buying can be accomplished whereby
the VPR Organization will acquire or affiliate with all types of
stores, shops, and other of establishments from around the world.
The VPR Organization will use these stores, shops, and
establishments as CybershowRooms etc., and ship goods to customers
from more centralized warehouses etc.
[0063] [The Purchasing Facilitation System (PFS)] The Volume
Purchase Rebate (VPR) Appliance is a powerful modular assembly
comprising microprocessor and other devices that greatly increases
the efficiency of the purchasing process and includes sub-circuits,
relays other devices, sub-systems and components that compress and
decompress bandwidth and connects to POTS, and wide bandwidth
wireless, DSL, Fiber Optic, Cable, Satellite or any other signal
conveying means. The VPR Appliance then allows the transmission and
reception of real-time digital, optical, analog or any other type
of data, video and audio signals or information to better
facilitate the buying and selling of goods and services and
enhancing the safety and security of buyers and sellers.
[0064] The present invention will interface with emerging
technologies and new developments in web technologies with the
objective of optimizing customer interfaces, web site features and
operational systems. Technologies including systems that will
enrich the online shopping experience and deliver more effective
marketing messages, to provide customized services to shoppers in
stores on the Internet. The present invention also encompasses
methods to improve bandwidth technology that makes Online
purchasing a more real time video experience for both, buyer and
seller.
[0065] High quality data sensors, of varying type, are used to
detect product information such as bar codes and other data. The
sensors sense the data by various means such as optical scan,
proximity, wigant, and processed and pre-amplifies the signal in
the data processing circuit, from there, the data is then carried
to data transmission components and. over the wires or by other
means to the central processing unit located in the Volume Purchase
Rebate System. There the data is further transmitted by radio wave,
by satellite communications, by cellular telephone, or by regular
telephone lines or by other means of communications to the VPR
Computer. There, it is received and processed by and appropriate
volume purchasing is effected.
[0066] The Product Opening and Unsealing Station consists of
opening means and data sensing means. As a can rotates as it is
being opened, the data sensor automatically reads the bar-code
data; this data is automatically conveyed to the processing unit
where it is stored in memory to be compiled and accessed as needed.
As this data is accumulated, it forms the basis for future
re-ordering of products.
[0067] The Product and Services Ordering and Re-Ordering System
interfaces with the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer, these
devices combined, are the first devices developed from the ground
up to aid owners and managers of small to medium sized residential
and commercial buildings coordinate and better manage their
purchasing of products and services to include various consumer
goods and services to include security, fire and carbon monoxide
monitorings, telecommunications, natural gas, electricity, water,
HVAC, and other energy conservation, building safety and
maintenance operations. The VPR Appliance or On-site Computer
meters, monitors and controls all of the building systems relating
to these operations and uses powerful software to integrate all
systems information into a single server database located at local,
area or regional VPR Computers.
[0068] The deregulation of utilities has brought about a need to
change and improving the means, methods for managing utilities and
protecting the inhabitants of buildings in urban areas. The system
allows inhabitants to save on utilities and security while enjoying
the comfort and safety of their buildings. The system combines into
one device a method and apparatus to remotely monitor, control and
manage the environment of buildings and to detect fire, smoke and
intrusion; to measure fuel oil, water, natural gas and electricity;
to remotely control the operation of furnaces, boilers, heat pumps,
air conditioners, lights, appliances and hot water heaters; to
prevent foul odors and clogging of plumbing pipes and the flooding
of these buildings due to the building of grease, gelatin and other
waste in these plumbing pipes to clog.
[0069] The VPR Appliance or On-site Computer also includes systems
to monitor purchasing peaks and valleys during the year to
facilitate the purchasing and selling of excess inventory and
capacity.
[On Line Systems Technology] Purchasing Agent Sub-System;
[0070] Comprises said the VPR Organization and the Certified
Purchasing Planner (CPP) who are the purchasers' personal volume
purchasing purchasing agent and assists purchasers in obtaining all
volume purchasing benefits and in doing so, they use the
sophisticated information services delivery and shopper tracking
systems by integrating third-party systems. These information
systems can be viewed as the integrated systems: (i) a publishing
system, (ii) a selling system and (iii) CCTV System (iv) and order
processing system, all of which are supported by Relational
Databases and other software in the VPR appliances and VPR Hub
Computers.
[0071] Publishing Data Module. The publishing system contains
information about all items in the present invention's stores that
have been offered for VPR type purchasing, including retail price,
cost, rebates, color and size characteristics, group information
and all manufacturer related information. Once the manufacturers
have offered their products to the present invention, the data sets
are published (downloaded) to the present invention's purchasers,
both online and over-the-counter.
[0072] Seller Data Module. The present invention's Purchasing Agent
system functions with merchants of brick and mortar stores as well
as merchants of stores on the Internet, and are designed to give
customers a convenient and efficient means to effect their volume
purchases. It will use copyrighted software and proprietary
Internet web servers to handle the volume purchasing transactional
events, queries and updates to the SQL Server database. The
Purchasing Agent system software is also designed to give customer
service representatives, who are the Certified Purchasing Planners
(CPP's) of the present invention, instant access to all merchant
goods, products and services information, to automatically update
all changes to merchants and inform the merchant of sales status by
automated e-mail communications. The CPP will also use the selling
system to assist customers with their volume purchasing efforts by
informing them of all opportunities in their respective areas. The
CPP will also use the Purchasing Agent system to assist customers
in increasing their rebates by also keeping them informed of
opportunities in their areas. All transactions are secured by using
the encryption means of the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer
[0073] Ordering Data Module. The present invention 's Purchasing
Agent ordering system retrieves ordering information from selling
systems, validates VPR credit cards, processes the orders, creates
and issues purchase orders to merchants and manufacturers and
handles all post-sale marketing efforts. The ordering system also
allows for orders to be taken over the telephone. The ordering
system software is also designed to give customer service
representatives, who are the [customer service representatives]
Certified Purchasing Planners (CPP's) of the present invention,
instant access to all customer information, to automatically update
all changes to a customer's order and inform the customer of order
status by automated e-mail communications.
[0074] The CPP will also use the ordering system to assist
customers with their volume purchasing efforts by also keeping them
informed of opportunities in their areas. The CPP will also use the
ordering system to assist customers in increasing their rebates by
also keeping them informed of opportunities in their areas. The
CPP's and marketing departments can access customer profile
information to search and analyze customer demographics and buying
patterns in order to suggest new programs and offers to customers.
The system will also communicate with the merchants or warehousing
facilities in real time for updates on order shipments and stock
status positions.
CyberShowRoom
[0075] This segment of the present invention interfaces with the
VPR Appliance or On-site Computer and relates generally to
closed-circuit television purchasing systems and pertains more
particularly to such systems in which a television camera is
mounted on a carriage for movement along a rail or track and in
which the system is subject to automatic control by a computer or
the like.
[0076] It is known to provide closed circuit television purchasing
systems using either cameras in a fixed location or cameras that
are mounted for movement along a track, dome or stand It is also
known, in the case of a system using a fixed-position camera, to
provide automatic acquisition of a product object in response to an
command signal or the like. Assuming that data has previously been
stored in the control system to indicate the required direction of
view and appropriate zoom and/or focus condition for the camera to
provide an image of the product, the control system can implement
an immediate adjustment to the camera direction, zoom condition,
etc. so that an image of the product is provided by the camera
within a very short time.
[0077] However, when the system utilizes a moving camera, such as a
camera mounted on a carriage that travels along a rail, the camera
may be located at any arbitrary position in its range of movement
at the time a command is received. Since the camera location at the
time of the command cannot be known in advance, it is not possible
to store in advance data defining a particular direction and zoom
condition of the camera, which will enable the camera to provide an
image of the product from the position of the camera at the time of
the command.
[0078] The present invention also includes methods of simulating
the motion of real-time shopping through the use of pan, tilt and
zoom cameras, which enhance product presentation through motion
etc. In the case of an operator-attended purchasing system, the
human operator may attempt to respond to the command signal by
operating system controls to reposition the camera carriage and to
adjust the camera direction, etc. so that an image of the product
is obtained. However, the variety of possible camera positions and
directions-of-view may lead to disorientation on the part of the
operator. Also, if the system is set up with multiple products for
which commands may be actuated, the operator may have difficulty
identifying the particular product to which the command pertains.
As a result, the human operator's response to the command may be
too slow, thus causing the operator to become frustrated.
[0079] While it might be proposed to define a predetermined
position along the track to which the camera should be moved in
response to an command which pertains to a particular product, and
then an appropriate direction of view and zoom condition data could
also be stored for providing an image of the product from that
predetermined position, such an approach carries the disadvantage
that a significant amount of time may be required to move the
carriage to the predetermined position from the position of the
carriage at the time the command is received. Even if automatic
camera direction and zoom adjustments are performed before or
during carriage movement so that the camera will be in an
appropriate orientation and zoom condition to provide the image of
the product as soon as the predetermined carriage position is
reached, still product acquisition cannot take place during the
time the carriage is in motion, and product acquisition thus may be
substantially delayed.
[0080] The present invention also includes means and methods
whereby shoppers/buyers virtually shop at regional as well as
international establishments without leaving the comfort of their
homes and businesses. However, purchased products are
pre-positioned at strategic locations to speed up delivery to the
purchaser etc.
CyberShowCase
[0081] This segment of the present invention interfaces with the
VPR Appliance or On-site Computer and relates to a new and improved
merchant's CyberShowCase which has for its principal purpose to
provide a moving and adjustable CCTV system for motorized revolving
platform and hanger systems on which the product to be pictured
rests and also for a multi-colored backdrop system which is
positioned behind the product in the line of sight of the camera.
The multi-colored backdrop is preferably illuminated from behind
with rear view projection or from the front with either a white
light or a light having appropriate color filter. The projectioned
or multi-colored backdrop provides a wide variety of scenes as
background for the product being photographed.
[0082] The present invention encompasses means and methods of
giving the presented product motion through the use of
pan-tilt-zoom cameras and moving platforms and racks located in the
CyberShowCase. Not only do these devices provide motion, but they
also present multiple viewing angles to make product presentation
more appealing.
[0083] The CyberShowCase may be used either as a stationary or
mobile showcase. Accordingly, it is a principal product of the
present invention to provide an equipment bay on wheels, which
contains the equipment and systems to facilitate CCTV
production.
[0084] Another feature of the present invention is the fact it is
readily transportable, easily adjustable in many different
positions and adaptable to a wide variety of conditions to
photography products.
CyberSalesperson
[0085] The present invention encompasses means and methods of
simulating the shopper actually being in the showroom with the
CyberSalesPerson showing the product. The Buyers Sub-System
includes a product opening/unsealing station with a ordering
sub-system with a barcode type reader, and a RF type reader, a
camera system with microphone and video display monitor interfaced
with the VPR Appliance or On-site Computer that communicates by
wireless, online or otherwise with the Seller Sub-System (which
includes various cameras such as; a finger bracket camera,
eyeglass, cap, beeper etc. covert cameras and various other camera
systems which are mounted on tripods or any other type stand or
mount). The CyberSalesPerson is also equipped with a R/T capable
Headset that has a microphone, earphones and mini-radio unit
w/antenna.
[0086] The CyberSalesPerson is equipped with the means to
effectively communicate (audio and video) online real-time with the
shopper (retail customer) or buyer (wholesale customer) being
serviced. These systems interface with the VPR Appliance or On-site
Computer or the CyberShowcase or CyberShowroom.
* * * * *