U.S. patent application number 12/441133 was filed with the patent office on 2012-03-15 for uncle gem v, universal automatic instant money, data and precious metal & stone transfer machine.
Invention is credited to Carl R. Amos.
Application Number | 20120066097 12/441133 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39789152 |
Filed Date | 2012-03-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20120066097 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Amos; Carl R. |
March 15, 2012 |
Uncle Gem V, Universal Automatic Instant Money, Data and Precious
Metal & Stone Transfer Machine
Abstract
The Universal Automatic Instant Money, Data and Gold Transfer
Machine, Uncle GEM V, system is a multiplicity of devices on a
communications network available 24 hours a day, used
interchangeably as sender, receiver and dispenser of funds and
data. The sender accepts standard currency and includes removable
medium storage devices to transfer to another such device acting as
a receiver/dispenser. Remitted amounts are inserted or deducted
from credit/debit accounts or currency and who pays the fees
charged is indicated by an initiator of the transaction. Transfer
transaction information includes: the type of transfer (money/funds
or data); which device deducts the fee; how much money or what data
to transfer; and to who and where the transfer transaction is to be
made available All Precious metal coins and currency can be
Digitally imaged and viewed in real time at anytime throughout this
process. A receipt is generated by the sender via the system and a
receiver becomes a dispenser when the recipient retrieves a pending
transaction using the appropriate password or identification. The
cash, data, or financial instrument is then dispensed. The Uncle
GEMs also feature acceptance of alternate payment options, such as,
precious metal coins, i.e., gold, silver platinum rhodium, and
precious stones, i.e. diamonds, sapphires, and rubies. In essence,
virtually anything can be bought, purchased, bartered, traded or
sold. The Invention is also an Anti-counterfeiting and
Anti-terrorism device, machine, process, method and system. It can
deter and prevent terrorist attacks upon the US and global monetary
systems by using precious metals, i.e., gold, silver, platinum or
rhodium, that can be instantaneously authenticated by assay means
and cannot be easily printed, duplicated or counterfeited.
Inventors: |
Amos; Carl R.; (Tampa,
FL) |
Family ID: |
39789152 |
Appl. No.: |
12/441133 |
Filed: |
August 16, 2007 |
PCT Filed: |
August 16, 2007 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/US07/76131 |
371 Date: |
April 13, 2011 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/28 ; 705/39;
705/44 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/105 20130101;
G06Q 10/087 20130101; G06Q 20/40 20130101; G06Q 20/04 20130101;
G06Q 20/10 20130101; G06Q 20/1085 20130101; G07F 19/202 20130101;
G07F 19/203 20130101; G07F 19/211 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/28 ; 705/39;
705/44 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 40/00 20120101
G06Q040/00; G06Q 10/08 20120101 G06Q010/08 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Aug 21, 2006 |
US |
11466058 |
Claims
1. A money transfer system that comprises a plurality of money,
data and gold transfer devices, each of said money transfer devices
comprises: currency accepting means for bills, a currency
dispensing means for bills; a data input means; an output means; a
display means; a keyboard means; at least one removable media I/O
device; credit, debit, and identification acceptor means; a
precious metal and/or stone acceptor; a precious metal and/or stone
dispenser; the system further comprises a computing means which
includes at least one microprocessing means and a modem or
transceiver means for controlling communication directly between a
plurality of money, data and gold transfer devices.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes an optional coin accepting means and/or
an optional coin dispensing means.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes pen-writing or digital pen means.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes means to assay precious metals and
precious stones.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes a telephony or radio means.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes optional defensive, robotic movement,
robotic flight, and/or offensive means.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes holographic screen and/or touch
means.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes speaker means, microphone means, voice
recognition means to enable the system to interact with the user in
any language and to facilitate usage of the system.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein each of said money, data and gold
transfer devices includes video means, video data streaming means,
and camera means for visual interaction and visual recognition to
facilitate usage of the system.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein each of money, data and gold
transfer devices operates as a sender, receiver and dispenser of
funds interchangeably.
11. A system of claim 1, wherein the data to be transferred
includes: insurance information and records; business data and
records; billing information; medical information, data and
records; credit information, data and records and generally any
confidential or personal information.
12. The system of claim 1, wherein data or money is inputted into a
proximal money, data and gold transfer device and electronically
causing the dispensing of like data or money at a distal money,
data and gold transfer device.
13. The system of claim 1, whereby currency or money amounts are
transmitted over distances reciprocally to similarly interconnected
web of money, data and gold transfer devices whereby inserting
currency at a proximal end will cause dispensing of like funds at a
distal end.
14. The system of claim 1, whereby the data to be transferred is
transmitted over distances reciprocally to similarly interconnected
web of money, data and gold transfer devices whereby inputting data
at a proximal end will cause dispensing of like data at a distal
end.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein each money, data and gold
transfer devices utilizes a communications network between distal
and proximal ends.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the system further comprises a
central database server means to record transactions and for
accounting and inventory control.
17. The system of claim 1, which each money, data and gold transfer
devices further comprises a biometric means to identify both an
initiator and/or recipient.
18. The system of claim 1, wherein the system is able to interface
with any conventional or non-conventional automated teller machine,
customer access terminal, and global financial networks or
automated teller machine networks to efficiently transfer money,
messages and data.
19. The system of claim 1, wherein the currency accepting means
includes recycling means to dispense money accepted as funds to be
transferred.
20. The system of claim 1, wherein the system uses currency, credit
or banking cards at the money, data and gold transfer devices or
through a personal computer or the central database server means
and accesses proximal and distal financial institutions to either
get transfer transaction funds and/or funds to pay for a
transaction.
21. The system of claim 1, which includes automated teller machine
system modifications to accept transfer transaction funds from said
money, data and gold transfer devices and send said funds to said
devices, by a user accessing a designated financial account or
without accessing said designated account using said currency
accepting means, through an automated teller machine network, the
Internet or other communication means.
22. A method of money, data and gold transfer between a plurality
of money, data and gold transfer devices, each of said money, data
and gold transfer devices at a proximal end transmits information
utilizing a communications network on a transaction to be completed
at a distal end: a. the transaction information comprises: i. a
recipient identification data, ii. a designated distal end or
general locality, iii. what type of transaction is to be initiated,
transfer or purchase, 1) what transfer type is to be made, either
money, data or precious metals or precious stones: 1) if the
transfer type is data, then the file name and file format is
included, 2) if the transfer type is money, then amount of funds in
the transaction is included, and what type of funds is to be made
available to one or more money, data and gold transfer devices at
said distal end, 3) if the transfer type is precious metals or
precious stones, then assay the value of what was deposited, and
what type of precious metal or precious stone, iv. what type of
funds has been accepted by the money, data and gold transfer
device, whether currency, credit, or debit, v. which end of the
transaction pays for the transaction, distal or proximal ends, vi.
confirmation and transaction codes and a password; b. wherein said
money transfer device designations comprise: i. each data or money
transfer device is either a sender or a receiver or a dispenser
money, data and gold transfer device interchangeably, depending on
whether the data or money transfer device is on the proximal or
distal end of said transaction, ii. said money, data and gold
transfer device becomes the sender by initiating said transaction,
iii. said money, data and gold transfer device becomes the receiver
by receiving a signal that said transaction is pending in said
designated general locality, iv. said receiver becomes the
dispenser only when one money, data and gold transfer device at the
general locality indicates a retrieval of a pending transaction; c.
wherein said transaction transpires in the following manner: i.
when a transaction initiation signal is generated, said transaction
information is prompted to be entered into said sender money, data
and gold transfer device on the proximal end, ii. the sender money,
data and gold transfer device generates a confirmation code and
prompts for said password, if said password is not entered then
said password is internally generated, iii. said sender money, data
and gold transfer device verifies all said transaction information,
iv. said transaction information is then encrypted for transmittal,
v. said sender money, data and gold transfer device generates a
receipt, vi. a first set of signals is sent to said distal end or
designated general locality for receiver money, data and gold
transfer devices, vii. an input signal is received by the receiver
money, data and gold transfer device to indicate a retrieval of a
pending transaction, viii. the password and retrieval information
is inputted to the receiver money, data and gold transfer device to
initiate the retrieval, ix. the transaction information is verified
by the receiver data money and transfer device, which then becomes
the said dispenser money, data and gold transfer device, x. a
second set of signals is transmitted back to the sender money, data
and gold transfer device to indicate the pending transaction is no
longer available, xi. dispensing is done according to the transfer
type in the transaction information: 1) if the indicated transfer
type is for data, then the file is transmitted to a removable media
I/O device, 2) if the indicated transfer type is for money, said
amount of funds are dispensed according to the transaction
information.
23. The method of claim 18, wherein said transferred funds are
dispensed as currency or financial instruments.
24. The method of claim 18, wherein said currency accepted into the
money, data and gold transfer device is recycled into a currency
accepting means or a coin accepting means as funds to dispense.
25. The method of claim 18, wherein the transaction information
includes whether the proximal or distal end of the transaction pays
or provides the transaction fee.
26. The method of claim 21, wherein the transaction fee is acquired
by either currency, debit or credit using any conventional or
non-conventional automated teller machine network, the Internet or
other communication means: a. if debit or credit is indicated to
acquire the transaction fee, then interfacing with any designated
financial institution to access a designated financial account, b.
if currency is indicated to acquire the transaction fee, then
depending on the transaction information, the appropriate fee
amount is inputted, c. if the transaction information indicates
proximal end payment, then transaction fee is added to the
transaction amount by the sender money, data and gold transfer
device, d. if the transaction information indicates distal end
payment, i. if deduct is indicated in the retrieval information,
the dispenser money, data and gold transfer device deducts the
transaction fee from the transferred funds, ii. if remit is
indicated in the retrieval information, the dispenser money, data
and gold transfer device prompts to insert the correct amount into
the currency acceptor or coin acceptor.
Description
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The invention is related to devices used to transfer funds
or currency by electronic means. It is well known in the art that
the money transfer industry requires an agent, usually a franchised
store's clerk accepting cash or credit, and using telephonic or EDI
means to transfer funds from one individual at a proximal location
to another individual or entity at a distal location. MoneyGram,
Western Union, CyberCash and others operate in this fashion.
[0002] The invention presented is not limited to requiring a
physical person, telephonic means, or EDI based means to accomplish
a funds transfer. Instead the invention utilizes a device that
should be considered a hybrid apparatus, drawing on aspects of both
a vending machine and an automated teller machine (ATM). Both are
well known in the art of electronic money handling devices.
[0003] The instant invention is a new apparatus and system method
& process that enables people to send and receive normal
conventional bills, dollars, conventional coins and cents, and
other financial conventional instruments used as currency, i.e.,
money orders, checks, etc., and the option of sending and or
receiving buying and selling and payment, purchases and the
settlement of debts including the option to send and receive or
wire money transfer physical real precious metal, currency, i.e.,
Gold, Silver, Platinum, Palladium, Rhodium, and other precious and
semi-precious coins & bullion, accepted globally as
currency.
[0004] The instant invention also allows for the sending and
receiving of precious and semiprecious stones, i.e., Diamonds,
Emeralds, Topaz, Tanzanite, Sapphire, Rubies, etc., used for
currency purposes domestic and worldwide.
[0005] The instant invention allows anyone to interact with the
internet world wide web and other communication means and have the
simple choice of sending or receiving any currency of any
denomination type and also allows them to receive or send precious
metal coins anywhere and this is possible with or without having to
have a bank account. The instant invention will allow anyone on the
planet to have the right and ability regardless of race, religion,
culture, ethnicity, creed, organization or color, the natural right
to buy or sell anything on the globe.
[0006] The need for such a Hybrid improved ATM, i.e., Uncle Gem
System, is due to the simple fact that normal paper currency is
usually a debt or promise to pay, sometimes the currency is
purported, claimed or assumed to be backed up by precious metals,
gold, silver, platinum, palladium, rhodium, etc. Many times it is
not. Gold, Silver, Platinum are recognized universally as
acceptable forms of payment for buying and selling. Furthermore,
with the volatility in financial markets nationally and worldwide.
In the event of high inflation and even hyper-inflation a
conventional ATM and other money transfer machines such as those
marketed by NCR, Moneygram, Diebold, First Data, Western Union,
Walmart, Bank of America, and others, quickly become obsolete and
inoperative and can easily go off-line, especially if a loaf of
bread costs $1,000 or $10,000. Similar to what occurred in WWII
Germany, Japan, and Venezuela. Evidence of this can be seen in the
current mortgage crisis and the Wall Street and banking
meltdown.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0007] ATMs are now ubiquitous in almost every facet of modern
civilizations and a constant fixture in Malls, Casinos and diverse
areas.
Casinos: the use of the instant inventions in a casino environment
has enormous benefits in that the instant invention can be modified
to function as a true acceptor and dispenser of precious metal
coins for a Hybrid slot machine and all or any wins can be
optionally sent, i.e., wired or transferred to someone, from a
proximal to distal and/or intermedial location and/or intervening
destinations between etc.
[0008] The instant invention technology provides the option of
dispensing precious metal coins and the ability to accept cash,
credit or debit for payment thereof and precious & semiprecious
stones used as payment to send and or transfer appropriate value
from a proximal to distal location including intermedial
locations.
[0009] The medium for dispensing such precious coins is common and
known to those skilled in the art for instance. BMI gaming
manufacturers (or similar machines and competitors and generally
known to those skilled in the art) builds and markets a Token
Machine dispenser that is fully, programmable allowing tokens with
the appropriate dimensions to be loaded into this machine and
dispensed according to programmed instructions, price, payment,
amount of tokens dispensed etc. Such simple token machines can be
reengineered and reprogrammed, modified to accept the dimensions of
a precious metal platinum, gold, silver, palladium coins etc.,
instead and precious metal coins can be dispensed after being paid
for.
[0010] Optionally, the precious metal coins can be redesigned and
tailored to fit the dimensions required normally by the token
machine. Precious coins can be inserted and assayed by the Instant
Invention machine using methods known to those skilled in the art,
including methods to detect the composition of metallic structures
such as X-ray Fluorescence means and other electromagnetic
detection assay means, chemical biological etc.
[0011] Compact portable hand held metal composition assay detectors
(assay guns) and software programs are readily available and can be
designed or incorporated into the instant invention machine and are
known to those skilled in the art and incorporated by reference
herein. Such technology can be built into the Hybrid ATM instant
Invention Uncle Gem System. Similar means can be used to assay
precious and semiprecious stones and combinations thereof, jewelry
etc.
[0012] The instant invention & machines allows the choice of
sending and receiving, accepting as transferred funds from someone,
or entity/organization business cash/debt promise to pay debt
currency money, or instead real money, i.e., precious metal, real
money, and precious stones, heretofore unheard of being used in an
ATM environment and frowned upon. It also allows the trading and
payment of such precious metal for internet worldwide web buying
and selling, Money transfers and wires, enabling one to send and
receive real precious money coins anywhere on the planet and to
accept the same for payment and buying and purchase of any item
across national and international borders since, Platinum, gold,
palladium and silver are universally accepted Globally as currency
or real true money.
[0013] Currently, there exist Internet companies such as E-bullion
and a plethora of others including Monex, Lear Financial, that
allow one to buy, sell, or trade in real Precious metal gold etc.
globally. However, the gold and other metals are stored in their
vaults for safekeeping and the danger of this is human nature. A
Failure of these systems is theoretically possible.
[0014] In addition as aforementioned, this new technology can be
adopted into a casino and its environment, that allows payout of
true precious metal real money i.e., gold silver, platinum, silver
coins and semiprecious coins, and even precious and semiprecious
stones, for slot machines and black jack, poker, 21 and betting
machines and systems. Including the option in the casinos of
sending these funds anywhere on the planet and engaging in Internet
commerce.
[0015] The system and instant invention is ideal for EFT or
electronic trade exchange funds and can have these needed features
available for the masses. Including Wall street NYSE and similar
Stock exchanges means and methods. In 1995 the U.S. vacated the
Fractional Reserve System and in the 60s and 70s the country was
taken off the Silver and the Gold standard.
[0016] Currently with the extremely high deficit in the trillions,
our nation is highly vulnerable to economic insolvency, possible
currency collapse, hyperinflation, international monetary
blackmail. And simple counterfeiting A need for the instant
invention as an expedient to current and problematic future
economic trends on the horizon now exists.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0017] The following illustrations of the system architecture and
the means are not limited thereto other embodiments known to those
skilled in the art providing efficiency can be employed. The patent
or application file contains at least one drawing executed in
color. The Office upon request and payment of the appropriate fees
will provide copies of this patent or patent application
publication with color drawing(s).
[0018] FIG. 1. This illustration is the Uncle GEM Internal Network
Logical Data Flowchart details the data elements of the system.
[0019] FIG. 2. This illustration is the Universal Automatic Instant
Money, Data and Gold Transfer Machine Logical transmission Signal
Flow Graph.
[0020] FIG. 3. This illustration is the Universal Automatic Instant
Money, Data and Gold Transfer Machine Logical Signal Control System
Flowchart.
[0021] FIG. 4. Uncle GEM External Network Logical Data Flowchart
details accessing an external network.
[0022] FIG. 5. This illustration is the Alternate PC/Uncle GEM INS
Logical Data Flowchart details access by a PC or similar
device.
[0023] FIG. 6. This illustration is the Advanced Embodiment A
depicts a basic Advanced Automatic Instant Money Transfer Machine
comprising a bill/coin acceptor and a bill/coin dispenser, precious
metal acceptor/dispenser and precious stone acceptor/dispenser and
with optional Multi-channel Holographic I/O touch features and
means.
[0024] FIG. 7. This illustration is the Advanced AIMTM Embodiment A
depicts a basic Advanced Automatic Instant Money Transfer Machine
comprising a bill acceptor and a bill/coin dispenser.
[0025] FIG. 8. This illustration is the Advanced Embodiment B is an
illustration of an Uncle GEM with a speaker and microphone with
smartcard reader/disperser and customer service phone.
[0026] FIG. 9. This illustration is the Advanced Embodiment C is an
illustration of an Uncle GEM with a camera lens.
[0027] FIG. 10. This illustration is the Advanced AIMTM Embodiment
D shows an Uncle GEM/AAIMTM with biometrics scanning and biometrics
means.
[0028] FIG. 11. This illustration is the Advanced AIMTM Embodiment
E shows an Uncle GEM/AAIMTM with multiple interfaces.
[0029] FIG. 12. This illustration is the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM with
multi-tiered Interfaces and optional auto-control level positioning
means and sensor/mechanism features.
[0030] FIG. 13. This illustration is the Advanced AIMTM Embodiment
E depicts another instance of a multi-access Uncle GEM with
auto-control level positioning means and sensor/mechanism
features.
[0031] FIG. 14. This illustration is the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM Generic
Vending Machine with Transfer Functions.
[0032] FIG. 15. This illustration is the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM Brand
Name Vending Machine with Transfer Functions.
[0033] FIG. 16. This illustration is the Workflow Chart A is an
illustration of Uncle GEM system processes.
[0034] FIG. 17. This illustration is the Workflow Chart B is an
illustration of the Uncle GEM system interacting with its Central
Database Server.
[0035] FIG. 18. This illustration is the Workflow Chart C
illustrates the Uncle GEM system interacting with an external
financial institution's network.
[0036] FIG. 19. This illustration is the Workflow Chart D
illustrates the Uncle GEM system interacting with a standalone
Internet kiosk.
[0037] FIG. 20. This illustration is the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM Required
Software Functionality Diagram.
[0038] FIG. 21. This illustration is the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM (UML) SDL
Event and Process Model.
[0039] FIG. 22A. This illustration is of the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM
Entity Relationship Diagram.
[0040] FIG. 22B. This illustration is the Entity Attribute
Diagram.
[0041] FIG. 22C. This illustration is the Initial Activation,
Welcome Screen Display, and Function Selection Process 10-30
Flowchart.
[0042] FIG. 22D. This illustration is the Money Transfer
Transaction Generate Processes 100 and 110 Flowchart.
[0043] FIG. 22E. This illustration is the Money Transfer
Transaction Retrieve Process 120 Flowchart.
[0044] FIG. 22F. This illustration is the Data Transfer Transaction
Generate Process 500 and 510 Flowchart.
[0045] FIG. 22G. This illustration is the Data Transfer Transaction
Retrieve Process 510 Flowchart.
[0046] FIG. 22H. This illustration is the Online Purchase
Transaction Processes 200 and 210 Flowchart.
[0047] The Universal Automatic Instant Money, Data and Gold
Transfer Machine, Uncle GEM V operates like a reciprocal ATM,
utilizing a communications network (wired, optical, wireless, or
other communications means) to transmit information between a
multitude of like devices. The devices, available 24 hours a day,
operate interchangeably as sender, receiver, and dispenser of
funds. The Uncle GEM/Aunty IM will accept standard currency, i.e.,
coins and bills, in denominations of $1 to any acceptable amount
and the coin acceptors can accept amounts from a penny coin to any
amount; fractional amounts of penny or dollar are acceptable. Funds
are entered using standard credit and/or banking card in lieu of
cash at the device or through a PC over the Internet web page of
the Central Database Server (CDBS), by phone, or by means known to
those skilled in the art. The Uncle GEM/Aunty IM transmits the
funds and/of information through its transfer network that
alternatively may have access to any financial institution.
[0048] Additionally, an ATM via system modifications can have only
a currency or bill acceptor, (an additional coin ingress is
optional) can accept and send transferred funds, i.e., cash,
through the Uncle GEM/Aunty IM system by an individual inserting
currency, whereas the individual need not have any established
account at a bank or financial institution, or by accessing the
individual's designated financial account through the ATM's
network. The benefit of this inventive system is that it eliminates
the high overhead of the agents, teller and/or clerks who normally
supervise the transfer transactions. The enormous fees arbitrarily
imposed by such behemoths as Western Union, MoneyGram and similar
entities are greatly reduced or eliminated because a human agent is
not required. The other benefit is that the Uncle GEM/Aunty IM
transfers funds to individuals, unlike an ATM's one way dispensing
of funds and only transferring money to other specified accounts at
only one specific financial institution sponsoring that ATM.
[0049] The addition of music and music videos, jingles, tunes and
movies and the ability to pay for these goods and other services
with cash and other means will provide a new dimension to the
system and industry.
[0050] The instant invention is an improvement over previous
devices, methods, and systems used to transfer currency or funds by
electronic means. At his or her discretion the user is able to
transfer or receive money (using cash, credit, debit or bank cards
financial instruments and/or biometrics technology) to a distal
location or receive money from a proximal location anytime. The
addition of audio, voice-recognition and voice and sound prompts
provides a more versatile universal system. The addition of video
and Internet video means, cameras, streaming video and methods
known to those skilled in the art adds the ability to talk and see
directly with intended recipient and/or designee through
video/telephonic or other communication means. This will enable a
user of the system to perform most transactions in real-time and
generally enhance the transaction as well as increasing safety and
security requirements. The use of a visual/video means and a
writable screen, pen/write, or digital dynamic pen technology
means, further adds authenticity to letters, messages, and
documents.
[0051] The addition of new and old movies, music and music videos
of all types (with the use of an addition of a selection means)
provides a unique experience and enhance the money transfer
process. Holographic 3D optics, optical, and visual technologies
known to those skilled in the art, including icons, holodecks,
computer and digital technology can create cyber space virtual
agents and/or environments that will help users of the system to
accomplish a more secure, low cost, and efficient funds transfer.
The instant invention is able to issue postal stamps and virtually
any type of money order, including US postal money orders and from
virtually any nation or entity globally. Also, the system can be
expanded to enable a customer to buy and purchase stamps and money
orders from any where throughout the globe, see 2003 Krause-Minkus
Standard Catalog of US Stamps, 6.sup.th Edition, Official Stamp
Collector's Bible 2003, 1st Edition, by Stephen R. Datz
incorporated herein by reference, and 2003 US/BNA Postage Stamp
Catalog by H. E. Harris & Co., all incorporated herein by
reference.
[0052] This improved system is capable of accessing and interacting
with financial institutions both nationally and globally allowing
the machine, method, process, and system to be more robust and
universal. The system allows for appropriate currency conversions
using the most up-to-date exchange rates, such as the EURO vs. the
US dollar, etc., and adheres to the proper government laws and
restrictions for different countries. Most conventional ATMs and
systems can be redesigned, reengineered, modified, and retrofitted
to function as Advanced Automatic Instant Money Transfer Machines
or Universal Automatic Instant data/Money and Gold Transfer
Machines or Uncle GEM/AAIMTM. The modified system can still possess
some basic rudimentary ATM functions if desired.
[0053] The improved instant invention allows for easier access by
the physically disadvantaged, the multi-tier features of the
instant invention will allow multiple levels of access for those of
differing height levels and limitations (physically multi-tiered
and holographically multi-channeled multi-tiered) also, the
automatic self adjusting advanced Aunty IM will allow the face or
other relevant crucial features of the machine to automatically (or
optional manual feature) adjust to the users height restrictions or
height level via sensors and micro-controllers using RC-Servos
(Remote Controlled-Servos) stepper machines or other means known to
those skilled in the art. Thus making the instant invention truly
handicapped accessible, see Practical Electronics for Inventors by
Paul Scherz Mcgraw-Hill 2000, incorporated by reference herein.
[0054] The instant invention is not limited to telephonic means or
EDI based methods to accomplish a funds transfer. The system is not
restricted to modems or microprocessors for transmission of
information and processing. Optics and opto-electronic technology
as well as Internet and satellite communication and other methods
known to those skilled in the art may be employed, including DSL,
cable modems wireless modems, WiFi or other means known to those
skilled in the art. Virtual private networks (VPNs) can be
employed. Encryption and other security methods known to those
skilled in the art are employed to achieve confidential and secure
communications, see: Practical Cryptography by Niels Ferguson &
Bruce Schneier Wiley Publishing Inc. 2003; Nanotechnology and
Homeland Security by Daniel Ratner, Mark A, Ratner, Pearson
Education Inc 2003, 2004; Diamonds by Matthew Hart September 2002;
and Diamond, A Journey To The Heart Of an Obsession by Matthew Hart
1945, all the above incorporated herein by reference.
[0055] The instant invention is a further improvement to the
Automatic Instant Money Transfer Machine (Aunty IM). The ability to
transfer cash/data by a human user, offers enormous opportunities,
freedom, privacy and new vistas for ordinary people. The Uncle GEMS
and Aunty IMs can be remotely accessed and remotely monitored in
real time. In addition this method and system/process solves a
plethora of problems that are systemic in world and global commerce
and especially with the rise of the World Wide Web, i.e., Internet.
The instant invention provides humans with a choice to use currency
alone or to use other means of payment. The enhanced ability of the
instant invention to accept and transfer currency by itself with
either one-bill acceptor or with multiple bill acceptors and
multiple dispensers will provide humanity a more robust system to
engage in global commerce. The enhanced ability of the instant
invention to accept coins and alternately employing an
enhanced/modified coin acceptor or a plurality of coin
acceptors/dispensers, to accept gold and silver coins, and other
precious metal coinages and combinations thereof, including
platinum/palladium and other precious metals provides new
opportunities and freedoms for humanity. The usual standard
conventional coins (copper, nickel, etc., coinage) will still be
accepted. However, combinations of precious and semiprecious metals
and related instruments such as stones including, diamonds,
emeralds, topaz, tanzanite, pearls, rubies, etc., are also
acceptable. In the past these and other precious and semiprecious
stones have been substituted and used for currency and commerce.
The use of and trade in gold coins, silver coins and other precious
metal instruments (and precious and semiprecious stones) is a
specialty market that currently does not have a reliable means for
efficient buy/sell/trade transactions and would be competition with
the global paper and credit based financial infrastructure.
[0056] The objective of this invention embodiment is to enable the
aforementioned and to allow people the means and choice to accept
alternative payment options, i.e., gold, silver, and other metallic
coins and/or precious stones to easily purchase and sell online
goods and services as well as virtually any item globally, using
the instant invention. In essence the buying and selling or
purchase of goods and services using gold and silver including
bullion has been an option for the super rich for quite awhile.
However, there was not a means and market for the middle class and
even relatively poor people who at times have had and do possess
gold coins and such. The instant invention will enable these people
to engage in normal global commerce using the aforementioned or
paper currency and not have to be restricted to middlemen and pawn
shops. The incorporation of precious metals coins is an effective
expedient in the probable event of insolvency, super inflation and
hyper inflation and can avert and prevent future global financial
collapse due to paper currency failures.
[0057] Also, the instant invention's capability to transfer send
and receive gold/silver coins can in itself serve as a solution to
prop up or buttress and counteract faltering currencies in times of
national disasters, war, famine and political economic
instabilities. The instant invention itself will provide a solution
to many developing and modern countries' economic ills, see 2004
Standard Catalog of World Coins by Chester L. Krause and Clifford
Mishler 1901-present, 31st Edition incorporated herein by
reference. A truly practical method means and processes are herein
described that will facilitate and enable a person to buy and/or
select goods and services on-line or shopping using the Internet
and similar means. Enabling online shopping by and through any
communication means available and with cash, gold, silver, or other
precious metal coins, cash and financial instruments, as well as
normal means such as credit/debit cards and Visa or MasterCards,
smart cards and other financial instruments. Consumers can send
data and purchase products, goods and services, such as, music,
music videos and movies, as well as participation in buying and
selling on Ebay and other auctioning sites and paying for these
goods and services, including using barter and barter type
trades/systems, by using the Uncle GEM/Aunty IM.
[0058] The instant invention provides a solution or expedient to
the rampant piracy and outright theft, misappropriation of movies
and music, the latter involves misusing MP3's, file sharing and
other formats like peer-to-peer (P2P) and other means. These
problems can be minimized using the instant invention. Outfits such
as Napster, Kazaa and others have come under fire by the RIM, even
Apple Computer's system, the Apple iTunes Music Store
(apple.com/music), which is hampered by the inability of the masses
to pay easily and practically for its services with cash/currency.
However with the Aunty IMs and Uncle GEMs, the problem can be
addressed and solved, thereby enabling the masses to easily
buy/sell and more readily purchase goods and services on-line and
participate in the global economy, including Ebay, barter methods
and systems and other auctioning sites as well as purchasing
telephone cards and generally any goods and services in real-time
with real currency or cash or alternatively with gold coins, silver
coins and other precious metals and similar instruments. A human
being now has a robust simple and practical means of transferring
money/data and the option of paying for what they want in cash with
a machine that has a bill ingress only or alternatively using
standard coins and optionally gold, silver, and platinum coins and
other precious metals, in contrast to having to be credit
worthy.
[0059] In principle, by using cash or gold, silver, platinum or
even diamonds, virtually anything can be bought, purchased,
bartered, traded or sold, including, land, property, businesses,
etc. The machines can be equipped optionally with customer service
phones and with video means, including real-time instant video
stream of help desks or experts who can assist in assay of
precious/semi-precious metals and precious/semi-precious stones.
This will assist along with electronic/optical/chemical/physical
methods and other methods known to those skilled in the art to
properly and further authenticate these methods and forms of
payment.
[0060] The machines can optionally possess defensive and offensive
capabilities in the unfortunate event of attempts at theft. The
system/machines and all transactions can be remotely monitored by
local police, and government agency's, NSA, etc. The defenses can
be electromagnetic, laser, chemical, biological, kinetic weapons,
rifle, submachine gun, pistol or cannon. Also, EM shielding methods
can be employed including bending of light for invisibility and
possible antigravity capabilities. Electromagnetic Identification
means especially of items emitting EM signals can be employed,
virtually any wavelength, frequency on the Electromagnetic spectrum
can be scanned and detected by the instant invention. The U.S.
Government does not allow nuclear capabilities. In fact robotic
capabilities can be incorporated so that the machine could actually
move, roll or walk away (flight is possible) if threatened. This
robotic ATM could have the Advanced Aunty IM ATM/Uncle GEM built
into its units and could be capable of mobility/flight and could be
armed if desired by local law enforcement, see The Age Of Spiritual
Machines: When Computers Exceed Human Intelligence by Ray Kurzweil
1998,1999, incorporated herein by reference. See Natural-Born
Cyborgs by Andy Clark, Oxford Press 2003 incorporated herein by
reference. See Engines of Creation by K. Eric Drexler 1986-1990,
Anchor Books edition, incorporated herein by reference.
[0061] Financial instruments such as smart cards, and smart card
burners and/or the means to replenish and reload these cards can be
employed in fact these cards are commonly used as substitutes for
cash or coins. Any type of credit card can be used including, Visa
& MasterCards, Smart cards and Debit cards can be used
including the ability to replenish and/or reload these Smart cards
and Debit cards with the permission, blessings of the owner or
Bank/financial institution or entity, matricula cards are ok
Therefore, all humans do not have to belong to a bank to buy and
sell. Such ancient institutions can at times be good and
benevolent; unfortunately, they also can be oppressive and stifle
human progress. By the very nature of creditworthiness, this
sometimes can restrict and keep out the masses of people on the
planet, see article If You Are Poor, Banks of the Future May Not
Want You Bank Monitor, 1999, incorporated by reference herein. The
banking system seems to not really want the masses of poor people
and it may be that the banking structure or system was originally
invented and designed for the elite few. Now that mankind has
evolved and the earth is teaming with over 6 billion people most of
which are poor and the World Wide Web, i.e., net has been created.
What is needed now and is required is a robust means of allowing
all humans to participate and buy goods and services from the
Internet if they so desire, using their own hard earned money,
i.e., cash or precious metals, to buy/sell and not be required to
pay excessive fees to middleman, i.e., Western Union, MoneyGram or
unfriendly banks. The latter should only be an option used if the
buyer/customer chooses to and if Banks truly wish to help them
buy/sell. One interesting analysis and observation is that in
considering the financial potential of nearly 6 billion people who
do not possess credit and/or do not belong to a bank, and if
theoretically, each separate individual has cash money or precious
metals, then each contiguous discrete individual could be
considered a temporary bank or virtual bank that is liquid or
solvent for the total amount that they are willing to transfer or
spend.
[0062] The Multi-tier Auto-Positioning Universal Automated Instant
Money, Data and Gold Transfer Machine, Aunty IM will enable
universal access and use of the instant invention as well as
allowing ease of use and access by the physically challenged,
disabled and/or handicapped. Analog/digital micro-controllers and
servo motors/servo mechanisms and means known to those skilled in
the art can be employed as well as electro-mechanical and
electro-optical means, bionics, and programmable, computer
controlled, etc. The instant invention can be made to automatically
or be manually aligned or leveled. The advanced ATM instant
invention unit and functions and features can be positioned to the
desired proper level height or reach of the user (or rotated and
made to assume virtually any desired level or angular position
desired for ease of access and reach by the user) so that the user
can more easily interact with the system. Sensors on the Instant
invention and automatic positioning/leveling devices and means
known to those skilled in the art, can properly position any and
all of the features either manually or automatically so that the
relevant features i.e., keypads, touch screen and input/output
devices are easily accessed by anyone regardless of their height or
physical limitations. The auto positioning features can be remotely
accessed and activating from external regions/distances
(programmable) and upon approach by the intended user or by the
instant invention units sensors and Automatic control mechanisms as
well as being able to be repositioned and/or reconfigured by
onboard means, see Feedback Control Systems. Also, the need for a
multi-tiered approach or multiple areas of access can be addressed
using holographic technology s be it on-axis or off-axis.
[0063] However, the on-axis holographic approach is more dynamic
and practical as well as compact consider the inventors previous
U.S. Pat. No. 5,369,511, Methods Of and Apparatus For the
Manipulation of Electromagnetic Phenomenon, 1994 by Carl R. Amos
and his patent application entitled Advanced Methods and Apparatus
For The Manipulation Of Electromagnetic Phenomenon incorporated by
reference herein. The use of these marvel improvements in the art
and science of holography and 3-D dimensional imaging technology
will allow for 2-D and 3-D images that can be projected into space
and interacted with merely by touching the projected image. The
inventor's on-axis holographic technology can improve the existing
3-D interactive technologies; see Holotouch patent Holographic
Control Arrangement by Robert D. McPheters U.S. Pat. No. 6,377,238,
2002, incorporated herein by reference. This is primarily due to
the fact that the latter holographic projections are limited by the
inherent limitations and use of off-axis holography which by it's
very nature is dependent on angular separation for creation/replay
and only a close or near approximate alignment of the projected
image with the source image(s) and of the medium or source and
reconstruction or replay purposes is attainable. The instant
invention uses on-axis dynamic holograms which are truly compact
and on-axis providing 360 or 180 (hemisphere field of view) for a
direct compact image that can be projected anywhere and is an exact
replica and perfectly aligned with the source and not limited,
Also, without double images and the inherent zero-order limitations
of off-axis holography, see: Robot Builders Bonanza, Second
Edition, Gordon Mcomb, Mcgraw-Hill, 2000; Newton's Telecom
Dictionary by Harry Newton, CMP books, 2003; Internetworking
Technologies Handbook, Second Edition, Kevin Downes, Merilee Ford,
H. Kim Lew, Steve Spanier and Tim Stevenson, Cisco Press MacMillan
Technical Publishing, 1998, by Cisco Systems Inc.; Multiprotocol
Network Design and Troubleshooting by Chris Brenton, Network Press
Sybeck Inc., 1997; Visual C++ Distributed, James M. Lacey, The
Corilolis Group, 2000; Practical C Programming, Third Edition, by
Steve Oualline, O'Reilly, 1997, all the above incorporated herein
by reference.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0064] U.S. Pat. No. 5,963,647, No. 5,825,003, and No. 5,982,918
that are incorporated herein by reference can be greatly improved
and enhanced by using the teachings of the instant invention, so as
to provide a more versatile, universal and dynamic system(s) that
can be used by all peoples of the world. These improvements are
especially useful to the poor and middle class who regularly are
being phased out of the banking system of now and the future (the
unbanked) Eclipsing and revolutionizing the art, the system is able
to interface and interact with ATMs and modify and improve ATMs,
customer activated terminals (CATs), and similar banking/financial
kiosks. The addition of video cameras and the like will enable
appropriate government institutions, i.e., NSA and others, to
monitor the system in real-time to encourage compliance with all
government laws and regulations both nationally and globally.
[0065] The instant invention, as described and illustrated herein,
is a money transfer process and advanced automatic teller machine
and device (Uncle GEM/AAIMTM) consisting of a cash (paper currency)
bill acceptor, accepting/dispensing devices, or optionally coin
accepting/return devices and gold coins, silver coins, platinum
coins, diamonds accepting/return/dispensing devices, debit card
readers/acceptors and reloaders/burners, smart card acceptors and
burners/reloading means and smart card and/or debit card
dispensers. In addition any type of bank card or club organization
store card and/or financial instrument can be dispensed and/or
accepted and processed by the instant invention, etc., coupled to a
display unit (which may include a touch screen or pen-write display
and/or dynamic pen authentication signature means), Customer
Service phone means, data input devices, and a expanded
printer/dispenser that uses computer/microprocessor(s) and modem(s)
and/or transceiver means (including voice over Internet protocol(s)
VOIP), see Computer User (Atlanta) September 2003, incorporated
herein by reference, for control and communication to multiple such
devices [A1-n, B1-n] and/or a centralized database for
transactions, accounting, and inventory control.
[0066] A multiplicity of the devices on a communications network,
be it telephonic, wireless, etc., is available 24 hours a day, as
sender, receiver and dispenser [A or B] of funds interchangeably. A
Receiver (Uncle GEM/AAIMTM B) becomes a Dispenser when the
Recipient (a person) retrieves the pending transaction that was
originally sent by initiator or sender from device A (Uncle
GEM/AAIMTM A), the Recipient uses a verifiable password,
identification, and/or authentication means. Obviously, it is
possible for the intended receiver to retrieve his money from the
device, Uncle GEM/AAIMTM A, if by chance he is in the vicinity of
Uncle GEM/AAIMTM A. All that is required is to merely input his
verifiable password, identification, or authentication means
including biometrics means. However, if the payment of the
transaction fee is paid at the receiver/dispenser, then, when
prompted by the receiver/dispenser, the additional information is
inputted indicating to the device whether to deduct the fee from
the transferred funds or the fee will be remitted by the
Recipient.
[0067] The Uncle GEM/AAIMTM employs I/O devices, such as CD-ROM,
CD-RW, DVD, high definition DVD, scanners, diskette drives, and/or
any other associated technology and means known to those skilled in
the art. A writable screen, digital pen, dynamic signature
technology and/or other authentication means known to those skilled
in the art can be employed to enable handwriting or to use a
signature for documents and generally for any or all money
transfers. This will enhance security and increase versatility.
Biometrics capabilities and an expanded output and input means will
enable and facilitate large amounts of cash/funds and data
transfers. Various geometric shapes of the kiosk containing the
machine may be employed to eliminate long lines, i.e., cubic,
spherical, cylindrical, and pyramidal, as well the multi-tiered
feature be it physical or holographic (multi-channel holographic
touch screen and input/output I/O features, etc.) A cubic shaped
kiosk allows for example four (4) or more users to simultaneously
access the system, since each vertical face of the cube contains a
machine. Also, the use of holographic technology can enable
multi-channel techniques or multiple displays, which can augment
this function allowing for, increased accessibility. Automatic or
manual, level positioning of the face units or entire structure to
adjust to the proper or desired height of the user for easy access
and use is incorporated into the instant invention this will
address the needs of the handicapped and disabled as well as
children, short and tall people, etc.
[0068] The addition of Audio, Video and Voice-Recognition (AVRCG),
sound/voice (S/V) technology, and/or video, data streaming, and/or
live-feed technology will facilitate use of the machines and
enhance man-machine interaction, enabling real-time money
transfers. AVRCG and S/V prompts in different languages and diverse
dialects will aid in the understanding and use of the system. A
user can see and hear instructions and give commands to be led or
spoon-fed through the process. Maps and charts on the display along
with GPS technology aid in the process.
[0069] Genetic technology including DNA technology, biochips and
genetic programming can be employed. Melanin based chips and
circuitry, neural networks as well as Brain Machine Interface (BMI)
and other technologies including psionic or telepathic
systems/processes ideally suited for paraplegics and others with or
without impairments can be employed.
[0070] The technology of magnetic-spin processing and circuitry, or
spintronics and nanotechnology, can be employed. Quantum
information science, quantum processing, quantum-dots/programmable
matter, and quantum teleportation methods, schemes, and systems can
be utilized in this system. The process or phenomenon known as
entanglement and the ability to create and use quantum states to
create cryptographic keys that are virtually immune or impervious
to eavesdropping or hackers is ideally suited for this system. In
quantum processing and quantum teleportation, 1s and 0s, or bits,
are represented instead by superimposed quantum states or Q-bits
and E-bits. A type of quantum teleportation scheme or process can
be demonstrated wherein information and data (or
money/currency/coins) is quantum teleported. Quantum information
science, quantum computing, quantum cryptographic keys and
algorithms, and quantum teleportation methods and schemes will
enhance the process and achieve the goal of efficient and secure
money/data transfers, see Scientific American, vol. 13, no. 1,
2003, incorporated by reference herein.
[0071] Secured information or data may also be encrypted and
transmitted. Appropriate security software can be used and Virtual
Private Networks (VPNs) may be utilized. This information includes
but is not limited to: insurance information and records; business
data and records; billing information; medical information, data
and records; credit information, data and record(s) and generally
any confidential or personal information. Also, the device can
interface with the Internet (on-line) to allow a user to pay for
any type of goods and services with real currency and/or credit or
debit cards and various financial instruments and alternatively
with gold, silver and other precious metals/coins. This can be
enhanced especially if quantum teleportation methods, schemes and
processes are used. A user of the system can engage in Internet or
online casino gambling, lotteries, and pay-as-you-go sites.
[0072] The system is also capable of supporting an on-line stock
market that would be a type of cyber space securities and exchange,
stock market, or virtual stock market, wherein securities and
various financial instruments could be bought or sold including
barter/trade/methods and systems and means. Essentially it can be a
cyber or virtual Wall Street. Airline tickets, bill payment and
check cashing can also be accomplished by this system. The instant
invention is capable of robust operation anywhere or place land,
air or sea underwater and including outer space and beyond
(interplanetary). And throughout the universe especially when gold,
platinum and silver and other precious metals and/or precious and
semiprecious stones are used as a form of payment.
[0073] In most European countries as well as other countries in the
Americas in Asia, Europe, Africa and others money or currency
exchangers are used to convert one form of national currency into
another some of these machines may already posses a currency
ingress and many of use other financial instruments. A system
modification and network modification of these currency conversion
machines can enable them to not only convert their respective
currencies, but also can be retrofitted with the instant invention
technology and thereby enhanced so these machines can now send as
well as receive currency, gold, silver, platinum, palladium coins
and various combinations of precious and semiprecious coins and
stones, instruments, and other, precious coinage (metallic and
nonmetallic) to a distal location (anywhere) and from a proximal
location (anywhere). For example, if German Marks were to be
converted to the EURO because someone in France uses only Euros,
the machine could, using the instant invention's technology merely
output (send) the amount to be transferred to the respective
country. In this case, the system calculates Mark/Euro exchange
rate (if any) and deducts any miscellaneous fees, which can be
charged at either end. Basically this is what the Aunty IM and
Uncle GEM do and to use it to augment and/or enhance currency
conversion will be a major help to all of the peoples of the world,
see U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,184 incorporated herein by reference.
An Improved Automated Teller Machine (ATM)
[0074] A conventional automated teller machine (ATM) can be greatly
improved through software, system and network
modifications/enhancements and hardware improvements/additions and
dedicated so that it can perform as an Uncle GEM/Aunty IM.
Therefore its primary functions are updated to handle the purchase
of goods and services and to handle data transfers globally,
anywhere, anytime, and with any one, thing, business, institution
or entity, via the Internet or other communications medium, using
money and precious stones, gold coins, silver coins, etc., as long
as the transaction is legal and follows all government laws and
regulations.
[0075] A single bill acceptor (or multiple bill acceptors) can be
installed and integrated into the modified enhanced ATM. Also, the
bill acceptor can be enhanced to accept coupons, manufacturers
discounts and other financial products/instruments. The machines
can operate and provide great service to humans by just having a
bill/currency ingress/acceptor; however, the addition or
elimination of a coin acceptor/dispenser is optional. Having a coin
acceptor/dispenser is optional, since money transfers can be
rounded off to the nearest dollar, mark, yen, etc. This is
understood and obvious in U.S. Pat. No. 6,554,184. However, human
nature the global economy and nations currencies are constantly in
flux. The addition and use of gold coins, silver coins, platinum
coins, and others and/or alternatively barter methods/systems and
means can provide a simple quick remedy in times of currency
distress/insolvency and general hyperinflation. Also, the use of
gold and silver, etc., creates a unique specialty market and allows
a means for those in possession of the same to participate in
buying and selling globally and is an alternative means of
commerce.
[0076] The instant invention also is designed to allow
accessibility by the handicapped or disabled, the multi-tiered ATM,
Uncle GEM/AAIMTM systems addresses this problem and the ATM can be
redesigned so that any of the input/output (I/O) means as well as
the entire machine can have a type of elevator or level selection
means (or be static, i.e., shelves) which allows the pertinent
functions to move into the proper position to enable anyone of any
height or disability to easily gain access to the features of the
system and benefit, especially the disabled, children, and
short/tall people, etc. A simple button or means would activate
this feature. Also, the machine itself could scan the user upon
approach or other activation means and automatically adjust itself
to a desired level position or height, thereby enabling easier
access by the user and this will comply with government
law/regulations for true access by the disabled/handicapped. The
detection means could be biometrics and other means known to those
skilled in the art, cameras/scanners/signals/systems, etc. This
feature allows the ATM to reposition or adjust itself to the proper
level/height of the user automatically upon detection of the
approaching user regardless of their height, ability, or
limitations and additional biometrics features could enable
virtually anyone regardless of physical ability to safely use the
instant invention, see Feedback and Control Systems with
applications to the Engineering, Physical And Life Sciences, D I
Stesfano III, Stubberud, Williams, 1967, incorporated herein by
reference.
[0077] In the probable event of global unrest and currency
insolvency, the instant invention offers a possible expedient or
solution to faltering currencies, including paper and non-precious
metal coins/mints, etc. Through enhancement and modification and
general improvement of the proverbial ATM system, including
hardware/software/network(s), etc., and to enhance/modify the coin
acceptor apparatus to now accept precious metal coins/coinage
including gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and other precious
metals type coins and combinations thereof this could include old
ancient type coins and newly minted coins, see 2004 Standard
Catalog of World Coins by Chester L. Krause and Clifford Mishler,
1901-present, 31st edition, incorporated herein by reference. The
addition or ability to transfer sums using precious metal coins
will serve to enable the continuation of modern commerce in the
event of a global financial collapse. This may occur due to the
100s of trillions in deficit that is being masked or hidden from
unsuspecting citizens. Also, due to the fact that in times of super
or hyper inflation gold/platinum/silver/rhodium and other precious
metals maintain and generally increase in value, and are a natural
hedge against inflation. Therefore, precious metals and coins could
be transferred as well as paper/currency transfers, globally, since
by their very nature international conversions should be easier in
many cases and of course all of the aforementioned can be done
concurrently, interchangeably or and simultaneously if one prefers
by merely selecting the appropriate features on the instant
invention and machine.
[0078] The transference of precious stones is also anticipated
i.e., diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, topaz, etc., and combinations
of the aforementioned, jewelry, including gold platinum and other
precious metals including barter and means and systems. In essence
a optional barter type system is anticipated enabling sums or
trades to be accomplished transferred or exchanged and goods and
services to be purchased with the instant invention and through the
Internet, World Wide Web/online, and other communication means, as
well as modified I/O means known to those skilled in the
art/science. Therefore a modified automated teller machine
including system/network modifications and enhanced gold or
precious metals coin acceptor could in principle by itself perform
global money transfers and Internet commerce and enable the
purchasing of goods and services on the Internet and other global
communication means including using precious metals and/or coins as
the means of payment. Various established methods of assay be it
electronic, chemical physical, optical or means known to those
skilled in the art of gold, silver bullion and other precious
metals and combinations thereof can be employed. These methods and
means can be streamlined and made compact and incorporated into the
system/machines. In addition a gold, silver, platinum or precious
metals modified coin acceptor ingress can be used as the input
means and a corresponding modified egress or dispensing output
means can be employed. Therefore at either end, currency, precious
metal coins, etc., can be inserted and sent/transferred anywhere on
the globe and at the other (distal end) end, the receiver could
receive either gold/silver/platinum coins or optionally accept
standard copper/nickel, etc., coins or accepted combinations of the
aforementioned or paper currency.
[0079] The modified Automated teller machine could also employ a
currency ingress bill acceptor and via system/software
modifications one could insert currency and therefore the (after
foreign currency conversion) calculated equivalent and/or assay,
gold, silver, platinum, etc., coinage can be output or received if
desired at the other end by the receiver and vice versa. Precious
stones/coinage can be done in a similar manner (or alternately via
a barter system) and optionally the latter is easier If the
precious metals or instruments is fashioned or made into a standard
or as a coin. The instant invention enables a user to (go on-line)
surf or search the Internet or similar medium (any method/means of
Global communication) that can be accessed using the
modified/enhanced advanced ATM (Uncle GEM/Aunty IM) and find what
they want and pay for it in real time by merely inserting the
required cash money into the cash ingress (bill acceptor) as well
as coins and precious metals, gold/silver coins if desired into a
modified, enhanced coin acceptor or optionally using other payment
means, i.e., smart cards/debit/credit cards, coupons or other
financial instruments and communication means including telephones
and cell phones or combination of the aforementioned technology and
means.
[0080] The Uncle GEM through internal/external security means will
conform and comply with all government restrictions and laws across
all national and international borders. However, it will allow a
human being to maintain a modicum of freedom/privacy in their lives
and a bit of control over their destiny as well as enabling
everyone regardless of financial level to participate in the global
Internet phenomenon and possibly serve to prevent global currency
insolvency since in principle a gold or similar precious metals
backing could in theory and practice support and authenticate
virtually any paper type currency from any nation or entity
globally. One solution, alternative is to have a cash ingress
integrated into an automated teller machine (ATM) system and with
the insertion of currency or optionally gold coins, etc., a user
merely purchases a financial instrument which could be a credit
card or temporary debit, Visa or MasterCard smart card etc.,
similar to going to Kinko's and using their kiosks which after
inserting money one receives a card which can be used to copy or do
work on their computers. The latter has many variants and the means
is known to those skilled in the art. The Aunty IM/Uncle GEM can
incorporate an enhanced, improved version of this or alternative
method and correspondingly dispense and load or reload/replenish
any type of financial instruments including smart cards, debit
cards, coupons, Visa or MasterCard, telephone cards, American
Express and virtually any type of financial card or financial
instrument, many of these cards can be prepaid if the buyer is
generally uncreditworthy or just for convenience. Thereafter the
buyer of these instruments is free to participate and purchase
goods and services on the Internet, on-line. or use other global or
regional communication means. However, the ability of a user to use
currency, simple cash/precious metals coins gold/silver, etc., to
actually pay for goods and services on-line, i.e., the Internet in
real time by using a modified automated teller machine (ATM)
systems/networks which can interact on a global level anywhere
(superhighway) is a more simple, private, practical, safe and
trustworthy solution. This will enable anyone regardless of age or
monetary status to have the ability to shop at his or her
fingertips and truly participate on a global level in the new
global economy. The instant invention can be further enhanced with
the addition of breakthroughs in sound/acoustics and optics
including Holographic optics. The addition of these technologies
serve as improved security measures, Hypersonic sound (HSS)
technology/speakers can be employed so that only the sender and
receiver can hear command prompts and realtime conversations with
the modified ATM and intended receiver, therefore headphones would
be optional. In addition Holographic optics including diffractive
optics, holographic optical elements (HOEs & MOEs) and
holographic diffusers which can precisely direct computer images,
to a desired or restricted space or viewing angle can be
incorporated especially using various multi-channel holographic
projections and holographic touch interactive technologies. The
latter would insure increased privacy since others standing nearby
or interlopers would be unable to easily see the information on the
computer screen if the hologram is designed to have a restricted
field of view. The latter is possible further through precise
design of a holographic diffuser or HOE. Therefore the emergent
technology of virtual keyboards and interactive holographic touch
screen and keyboards/keypads (Holographic Input/Output I/O
devices/systems) can be integrated into the instant invention.
[0081] IBM company through it's dealers has marketed for years a
system known as the PC register this good system enables merchants
and others to have enhanced control of their cash receiving (cash
registers) and payment inventory and accounting systems. In
addition they are able to use the Internet with this system to
assist in on-line purchases. There are others in the industry who
have similar upgraded or super cash registers. The instant
invention Uncle GEM/Aunty IM can help their efforts. Basically
through system and network modification this PC register can be
improved so that it's systems will allow currency to be accepted as
well as send or transferred (money transfer) and also modified to
access the Internet and pay for on-line purchases in cash or gold
coins silver coins and other precious metals and to authenticate or
backup and support faltering currencies.
Paying for Internet Goods and Services
[0082] An automated teller machine (ATM) can be modified/enhanced
and converted into an Uncle GEM/Aunty IM so that any person can
access the Internet from this modified ATM, which could be DSL or
wireless also, cable, etc., or by other communication means known
to those skilled in the art. The user can then surf the net (go
shopping) and upon finding what they want, select it and using the
cash or currency ingress insert the correct amount including
appropriate taxes and if foreign, proper exchange rates. The coin
acceptor is an option not all of the systems (Uncle GEM/Aunty IMs)
are required to have this function; however, the latter, the
inventor believes is very important in that it allows the
possibility for increased commerce and convenience, especially when
one considers the need for global commerce. It is entirely within
reason and possible for a tiny merchant in a village in China,
Himalayas, India or Bangladesh to offer for sale an item say a
trinket or basket or some item that costs a few dollars or say a
few cents. The Uncle IM/Uncle GEM/Aunty IM or modified ATM can
easily handle bills or coins, The state of technology is advanced
enough so that any sum no matter how small or large can be
accommodated. In addition it is understood that the modified ATMs
or Uncle GEMS/Aunty IMs can accept deposits in denominations of $1
to $100. However, the system can accept virtually any amount and
excess denomination in many instances the denominations vary and
may be larger than a $100 bill, i.e., $1,000 bills $5,000 bills,
$10,000, and above including fractional amounts of the penny or
dollar, etc., or the equivalent amounts (virtually unlimited
amounts can be sent or received). Also for excessive amounts a
deposit feature on the machines can be used the latter method is
quite known to those skilled in the art, in fact their are digital
devices that are sensitive enough and capable of measuring and
counting/weighing the currency and rendering the proper tally, as
well as normal bill counting and sorting technology/devices
including digital imaging means of all coins and precious metal
coins, stones and jewelry that are deposited and dispensed. All of
the aforementioned can be incorporated into the modified ATMs or
Uncle GEM/Aunty IMs. True 3D digital computer technology as well as
holographic technology including holographic interactive touch
technology can be employed to assist and help customers to inspect
and choose their merchandise goods and services.
Music, Music Videos, Movies, and Books (Goods & Services)
[0083] The Uncle GEMS/Aunty IMs or modified automatic teller
machines (ATMs) can allow anyone anywhere to access the
Internet/online feature of the machines and to select any music (or
movie) any where anytime and of any artist and with the blessing of
the RIM and MPAA pay for it in cash or currency check (physical
paper or electronic check writing and verification means) Debit
cards, smart card, credit cards or Visa and Mastercards and
generally with any financial instrument including coupons. In
addition some bill acceptors are capable of accepting coupons. The
user can find a song or artists works and upon selecting it pay for
it using the cash/currency ingress and/or aforementioned instantly
in real time. The user can also surf the net for movies made
anywhere on the planet and select them and pay for them using the
cash/currency ingress, and/or gold coins, etc., XM satellite,
Cirrus and others, Amazon.com, Kazaa users, BuyMusic.com, Rhapsody
(listen.com), Pressplay (pressplay.com), MusicNet (musicnet.com),
Microsoft, AOL, Yahoo, Walmart and a host of Internet service
providers and others can be helped by the use of the instant
invention. In addition auctioning sites such as Ebay and others can
be engaged and with the World Wide Web online, Internet at ones
fingertips (feature of the modified ATMs, Uncle GEMS, Aunty IMs)
actually win bids and pay for and transaction, goods and services
on the spot as well as engage in gambling, etc., in real-time using
the cash/currency ingress as well as the precious metals acceptor
ingress. True 3D digital computer images and holographic technology
as well as voice and sound can be displayed and heard to assist the
customer/buyer in their purchase. In addition the vast untapped
audience of unsigned artists (and signed artists) both for music
and for independent movie makers and non-independent movie makers
have a practical means for getting paid for their products and not
have to rely upon political or monetary roadblocks.
Multi-Tiered Uncle GEM/Aunty IM Automatic Level Position/Access
(For the Physically Challenged)
[0084] The Uncle GEM, Advanced Automatic Instant Money Transfer
Machine illustrates several multisided or multiple face units which
allow more than one person to access the system, i.e., four sided
cube and cylindrical, etc. The multi-tiered Uncle GEM/Aunty IM is a
significant improvement in that a system/apparatus and machine is
needed that can address the problems of tall people, short people
and handicapped or the disabled. The addition of multiple bill
acceptors from top to bottom and the addition of multiple screens
and keyboards as well as multiple dispensers and multiple coin
acceptors that are arrayed from top to bottom can enable the
physically challenged to participate and benefit from this
inventive systems as well as assisting average height individuals.
One could obviously design a system wherein the bill acceptors/coin
acceptors and dispensers and screens/keyboards/keypads and other
accessories that can actually move into various positions up and
down or sidewise even diagonal, and rotate and assume virtually any
desired position for easier access by the user. However, the
addition of multiple bill acceptors, would help tremendously and
multiple output dispensers (multiple I/O) screens would also be a
be a good solution, multiple coin acceptors and dispensers can also
be used in conjunction with the bill apparatus acceptors or as
stand alone by themselves. The latter would be an improvement and
in contrast to the now ubiquitous COINSTAR machine, see U.S. Pat.
No. 5,564,548, incorporated herein by reference. This system
accepts coins and outputs the amount in the form of a receipt, to
be redeemed by the cashier. Using the teachings of the instant
invention the COINSTAR apparatus can be modified and enhanced to
not only output the aggregate or total amount of coins input into
the device, but it can also be engineered/designed to send this
amount to some body (money transfers) and/or to perform on-line
purchases on the World Wide Web enabling a user to easily purchase
anything, and also to dispense the amounts tallied into cash or
paper currency's or alternately precious metals and also to be
multi-tiered. In addition it is possible to further engineer/design
the machine to convert the input coins into different
denominations/foreign, etc., and as stated to also accept gold and
silver coins and to dispense gold or silver coins or paper
currencies in any denomination and of any type from any nation and
to any nation on the globe and to perform currency conversions and
money transfers and to accept virtually any type of coin of value
from nations throughout the world. The machine employs several or
multiple bill acceptors and optional multiple coin acceptors from
the top to the bottom of the structure. This would accommodate tall
and short people as well as people with handicaps (wheelchairs,
etc.) and children. The vertical expansion (or horizontal
rectangular expansion) of the instant invention can enable and
assist humans of various heights and abilities and
disabilities.
[0085] Also multiple functions can be integrated in this device and
virtually any type of goods or service can be offered by this
inventive system. For example if situated in a gas or service
station environment the means to instantly pay for gas or any
merchandise goods or service can be accomplished. In addition if
one wanted to play the lottery/gamble or buy tickets pay bills, or
purchase soft drinks, Coke.RTM. or Pepsi.RTM., cigarettes,
beer/alcohol, Buy or sell precious metal coins/stones etc., one
could conceivably do this with one of the multiple bill acceptors
and optional coin acceptors and/or precious metals gold, silver
coins acceptors and still have the means at their disposal to make
money transfers and online transfers purchases and goods and
services as well as normal Automatic Teller Machine (ATM)
functions. In addition the current rise and acceptance of automated
cashiers such as U-scan (self service checkout machines, i.e.,
supermarkets and other retail outlets) enable greater versatility
for humans and enable great savings of time and independence for
customers. The Uncle GEMs/Aunty IMs can be integrated and
incorporated into these devices to enhance its capabilities. Since
the user is already accustomed to paying with cash and coins (or
credit/debit) cards and various financial instruments including
coupons, the machine can be modified to use the existing system
components and/or interface with the Uncle GEM/Aunty IM system
allowing one to make money transfers and access and use online
services and still possess some U-scan capabilities as well.
Additional cash input/ingress can be made on this hybrid device and
software interface/integration will enable anyone to purchase goods
and services by using the integrated Uncle GEM/Aunty IM and
accomplish money transfers and online purchases as well. Virtually
any vending machine that accepts currency/coins or credit
cards/financial instruments can be modified and integrated with the
Uncle GEM/Aunty IM system and can in turn be upgraded improved and
enhanced with this inventive system. Also, the multi-tiered device
can also contain multiple screens and those which digitally allow
multiple windows in addition multi-channel interactive holographic
touch screen displays or I/O holographic display systems can be
integrated into the instant invention, so that a human user can
have greater choice, control and convenience/access.
Assay Methods for Precious Metals and Stones
[0086] The Uncle GEM particularly includes methods for
authenticating gold, platinum, palladium, rhodium and other
precious metals and stones (including semi-precious items). These
methods can rely on electrical and thermal conductivity. Some
diamond assay methods rely upon analysis of the absorption spectra
of the elements in the diamond including fluorescence and/or
infrared spectrometers. Additional methods are known to those
skilled in the art, some employing Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (NMRI) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and X-Ray
Flourescence and Tomography. These methods could be made available
as required, see Synthetic Diamonds May Overtake Real Ones, Today's
Science On File, Technology, October 2003; The Diamond Wars have
Begun by Joshua Davis, Wired, September 2003, page 96; and Carbon
Copy by Mark Fischetti, Scientific American, February 2003, page
82, all incorporated herein by reference. A suitable compact
precious metal coin acceptor and/or diamond and other precious
stone acceptors (and dispensers) can be fabricated, manufactured
acquired and used in the instant invention.
[0087] In addition many vending machines such as
Coke.sup..cndot..cndot./Coca Cola.sup..cndot..cndot., Frito
Lay.sup..cndot..cndot., Pepsi.sup..cndot..cndot., etc., machines
and other cash machines such as those at convenience stores can be
improved through system modification/network modifications and
allow the insertion of actual cash and coins or precious metals
coins/coinage to and transferred from a proximal to a distal
location or recipient.
[0088] Optional features include but are not limited to: [0089]
Post/future dated retrieval of money/data transfers; [0090] Maximum
wait time (MWT) to retrieve transferred funds/data, when the MWT
elapses the funds/data are returned to the Initiator or a Designee;
[0091] Global accessibility to transferred funds and partial
payment of the transfer fee is optional. [0092] Compatibility to
any network or networking architecture and/or protocols for
communications between devices A and B, the CDBS or other financial
institutions network will be utilized, including Voice over
Internet protocols (VOIP), Television phones (TV Phone) technology
and means, Electromagnetic ID means, including Radio Frequency
Identification means, tags etc.; [0093] Functions and apparatus for
transactions and printing/cashing money orders, personal or payroll
checks, including government payroll checks, physical or electronic
means, and electronic check creation and printing means, bill
payment means and systems with either currency or electronic and
other means, United States Postal Stamp Dispenser and optionally
any country or global stamp dispenser and U.S. money orders or
universal or global money orders from any financial
entity/organization, bank etc, Also, mail Drop receptacles (deposit
means) for U.S. and international mail and/or any country world
wide, including acceptance and payment methods and apparatus for
FedEx, UPS and virtually any type of courier. Authentication of
ones signature and pen-write and or dynamic pen signature
technology thumb print identification/authentication technologies
and means and apparatus technology to enhance and assure/insure,
safeguard and verify financial transactions. All and virtually any
financial instruments can be accepted and most can be created
electronically/optically and dispensed by the instant invention,
including telephone cards, smart cards and debit cards and means
for dispensing and reloading/replenishing or increasing,
decreasing, readjusting its monetary equivalent or value. [0094]
Purchasing money market(s), stocks/bonds, tickets (transportation,
entertainment), music and music videos, rent movies and music
videos, etc., bills, etc., via select means; [0095] Check cashing
services with passwords, codes, encryption, authentication means
and writable screen/pen/write digital pen technology and means and
dynamic pen signature technology used for further authentication;
[0096] Dunce's guide to money transfers (a tutorial on how to
utilize the Uncle GEM/Aunty IM system); [0097] Airline purchases
and payment for Amtrak, Greyhound including the installation of The
Uncle Gem/Aunty IM units on earth, airplanes, jets, subways, rocket
ships, cruise ships, trains, buses, the moon, Mars or
extraterrestrial locations, etc. [0098] Handicapped patron options
(including voice recognition, Braille, TDD, etc.), automatic level
position means via sensor/mechanism features. [0099] Gold, silver,
platinum and precious metals, diamonds, bullion and means and
apparatus for acceptance, process capability, and input means and
dispensing means to allow or permit alternative methods of money
transfers, on-line payments including gambling and universal global
commerce, including commerce with potential aliens from outer space
or inner space (inter dimensional), other precious metals and
elements heretofore unknown including cold pressed latinum.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0100] FIG. 1 is an illustration of an Uncle GEM/AAIMTM Internal
Network and System (INS) [10] logical data flow showing a series of
Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs on a network. The series of Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs
are capable of transfers from a proximal location(s) [1], Uncle
GEMs/AAIMTMs or devices A1-An, to distal location(s) [5], Uncle
GEMs/AAIMTMs or devices B1-Bn, via the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM internal
network [6] (in blue). Each Uncle GEM/AAIMTM has the capability to
be in direct communication with every other Uncle GEM/AAIMTM in the
series A and B. As discussed above, any Uncle GEM/AAIMTM is
interchangeably at a proximal and/or distal location depending on
whether an initiator [54] or a Recipient [52] (not shown on this
diagram, see FIG. 16) starts a process. FIG. 1 is intended to give
a logical representation of where data is sent in the Uncle
GEM/AAIMTM INS [10]. Each Uncle GEM/AAIMTM is capable of sending
and receiving signals and data with or without a centralized
network controller and is capable of tracking transactions,
inventory and other operations data as necessary. This method of
communication is well known to those skilled in the art as a
"neural network" or mesh.
[0101] Another embodiment in FIG. 1 is that signals from the series
of Uncle GEMS/AAIMTMs [1] are routed to a processor [2] or
alternately directly to a central database server (CDBS) [3] to do
required day to day functions including end-of-day processing
and/or track transactions on the internal network [6]. Both
proximal Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs [1] or distal Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs [5],
as needed, route traffic to processor [2] using transmission paths
[8]. (Transmission paths [8] are not shown in this diagram
connecting Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs [5] to CDBS [3]; however, it is
understood that this can occur.) The processor [2] proceeds to
transmit and receive data via signal path [4] to and from the CDBS
[3] shown all together as Uncle GEM/AAIMTM HQ [9]. The processor
[2] may function as a front end, a demilitarized zone (DMZ), or as
a host for the CDBS [3]. The trusted transmission paths [7] allow
each proximal Uncle GEM/AAIMTM [1] or distal Uncle GEM/AAIMTM [5]
to directly connect to the CDBS [3] as the situation merits.
(Transmission paths [7] are not shown in this diagram connecting
Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs [1] to CDBS [3]; however, it is understood that
this can occur.) The transaction accounting and tracking of funds
is handled by the CDBS [3], which also allows for data mining of
current and past trends in usage, inventory, and/or other database
functions well known to one skilled in the art.
[0102] FIG. 2 is an illustration of the Universal Automatic Instant
Money, Data and Gold Transfer Machine Logical Transmission Signal
Flow Graph. FIG. 3 is an illustration of a Universal Instant Money,
Data and Gold Transfer Machine Logical Signal Control System
Flowchart.
[0103] FIG. 3 is an illustration of the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM/External
Network Logical Data Flowchart detailing an Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS
[10] accessing and communicating with a financial institution's
network (FIN) [11]. For convenience the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS [10]
of FIG. 1 is shown compressed as element [10a], wherein devices
A1-An [1] are represented Uncle GEM/AAIMTM A [1a], devices B1-Bn
[5] are represented as Uncle GEM/AAIMTM B [5a], the internal
network [6] is shown as a logical network path [6a], transmission
paths [8] are now a logical transmission path [8a], and trusted
transmission paths [7] are now a logical trusted path [7a].
[0104] FIG. 4 shows external transmission paths [17], which allow
Uncle GEM/AAIMTM HQ [9] access to a FIN [11] through the FIN's
remote front-end processor [12] and/or it's ATM network [14].
Logical networks [15] and [16], shown only as a convenience to this
discussion, are part of the FIN [11]. This arrangement in turn
permits the plethora of parent banks' mainframes and ATM networks a
single contact point processor [2] in the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS [10]
through their associated logical networks [15 & 16]. Any Uncle
GEM/AAIMTM is capable of interfacing and communicating with
virtually any bank or FIN worldwide.
[0105] FIG. 5 embodies an alternate PC/Uncle GEM/AAIMTM
INS/External Network Logical Data Flowchart detailing an Uncle
GEM/AAIMTM INS [10a] that is accessed by a PC [19] (or similar
Internet connection device). The external transmission paths [17]
and logical transmission paths [21] and [22] are only
representational of either satellite, wireless, wired (telephonic),
Internet and/or any other communications means [20] known to those
skilled in the art including cable modems and/or DSL modems,
wireless modems, WiFi, etc., The PC accesses the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM
web page (not shown) via logical transmission path [21] to connect
to an Internet Service Provider (ISP) [18] or directly to Uncle
GEM/AAIMTM INS [10a] via an external transmission path [17]. The
ISP [18] uses its own logical transmission path [22] to connect
through to the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS [10], usually through the
Internet or any communications means.
[0106] The Uncle GEM/AAIMTM HQ [9] acts as an intermediary that
interfaces and communicates with a distal FIN [11] to send account
information (credit or debit) and receive acknowledgment of the
availability of funds to be transferred. Then the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM
HQ [9] transmits the proper transaction information to both the PC
and the appropriate individual Uncle GEMs/AAIMTMs as receivers and
potential dispensers of funds. The Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS [10a]
transmits a confirmation/receipt of the transaction on screen, via
e-mail or snail mail of which a PC user [23] receives.
[0107] FIG. 6 illustrates the Advanced AIMTM Embodiment A is an
illustration of a basic Advanced Automatic Instant Money Transfer
Machine. In this drawing only one face is depicted; however,
multiple interfaces can be added to this system or machine so that
several people can simultaneously access the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM. The
Uncle GEM/AAIMTM or Uncle GEM/Aunty IM [30a] comprises (besides the
housing): a touch screen, writable screen, pen-write display,
optional holographic and/or digital pen means [31], (and/or dynamic
pen signature means and authentication means) and/or
keypad/keyboard [32], a slot [35] for money orders, receipt and/or
other financial instruments, a (single or multiple) bill/coin
dispenser [37], a (single or multiple) bill/coin acceptor [38], and
a (single or multiple) credit/debit & id acceptor/dispenser
[39]. What is also included in the Uncle GEM/Aunty IM [30a-d] are
DVD drives [33], a floppy drive [34], and a CD drive [36] (read or
read/write) as part of the user interface. Also in the Uncle
GEM/Aunty IM [30], which is not shown but is included and not
limited to, are bill collators and stackers, a receptacle for
temporarily holding bills and coins, a safe for fee deposits, and
reservoirs for bill and coin dispensing, plus those elements
discussed in application Ser. No. 09/565,389. Also, the Uncle
GEM/Aunty IM [20] a modified coin acceptor/dispenser means designed
to accept dispense precious metals and coins new or ancient
[100/101], precious/semiprecious stone acceptor, receptacle and/or
dispenser means [102/103], smartcard reader/dispenser means
[104/105], and customer service telephony means [106].
[0108] FIGS. 7-15 illustrate Advanced AIMTM Embodiments B-E all of
which includes all elements in Uncle GEM/AAIMTM [30a] (in FIG. 6)
except FIG. 7 does not show the optional coin acceptor but
otherwise including modified optional precious metal acceptor
[100]/precious metal output dispenser(s) [101] and
precious/semiprecious stone acceptor, receptacle and/or dispenser
[102/103]. FIG. 8 shows Embodiment B that includes a speaker [40]
and microphone [41] for audio interfacing and interaction and
optional precious metal acceptor [100] and precious metal dispenser
means [101] as described above under "Detailed Description of
Invention" and precious/semiprecious stone acceptor, receptacle
and/or dispenser means [102/103]. FIG. 9 displays Embodiment C that
includes a camera lens and/or video interface means [43], and
optional precious metal acceptor [100], and dispenser [101] means
and precious/semiprecious stone acceptor, receptacle and/or
dispenser means [102/103]. FIG. 10 shows Embodiment D that has
biometrics scanner/means and optionally precious metal acceptor
[100] and dispenser [101] means and precious/semiprecious stone
acceptor, receptacle and/or dispenser means [102/103]. FIGS. 11-13
depict Embodiment E that includes multiple interfaces [44] and [45]
enabling multiple users [46] access to Uncle GEM/Aunty IM [30e]
money transfer functions wherein also optional gold/silver and
precious metals ingress acceptors and output egress dispenser means
[101], [100] are illustrated. FIG. 12 is an illustration of an
Uncle GEM and AAIMTM with multi-tiered interfaces/levels and
multiple sides also optional precious metal coin ingress/acceptor
means [100] and precious metal coin dispenser means [101] is shown.
Also, it features automatic controller mechanisms with sensor means
[107] that automatically adjust the relevant input/output features
of the machines to the desired level or position of the user so
that anyone including those with physical disabilities or
handicapped can more easily gain access to the instant invention
and use it. In FIG. 13 Uncle GEM/Aunty IM [30e] is cylindrical in
shape optional precious metal coin acceptor [100] and dispenser
[101] means with auto-control level positioning means and
sensor/mechanism feature means [107].
[0109] This next discussion delineates the transfer procedure that
is common to all Embodiments A-E in FIGS. 1-19. The set of
processes is designated all together as transfer transactions. All
currency and {semi} precious coins and stones may be digitally
imaged by the system to be viewed by the Initiator [54] and/or
Recipient [52]. As discussed in application Ser. No. 09/565,389, it
is as follows:
[0110] The Sender [50], device A [1], indicates a transfer is
desired creating (via system) a pending transaction generated from
the transfer information. The transfer information consists of who
pays for the transfer (Initiator [54] or Recipient [52]),
identification data about the Recipient (to whom), and
identification data about the location(s) (to where) the funds are
to be made available to device B (or devices B1-n [5] at multiple
sites). The money to be sent and optionally the applicable fee is
inserted into the bill/coin acceptors [38] at device A (optionally
gold/silver coins) and is verified against the keypad/keyboard
[32], or touch screen [31] input amount. A password or
authentication means is then either inputted by the Initiator [54]
or generated by sender [50] (or via system) to give to the
Recipient [52] by phone or other means and added to the pending
transaction. The transaction information is verified by the Sender
[50], device A, with the Initiator [54]. A first set of signals (or
optional signal or multiple sets of signals) consisting of the
pending transaction information is transmitted via
modem/transceiver [56] (or cable modem) through communications
network [20] (or combination of transmission paths [6-8]). An
optional receipt is then generated by the printer through the
dispenser or (receipt slot) [35] for the Initiator [54].
Alternatively a cookie, e-mail or by means known to those skilled
in the art is given to the Initiator's or Agent's PC [19] to verify
the transaction via the CDBS [3] or Internet web page, see FIGS.
18-19.
[0111] The Recipient [52], notified as mentions above, at a
Receiver [51], device B1, proceeds to retrieve the funds through
device B1 indicating a retrieval is desired using the password or
authentication means, The information is verified by device B1
(Receiver [51]) which now becomes a Dispenser [51]. However, if the
payment of the transaction fee is paid at Dispenser [51], then,
when prompted, the additional information is inputted at
keypad/keyboard [32] or touch screen [31] indicating to the
Dispenser [51] whether to deduct the fee from the transferred funds
or the fee will be remitted (fed into the bill/coin acceptor [38])
or (optional gold or silver and precious metals coin acceptor
[100]) by the Recipient. An optional second set of signals or
single or multiple signals [see the following list incorporated
herein by reference: Practical Cisco Routers by Joe Habraken 1999,
Que Corporation; Cisco Certified Network associate 4th Edition 2004
Sybex Inc; Interconnecting Cisco Network Devices by Steve McQuerry
2000, Cisco Systems Inc,: Cisco Internetworking by Charles Riley
Technical Edition 2003, Syngress; and Oracle E-Business-B Suite
Financial Handbook by David James, Simon Russell, Graham Seibert
2002 Qracle Press, Mcgraw Hill] consisting of retrieval transaction
information is transmitted back to the CDBS [3] and/or device A
(Sender [50]) or financial institution [11]. The CDBS [3],
financial institution [11], device A (Sender [50]), or device B1
(Dispenser [51]) cancels the pending transfer transaction
indicating the funds are no longer available to other sites,
devices B2-n [5], when the second set of signals is received, or
single or multiple set of signals are received. Then the currency
is dispensed minus any applicable fee. The nominal fee that may
include appropriate taxes is charged at either or both ends of the
transaction.
[0112] FIG. 14 is the Aunty IM/Uncle GEM device wherein any Generic
Vending Machine has been modified, retrofitted and/or manufactured
with transfer/purchase functionality using accepted funds and/or
assayed values with optional precious metal coin acceptor and
dispenser [101] means, precious/semiprecious stone acceptor,
receptacle and/or dispenser means [102/103]. Monex, Lear Financial,
E-Bullion or other similar precious metal outlets may sponsor the
generic vending machine, including Internet operators. FIG. 15 is
the Aunty IM/Uncle GEM device wherein a Brand Name Vending Machine,
such as Coke.RTM./Coca Cola.RTM., Nestle.RTM., Frito Lay.RTM.,
Pepsi.RTM., etc., has been modified, retrofitted and/or
manufactured with transfer/purchase functionality using accepted
funds and/or assayed values with optional precious metal coin
acceptor [100] and dispenser [101] means and precious/semiprecious
stone acceptor, receptacle and/or dispenser means [102/103].
[0113] FIG. 16 shows Workflow Chart A is an illustration of Uncle
GEM/AAIMTM system basic transfer transaction processes, which also
are the process of FIGS. 16-19. The Initiator [54] starts the
process on the first interface [44], which then causes the Uncle
GEM/Aunty IM [30a] to become the sender [50]. The Initiator [54]
then follows the procedure to create a transfer transaction. When
the funds to be transferred (as cash, credit or debit) are
verified, the transfer transaction is transmitted by the
appropriate signals via the first modem/transceiver [56] using an
Internet, satellite, telephonic, wireless or other communications
means [20], including cable modem, wireless modem, DSL, etc. The
second modem/transceiver [56] then transmits the transfer
transaction to the receiver/dispenser [51]. Through the second
interface [44], the Recipient [52] starts a receiving transaction
process on receiver/dispenser [51].
[0114] What is also new in this transaction process shown in FIGS.
16-19 is user access to the additional devices the AVRCG and S/V
prompts and direct video allowing for possible real-time
transactions and interaction from both proximal and distal ends:
DVD drive [33], floppy drive [34], and CD drive [36] and more (see
FIG. 6) also what is new is the gold coin or silver coin acceptor
and precious metals coin acceptor [100] and gold/silver coin and
precious metal coin dispenser [101]. The Initiator [54] and
Recipient [52], collectively now referred to as the user/customer
[46], can upload and download data to be handled and transferred
much in the same manor as money transfer transactions. Whereas
instead of indicating an initiated transaction as a money transfer,
the customer [46] indicates a data transfer from a DVD, Floppy or
CD drive or other means. The fee for this type of transfer
optionally can be a surcharge based on the amount of data sent if
so desired.
[0115] All data transfers will be secure in the transfer of packets
across the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS [10] and any external network,
since security is basic to all money transfers and ATM transactions
and is well known to one of average skill in the art. However,
additional safeguards are needed. With the addition of potential
hacker activity and denial of service attacks on the new input
devices [33], [34], and [36] data handling will be carried out in a
manner similar to private intranets receiving data from the
Internet. Use of a mini security zone, called a demilitarized zone
(DMZ) known to those of average skill in the art, with packet
sniffers, intrusion detection devices or agents, and anti-virus
programming, would ensure protection of or significantly reduce the
advent of adverse/hostile activity to the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM [30],
the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM INS [10], and third party recipients of the
secured money/data transfer, including quantum cryptographic keys
and associated technology.
[0116] FIG. 17 illustrates Workflow Chart B is an illustration of
an Uncle GEM/AAIMTM system interacting with its Central Database
Server (CDBS) [3], as in the description for FIG. 1. FIG. 18 shows
Workflow Chart C that illustrates an Uncle GEM/AAIMTM system
interacting with an external financial network through the
processor, whereas the sender is utilizing a financial institution
or terminal and/or PC, as in the description for FIG. 4, to send
money from their proximal location to a distal location. FIG. 19
embodies Workflow Chart D, illustrating the Uncle GEM/AAIMTM system
interacting with a standalone Internet kiosk, as in the description
for FIG. 5.
[0117] FIGS. 20-22H depict the Aunty IM/Uncle Gem software
requirements outline, where the system must have the ability to be
dialed into form home based PCs, ATM networks and accessible by the
Internet. FIG. 20 shows the required software functionality,
showing the Aunty IM Interface, data transfer, remittance transfer,
and connection customizable software [108] and bill payer,
communications and networking, accounting, security and
authentication, Internet sales, maintenance and inventory, banking
transaction, operating systems, and data warehousing Off the Shelf
software [109].
[0118] FIG. 21 illustrates the Event and Process Model using UML
and SDL notation. The customer events [110], which activate the
system, are terminal activation, category activation and choice
activation. On the Aunt IM/Uncle Gem side of event horizon [111],
the entities in the dotted boxes [112] are associated to the
processes [113], the black topped rectangles, each process has an
associated process number based on the three activation levels,
terminal 10-30, categories corresponding to money transfer 100,
purchase 200, bill payment 300, bank transaction 400, data transfer
500, and assay 600; and choices base on category: 110-120, 210,
310, 410, 510-520, and 610-620.
[0119] FIG. 22A is an Information Entity (IE) Relationship Diagram
wherein the triangle labeled A denotes sub-functions that include
purchasing and rental/lease options, mentioned hereinabove for
goods and services, including precious metals and stones accepted
into the Uncle GEM as remittance. It gives the high-level IEs in
the table boxes and the association between them on the lines with
arrows. The black dots represent a type junction, which makes each
type mutually exclusive. For example, a remittance only one type at
a time: a debit, a smart card, currency or a precious item. FIG.
22B are the entity attributes of IEs depicted on FIG. 22A. The
attributes are only representational and may change.
[0120] The Money Transfer, FIGS. 22D-E, Data Transfer, FIGS. 22F-G,
Online Purchase, FIG. 22H, and Precious Metal, Stone and Coin
Assay, not illustrated, transactions are the primary features. As
on FIG. 22C the Bill Payment and Banking Services functions are not
displayed and are optional. The Process flow, including the help
screens [115] starts and ends on FIG. 22C. All Transactions finish
with a "Thank you" message before restarting at the Welcome Screen
[114].
[0121] Various preferred embodiments of the invention have been
described herein. It should be recognized that these embodiments
are merely illustrative of the principles of the present invention.
Numerous modifications and adaptations thereof will be readily
apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the
spirit and scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the
invention is only limited by the following claims.
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