U.S. patent application number 13/004851 was filed with the patent office on 2011-07-14 for machine retrofits and interactive soda fountains.
This patent application is currently assigned to VENDMORE SYSTEMS, LLC. Invention is credited to Paul T. Breitenbach, Paul D. Signorelli, Igor Zhuk.
Application Number | 20110172814 13/004851 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 44257591 |
Filed Date | 2011-07-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110172814 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Breitenbach; Paul T. ; et
al. |
July 14, 2011 |
MACHINE RETROFITS AND INTERACTIVE SODA FOUNTAINS
Abstract
Systems, apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture for
machine retrofits and interactive soda fountains are provided.
Inventors: |
Breitenbach; Paul T.;
(Wilton, CT) ; Signorelli; Paul D.; (Ridgefield,
CT) ; Zhuk; Igor; (Weston, CT) |
Assignee: |
VENDMORE SYSTEMS, LLC
Stamford
CT
|
Family ID: |
44257591 |
Appl. No.: |
13/004851 |
Filed: |
January 11, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61294101 |
Jan 11, 2010 |
|
|
|
61331208 |
May 4, 2010 |
|
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Current U.S.
Class: |
700/232 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 7/145 20130101;
G06Q 30/0613 20130101; G06Q 20/32 20130101; G06Q 30/0639 20130101;
G06Q 20/20 20130101; B67D 7/348 20130101; G07F 13/065 20130101;
G06Q 30/0277 20130101; G06Q 30/0601 20130101; G06Q 10/06311
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
700/232 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/00 20060101
G06F017/00 |
Claims
1. A method, comprising: intercepting, by a retrofit device coupled
to a machine, an input signal from an input device of the machine;
transmitting, by the retrofit device and to a remote electronic
processing device, an indication of the intercepted input;
receiving, in response to the transmitting of the indication of the
intercepted input, by the retrofit device and from the remote
electronic processing device, an indication of a desired function
to be activated at the machine in response to the input signal; and
causing, via the retrofit device and based on the indication of the
desired function of the machine, the machine to execute the desired
function.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein the machine comprises a vending
machine and wherein the desired function comprises a vending of a
unit of product from the vending machine.
3. The method of claim 1, wherein the machine comprises a
visi-cooler and wherein the desired function comprises providing
access to a unit of product from the visi-cooler.
4. The method of claim 3, where the providing of the access
comprises a disengagement of a door latch mechanism.
5. The method of claim 1, wherein the machine comprises a soda
fountain and wherein the desired function comprises a dispensing of
a beverage from the soda fountain.
6. The method of claim 1, wherein the causing comprises: sending,
by the retrofit device and to a component of the machine, a signal
emulating input received by input device of the machine.
7. A retrofit device coupled to a machine, comprising: an
electronic processing device; and a memory device in communication
with the electronic processing device, the memory device storing
specially-programmed instructions that when executed by the
electronic processing device result in: intercepting an input
signal from an input device of the machine; transmitting, to a
remote electronic processing device, an indication of the
intercepted input; receiving, in response to the transmitting of
the indication of the intercepted input and from the remote
electronic processing device, an indication of a desired function
to be activated at the machine in response to the input signal; and
causing, based on the indication of the desired function of the
machine, the machine to execute the desired function.
8. A retrofit device coupled to a machine, comprising: a first
connector coupled to an input device of the machine and at least
one of a first function device and a processing device of the
machine; a second connector coupled to at least one of a second
function device and a processing device of the machine; and a
communication device in communication with the first and second
connectors and a remote processing device, wherein the retrofit
device, upon receiving an indication, from the input device and via
the first connector, of a desired input to the machine: transmits,
via the communication device and to the remote processing device,
an indication of the input; receives, via the communication device
and from the remote processing device, and in response to the
transmitting of the indication of the input, an indication of a
desired function of the machine; and causes, by transmitting a
signal via one or more of the first and second connectors, the
machine to initiate the desired function.
9. The retrofit device of claim 8, wherein the causing comprises:
transmitting a signal via the first connector and to the at least
one of the first function device and the processing device, the
signal comprising an emulation of a signal from the input
device.
10. The retrofit device of claim 8, wherein the causing comprises:
transmitting a signal via the second connector and to the at least
one of the second function device and the processing device, the
signal comprising an indication of a monetary amount approved for
initiating the desired function.
11. The retrofit device of claim 8, wherein the input device
comprises a keypad coupled to the machine, the first function
device comprises a dispensing device, and wherein the second
connector is coupled to the processing device of the machine.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application claims benefit and priority under 35
U.S.C. .sctn.119(e) to (i) U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser.
No. 61/294,101, filed on Jan. 11, 2010, and titled "VENDING MACHINE
SYSTEMS AND METHODS", and (ii) U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 61/331,208, filed on May 4, 2010, and titled "EVENT SALES
AND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS AND METHODS". Each of the above-referenced
applications is hereby incorporated by reference herein.
MASK WORK NOTICE
[0002] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains
material which is subject to mask work protection. The mask work
owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by any-one of
the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the
Patent and Trademark Office patent file or records, but otherwise
reserves all mask work rights whatsoever.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Restaurants, entertainment venues, and other establishments
and/or areas typically utilize machines to facilitate the offering
of beverages (and/or other refreshments). Such machines often
include vending machines, visi-coolers, or soda fountains. Each
different type of machine offers different advantages and
disadvantages. Vending machines, for example, double as
Point-Of-Sale (POS) devices, allowing them to function in a
predominately autonomous fashion, but with the added expense of the
requisite POS hardware and/or electronics. Visi-coolers allow
customers to choose which product they want and allow self-service
access to the desired product(s) (relieving store personnel of the
duty to retrieve products for customers), but only allow
pre-packaged items of limited sizes to be displayed. Soda fountains
allow customers full flexibility of customization (e.g., amount,
mix, ice content, and/or seltzer content), but are limited to
typically five (5) or six (6) different beverage types. While
advances in vending machine technology have leveraged expensive
hardware and software to provide increased functionality (such as
credit card payment acceptance) in new machines, older vending
machines, visi-coolers, and soda fountains remain hindered by their
original capabilities.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0004] An understanding of embodiments described herein and many of
the attendant advantages thereof may be readily obtained by
reference to the following detailed description when considered
with the accompanying drawings, wherein:
[0005] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system according to some
embodiments;
[0006] FIG. 2 is a flow diagram of a method according to some
embodiments;
[0007] FIG. 3 is a perspective diagram of an apparatus according to
some embodiments;
[0008] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a system according to some
embodiments;
[0009] FIG. 5 is a perspective diagram of a system according to
some embodiments;
[0010] FIG. 6 is a perspective diagram of a prior art soda
fountain;
[0011] FIG. 7 is a functional perspective diagram of a process
according to some embodiments;
[0012] FIG. 8 is a flow diagram of a method according to some
embodiments;
[0013] FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an apparatus according to some
embodiments; and
[0014] FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are perspective diagrams of exemplary
data storage devices according to some embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
I. Introduction
[0015] Embodiments presented herein are descriptive of systems,
apparatus, methods, and articles of manufacture for machine
retrofits and for interactive fountains. In some embodiments, for
example, a retrofit device may be coupled to a conventional vending
machine, visi-cooler, and/or soda fountain to facilitate remote,
wireless, cashless, and/or account-based sales. According to some
embodiments, the retrofit device may allow customers to utilize a
variety of enhanced services via what would otherwise be standard
machines.
[0016] According to some embodiments, for example, methods may
include (i) intercepting (e.g., by a retrofit device coupled to a
machine) an input signal from an input device of a machine, (ii)
transmitting (e.g., by the retrofit device and/or to a remote
electronic processing device) an indication of the intercepted
input, (iii) receiving (e.g., in response to the transmitting of
the indication of the intercepted input, by the retrofit device,
and/or from the remote electronic processing device) an indication
of a desired function to be activated at the machine in response to
the input signal, and/or (iv) causing (e.g., via the retrofit
device and/or based on the indication of the desired function of
the machine) the machine to execute the desired function.
[0017] In some embodiments, methods may include (i) receiving, by a
retrofit device of a soda fountain and from at least one of a
mobile customer device and a remote processing device, an
indication of a desired dispensing of a beverage available at the
soda fountain, (ii) confirming that a beverage container is
positioned beneath an appropriate fountain head of the soda
fountain, and/or transmitting, after the confirming and by the
retrofit device and in response to the receiving, a signal to at
least one component of the soda fountain, wherein the transmitting
causes the appropriate fountain head to dispense an appropriate
quantity of the desired beverage.
II. Terms and Definitions
[0018] Some embodiments described herein are associated with a
"retrofit device". As used herein the term "retrofit device" may
generally refer to any type, quantity, and/or configuration of
device that is capable of and/or specifically programmed or
configured to perform or facilitate actions, procedures, processes,
and/or methods in accordance with embodiments described herein. In
some embodiments, a retrofit device may comprise a device that is
added to a standard machine (e.g., as a post-production and/or
after-market add-on) to add to and/or alter functionality
thereof--e.g., an "after-market" retrofit device. According to some
embodiments, a retrofit device may comprise a device coupled to a
machine at the time of manufacture where such device adds to and/or
alters the functionality of the manufactured machine as described
herein--e.g., an Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) retrofit
device.
[0019] Some embodiments described herein are associated with a
"customer device" or a "network device". As used herein, a
"customer device" is a subset of a "network device". The "network
device", for example, may generally refer to any device that can
communicate via a network, while the "customer device" may comprise
a network device that is owned or operated by or otherwise
associated with a customer. Examples of customer and/or network
devices may include, but are not limited to: a Personal Computer
(PC), a computer workstation, a computer server, a printer, a
scanner, a facsimile machine, a copier, a Personal Digital
Assistant (PDA), a storage device (e.g., a disk drive), a hub, a
router, a switch, and a modem, a video game console, or a wireless
or cellular telephone. Customer and/or network devices may comprise
one or more network components.
[0020] As used herein, the term "network component" may refer to a
customer and/or network device, or a component, piece, portion, or
combination of customer and/or network devices. Examples of network
components may include, but are not limited to: a Static Random
Access Memory (SRAM) device or module, a network processor, and a
network communication path, connection, port, or cable.
[0021] In addition, some embodiments are associated with a
"network" or a "communication network". As used herein, the terms
"network" and "communication network" may be used interchangeably
and may refer to any object, entity, component, device, and/or any
combination thereof that permits, facilitates, and/or otherwise
contributes to or is associated with the transmission of messages,
packets, signals, and/or other forms of information between and/or
within one or more network devices. Networks may be or include a
plurality of interconnected network devices. In some embodiments,
networks may be hard-wired, wireless, virtual, neural, and/or any
other configuration of type that is or becomes known. Communication
networks may include, for example, one or more networks configured
to operate in accordance with the Fast Ethernet LAN transmission
standard 802.3-2002.RTM. published by the Institute of Electrical
and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). In some embodiments, a network
may include one or more wired and/or wireless networks operated in
accordance with any communication standard or protocol that is or
becomes known or practicable.
[0022] As used herein, the terms "information" and "data" may be
used interchangeably and may refer to any data, text, voice, video,
image, message, bit, packet, pulse, tone, waveform, and/or other
type or configuration of signal and/or information. Information may
comprise information packets transmitted, for example, in
accordance with the Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) standard as
defined by "Internet Protocol Version 6 (IPv6) Specification" RFC
1883, published by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF),
Network Working Group, S. Deering et al. (December 1995).
Information may, according to some embodiments, be compressed,
encoded, encrypted, and/or otherwise packaged or manipulated in
accordance with any method that is or becomes known or
practicable.
[0023] In addition, some embodiments described herein are
associated with an "indication". As used herein, the term
"indication" may be used to refer to any indicia and/or other
information indicative of or associated with a subject, item,
entity, and/or other object and/or idea. As used herein, the
phrases "information indicative of" and "indicia" may be used to
refer to any information that represents, describes, and/or is
otherwise associated with a related entity, subject, or object.
Indicia of information may include, for example, a code, a
reference, a link, a signal, an identifier, and/or any combination
thereof and/or any other informative representation associated with
the information. In some embodiments, indicia of information (or
indicative of the information) may be or include the information
itself and/or any portion or component of the information. In some
embodiments, an indication may include a request, a solicitation, a
broadcast, and/or any other form of information gathering and/or
dissemination.
III. Retrofit Device
[0024] A. System Overview
[0025] Referring first to FIG. 1, a block diagram of a system 100
according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the
system 100 may comprise a controller 102 in communication with one
or more mobile customer devices 104a-n (e.g., via a network 106).
According to some embodiments, the system 100 may comprise a
machine 108. In some embodiments, the machine 108 may comprise a
Vending Machine Controller (VMC) 110, an input device 112, a
function device 114, and/or a communication device 116. The machine
108 may, for example, receive input via the input device 112 and
process the input via the VMC 110 which then activates the function
device 114 in accordance with the input. In some embodiments, the
machine 108 may be in communication with the network 106 (and/or
the controller 102 and/or any or all of the mobile customer devices
104a-n). According to some embodiments, the system 100 and/or the
machine 108 may comprise a retrofit device 120. The retrofit device
120 may, for example, cause the machine 108 to operate in
accordance with embodiments described herein.
[0026] In some embodiments, the controller 102 may comprise an
electronic and/or computerized controller device such as a computer
server communicatively coupled to interface with the mobile
customer devices 104a-n (directly and/or indirectly). The
controller 102 may, for example, comprise a PowerEdge.TM. M910
blade server manufactured by Dell.RTM., Inc. of Round Rock, Tex.
which may include one or more Eight-Core Intel.RTM. Xeon.RTM. 7500
Series electronic processing devices. According to some
embodiments, the controller 102 may be located remote from a
location of the machine 108, such as at one or more centralized
locations. The controller 102 may also or alternatively comprise a
plurality of electronic processing devices located at one or more
various sites such as at the location of the machine 108 and/or at
one or more other locations remote from the location of the machine
108.
[0027] According to some embodiments, the controller 102 may store
and/or execute specially programmed instructions to operate in
accordance with embodiments described herein. The controller 102
may, for example, execute one or more programs that (e.g., in
conjunction with the retrofit device 120) permit a customer (not
explicitly shown in FIG. 1) of the machine 108 (e.g., operating a
mobile customer device 104a-n) to place purchase orders for
products (and/or services) available at the machine 108.
[0028] The mobile customer devices 104a-n, in some embodiments, may
comprise any type or configuration of mobile electronic network
and/or communication device that is or becomes known or
practicable. The mobile customer devices 104a-n may, for example,
comprise one or more cellular and/or wireless telephones such as an
iPhone.RTM. manufactured by Apple.RTM., Inc. of Cupertino, Calif.
or an Optimus.TM. S smartphone manufactured by LG.RTM. Electronics,
Inc. of San Diego, Calif., and running an Androird.RTM. operating
system from Google.RTM., Inc. of Mountain View, Calif. In some
embodiments, a first mobile customer device 104a may be utilized by
a first customer while the first customer (and thus the first
mobile customer device 104a) is located at and/or near the location
of the machine 108. The first customer may utilize and/or operate
the first mobile customer device 104a while adjacent to (or in the
same building as) the machine 108, for example, to purchase
products and/or services available for sale at (or via) the machine
108. In some embodiments, another customer (also not shown)
operating another mobile customer device 104n may interact with the
machine 108 while being remote there from.
[0029] The mobile customer devices 104a-n may, for example,
communicate with the controller 102 via the network 106 to
effectuate an order and/or sale of one or more products and/or
services. The network 106 may, according to some embodiments,
comprise a LAN (wireless and/or wired), cellular telephone,
Bluetooth.RTM., and/or RF network with communication links between
the controller 102 and any or all of the mobile customer devices
104a-n. In some embodiments, the network 106 may comprise direct
communications links between any or all of the components 102,
104a-n, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 120 of the system 100. The mobile
customer devices 104a-n may, for example, be directly interfaced or
connected to the machine 108 via one or more wires, cables,
wireless links, and/or other network components, such network
components (e.g., communication links) comprising portions of the
network 106. In some embodiments, the network 106 may comprise one
or many other links or network components other than those depicted
in FIG. 1. Any or all of the mobile customer devices 104a-n may,
for example, be connected to the controller 102 via various cell
towers, routers, repeaters, ports, switches, and/or other network
components that comprise the Internet and/or a cellular telephone
(and/or Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)) network, and
which comprise portions of the network 106.
[0030] While the network 106 is depicted in FIG. 1 as a single
object, the network 106 may comprise any number, type, and/or
configuration of networks that is or becomes known or practicable.
According to some embodiments, the network 106 may comprise a
conglomeration of different sub-networks and/or network components
interconnected, directly or indirectly, by the components 102,
104a-n, 108, 110, 112, 114, 116, 120 of the system 100. The network
106 may comprise one or more cellular telephone networks with
communication links between the mobile customer devices 104a-n, the
controller 102, and/or the machine 108, for example, and/or may
comprise the Internet, with communication links between the
controller 102 and the machine 108 (and/or the communication device
116 thereof), for example.
[0031] In some embodiments, the machine 108 may comprise any type
or configuration of mechanical, electrical, and/or
electro-mechanical device or system that is or becomes known or
desirable. The machine 108 may, for example, comprise a vending
machine, a visi-cooler (and/or a standard cooler, refrigerator,
freezer, warmer, and/or oven), and/or a soda fountain. In some
embodiments, the machine 108 may be associated with and/or capable
of initiating and/or conducting certain functions standard to the
machine 108 (e.g., dispensing a product in the case of a vending
machine or allowing the opening of a temperature-controlled product
storage area in the case of a visi-cooler). According to some
embodiments, the coupling of the retrofit device 120 to the machine
108 (and/or portions or components thereof) may alter the standard
functionality of the machine 108 (such as by adding additional
functionality and/or changing standard functionality).
[0032] According to some embodiments, the VMC 110 of the machine
108 may be or include any type, quantity, and/or configuration of
electronic and/or computerized processor that is or becomes known.
While the term "VMC" is utilized for exemplary purposes to describe
the processing device and/or functionality of the machine 108, the
utilization of the term does not imply that the machine 108
necessarily comprises a vending machine. As described herein, other
types of machines 108 and/or processing devices are contemplated to
be within the scope of some embodiments.
[0033] In some embodiments, the VMC 110 may comprise an Intel.RTM.
IXP 2800 network processor or an Intel.RTM. XEON.TM. Processor
coupled with an Intel.RTM. E7501 chipset, available from Intel.RTM.
Corporation of Santa Clara, Calif. In some embodiments, the VMC 110
may comprise an electronic processor such as an Intel.RTM. Core.TM.
2 Duo P8600 CPU also available from Intel.RTM. Corporation of Santa
Clara, Calif. In some embodiments, the VMC 110 may execute
instructions, such as instructions specially programmed into and/or
for the VMC 110. The execution of the specially-programmed
instructions may, for example, enable and/or facilitate the machine
108 to operate in accordance with standard functionality of the
machine 108.
[0034] In some embodiments, the VMC 110 may comprise multiple
inter-connected processors, microprocessors, and/or micro-engines.
According to some embodiments, the VMC 110 (and/or the machine 108
and/or other components thereof) may be supplied power via a power
supply (not shown) such as a battery, an AC source, a DC source, an
AC/DC adapter, solar cells, and/or an inertial generator. In the
case that the machine 108 comprises a vending machine, visi-cooler,
and/or soda fountain, necessary power may be supplied via a
standard AC outlet, power strip, surge protector, and/or UPS
device.
[0035] According to some embodiments, the input device 112 of the
machine 108 may comprise a keypad, keyboard, one or more buttons,
and/or a touch screen interface. The input device 112 may be
utilized, by a customer for example, to enter product (and/or
service) selections, payment information, etc. In some embodiments,
the input device 112 may be coupled to provide instructions to the
function device 114. The function device 114 may, for example,
comprise a vending and/or dispensing mechanism or a payment
acceptance mechanism (e.g., in the case that the machine 108
comprises a vending machine), a door and/or door lock or latch
(e.g., in the case that the machine 108 comprises a visi-cooler),
and/or a valve (e.g., in the case that the machine 108 comprises a
soda fountain).
[0036] In some embodiments, the function device 114 may comprise an
electronic processing device coupled to receive commands from the
VMC 110 and/or input from the input device 112, to execute
specially-programmed instructions, and/or to send commands to
another portion or part of the function device 114 and/or the
machine 108 (e.g., based on the input). In some embodiments, the
machine 108 may communicate via the communication device 116 (e.g.,
upon command by the VMC 110) with an external and/or remote device
such as the controller 102. In the case that the machine 108
comprises a more advanced vending machine, for example, the machine
108 may accept credit card payment via the input device 112 and may
utilize the communication device 116 to verify, put a hold on,
and/or charge a customer's credit card. The controller 102 may, in
such embodiments, comprise a credit card processing device, server,
clearing house, credit card network, and/or financial institution
device.
[0037] According to some embodiments, the communication device 116
may comprise any type or configuration of communication device that
is or becomes known or practicable. The communication device 116
may, for example, comprise a NIC, a telephonic device, a cellular
network device, a router, a hub, a modem, and/or a communications
port or cable. In some embodiments, the communication device 116
may be coupled to provide data to a central controller and/or to
mobile customer devices, such as in the case that the machine 108
is utilized by a customer to conduct product and/or service
purchases and/or social networking via a customer's wireless and/or
mobile device. According to some embodiments, the communication
device 116 may also or alternatively be coupled to the VMC 110. In
some embodiments, the communication device 116 may comprise an IR,
RF, Bluetooth.TM., and/or Wi-Fi.RTM. network device coupled to
facilitate communications between the VMC 110 and/or the retrofit
device 120 (and/or the machine 108) and another device (such as the
controller 102 and/or the mobile customer devices 104a-n).
[0038] In some embodiments, the retrofit device 120 may comprise
any type or configuration of device coupled to allow transactions
(and/or other functions) to occur at the machine 108 via the
controller 102, the mobile customer devices 104a-n, and/or via the
input device 112 in a manner not typically accepted by the machine
108. Any or all of the mobile customer devices 104a-n may interface
with the controller 102, such as a web server for example, to place
an order (and/or request another desired function) at the machine
108 by having the controller 102 communicate with the retrofit
device 120 (e.g., via the communication device 116). In some
embodiments, a first customer device 104a may communicate directly
with the retrofit device 120 (e.g., via the communication device
116) to place an order and/or request a function to be performed by
the machine 108. In some embodiments, a customer interfacing with
the input device 112 may summon, invoke, and/or communicate with
the controller 102 via the retrofit device 120 to cause functioning
of the machine 108 that is not typically and/or otherwise possible
at the machine 108 (e.g., in the absence of the retrofit device
120).
[0039] B. Methods
[0040] Turning to FIG. 2, a flow diagram of a method 200 according
to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the method 200
may be performed and/or implemented by and/or otherwise associated
with one or more specialized computerized processing devices (e.g.,
the controller 102, the VMC 110, and/or the retrofit device 120 of
FIG. 1), specialized computers, computer terminals, computer
servers, computer systems and/or networks (e.g., the network 106 of
FIG. 1), and/or any combinations thereof. The functional diagrams
and flow diagrams described herein do not necessarily imply a fixed
order to any depicted actions, steps, and/or procedures, and
embodiments may generally be performed in any order that is
practicable unless otherwise and specifically noted. Any of the
processes and methods described herein may be performed and/or
facilitated by hardware, software (including microcode), firmware,
or any combination thereof. For example, a storage medium (e.g., a
hard disk, Universal Serial Bus (USB) mass storage device, and/or
Digital Video Disk (DVD)) may store thereon instructions that when
executed by a machine (such as a computerized processing device)
result in performance according to any one or more of the
embodiments described herein.
[0041] In some embodiments, the method 200 may comprise
intercepting an input signal from an input device of a machine, at
202. A retrofit device (such as the retrofit device 120 of FIG. 1)
may, for example, be coupled to receive, intercept, interrupt,
and/or otherwise determine input entered into (and/or via) a
machine (e.g., input entered by a customer and/or operator into the
input device 112 of the machine 108 of FIG. 1). According to some
embodiments, an interception of such input may comprise a rerouting
of input signals originally sent from an input device to another
device (e.g., the function device 114 of FIG. 1) in the machine. In
some embodiments, the intercepted (and/or otherwise determined)
input may cause the retrofit device to take certain actions and/or
initiate certain sequences and/or procedures. Input directed to
standard functions of the machine, for example, may simply be
routed to the appropriate portion, component, and/or original
destination in the machine, while input directed to cause the
machine to perform a non-standard function (e.g., to accept payment
from a centralized account such as a credit card and/or other
account), for example, may cause the retrofit device to initiate
communications with an external and/or remote device.
[0042] According to some embodiments, the method 200 may comprise
transmitting an indication of the intercepted input, at 204. The
retrofit device may, for example, cause a communication device
(e.g., the communication device 116 of FIG. 1) to send a signal
indicative of the input to a device (e.g., an electronic processing
device) or system external and/or remote from the machine (such as
the controller 102 of FIG. 1). In some embodiments for example,
such as in the case that the input comprises a request to utilize a
stored-value account to purchase products and/or services from the
machine--e.g., a function which is not standard to the machine--the
retrofit device may send a payment authorization request to a
central controller associated with the stored-value account. In
such a manner, for example, a customer may utilize a standard
machine equipped with the retrofit device to conduct transactions
that would otherwise not be possible.
[0043] In some embodiments, the method 200 may comprise receiving
an indication of a desired function to be activated at the machine
in response to the input signal, at 206. According to some
embodiments, the indication of the desired function may be received
in response to the transmitting of the indication of the desired
input. Specially-programmed instructions stored and/or executed by
the controller may, for example, be executed to determine an
appropriate action to be taken at the machine in response to the
customer's input. In some embodiments, the appropriate response may
be to dispense and/or provide a product desired by the customer for
which electronic payment has been verified by the controller. In
some embodiments, the appropriate response may be to alter a state
of the machine, display and/or otherwise output certain information
via the machine, and/or allow access to electronic content such as
songs, other digital files, and/or the Internet itself.
[0044] According to some embodiments, the method 200 may comprise
causing the machine to execute the desired function, at 208. The
retrofit device may, based on the received indication of the
desired function for example, send a signal to the machine (e.g.,
to the VMC 110 and/or the function device 114 of FIG. 1) that
causes the machine to undertake the desired function. In the case
that the desired function is the dispensing and/or providing of a
unit of product, for example, the retrofit device may transmit a
signal that causes the machine to dispense the desired unit of
product--such as by sending a signal indicative of payment to a
payment acceptance device of the machine. The retrofit device may,
in some embodiments, "fool" the machine by replicating a "coin-in"
signal indicative of the proper payment amount for the desired unit
of product, causing the machine to dispense the unit of
product.
[0045] In some embodiments, the retrofit device may replicate all
input signals sent to the machine for a particular transaction. The
customer may not, according to some embodiments for example, enter
the input indicative of a desired unit of product into the input
device (e.g., the input device 112 of FIG. 1) but instead enter the
input via a customer device (such as one of the mobile customer
devices 104a-n of FIG.1). In such embodiments, the retrofit device
may cause the machine to function as desired by replicating the
remotely and/or externally-received inputs (directly from the
customer device and/or via the controller) as input signals such as
would be generated had the inputs been received via the standard
input device of the machine.
[0046] In some embodiments, such as in the case that the retrofit
device and/or central controller device do not store and/or
otherwise have direct access to prices of products and/or services
available at (and/or via) the machine, the method 200 may comprise
obtaining price data by querying the machine. The retrofit device
may, for example, poll the machine and/or otherwise send a request
to the machine to gather data regarding prices. In some
embodiments, the polling may comprise querying a database of prices
utilizing the Digital Exchange (DEX) protocol and/or capabilities
of the machine. According to some embodiments, the retrofit device
may transmit a purchase request to the VMC (e.g., via DEX)
utilizing a "phantom" dollar amount (e.g., five dollars ($5)) for
the purchase of a specific product and/or service. The VMC may
return an amount of change due based on the "phantom" dollar amount
and the actual price of the product and/or service, from which the
retrofit device may discern the actual price of the product (e.g.,
by subtracting the change due from the "phantom" dollar
amount).
[0047] C. Apparatus
[0048] Turning to FIG. 3, a block diagram of an apparatus 320
according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the
apparatus 320 may be similar in configuration and/or functionality
to the retrofit device 120 described in conjunction with FIG. 1
herein. The apparatus 320 may, for example, execute, process,
facilitate, and/or otherwise be associated with the method 200 of
FIG. 2 herein. In some embodiments, the apparatus 320 may comprise
a Printed Circuit Board (PCB) 322 (and/or other type of circuit
structure) upon which various electric components and/or traces are
provided and/or upon which various connectors to other components
and/or devices are provided. In some embodiments, for example, the
PCB 322 may comprise (i) a keypad connector 330 via which a keypad
cable 332 may be connected and/or via which communication with a
"personality board" 336 may be obtained, a (ii) a first DEX
connector 340 via which a first DEX cable 342 may be connected,
(iii) a second DEX connector 344 via which a second DEX cable 346
may be connected, (iv) a Multi-Drop Bus (MDB) connector 350 via
which an MDB cable 352 may be connected, and/or (v) a Universal
Serial Bus (USB) connector 370 via which a USB cable 372 may be
connected. In some embodiments, the USB cable 372 may also connect
to an electronic processing device 374. Fewer or more components
and/or various configurations of the components 322, 330, 332, 340,
342, 344, 346, 350, 352, 370, 372, 374 may be included in the
apparatus 320 without deviating from the scope of embodiments
described herein.
[0049] According to some embodiments, the keypad connector 330 may
receive, via the keypad cable 332, indications of input entered via
an input device of a machine (e.g., the input device 112 of the
machine 108 of FIG. 1). While the term "keypad" is utilized to
describe both the keypad connector 330 and the keypad cable 332 for
convenience, this term is utilized merely as an example of one type
of input device via which such input may be received. In some
embodiments, the keypad connector 330 and/or the keypad cable 332
may intercept and/or otherwise obtain the input from the input
device, such as described with respect to the procedure at 202 of
the method 200 of FIG. 2. According to some embodiments, the keypad
connector 330 and/or keypad cable 332 may comprise a standard
and/or universal wiring arrangement capable of receiving input
signals from input devices. In some embodiments, such as in the
case that different types, configurations, models, and/or serial
numbers of machines utilize different wiring arrangements, the
keypad connector 330 may interface with and/or otherwise be in
communication with the "personality board" 336.
[0050] As shown in FIG. 3, the "personality board" 336 may comprise
an add-on module, component, and/or daughterboard coupled to the
PCB 322. In some embodiments, the personality board 336 may
comprise a PCB that is pre-configured with specific wiring mappings
which convert the standard and/or universal wiring arrangement of
the keypad connector 330 and/or keypad cable 332 to mappings
specific to certain types and/or configurations of machines. In
such a manner, for example, different personality boards 336 may be
simply coupled to the PCB 322 to configure the apparatus 320 to
function properly in different types of machines. According to some
embodiments, the keypad connector 330 and/or keypad cable 322 may
transmit input data and/or indications or replications of input
data. Input received by the keypad connector 330 and/or keypad
cable 322 may, for example, by forwarded, passed-through, and/or
re-transmitted via the keypad connector 330 and/or keypad cable
322, such as to a VMC or other electronic processing device. In
some embodiments, the keypad connector 330 and/or keypad cable 322
may transmit emulated and/or replicated input signals (e.g., based
on indications received from external and/or remote devices) to
other devices such as a VMC or other electronic processing device.
In such a manner, for example, external commands may be received
and sent via the apparatus 320 to a machine to cause initiation of
desired functionality by emulating signals representing possible
inputs received directly by the machine (e.g., from a user or
customer). In some embodiments, such as in the case that the
emulated signals are descriptive of input an operator may normally
provide to the machine, the apparatus 320 may be utilized to cause
operator-type functionality at the machine such as unlocking a door
or cabinet, changing machine settings (e.g., environmental and/or
energy controls), and/or setting or changing prices at the
machine.
[0051] According to some embodiments, the first DEX connector 340
may be utilized to send and/or received machine data via the first
DEX cable 342. The first DEX cable 342 may, for example, be
connected to a DEX port (not shown in FIG. 3) of a VMC and/or other
machine or component thereof. The term "DEX" is utilized as an
example connection and/or protocol via which the apparatus 320 may
interface with a processing device and/or data storage device of a
machine. Other connectors, connections, and/or cable types are
contemplated to be within the scope of some embodiments. In some
embodiments, the first DEX connector 340 may be utilized to poll
and/or query a machine to determine various sales information such
as prices, costs, sales data, sales goals, inventory, etc. The DEX
connector 340 may, for example, be utilized to develop real-time
sales data at the machine by periodic polling (e.g., every few
minutes) of the machine. In such a manner, real-time sales data may
be utilized (e.g., by the apparatus 320 and/or otherwise by the
machine) to execute decision making processes such as deciding what
promotions to offer and/or how to set or change prices at the
machine. In some embodiments, the second DEX connector 344 may send
and/or receive data via the second DEX cable 346. The second DEX
connector 344 may be utilized, for example, to interface with a
mobile DEX device (not shown in FIG. 3) of a machine owner,
operator, service technician, and/or route driver. In some
embodiments, the DEX connectors 340, 344 may act as a pass-through
for an operator's mobile DEX-enabled device to permit standard
queries to a VMC and/or other machine electronic processing
device.
[0052] In some embodiments, the MDB connector 350 may be connected
to a VMC and/or other electronic processing device (not shown in
FIG. 3) via the MDB cable 352 such that the apparatus may function
as an MDB peripheral to the machine to which it is coupled.
According to some embodiments, the apparatus 320 may receive power
(some or all required operational power) via the MDB connector 350
and MDB cable 352. In some embodiments, the MDB connector 350 and
MDB cable 352 may be utilized to cause a vending or dispensing of a
product at a machine (or otherwise cause a function at the machine
to be executed) by causing a credit to be established at the
machine. In some embodiments, this may be accomplished without
"knowledge" of and/or direct access to actual prices for products
and/or services available at the machine. The apparatus 320 may,
for example, transmit a credit signal for a specific monetary
amount via the MDB connector 350 and MDB cable 352 to the machine,
along with an identifier of a product and/or service desired for
purchase. In some embodiments, the credit signal may comprise a
small monetary amount such as five cents ($0.05), such that
transmittal of the amount is likely to be too low to purchase any
available product or service from the machine. In response to the
credit signal representing the small monetary amount, the machine
may transmit and the apparatus 320 may receive, an indication of an
amount by which the credited funds are deficient for the purchase
of the desired product and/or service. The apparatus 320 may then,
for example, utilize the received information descriptive of the
deficiency amount to calculate the actual price of the desired
product and/or service. In some embodiments, the apparatus 320 may
then transmit a second credit signal to the machine (e.g., via the
MDB connector 350 and MDB cable 352) representing the determined
actual price, such that the machine may be caused to provide the
desired product and/or service in response thereto. In such a
manner, the apparatus 320 may be coupled to a variety of different
machines having various pricing implemented thereon, without the
need for the apparatus 320 to be specifically configured,
programmed, and/or otherwise privy to actual prices for products
and/or services. In other words, the apparatus 320 may utilize the
MDB connector 350 and MDB cable 352 to "ping" the machine to derive
any desired actual price metrics. In some embodiments, such a
"ping" procedure may be utilized to verify that prices at the
machine are set as desired (e.g., as desired by an operator of the
machine)--e.g., to verify that there are no discrepancies in
pricing strategies.
[0053] According to some embodiments, the USB connector 370 may,
via the USB cable 372, couple the PCB 322 to the electronic
processing device 374. While the term "USB" is utilized as an
example type of connection and/or protocol via which the PCB 322
and the electronic processing device 374 may interface, other types
and/or configurations of connectors and/or protocols are
contemplated in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the
electronic processing device 374 may communicate with the PCB 322
to receive indications of input (e.g., from the keypad connector
330 and/or from an external device or source) and/or provide
instructions or commands to (and/or through) the PCB 322. The
electronic processing device 374 may store and/or execute
specially-programmed instructions, for example, that trigger
certain signal transmissions from the PCB 322 based on input and/or
other data obtained by the PCB 322.
[0054] In some embodiments, the electronic processing device 374
may be or include any type, quantity, and/or configuration of
electronic and/or computerized processor that is or becomes known.
The electronic processing device 374 may comprise, for example, a
TS-7200.TM. Single Board Computer (SBC) based upon a Cirrus.RTM.
EP9302 ARM9 CPU, available from Technologic Systems, of Fountain
Hills, Ariz. In some embodiments, the electronic processing device
374 may execute instructions, such as instructions specially
programmed into and/or for the electronic processing device 374.
The execution of the specially-programmed instructions may, for
example, enable and/or facilitate the apparatus 320 to operate in
accordance with embodiments as described herein (e.g., in
accordance with the method 200 of FIG. 2).
[0055] In some embodiments, the electronic processing device 374
may comprise multiple inter-connected processors, microprocessors,
and/or micro-engines. According to some embodiments, the electronic
processing device 374 (and/or the apparatus 320 and/or other
components thereof) may be supplied power via a power supply (not
shown) such as a battery, an Alternating Current (AC) source, a
Direct Current (DC) source, an AC/DC adapter, solar cells, and/or
an inertial generator. In the case that the apparatus 320 comprises
a retrofit device coupled to an AC-powered machine, necessary power
may be supplied via a standard AC outlet, power strip, surge
protector, and/or Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) device (e.g.,
and/or via the MDB connector 350 as described herein).
[0056] While the apparatus 320 is described with reference to
specific quantities and types of components 322, 330, 332, 340,
342, 344, 346, 350, 352, 370, 372, 374, 376, 378, variations in the
quantities, types, and/or configurations of the components 322,
330, 332, 340, 342, 344, 346, 350, 352, 370, 372, 374, 376, 378 of
the apparatus 320 may be implemented without deviating from the
scope of the embodiments described herein.
[0057] D. Systems
[0058] Turning to FIG. 4, a block diagram of a system 400 according
to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the system 400
may be similar in configuration and/or functionality to the system
100 described in conjunction with FIG. 1 herein. The system 400
may, for example, execute, process, facilitate, and/or otherwise be
associated with the method 200 of FIG. 2 herein. In some
embodiments, the system 400 may comprise a processing device 410
(e.g., having a first processor connection port 410a, a second
processor communication port 410b, and/or a third processor
communication port 410c), an input device 412 (e.g., having a first
input connector 412a), a communication device 416, and/or a
retrofit device 420. In some embodiments, the retrofit device 420
may comprise an input port 430 coupled to a primary input cable 432
(e.g., having a first primary input connector 432a and/or a second
primary input connector 432b). According to some embodiments, the
primary input cable 432 may be coupled to the input device 412
and/or to the processing device 410 via an input "Y" harness 434
(e.g., having a first input harness connector 434a, a second input
harness connector 434b, and/or a third input harness connector
434c). In some embodiments, the retrofit device 420 may comprise an
input mapping connector 436 in communication with the input port
430.
[0059] In some embodiments, the retrofit device 420 may comprise a
first data management port 440 coupled to the processing device 410
via a data management cable 442 (e.g., having a first data
management connector 442a and/or a second data management connector
442b) and/or a second data management port 444 coupled to the
communication device 416 via a data interface cable 446 (e.g.,
having a first data interface connector 446a and/or a second data
interface connector 446b). According to some embodiments, the
retrofit device 420 may comprise a payment port 450 coupled to the
processing device 410 via a payment cable 452 (e.g., having a first
payment connector 452a and/or a second payment connector 452b)
and/or a retrofit communication device 460. In some embodiments,
the retrofit device 420 may comprise a retrofit processing port 470
coupled via a processing cable 472 to a retrofit processing device
474 (not visible in the embodiment and view depicted in FIG. 4). In
some embodiments, the components 410, 412, 416, 420, 430, 432, 434,
436, 440, 442, 444, 446, 450, 452, 460, 470, 472, 474 of the system
400 may be similar and/or equivalent to the similarly named and/or
numbered components described with respect to the system 100 of
FIG. 1 and/or the apparatus 320 of FIG. 3 herein. Fewer or more
components and/or various configurations of the components 410,
412, 416, 420, 430, 432, 434, 436, 440, 442, 444, 446, 450, 452,
460, 470, 472, 474 may be included in the system 400 without
deviating from the scope of embodiments described herein.
[0060] In some embodiments, data received by the input device 412
may be intercepted, split, and/or diverted utilizing the input "Y"
harness 434. The first input connector 412a may be coupled, for
example, to the first input harness connector 434a. In some
embodiments, the first input harness connector 434a may be
configured to match (e.g., comprise the same type and/or
configuration of connector as) the first processor connection port
410a which may, for example, be the standard location where the
first input connector 412a is coupled (e.g., in the case that a
machine housing and/or otherwise associated with the system 400
exists in a standard configuration in the absence of the retrofit
device 420). In some embodiments, the second input harness
connector 434b may be coupled to the second primary input connector
432b of the primary input cable 432 which in turn may be coupled to
the input port 430 of the retrofit device 420 via the first primary
input connector 432a. In such a manner, for example, input received
from the input device 412 may be obtained by the retrofit device
420.
[0061] In some embodiments, the first primary input connector 432b,
second primary input connector 432b, and second input harness
connector 434b may be standardized such that the primary input
cable 432 may comprise a standardized cable capable of being
utilized to facilitate the retrofitting of any make or model of
standard machine. Similarly, the third input harness connector
434c, which may be coupled to the first processor connection port
410a, may be configured to be the same type of connector as the
first input connector 412a (e.g., the connector that would
typically and/or otherwise be connected to the first processor
connection port 410a). In such a manner, for example, the retrofit
device 420 may be installed in any type or configuration of machine
utilizing a standardized primary input cable 432 combined with a
machine, make, model, and/or otherwise specific input harness
434.
[0062] According to some embodiments, the input received via the
input port 430 and/or input signals generated by the retrofit
device 420 and/or transmitted through the input port 430 may be
routed through the input mapping connector 436. The input mapping
connector 436 may, for example, comprise (and/or be in
communication with, such as in the case that an object such as the
personality board 336 of FIG. 3 is coupled thereto) specific
electrical traces mapping incoming input traces (e.g., traces
and/or wires carrying data from the input device 412) of the
primary input cable 432 to outgoing input traces (e.g., traces
and/or wires carrying data to the processing device 410) of the
primary input cable 432. In such a manner, for example, the input
mapping connector 436 may be specialized for any particular
machine, without requiring the retrofit device 420 to be otherwise
specialized. As described herein, the reduction of the need for
specialized components decreases the cost of retrofitting existing
machines and according promotes increased occurrences of such
retrofitting.
[0063] In some embodiments, the first data management port 440 may
be coupled, via the data management cable 442, to obtain, receive,
transmit, and/or exchange machine data with the processing device
410. The first data management connector 442a may be coupled to the
first data management port 440, for example, and the second data
management connector 442b may be coupled to the second processor
communication port 410b. In some embodiments, the first data
management port 440, the first data management connector 442a, the
second data management connector 442b, and/or the second processor
communication port 410b may comprise connections configured in
accordance with and/or configured to facilitate communications in
accordance with the MDB protocol. The retrofit device 420 may, in
some embodiments, utilize the first data management port 440 to
query and/or poll the processing device 410 to obtain and/or derive
data descriptive of the machine and/or products and/or services
associated therewith.
[0064] According to some embodiments, the second data management
port 444 may be coupled, via the data interface cable 446, to
permit access, via the communication device 416, to data obtained
and/or received by or via the first data management port 440. The
first data interface connector 446a may be coupled to the second
data management port 444, for example, and the second data
interface connector 446b may be coupled to the communication device
416. In some embodiments, such as in the case that the
communication device 416 comprises a DEX communication port, the
second data management port 444 may be utilized to allow an
operator and/or other user of a machine (e.g., a machine for which
the processing device 410 provides computational and/or logic
processing functionality) to interface with the processing device
410 to obtain machine data (e.g., in accordance with the DEX
protocol).
[0065] In some embodiments, the payment port 450 may be coupled,
via the payment cable 452, to the processing device 410 such that
the retrofit device 420 is capable as function as and/or emulating
a payment acceptance device for the machine. The first payment
connector 452a may be coupled to the payment port 450, for example,
and the second payment connector 452b may be coupled to the third
processor communication port 410c. In some embodiments, the payment
port 450 may be utilized to communicate with the processing device
410 via the MDB protocol. In such a manner, for example, the
retrofit device 420 may satisfy payment requirements for desired
products and/or services (e.g., for which pricing and/or other data
is obtained via the first data management port 440; e.g., via the
DEX protocol) by acting as and/or emulating a payment processing
device. In some embodiments, such as in accordance with the MDB
protocol, the retrofit device 420 may receive power (e.g., AC
and/or DC power) via the payment port 450. In some embodiments, as
described herein with respect to the MDB connector 350 and MDB
cable 352 of the apparatus 320 of FIG. 3, the retrofit device 420
may utilize the payment port 450 to "ping" the processing device
410 (e.g., utilizing a small monetary amount such as a five cent
($0.05) "ping" to retrieve a deficiency amount or by utilizing a
large monetary amount such as twenty dollars ($20) "ping" to
retrieve an overpayment/change-due amount) to derive pricing data
and then utilize the derived pricing data to transmit an indication
of a proper payment/credit amount sufficient to cause a provision
of a desired product and/or service.
[0066] According to some embodiments, such as in the case that the
DEX-type communication device 416 is the only communication device
416 provided as standard equipment for the machine, the retrofit
device 420 may comprise and/or utilize the retrofit communication
device 460 (e.g., depicted in FIG. 4 for exemplary purposes as a
wireless communication device). In the case that the standard
machine does not comprise a device capable of and/or configured for
external and/or remote communications, for example, the retrofit
device 420 may comprise the retrofit communication device 460 as an
upgrade in the communication functionality of the standard machine.
In some embodiments, such as in the case that the machine comprises
an external and/or remote communications device (not shown in FIG.
4), the retrofit communication device 460 may not be needed or
desired or may function as a backup communication conduit (e.g., in
the case that the standard communication device and/or associated
network fails to function). According to some embodiments, the
retrofit communication device 460 may be utilized to transmit
and/or receive data indicative of machine inputs, such as described
in conjunction with the procedures at 204 and/or 206 of the method
200 of FIG. 2 herein. The retrofit device 420 may, for example,
receive indications of machine input via the retrofit communication
device 460 (e.g., from a customer device and/or controller), map
the input utilizing the input mapping connector 436, and/or
transmit representative input signals to the processing device 410
(e.g., via the primary input cable 432 and the input harness
434).
[0067] In some embodiments, the retrofit device 420 may comprise
and/or communicate with the retrofit processing device 474, via the
retrofit processing port 470 and/or the processing cable 472. The
retrofit processing device 474 may, for example, store instructions
that are executed based on indications of input received from the
input device 412, based on data received via the first data
management port 440 (e.g., from the processing device 410), and/or
based on indications and/or commands received via the retrofit
communication device 460.
[0068] Turning to FIG. 5, a perspective diagram of a system 500
according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the
system 500 may be similar in configuration and/or functionality to
the systems 100, 400 described in conjunction with FIG. 1 and/or
FIG. 4 herein. The system 500 may, for example, execute, process,
facilitate, and/or otherwise be associated with the method 200 of
FIG. 2 herein. In some embodiments, the system 500 may comprise a
processing device 510, a path to an input device 512, a path to a
communication device 516, and/or a retrofit device 520. In some
embodiments, the retrofit device 520 may comprise an input port 530
coupled to a primary input cable 532 and/or an input "Y" harness
534. In some embodiments, the retrofit device 520 may comprise an
input mapping board 536 in communication with the input port 530.
In some embodiments, the retrofit device 520 may comprise a first
data management port 540 coupled to the processing device 510 via a
data management cable 542 and/or a second data management port 544
coupled to the path to the communication device 516 via a data
interface cable 546. According to some embodiments, the retrofit
device 520 may comprise a payment port 550 coupled to the
processing device 510 via a payment cable 552 and/or a retrofit
processing port 570 coupled via a processing cable 572 to a
retrofit processing device 574. In some embodiments, the components
of the system 500 may be similar and/or equivalent to the similarly
named and/or numbered components described with respect to the
systems 100, 400 of FIG. 1 and/or FIG. 4 and/or the apparatus 320
of FIG. 3 herein. Fewer or more components and/or various
configurations of the components 510, 512, 516, 520, 530, 532, 534,
536, 540, 542, 544, 546, 550, 552, 570, 572, 574 may be included in
the system 500 without deviating from the scope of embodiments
described herein.
[0069] According to some embodiments, the system of FIG. 5 may be
representative of an application of the retrofit device 520 in a
machine such as a vending machine or "smart" visi-cooler (e.g., a
visi-cooler comprising a computational and/or logic device such as
the processing device 510). The retrofit device 520 may, for
example, allow increased and/or altered functionality to the
machine with few required modifications. The retrofit device 520
may be mounted to the machine, in some embodiments, and the
following cable connection changes may be implemented: (i) the
input harness 534 may be connected to the processing device 510
(e.g., in place of the original and/or standard connection of the
path to the input device 512), (ii) the input harness 534 may be
connected to the path to the input device 512 (e.g., which
addresses the disconnection of the path to the input device 512
from the processing device 510), (iii) the input harness 534 may be
connected to the primary input cable 532, (iv) the primary input
cable 532 may be connected to the input port 530 of the retrofit
device 520, (v) the data management cable 542 may be connected to
the processing device 510 (e.g., in place of the original and/or
standard connection to the path to the communication device 516),
(vi) the data management cable 542 may be connected to the first
data management port 540 of the retrofit device 520, (vii) the data
interface cable 546 may be connected to the path to the
communication device 516 (e.g., which addresses the disconnection
of the path to the communication device 516 from the processing
device 510), (viii) the data interface cable 546 may be connected
to the second data management port 544 of the retrofit device 520,
and/or (ix) the payment cable 552 may be connected between the
payment port 550 and the processing device 510.
[0070] In some embodiments, the retrofitting of the machine may be
quickly and easily accomplished by simply rerouting and/or changing
the connections of existing cables (e.g., as described above) and
adding the retrofit device 520. In some embodiments, of the new
equipment (e.g., new to the standard and/or typical machine--such
as the retrofit device 520, the primary input cable 532, the input
harness 534, the data management cable 542, and/or the payment
cable 552) utilized to retrofit the machine, only the input harness
534 and/or the input mapping board 536 may be specialized,
customized, specially configured, and/or "personalized" for the
particular make, model, and/or configuration of the machine. In
such a manner, the cost (e.g., in both terms of hardware and
installation labor) of retrofitting the machine may be greatly
reduced.
IV. Interactive Soda Fountains
[0071] A. Introduction
[0072] Referring now to FIG. 6, a perspective diagram of a prior
art soda fountain 608 is shown. The soda fountain 608 may comprise
a plurality of function devices 614 such as the depicted fountain
heads and ice dispenser. The plurality of function devices 614 may
be coupled to a cabinet 618 that houses internal components (not
shown in FIG. 6) that are coupled and/or configured to allow
various flavors and/or mixes of beverages (e.g., carbonated and/or
non-carbonated beverages) to be provided via the fountain head
function devices 614, such as in the case that the depicted levers
are depressed (e.g., by a portion of a cup (also not shown) placed
beneath the fountain head function devices 614.
[0073] Devices such as the soda fountain 608 generally serve a
particular function for restaurants and other establishments in
which they are employed. They allow, for example, bulk purchase of
syrup, on-site carbonation, on-site mixing or blending (which many
consumers prefer to pre-bottled carbonated mixes), and
customer-customized flavor mixes. These and other attributes of the
soda fountain 608 promote decreased beverage operating costs (e.g.,
less packaging, less overall waste, less refrigeration, and less
transportation), increased customer flexibility and satisfaction,
and the ability of an establishment to push beverage fulfillment to
customers (i.e., self-service) as opposed to requiring staff to
manage the process. These benefits are available via the soda
fountain 608 as a relatively low-cost and simple machine that does
not require or utilize complex electronics, that does not require
third-party stocking, and that can often be maintained and managed
by on-site personnel.
[0074] B. Processes
[0075] Turning to FIG. 7, a functional perspective diagram of a
process 700 according to some embodiments is shown. In some
embodiments, the process 700 may be performed, facilitated, and/or
implemented by and/or otherwise associated with one or more
specialized computerized processing devices (e.g., the controller
102, mobile customer devices 104a-n, and/or retrofit device 120 of
FIG. 1, the apparatus 320 of FIG. 3, and/or the retrofit devices
420, 520 and/or processing devices 410, 510 of FIG. 4 and/or FIG. 5
herein), specialized computers, computer terminals, computer
servers, computer systems and/or networks, and/or any combinations
thereof. In some embodiments, the process 700 may be related to
and/or comprise methods of retrofitting machines and/or selling
products and/or services via retrofitted machines such as described
in conjunction with the method 200 of FIG. 2 herein. In some
embodiments, the process 700 may be embodied in, facilitated by,
and/or otherwise associated with various input mechanisms and/or
interfaces as described herein. In some embodiments, the process
700 may implement and/or facilitate various Grab-n-Go.TM.
interactive functionalities as described in conjunction with FIG.
5, FIG. 6, FIG. 7, and/or FIG. 8 of co-pending U.S. patent
application Ser. No. ______ filed on Jan. 11, 2011 in the name of
Breitenbach et al. and titled "SMART VISI-COOLERS", such concepts
of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.
[0076] According to some embodiments, the process 700 may comprise
various procedures performed in association with a controller 702,
a customer device 704, and/or a soda fountain 708. In some
embodiments the soda fountain 708 may comprise a plurality of
function devices 714 such as a first fountain head 714a, syrup
containers 714-1, a syrup motor 714-2, a syrup solenoid 714-3, a
carbon dioxide tank 714-4, a carbon dioxide regulator 714-5, a
fresh water supply 714-6, a carbonator device 714-7, a carbonated
water (i.e., soda and/or seltzer water) solenoid 714-8, and ice bin
714-9, and/or a cold plate 714-10. In some embodiments, the soda
fountain 708 may comprise a cabinet 718 and/or a retrofit device
720. The retrofit device 720 may, according to some embodiments,
transform the soda fountain 708 into an "interactive" soda fountain
708, as described in more detail hereinafter. In some embodiments,
the retrofit device 720 may comprise a retrofit communication
module 760. According to some embodiments, the process 700 may
comprise various procedures performed in association with a
beverage cup 780 and/or a Point-Of-Sale (POS) device 782.
[0077] According to some embodiments, fewer or more components 702,
704, 708, 714, 718, 720, 760, 780, 782 and/or various
configurations of the depicted components 702, 704, 708, 714, 718,
720, 760, 780, 782 may be included in execution of the process 700
without deviating from the scope of embodiments described herein.
In some embodiments, the components 702, 704, 708, 714, 718, 720,
760 may be similar in configuration and/or functionality to
similarly named and/or numbered components as described with
reference to the systems 100, 400, 500 of FIG. 1, FIG. 4, and/or
FIG. 5, the method 200 of FIG. 2, and/or the apparatus 320 of FIG.
3 herein.
[0078] In some embodiments, the process 700 may comprise a
transmission sent from the customer device 704 and received by the
controller 702, at 790-1a. A customer utilizing the customer device
704 may, for example, utilize communication functionality such as
Bluetooth.RTM., IR, RF, and/or Wi-Fi.RTM. and/or may utilize an
application such as an iPhone.RTM. and/or Android.RTM. application
obtained from an online marketplace of available applications, to
communicate a desire to purchase an amount of beverage from and/or
otherwise interact with the interactive soda fountain 708. In some
embodiments, the customer device 704 may transmit and the
controller 702 may receive an indication of an order or purchase
request to be fulfilled by the interactive fountain 708.
[0079] According to some embodiments, a transmission including an
indication of the transmission at 790-1a may be sent from the
controller 702 (and/or the customer device 704) to the retrofit
communication module 760, at 790-1b. In some embodiments, such as
in the case that the customer device 704 is configured for direct
communication with the interactive soda fountain 708 (and/or vice
versa), the transmission at 790-1b may take the place of the
transmission at 790-1a and/or the controller 702 may not be
necessary for the implementation of the process 700. In some
embodiments, the transmission at 790-1b may comprise an indication
and/or a command operative to cause the retrofit device 720 to
execute stored instructions, process and/or gather or transmit
data, and/or otherwise cause a desired action thereof. In the case
that the transmission at 790-1b comprises an indication of a
desired transaction such as the purchase of a certain quantity
and/or type of beverage available via the interactive fountain 708,
for example, the retrofit device 720 may cause, in response to the
indication, the interactive fountain 708 to operate in accordance
with the desired transaction (e.g., provide the desired
product).
[0080] In some embodiments, such as in the case that the customer
device 704 is utilized to purchase a beverage from the interactive
fountain 708, the customer may place the beverage cup 780
underneath the first fountain head 714a--e.g., to put the beverage
cup in position to receive the desired beverage, at 790-2. In some
embodiments, such as in response to the transmission at 790-1b,
and/or after or in response to the placing of the beverage cup 780
at 790-2, the retrofit device 720 may transmit and the solenoids
714-3, 714-8 may receive an indication to activate product flow in
the first fountain head 714a, at 790-3a. The indication received by
the solenoids 714-3, 714-8 (and/or by either the syrup solenoid
714-3 or the carbonated water solenoid 714-8, as is appropriate for
the desired beverage) may, for example, cause the desired beverage
to be dispensed into the beverage cup 780. According to some
embodiments, since the dispensing of the beverage in the process
700 is initiated by a device (e.g., the customer device 704) other
than the beverage cup 780 (e.g., being placed in position, which is
the standard mechanism by which a fountain head 714 and the
respective solenoids 714-3, 714-8 are activated), the retrofit
device 720 and/or the interactive fountain 708 may be configured to
sense the appropriate placement of the beverage cup 780 prior to
initiating the transmission at 790-3a (e.g., to ensure that the
desired beverage is dispensed into an appropriate container instead
of onto the floor). While not explicitly shown in FIG. 7, such
sensing may be conducted by any type, quantity, and/or
configuration of sensor that is or becomes known or desirable such
as a photo or other optical sensor and/or a pressure sensor.
[0081] In some embodiments, such as in the case that the solenoids
714-3, 714-8 are not configured to activate all requisite
components for dispensing the desired beverage and/or in the case
that direct control and/or setting or adjustments are desired for
other components, the retrofit device 720 may send other
transmissions to activate other components of the interactive
fountain 708. The retrofit device 720 may transmit and the syrup
pump 714-2 may receive, for example, a signal indicating desired
activation and/or a desired setting for the syrup pump 714-2, at
790-3b. Similarly, the retrofit device 720 may transmit and the
carbonator 714-7 may receive, for example, a signal indicating
desired activation and/or a desired setting for the carbonator
714-7, at 790-3c. According to some embodiments, the retrofit
device 720 may be utilized to remotely and/or dynamically set or
alter the mixture of syrup and carbonated water to set and/or alter
the taste of the desired beverage. The customer operating the
customer device 704 may, for example, utilize an interface of an
application running on (or at least partially on) the customer
device 704 to select a desired syrup to carbonated water ratio that
will be applied when the interactive fountain 708 dispenses the
desired beverage into the beverage cup 780.
[0082] According to some embodiments, the retrofit device 720
and/or the retrofit communication module 760 thereof may transmit
and the controller 702 (and/or the customer device 704) may
receive, information descriptive of various parameters and/or
metrics associated with the interactive soda fountain 708, at
790-4. The transmission at 790-4 may comprise, for example, a
confirmation of the dispensing of the desired beverage, sales data
associated with the transaction conducted in accordance with the
process 700, sales data from other transactions, inventory levels
of syrup, carbon dioxide, and/or ice, and/or settings and/or
maintenance conditions or diagnostics of the interactive soda
fountain 708 (and/or components thereof). In some embodiments, such
as in the case that the transmission at 790-4 is not directed to
the customer device 704, the controller 702 may transmit and the
customer device 704 may receive, an indication of the transaction
such as a confirmation of the dispensing of the desired product, a
transaction receipt, and/or another indication that the customer
has properly acquired the desired beverage (e.g., and is
accordingly permitted to leave an associated restaurant
establishment with the filled beverage cup 780), at 790-5.
[0083] In some embodiments, the process 700 may comprise a
transmission from the controller 702 and a receipt by the POS
device 782, of an indication of data descriptive of the transaction
and/or descriptive of the interactive soda fountain 708, at 790-6.
In such a manner, for example, a purchase transaction at the
interactive soda fountain 708 may be conducted without requiring
interaction with and/or utilization of the POS device 782 (e.g.,
likely decreasing lines at the restaurant and/or otherwise
increasing efficiencies and/or reducing transaction costs). In some
embodiments, the transmission at 790-6 may include an indication
that the customer has purchased and/or is otherwise entitled to the
desired beverage dispensed into the beverage cup 780, such that the
restaurant staff is made aware of the transaction conducted via the
process 700. According to some embodiments (such as depicted in
FIG. 7), the interactive soda fountain 708 may be configured to
provide fountain heads 714 that are capable of dispensing beverages
in a standard fashion (e.g., the two (2) left-most fountain heads
714 depicted with cup-placement solenoid activation levers) as well
as fountain heads 714 that are only capable of dispensing beverages
in response to signals associated with the retrofit device 720
(e.g., wireless and/or mobile beverage ordering via the customer
device 704).
[0084] C. Methods
[0085] Turning to FIG. 8 a flow diagram of a method 800 according
to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the method 800
may be performed and/or implemented by and/or otherwise associated
with one or more specialized computerized processing devices (e.g.,
the controller 102, mobile customer devices 104a-n, and/or retrofit
device 120 of FIG. 1, the apparatus 320 of FIG. 3, and/or the
retrofit devices 420, 520, 720 of FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and/or FIG. 7,
and/or the processing devices 410, 510 of FIG. 4 and/or FIG. 5
herein), specialized computers, computer terminals, computer
servers, computer systems and/or networks, and/or any combinations
thereof. In some embodiments, the method 800 may be related to
and/or comprise methods of retrofitting machines such as soda
fountains and/or selling products and/or services via retrofitted
machines such as described in conjunction with the process 700 of
FIG. 7 herein. In some embodiments, the method 800 may be embodied
in, facilitated by, and/or otherwise associated with various input
mechanisms and/or interfaces as described herein.
[0086] In some embodiments, the method 800 may comprise receiving,
by a retrofit device of a soda fountain and from at least one of a
mobile customer device and a remote processing device, an
indication of a desired dispensing of a beverage available at the
soda fountain, at 802. While a standard soda fountain operates to
dispense beverages upon triggering of a solenoid activation lever,
for example, an "interactive" soda fountain (i.e., a soda fountain
retrofitted as described herein) may also or alternatively permit
beverage dispensing activation upon receipt of a signal (e.g.,
received via a network such as the network 106 of FIG. 1). In some
embodiments, a customer device such as a PC, PDA, and/or smart
phone may be utilized to place orders for beverages at the
interactive (or "smart") soda fountain. An application operating on
the customer device may transmit commands to the interactive soda
fountain, for example, and/or the customer device may interface
with a controller or server (e.g., the remote processing device)
such as a web server that hosts a website configured to permit
electronic ordering of beverages dispensed from the interactive
soda fountain.
[0087] According to some embodiments, the method 800 may comprise
confirming that a beverage container is positioned beneath an
appropriate fountain head of the soda fountain, at 804. It may be
desirable, for example, to ensure that any quantity of desired
beverage dispensed form the interactive soda fountain be properly
dispensed into a container, as opposed to being dispensed into a
drain, onto the floor, and/or otherwise wasted. In some
embodiments, the confirming may comprise receiving (e.g., via the
retrofit device) a signal indicating that a cup is properly
positioned. The customer may, after transmitting the request for
the beverage, for example, be prompted to confirm placement of a
beverage container beneath an appropriate fountain head of the
interactive soda fountain via which the desired beverage will be
dispensed. The customer may, in response to a prompt and/or
otherwise, press a button, send a signal, and/or otherwise indicate
to the remote electronic processing device (e.g., a server) and/or
directly to the retrofit device of the interactive fountain that
the container is ready for dispensing. In some embodiments, the
interactive soda fountain and/or retrofit device may be outfitted
with a sensor such as a photo and/or other optical sensor or a
pressure sensor. The sensor may detect appropriate placement of the
container and may send a signal indicative of the placement to the
retrofit device (e.g., confirming the presence of the
container/cup). In some embodiments, the sensor may simply comprise
a traditional fountain head solenoid activation lever (e.g., the
lever that cups are typically placed against to engage to initiate
standard dispensing) re-wired to connect to the retrofit device
instead of the solenoid(s). According to some embodiments, the
solenoids(s) may be wired to engage only upon receiving appropriate
signals (and/or detecting appropriate states) from both the
traditional fountain head solenoid activation lever and the
retrofit device (e.g., both an authorized purchase and a properly
placed cup may be required to trigger beverage dispensing). In some
embodiments, the authorized purchase signal and/or indication may
comprise input received via a button or other interface of the
interactive soda fountain that is descriptive of a traditional,
manual, and/or otherwise "cash" purchase. Customers utilizing the
interactive soda fountain in the traditional fashion, for example,
may approach the machine and press a "cash" purchase button that
authorizes dispensing (e.g., in conjunction with the solenoid
activation lever). Reconciliation of the purchase may then take
place at the POS of the establishment as is typical. In some
embodiments, such as in the case that the "cash" transaction (e.g.,
a transaction conducted in a manner other than via the retrofit
device) occurs prior to the dispensing of the beverage, the machine
may comprise a barcode scanner or other input device wherein a
receipt for the purchase is operable to activate the desired
fountain head (e.g., in conjunction with the solenoid activation
lever).
[0088] In some embodiments, such as in the case that refills are
managed by the interactive fountain, the sensor may also or
alternatively be capable of identifying a specific container (such
as by scanning a barcode or other computer-readable indicia and/or
via RF Identification (RFID)). Refills of a container that has
already received a dispensing of a beverage may, for example,
automatically be tracked and/or allowed upon subsequent
identification of the same container properly placed under a
fountain head of the interactive fountain. In such a manner, for
example, the interactive fountain may automatically charge a repeat
customer either for a refill or for a subsequent transaction. In
the case that an establishment provides free refills, only those
containers having previously been utilized to conduct a purchase
(e.g., ever, or during a certain time period such as within the
last hour) may be authorized to receive subsequent dispensing
without requiring further payment authorization. In some
embodiments, such as in the case that a customer has requested and
is authorized to receive a certain amount of a beverage, the
retrofit device may track the actual amount of beverage dispensed.
In such a manner, for example, if a malfunction and/or other
situation causes the customer to only partially dispense the
beverage (e.g., the customer may only desire a portion of the
beverage now and may wish to return for the remainder at some later
time), upon return of the same container to the interactive
fountain, the remainder of the beverage may be dispensed without
requiring further payment. While embodiments are described with
respect to identifying the container utilized, it is also
contemplated that the customer device itself may also or
alternatively be identified and utilized to determine a returning
customer and/or identify a partial purchase fulfillment.
[0089] According to some embodiments, the method 800 may comprise
transmitting (e.g., by the retrofit device) a signal to at least
one component of the soda fountain, wherein the transmitting causes
the appropriate fountain head to dispense an appropriate quantity
of the desired beverage, at 806. After the confirming at 804 and/or
in response to the receiving at 802, for example, the retrofit
device may activate appropriate interactive fountain components to
cause a dispensing of the desired beverage (e.g., in the desired
amount and/or with the desired mix of flavors, syrup, and/or
carbonated water). The retrofit device may be coupled to send a
signal to fountain head solenoids (e.g., the solenoids 714-3, 714-8
of FIG. 7 herein), for example, triggering a dispensing as desired.
In some embodiments, such as in the case that custom and/or
personalized (e.g., based on stored customer account parameters or
preferences) beverage mixes are desired, the retrofit device may
send signals activating and/or setting other components such as
syrup pumps, carbon dioxide regulators, and/or carbonator devices
to achieve the desired beverage characteristics. In some
embodiments, the transmitting may also comprise disabling one or
more of the other fountain heads of the interactive soda fountain
(e.g., during the remote/electronic purchase transaction).
[0090] According to some embodiments, the interactive fountain may
utilize the retrofit device to enhance profitability and/or other
efficiencies. The retrofit device may be coupled to monitor and/or
report (e.g., to the remote electronic processing device) sales
and/or dispensing or other machine data, for example, such as
amount and type of product dispensed, temperatures of product
storage areas, number and/or type of transactions (e.g., manual
and/or traditional dispensing transactions compared to electronic
transactions via the retrofit device), carbon dioxide pressure
levels, pressure and/or other settings, fresh water volume and/or
flow rates, and/or electricity usage. The stored, tracked, and/or
reported data may, in some embodiments, be utilized by the
controller and/or by an establishment in which the interactive
fountain resides (e.g., by a POS system thereof) to perform revenue
management, restocking, and/or marketing analysis based on products
sold via the interactive fountain.
[0091] In some embodiments, the interactive fountain may be capable
of interacting with customer devices (e.g., directly and/or via a
central and/or remote controller device) in a variety of other
novel and useful ways. The interactive fountain, via the retrofit
device, may detect a customer's presence near the interactive
fountain and push advertisements, promotions, and/or offers to a
device associated with the nearby customer. The retrofit device
may, for example, automatically activate an interactive fountain
application on the customers smart phone or tablet computer, via
which the customer may order (and cause to be dispensed) drinks
from the interactive fountain. In some embodiments, an instant-win
game and/or competitive game may be played by the customer, via the
retrofit device of the interactive fountain. The customer may be
presented with an instant win game via their mobile device upon
entering an establishment, for example, and may redeem a prize won
via the establishment and/or the interactive fountain. Upon winning
a game, for example, the interactive fountain may automatically
allow the customer to dispense the appropriate prize. Similarly,
competitive games against other competitors may be managed and/or
facilitated by the retrofit device, with winners being provided
prizes via the interactive fountain (and/or via a POS device of the
establishment). Codes descriptive of a winning event may be
provided to the customer's device and may be operable to cause the
interactive fountain (e.g., upon input thereof) and/or the POS
system to provide a prize to the customer. In some embodiments, a
"leader board" of winning patrons may be displayed, such as on or
by the interactive fountain and/or via the mobile device
application associated therewith. According to some embodiments,
game results and/or other information associated with a customer
may be posted to one or more social networking sites and/or
accounts associated with the customer (e.g., a message or posting
announcing that the customer has just won a free soda fountain
beverage at a particular establishment may be automatically posted
to a webpage and/or thread associate with the customer).
V. Apparatus
[0092] Turning to FIG. 9, a block diagram of an apparatus 900
according to some embodiments is shown. In some embodiments, the
apparatus 900 may be similar in configuration and/or functionality
to the controller 102, 702, the mobile customer devices 104a-n,
704, and/or retrofit device 120, 720 of FIG. 1 and/or FIG. 7, the
apparatus 320 of FIG. 3, and/or the retrofit devices 420, 520,
and/or the processing devices 410, 510 of FIG. 4 and/or FIG. 5
herein. The apparatus 900 may, for example, execute, process,
facilitate, and/or otherwise be associated with the methods 200,
300, 800 of FIG. 2, FIG. 3, and/or FIG. 8 and/or with the process
700 of FIG. 7 herein. In some embodiments, the apparatus 900 may
comprise a processor 910, an input device 912, an output device
914, a communication device 916, and/or a memory device 940. Fewer
or more components and/or various configurations of the components
910, 912, 914, 916 may be included in the apparatus 900 without
deviating from the scope of embodiments described herein. In some
embodiments, the components 910, 912, 914, 916 of the apparatus 900
may be similar and/or equivalent to the similarly named and/or
numbered components described with respect to the systems 100, 400,
500 of FIG. 1, FIG. 4, and/or FIG. 5, the apparatus 320 of FIG. 3,
and/or the process 700 of FIG. 7 herein.
[0093] According to some embodiments, the processor 910 may be or
include any type, quantity, and/or configuration of electronic
and/or computerized processor that is or becomes known. The
processor 910 may comprise, for example, an Intel.RTM. IXP 2800
network processor or an Intel.RTM. XEON.TM. Processor coupled with
an Intel.RTM. E7501 chipset, available from Intel.RTM. Corporation
of Santa Clara, Calif. In some embodiments, the processor 910 may
comprise an electronic processor such as an Intel.RTM. Core.TM.2
Duo P8600 CPU also available from Intel.RTM. Corporation of Santa
Clara, Calif. In some embodiments, the processor 910 may execute
instructions, such as instructions specially programmed into and/or
for the processor 910. The execution of the specially-programmed
instructions may, for example, enable and/or facilitate the
apparatus 900 to operate in accordance with embodiments as
described herein.
[0094] In some embodiments, the processor 910 may comprise multiple
inter-connected processors, microprocessors, and/or micro-engines.
According to some embodiments, the processor 910 (and/or the
apparatus 900 and/or other components thereof) may be supplied
power via a power supply (not shown) such as a battery, an AC
source, a DC source, an AC/DC adapter, solar cells, and/or an
inertial generator. In the case that the apparatus 900 comprises a
server such as a blade server, necessary power may be supplied via
a standard AC outlet, power strip, surge protector, and/or UPS
device.
[0095] In some embodiments, the input device 912 and/or the output
device 914 are communicatively coupled to the processor 910 (e.g.,
via wired and/or wireless connections, traces, and/or pathways) and
they may generally comprise any types or configurations of input
and output components and/or devices that are or become known,
respectively. The input device 912 may comprise, for example, a
keyboard that allows an operator and/or customer of the apparatus
900 to interface with the apparatus 900 (e.g., by an operator of a
mobile computing device, such as to implement and/or interact with
embodiments herein to purchase products at machines and/or to
otherwise induce functionality at and/or by such machines). The
output device 914 may, according to some embodiments, comprise a
display screen and/or other practicable output component and/or
device. The output device 914 may, for example, provide
information, data, and/or images that permit a customer to purchase
products and/or may comprise a dispensing device and/or other
component that provides output and/or other functionality at a
machine such as a vending machine, visi-cooler, and/or soda
fountain. According to some embodiments, the input device 912
and/or the output device 914 may comprise and/or be embodied in a
single device such as a touch-screen monitor.
[0096] In some embodiments, the communication device 916 may
comprise any type or configuration of communication device that is
or becomes known or practicable. The communication device 916 may,
for example, comprise a NIC, a telephonic device, a cellular
network device, a router, a hub, a modem, and/or a communications
port or cable. In some embodiments, the communication device 916
may be coupled to provide data to a central controller and/or to
mobile customer devices, such as in the case that the apparatus 900
is utilized by a customer to purchase products and/or conduct
social networking via a customer's wireless and/or mobile device.
According to some embodiments, the communication device 916 may
also or alternatively be coupled to the processor 910. In some
embodiments, the communication device 916 may comprise an IR, RF,
Bluetooth.TM., and/or Wi-Fi.RTM. network device coupled to
facilitate communications between the processor 910 (and/or the
apparatus 900) and/or between a retrofit device (not shown in FIG.
9) and another external and/or remote device (such as the
controller 102, 702 and/or the customer devices 104a-n, 704 of FIG.
1 and/or FIG. 7 herein).
[0097] The memory device 940 may comprise any appropriate
information storage device that is or becomes known or available,
including, but not limited to, units and/or combinations of
magnetic storage devices (e.g., a hard disk drive), optical storage
devices, and/or semiconductor memory devices such as RAM devices,
ROM devices, SDR-RAM, Double DDR-RAM, and/or PROM. The memory
device 940 may, according to some embodiments, store one or more of
purchase instructions 942-1 and/or social networking instructions
942-2. In some embodiments, the purchase instructions 942-1 and/or
social networking instructions 942-2 may be utilized by the
processor 910 to provide output information via the output device
914 and/or the communication device 916 (e.g., the transmitting at
204 and/or 806 and/or the causing at 208 of the methods 200, 800 of
FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 8 herein).
[0098] According to some embodiments, the purchase instructions
942-1 may be operable to cause the processor 910 to access and/or
process personal data 944-1. Personal data 944-1 received via the
input device 912 and/or the communication device 916 may, for
example, be analyzed, sorted, filtered, decoded, decompressed,
ranked, scored, plotted, and/or otherwise processed by the
processor 910 in accordance with the purchase instructions 942-1.
In some embodiments, personal data 944-1 may be utilized by the
processor 910 to facilitate and/or conduct processes and/or methods
in accordance with the purchase instructions 942-1 to facilitate
and/or effectuate a customer's purchase of products and/or services
from (or via) a machine as described herein. The purchase
instructions 942-1 may, in some embodiments, interface with an
application stored on and/or executed by a customer's mobile phone,
for example, to facilitate the purchase and/or dispensing of
refreshments from vending machines, visi-coolers, and/or soda
fountains as described herein.
[0099] According to some embodiments, the social networking
instructions 942-2 may be operable to cause the processor 910 to
access and/or process one or more of the personal data 944-1,
friend data 944-2, and/or media data 944-3. Personal data 944-1,
friend data 944-2, and/or media data 944-3 received via the input
device 912 and/or the communication device 916 may, for example, be
analyzed, sorted, filtered, decoded, decompressed, ranked, scored,
plotted, and/or otherwise processed by the processor 910 in
accordance with the social networking instructions 942-2. In some
embodiments, personal data 944-1, friend data 944-2, and/or media
data 944-3 may be utilized by the processor 910 to facilitate
and/or conduct processes and/or methods in accordance with the
social networking instructions 942-2 to facilitate, manage, and/or
route or otherwise process communications between and/or amongst
customers as described herein. The social networking instructions
942-2 may, in some embodiments, interface with an application
stored on and/or executed by a customer's mobile phone, for
example, to facilitate networking between the customer and other
customers.
[0100] In some embodiments, the personal data 944-1 may comprise
any data descriptive of an attribute or characteristic of a
customer. Personal data 944-1 may be acquired during a registration
processes (e.g., from the customer), for example, and may comprise
identifying information such as address, name, e-mail address,
preferences, payment accounts and/or information, passwords, etc.
In some embodiments, the personal data 944-1 may comprise data
descriptive of the customer that is acquired via transactions
conducted with the customer. Personal data 944-1 may comprise, for
example, customer preferences (empirical and/or explicit--e.g., the
customer has requested soda fountain beverages to contain fifty
percent (50%) soda water), sales history, customer "worth" (e.g.,
expected value), frequency of purchases, and/or previous or typical
ordering locations. In some embodiments, personal data 944-1 may
comprise information descriptive of social networking sites,
accounts, profiles, activity, and/or preferences associated with
the customer.
[0101] According to some embodiments, the friend data 944-2 may
comprise data descriptive of social networking "friends" of the
customer. Such "friends" may, for example, comprise people (and/or
customers) with profiles and/or accounts that are related to the
customer's profile and/or account at a social networking website.
The friend data 944-2 may, in some embodiments, comprise data
descriptive of an attribute or characteristic of a friend of the
customer. According to some embodiments, the friend data 944-2 may
be similar in compilation to the personal data 944-1, except that
it is descriptive of a characteristic associated with friends of
the customer instead of the customer themselves. In some
embodiments, friend data 944-2 may be pulled (e.g., harvested)
and/or acquired from one or more social networking sites and/or
databases associated with the customer.
[0102] In some embodiments, the media data 944-3 may comprise
information descriptive of media captured and/or recorder by and/or
selected by the customer. The media data 944-3 may, for example,
comprise information descriptive of and/or defining one or more
pictures, sounds, video segments, graphics, logos, and/or other
media that the customer provides via the apparatus 900. According
to some embodiments, the media data 944-3 may be input and/or
recorded by the input device 912 (e.g., a still and/or video
camera). In some embodiments, the media data 944-3 may be utilized
to in association with and/or be descriptive of one or more games
played by the customer (e.g., instant-win and/or competitive games
as described herein).
[0103] While the apparatus 900 is described with reference to
specific quantities and types of components 910, 912, 914, 916,
940, variations in the quantities, types, and/or configurations of
the components 910, 912, 914, 916, 940 of the apparatus 900 may be
implemented without deviating from the scope of the embodiments
described herein.
[0104] Any or all of the exemplary instructions and data types
described herein and other practicable types of data may be stored
in any number, type, and/or configuration of memory device 940 that
is or becomes known. The memory device 940 may, for example,
comprise one or more data tables or files, databases, table spaces,
registers, and/or other storage structures. In some embodiments,
multiple databases and/or storage structures (and/or multiple
memory devices 940) may be utilized to store information associated
with the apparatus 900. According to some embodiments, the memory
device 940 may be incorporated into and/or otherwise coupled to the
apparatus 900 (e.g., as shown) or may simply be accessible to the
apparatus 900 (e.g., externally located and/or situated).
VI. Articles Of Manufacture
[0105] Referring to FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, perspective diagrams of
exemplary data storage devices 1040a-b according to some
embodiments are shown. The data storage devices 1040a-b may, for
example, be utilized to store instructions and/or data such as the
purchase instructions 942-1, the social networking instructions
942-2, the personal data 944-1, the friend data 944-2, and/or the
media data 944-3 as described in reference to FIG. 9 herein. In
some embodiments, instructions stored on the data storage devices
1040a-b may, when executed by a processor (such as the controller
102, mobile customer devices 104a-n, and/or retrofit device 120 of
FIG. 1, the apparatus 320 of FIG. 3, and/or the retrofit devices
420, 520, 720 of FIG. 4, FIG. 5, and/or FIG. 7, and/or the
processing devices 410, 510 of FIG. 4 and/or FIG. 5 herein), cause
the implementation of and/or facilitate any of the various methods
200, 800 of FIG. 2 and/or FIG. 8 and/or the process 700 of FIG. 7,
described herein.
[0106] According to some embodiments, the first data storage device
1040a may comprise a CD, CD-ROM, DVD, Blu-Ray.TM. Disc, and/or
other type of optically-encoded disk and/or other computer-readable
storage medium that is or becomes know or practicable. In some
embodiments, the second data storage device 1040b may comprise a
USB keyfob, dongle, and/or other type of flash memory data storage
device that is or becomes know or practicable. The data storage
devices 1040a-b may generally store program instructions, code,
and/or modules that, when executed by an electronic and/or
computerized processing device cause a particular machine to
function in accordance with embodiments described herein. In some
embodiments, the data storage devices 1040a-b depicted in FIG. 10A
and FIG. 10B are representative of a class and/or subset of
computer-readable media that are defined herein as
"computer-readable memory" (e.g., memory devices as opposed to
transmission devices). While computer-readable media may include
transitory media types, as utilized herein, the term
computer-readable memory is limited to non-transitory
computer-readable media. In some embodiments, the data storage
devices 1040a-b depicted in FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B are
representative of programs, instructions and/or data stored on one
or more other types of computer-readable memory devices such as
internal or external hard drives and/or flash memory.
VII. Rules of Interpretation
[0107] Numerous embodiments are described in this patent
application, and are presented for illustrative purposes only. The
described embodiments are not, and are not intended to be, limiting
in any sense. The presently disclosed invention(s) are widely
applicable to numerous embodiments, as is readily apparent from the
disclosure. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that
the disclosed invention(s) may be practiced with various
modifications and alterations, such as structural, logical,
software, and electrical modifications. Although particular
features of the disclosed invention(s) may be described with
reference to one or more particular embodiments and/or drawings, it
should be understood that such features are not limited to usage in
the one or more particular embodiments or drawings with reference
to which they are described, unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0108] The present disclosure is neither a literal description of
all embodiments of the invention nor a listing of features of the
invention that must be present in all embodiments.
[0109] Neither the Title (set forth at the beginning of the first
page of this patent application) nor the Abstract (set forth at the
end of this patent application) is to be taken as limiting in any
way the scope of the disclosed invention(s).
[0110] The term "product" means any machine, manufacture and/or
composition of matter as contemplated by 35 U.S.C. .sctn.101,
unless expressly specified otherwise.
[0111] The terms "an embodiment", "embodiment", "embodiments", "the
embodiment", "the embodiments", "one or more embodiments", "some
embodiments", "one embodiment" and the like mean "one or more (but
not all) disclosed embodiments", unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0112] A reference to "another embodiment" in describing an
embodiment does not imply that the referenced embodiment is
mutually exclusive with another embodiment (e.g., an embodiment
described before the referenced embodiment), unless expressly
specified otherwise.
[0113] The terms "including", "comprising" and variations thereof
mean "including but not limited to", unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0114] The terms "a", "an" and "the" mean "one or more", unless
expressly specified otherwise.
[0115] The term "plurality" means "two or more", unless expressly
specified otherwise.
[0116] The term "herein" means "in the present application,
including the specification, its claims and figures, and anything
which may be incorporated by reference", unless expressly specified
otherwise.
[0117] The phrase "at least one of", when such phrase modifies a
plurality of things (such as an enumerated list of things) means
any combination of one or more of those things, unless expressly
specified otherwise. For example, the phrase at least one of a
widget, a car and a wheel means (i) a widget, (ii) a car, (iii) a
wheel, (iv) a widget and a car, (v) a widget and a wheel, (vi) a
car and a wheel, or (vii) a widget, a car and a wheel.
[0118] The phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on", unless
expressly specified otherwise. In other words, the phrase "based
on" describes both "based only on" and "based at least on".
[0119] The term "whereby" is used herein only to precede a clause
or other set of words that express only the intended result,
objective or consequence of something that is previously and
explicitly recited. Thus, when the term "whereby" is used in a
claim, the clause or other words that the term "whereby" modifies
do not establish specific further limitations of the claim or
otherwise restricts the meaning or scope of the claim.
[0120] Where a limitation of a first claim would cover one of a
feature as well as more than one of a feature (e.g., a limitation
such as "at least one widget" covers one widget as well as more
than one widget), and where in a second claim that depends on the
first claim, the second claim uses a definite article "the" to
refer to the limitation (e.g., "the widget"), this does not imply
that the first claim covers only one of the feature, and this does
not imply that the second claim covers only one of the feature
(e.g., "the widget" can cover both one widget and more than one
widget).
[0121] When an ordinal number (such as "first", "second", "third"
and so on) is used as an adjective before a term, that ordinal
number is used (unless expressly specified otherwise) merely to
indicate a particular feature, such as to allow for distinguishing
that particular referenced feature from another feature that is
described by the same term or by a similar term. For example, a
"first widget" may be so named merely to allow for distinguishing
it in one or more claims from a "second widget", so as to encompass
embodiments in which (1) the "first widget" is or is the same as
the "second widget" and (2) the "first widget" is different than or
is not identical to the "second widget". Thus, the mere usage of
the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term "widget"
does not indicate any other relationship between the two widgets,
and likewise does not indicate any other characteristics of either
or both widgets. For example, the mere usage of the ordinal numbers
"first" and "second" before the term "widget" (1) does not indicate
that either widget comes before or after any other in order or
location; (2) does not indicate that either widget occurs or acts
before or after any other in time; (3) does not indicate that
either widget ranks above or below any other, as in importance or
quality; and (4) does not indicate that the two referenced widgets
are not identical or the same widget. In addition, the mere usage
of ordinal numbers does not define a numerical limit to the
features identified with the ordinal numbers. For example, the mere
usage of the ordinal numbers "first" and "second" before the term
"widget" does not indicate that there must be no more than two
widgets.
[0122] When a single device or article is described herein, more
than one device or article (whether or not they cooperate) may
alternatively be used in place of the single device or article that
is described. Accordingly, the functionality that is described as
being possessed by a device may alternatively be possessed by more
than one device or article (whether or not they cooperate).
[0123] Similarly, where more than one device or article is
described herein (whether or not they cooperate), a single device
or article may alternatively be used in place of the more than one
device or article that is described. For example, a plurality of
computer-based devices may be substituted with a single
computer-based device. Accordingly, the various functionality that
is described as being possessed by more than one device or article
may alternatively be possessed by a single device or article.
[0124] The functionality and/or the features of a single device
that is described may be alternatively embodied by one or more
other devices which are described but are not explicitly described
as having such functionality and/or features. Thus, other
embodiments need not include the described device itself, but
rather can include the one or more other devices which would, in
those other embodiments, have such functionality/features.
[0125] Devices that are in communication with each other need not
be in continuous communication with each other, unless expressly
specified otherwise. On the contrary, such devices need only
transmit to each other as necessary or desirable, and may actually
refrain from exchanging data most of the time. For example, a
machine in communication with another machine via the Internet may
not transmit data to the other machine for weeks at a time. In
addition, devices that are in communication with each other may
communicate directly or indirectly through one or more
intermediaries.
[0126] A description of an embodiment with several components or
features does not imply that all or even any of such components
and/or features are required. On the contrary, a variety of
optional components are described to illustrate the wide variety of
possible embodiments of the present invention(s). Unless otherwise
specified explicitly, no component and/or feature is essential or
required.
[0127] Further, although process steps, algorithms or the like may
be described in a sequential order, such processes may be
configured to work in different orders. In other words, any
sequence or order of steps that may be explicitly described does
not necessarily indicate a requirement that the steps be performed
in that order. The steps of processes described herein may be
performed in any order practical. Further, some steps may be
performed simultaneously despite being described or implied as
occurring non-simultaneously (e.g., because one step is described
after the other step). Moreover, the illustration of a process by
its depiction in a drawing does not imply that the illustrated
process is exclusive of other variations and modifications thereto,
does not imply that the illustrated process or any of its steps are
necessary to the invention, and does not imply that the illustrated
process is preferred.
[0128] Although a process may be described as including a plurality
of steps, that does not indicate that all or even any of the steps
are essential or required. Various other embodiments within the
scope of the described invention(s) include other processes that
omit some or all of the described steps. Unless otherwise specified
explicitly, no step is essential or required.
[0129] Although a product may be described as including a plurality
of components, aspects, qualities, characteristics and/or features,
that does not indicate that all of the plurality are essential or
required. Various other embodiments within the scope of the
described invention(s) include other products that omit some or all
of the described plurality.
[0130] An enumerated list of items (which may or may not be
numbered) does not imply that any or all of the items are mutually
exclusive, unless expressly specified otherwise. Likewise, an
enumerated list of items (which may or may not be numbered) does
not imply that any or all of the items are comprehensive of any
category, unless expressly specified otherwise. For example, the
enumerated list "a computer, a laptop, a PDA" does not imply that
any or all of the three items of that list are mutually exclusive
and does not imply that any or all of the three items of that list
are comprehensive of any category.
[0131] Headings of sections provided in this patent application and
the title of this patent application are for convenience only, and
are not to be taken as limiting the disclosure in any way.
[0132] "Determining" something can be performed in a variety of
manners and therefore the term "determining" (and like terms)
includes calculating, computing, deriving, looking up (e.g., in a
table, database or data structure), ascertaining and the like.
[0133] It will be readily apparent that the various methods and
algorithms described herein may be implemented by, e.g.,
appropriately and/or specially-programmed general purpose computers
and/or computing devices. Typically a processor (e.g., one or more
microprocessors) will receive instructions from a memory or like
device, and execute those instructions, thereby performing one or
more processes defined by those instructions. Further, programs
that implement such methods and algorithms may be stored and
transmitted using a variety of media (e.g., computer readable
media) in a number of manners. In some embodiments, hard-wired
circuitry or custom hardware may be used in place of, or in
combination with, software instructions for implementation of the
processes of various embodiments. Thus, embodiments are not limited
to any specific combination of hardware and software
[0134] A "processor" generally means any one or more
microprocessors, CPU devices, computing devices, microcontrollers,
digital signal processors, or like devices, as further described
herein.
[0135] The term "computer-readable medium" refers to any medium
that participates in providing data (e.g., instructions or other
information) that may be read by a computer, a processor or a like
device. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not
limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission
media. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical or magnetic
disks and other persistent memory. Volatile media include DRAM,
which typically constitutes the main memory. Transmission media
include coaxial cables, copper wire and fiber optics, including the
wires that comprise a system bus coupled to the processor.
Transmission media may include or convey acoustic waves, light
waves and electromagnetic emissions, such as those generated during
RF and IR data communications. Common forms of computer-readable
media include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard
disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD, any
other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical
medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an EPROM, a
FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave,
or any other medium from which a computer can read.
[0136] The term "computer-readable memory" may generally refer to a
subset and/or class of computer-readable medium that does not
include transmission media such as waveforms, carrier waves,
electromagnetic emissions, etc. Computer-readable memory may
typically include physical media upon which data (e.g.,
instructions or other information) are stored, such as optical or
magnetic disks and other persistent memory, DRAM, a floppy disk, a
flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium,
a CD-ROM, DVD, any other optical medium, punch cards, paper tape,
any other physical medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a PROM, an
EPROM, a FLASH-EEPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, computer
hard drives, backup tapes, Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory
devices, and the like.
[0137] Various forms of computer readable media may be involved in
carrying data, including sequences of instructions, to a processor.
For example, sequences of instruction (i) may be delivered from RAM
to a processor, (ii) may be carried over a wireless transmission
medium, and/or (iii) may be formatted according to numerous
formats, standards or protocols, such as Bluetooth.TM., TDMA, CDMA,
3G.
[0138] Where databases are described, it will be understood by one
of ordinary skill in the art that (i) alternative database
structures to those described may be readily employed, and (ii)
other memory structures besides databases may be readily employed.
Any illustrations or descriptions of any sample databases presented
herein are illustrative arrangements for stored representations of
information. Any number of other arrangements may be employed
besides those suggested by, e.g., tables illustrated in drawings or
elsewhere. Similarly, any illustrated entries of the databases
represent exemplary information only; one of ordinary skill in the
art will understand that the number and content of the entries can
be different from those described herein. Further, despite any
depiction of the databases as tables, other formats (including
relational databases, object-based models and/or distributed
databases) could be used to store and manipulate the data types
described herein. Likewise, object methods or behaviors of a
database can be used to implement various processes, such as the
described herein. In addition, the databases may, in a known
manner, be stored locally or remotely from a device that accesses
data in such a database.
[0139] The present invention can be configured to work in a network
environment including a computer that is in communication, via a
communications network, with one or more devices. The computer may
communicate with the devices directly or indirectly, via a wired or
wireless medium such as the Internet, LAN, WAN or Ethernet, Token
Ring, or via any appropriate communications means or combination of
communications means. Each of the devices may comprise computers,
such as those based on the Intel.RTM. Pentium.RTM. or Centrino.TM.
processor, that are adapted to communicate with the computer. Any
number and type of machines may be in communication with the
computer.
[0140] The present disclosure provides, to one of ordinary skill in
the art, an enabling description of several embodiments and/or
inventions. Some of these embodiments and/or inventions may not be
claimed in the present application, but may nevertheless be claimed
in one or more continuing applications that claim the benefit of
priority of the present application. Applicants intend to file
additional applications to pursue patents for subject matter that
has been disclosed and enabled but not claimed in the present
application.
* * * * *