41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring entertainment content, namely, retail vending stand services featuring movies, documentaries, full feature audio-visual content, fictional content, dramatic content, and non-fictional content; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring entertainment content, namely, retail vending stand services featuring movies, documentaries, full feature audio-visual content, fictional content, dramatic content, and non-fictional content; automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, digital content, and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content; subscription-based retail store services in the field of movies, documentaries, full feature audio-visual content, fictional content, dramatic content, and non-fictional content; subscription-based retail store services featuring movies, documentaries, full feature audio-visual content, fictional content, dramatic content, and non-fictional content, provided through vending machines; providing retail facilities for purchasing DVD movies video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, and transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks Providing information in the field of entertainment via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs and optical and magneto-optical disc players; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; providing entertainment facilities for renting DVD movies; rental of video recordings by means of communications networks, namely, rental of pre-recorded videos that may be downloaded from an internet website; rental of films, motion pictures, television and radio programs, sound and video recordings; rental of motion pictures and sound recordings in the nature of images, excerpts, and video and sound recordings
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
multimedia entertainment services in the nature of development and production of films, motions pictures, television and radio programs, shows, and sound and video recordings; multimedia entertainment services in the nature of development and production of entertainment television and audio-visual shows and interactive television and audio-visual programs for distribution via television, cable, satellite, audio and video media, the Internet, electronic display devices, laser discs, computer discs, and electronic media; multimedia entertainment services in the nature of development and production of audio-visual entertainment content, motion pictures, full feature films, and television and audio-visual shows, namely, documentaries, television series, learning programs, comedy shows, sports shows, news programs, political shows, special events, talk shows, weather shows, and entertainment content via and to all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet, electronic display devices, and computer and communication networks
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
multimedia entertainment services in the nature of development and production of films, motions pictures, television and radio programs, shows, and sound and video recordings; multimedia entertainment services in the nature of development and production of entertainment television and audio-visual shows and interactive television and audio-visual programs for distribution via television, cable, satellite, audio and video media, the Internet, electronic display devices, laser discs, computer discs, and electronic media; multimedia entertainment services in the nature of development and production of audio-visual entertainment content, motion pictures, full feature films, and television and audio-visual shows, namely, documentaries, television series, learning programs, comedy shows, sports shows, news programs, political shows, special events, talk shows, weather shows, and entertainment content via and to all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet, electronic display devices, and computer and communication networks
4.
System and method for vending vendible media products
A system and method for vending digital video discs is provided. A request is received from a user to complete a rental transaction for a first digital video disc. A database is queried to determine whether a quantity of a set of second digital video discs in a vending inventory exceeds a predetermined threshold. A discount offer notification is presented to the user to rent one of the set of second digital video discs, upon determining that the quantity of the set of second digital video discs exceeds the predetermined threshold. A second request from the user to rent one of the second set of digital video discs is received, and one of the set of second digital video discs is vended to the user.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 7/06 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, e.g. bottles
G07F 9/10 - Casings, e.g. with means for heating or cooling
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
G07F 11/48 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports, e.g. magazine, being pivotally mounted
G07F 11/50 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
G07F 17/26 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for printing, stamping, franking, typing, or teleprinting apparatus
G07F 9/00 - Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
G07F 11/62 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles in which the articles are stored in compartments in fixed receptacles
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Downloadable computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing, renting and receiving entertainment content in the nature of movies, television programs, and video games Online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos featuring entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies, and television programs; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, television programs, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, and transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, television programs, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content; Rental of films, motion pictures, television programs, video games, sound and video recordings, via all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet and electronic display devices; Rental of images, video games, excerpts, and video and sound recordings via all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet, and electronic display devices; gaming services in the nature of providing online video games via the Internet and computer networks; entertainment services, namely, reservation of entertainment content in the nature of video game discs, pre-recorded DVDs, movies, and television programs Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Providing vending machines featuring video games, movies, and television programs; Providing automated retail vending machine kiosks featuring movies, television programs, and video games; Providing vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring movies, television programs, and video games; Providing automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, and transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content; Production, presentation, and rental of films, motion pictures, television and radio programs, sound and video recordings, via all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet, and electronic display devices; production, presentation, and rental of images, video games, excerpts, and video and sound recordings via all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet, and electronic display devices; production of entertainment television and audio-visual shows and interactive television and audio-visual programs for distribution via television, cable, satellite, audio and video media, the Internet, electronic display devices, laser discs, computer discs, and electronic media; production of audio-visual entertainment content, television and audio-visual news shows, and television and audio-visual shows featuring information for performance and presentation in the field of motion pictures, television programs, documentaries, television series, learning programs, comedy shows, sports shows, news programs, political shows, special events, talk shows, weather shows, and entertainment content via and to all types of media, including, inter alia, television, cable and satellite television, Internet, electronic display devices, and computer and communication networks; production and recording of films, motion pictures, and shows; provision of information relating to lists of television, cable, and broadcasting programs; gaming services in the nature of providing online video games via the Internet and computer networks; none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes
7.
System and method for vending vendible media products
A system and method for vending digital video discs is provided. A request is received from a user to complete a rental transaction for a first digital video disc. A database is queried to determine whether a quantity of a set of second digital video discs in a vending inventory exceeds a predetermined threshold. A discount offer notification is presented to the user to rent one of the set of second digital video discs, upon determining that the quantity of the set of second digital video discs exceeds the predetermined threshold. A second request from the user to rent one of the second set of digital video discs is received, and one of the set of second digital video discs is vended to the user.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 7/06 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, e.g. bottles
G07F 9/10 - Casings, e.g. with means for heating or cooling
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
G07F 11/48 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports, e.g. magazine, being pivotally mounted
G07F 11/50 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
G07F 17/26 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for printing, stamping, franking, typing, or teleprinting apparatus
G07F 11/62 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles in which the articles are stored in compartments in fixed receptacles
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Vending machines. Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine. Vending machine services, namely, providing access to automated vending machines in connection with entertainment content including movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosks in connection with movies and video games; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks in connection with movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services in connection with DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media in connection with entertainment content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services in connection with DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media in connection with entertainment content, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services in connection with pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content. Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks. Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content. Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Vending machines, none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes. Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine; none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes. Vending machine services, namely, providing access to automated vending machines in connection with entertainment content including movies and video games, but not providing access to automated vending machines in connection with electronic books; automated retail vending machine kiosks in connection with movies and video games; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks in connection with movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services in connection with DVDs, movies, pre-recorded electronic media in connection with entertainment content, and video games for purchase, excluding automated retail vending machine kiosk services in connection with books and electronic books; online retail store services in connection with DVDs, movies, pre-recorded electronic media in connection with entertainment content, and video games for purchase, excluding online retail store services in connection with books or electronic books; computerized online retail store services in connection with pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content, excluding distributorship services in connection with books or electronic books; none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes. Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks; none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes. Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and pre-recorded electronic media featuring entertainment content; none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes. Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network; none of the aforesaid being for gambling purposes.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Vending machines;
(2) Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine; (1) Vending machine services; automated retail vending machine kiosks featuring movies and video games; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, namely computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, sports, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and pre-recorded digital content and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, namely computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, sports and video games
(2) Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, electronic transmission and streaming via the Internet of digital media content, namely, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals , health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling
(3) Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment featuring movies, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, namely, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling; and
(4) Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, in the field of movies, video games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Vending machines.
(2) Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine. (1) Vending machine services; automated retail vending machine kiosks featuring movies and video games; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment, documentary, and special interest content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment, documentary, and special interest content.
(2) Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, electronic transmission and streaming via the Internet of digital media content, namely, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals , health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling.
(3) Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment, documentaries, and special interests featuring movies, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment, documentary, and special interest content, namely, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals , health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling.
(4) Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, documentaries, and special interests, in the field of movies, video games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network.
12.
System and method for providing supplemental information related to media content
A method of providing supplemental information synchronized with a piece of media content being played and related to a current state of the piece of media content being played is provided. The supplemental information may be transmitted to an electronic device in synchronization with the playing of the piece of media content on an audio/visual display interface. The method includes receiving identifying information from the electronic device and/or the audio/visual display interface, storing the identifying information in an active device table, receiving a viewing initiation notification, and transmitting the supplemental information to the electronic device in response to the viewing initiation notification. The electronic device may also transmit a request to begin playing the piece of media content. Transmission of the supplemental information may be paused, stopped, or resumed in synchronization with the piece of media content being played.
H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/43 - Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video streamElementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronizing decoder's clockClient middleware
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
H04N 21/84 - Generation or processing of descriptive data, e.g. content descriptors
H04N 21/845 - Structuring of content, e.g. decomposing content into time segments
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Vending machines Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine Vending machine services; automated retail vending machine kiosks featuring movies and video games; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks Vending machines Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely, software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine Vending machine services; automated retail vending machine kiosks featuring movies and video games; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
(1) Distribution of entertainment content, namely video games, CD-ROMs, memory cartridges, DVDs, secure digital (SD) memory cards, RAM (random access memory cards), and USB flash drives containing computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, volleyball and curling for purchase and rental; computerized online retail services featuring pre-recorded videos; Automated retail services, namely providing automated retail vending machines featuring computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, volleyball and curling, media, DVDs, movies and video games, for purchase and rental; Automated retail services, namely sale of video games, CD-ROMs, memory cartridges, DVDs, secure digital (SD) memory cards, RAM (random access memory cards), and UBS flash drives containing computer games, digital downloads, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals and health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, volleyball and curling, movies and video games.
(2) Video-on-demand transmission services, electronic transmission and streaming of digital media content, namely video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals , health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, volleyball and curling, rental of video recordings by means of global and local computer networks, and providing information in the previously aforementioned fields of entertainment by means of communications networks;
(3) Automated retail services, namely rental of video games, CD-ROMs, memory cartridges, DVDs, secure digital (SD) memory cards, RAM (random access memory cards), and UBS flash drives containing computer games, digital downloads, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals and health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, volleyball and curling, movies and video games.
16.
System and method for vending vendible media products
A system and method for vending digital video discs is provided. A request is received from a user to complete a rental transaction for a first digital video disc. A database is queried to determine whether a quantity of a set of second digital video discs in a vending inventory exceeds a predetermined threshold. A discount offer notification is presented to the user to rent one of the set of second digital video discs, upon determining that the quantity of the set of second digital video discs exceeds the predetermined threshold. A second request from the user to rent one of the second set of digital video discs is received, and one of the set of second digital video discs is vended to the user.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 7/06 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, e.g. bottles
G07F 9/10 - Casings, e.g. with means for heating or cooling
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
G07F 11/48 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports, e.g. magazine, being pivotally mounted
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 17/26 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for printing, stamping, franking, typing, or teleprinting apparatus
G07F 9/02 - Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when emptyAdvertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
G07F 17/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services
G07F 11/62 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles in which the articles are stored in compartments in fixed receptacles
G07F 11/50 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
17.
Article vending machine and method for exchanging an inoperable article for an operable article
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G06Q 20/40 - Authorisation, e.g. identification of payer or payee, verification of customer or shop credentialsReview and approval of payers, e.g. check of credit lines or negative lists
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
35 - Advertising and business services
38 - Telecommunications services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Vending machines. Computer application software for mobile phones, portable media players, and handheld computers, namely software for viewing and renting entertainment content in the nature of movies and television programs and for reserving entertainment content in the nature of video games, movies and television programs at a vending machine; parts and fittings for all the aforesaid goods. Vending machine rental and sales services but not in relation to the provision of electronic books; online retail store services relating to DVDs, movies, pre-recorded electronic media relating to entertainment content, and video games for purchase, excluding online retail store services relating to electronic books; computerized online retail store services relating to pre-recorded videos; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to all the aforesaid services. Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, transmission of voice, data, images, data signals, messages and information by electronic communications networks; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to all the aforesaid services. Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to all the aforesaid services. Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network; information, advisory and consultancy services relating to all the aforesaid services.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
(1) Vending machines; Automated retail vending machine kiosks featuring movies and video games. (1) Vending machine services; automated retail services, namely, providing automated vending machine kiosks featuring movies and video games for purchase and rental; vending machine services rendered through automated kiosks featuring movies and video games; automated retail vending machine kiosk services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; online retail store services featuring DVDs, movies, prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, and video games for purchase; computerized online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos; distributorship services in the field of entertainment content in the nature of DVDs, movies, video games, and digital content and pre-recorded media featuring entertainment content.
(2) Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, electronic transmission and streaming via the Internet of digital media content, namely, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals , health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling.
(3) Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks; providing information in the field of entertainment featuring movies, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling by means of communications networks; rental of DVDs, video discs, video games, movies and prerecorded electronic media featuring entertainment content, namely, video games, computer games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals , health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling.
(4) Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information in the field of movies, video games, movie recordings, recordings of television shows, televised events, comedy shows, musicals, health and fitness programs, news programs, television news, music concerts, and sporting events in the field of car racing, track and field, soccer, tennis, football, baseball, basketball, hockey, figure skating, skiing, volleyball and curling on a global computer network.
20.
System and method for applying parental control limits from content providers to media content
System and Method of filtering and modifying access to media content based on parental control limits are provided. The method for filtering media content includes receiving authentication information for a content provider, authenticating to the content provider, importing parental control limits from the content provider, storing the received parental control limits in a customer profile, and filtering the media content based on the parental control limits to produce a filtered list of the media content. The method for modifying access to media content includes authenticating to a customer profile with a unique customer identifier, retrieving parental control limits from the customer profile, and modifying access to the media content based on the retrieved parental control limits. Changes in the parental control limits at a content provider may be detected and updated in the customer profile.
H04N 7/16 - Analogue secrecy systemsAnalogue subscription systems
H04N 21/454 - Content filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
G07F 17/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
H04N 21/6547 - Transmission by server directed to the client comprising parameters, e.g. for client setup
21.
System and method for substituting a media article with alternative media
A method of substituting digital alternative media for a requested media selection to a customer is provided. The method includes receiving a request related to the requested media selection through a user interface from the customer, identifying an associated content provider, and determining the alternative media selection at the associated content provider that corresponds to the requested media selection. The method also includes receiving a unique customer identifier and identifying the associated content provider based on the unique customer identifier. The method further includes mapping the media article to the alternative media selection based on metadata. The requested media selection may be available or may be unavailable due to being out-of-stock or reserved to another customer in an article dispensing machine embodiment. The associated content provider may be linked to the customer based on a subscription. The digital alternative media selection may be accessed by an audio/visual display interface.
A system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media includes a kiosk having a plurality of vertical racks arranged in a circular formation, each vertical rack configured for storing a plurality of recorded media. A customer interface allows a customer to select or return a recorded media. A robotic element delivers the selected recorded media from the vertical racks to a media output, at the customer interface. The element also delivers a returned recorded media from a media input at the customer interface to the vertical racks. A computer controls operation of the kiosk, and an internet interface connects the kiosk to the Internet. The kiosk may communicate with a central server and/or other kiosks of a group, to locate a requested recorded media within a kiosk of the group. Once located within the group, the requested media may be reserved for customer pick-up.
G06F 7/08 - Sorting, i.e. grouping record carriers in numerical or other ordered sequence according to the classification of at least some of the information they carry
G03G 15/00 - Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
A system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media includes a kiosk having a plurality of vertical racks arranged in a circular formation, each vertical rack configured for storing a plurality of recorded media. A customer interface allows a customer to select or return a recorded media. A robotic element delivers the selected recorded media from the vertical racks to a media output, at the customer interface. The element also delivers a returned recorded media from a media input at the customer interface to the vertical racks. A computer controls operation of the kiosk, and an internet interface connects the kiosk to the Internet. The kiosk may communicate with a central server and/or other kiosks of a group, to locate a requested recorded media within a kiosk of the group. Once located within the group, the requested media may be reserved for customer pick-up.
G06K 7/08 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by means detecting the change of an electrostatic or magnetic field, e.g. by detecting change of capacitance between electrodes
G06K 15/00 - Arrangements for producing a permanent visual presentation of the output data
A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal for various purposes. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area, such as a merchandising zone of the storage unit or a separate article removal bin. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area.
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 9/02 - Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when emptyAdvertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project managementEnterprise or organisation planningEnterprise or organisation modelling
26.
Article vending machine and method for exchanging an inoperable article for an operable article
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distributionInventory or stock management
27.
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FOR CONSUMER-OPERATED KIOSKS
Systems, apparatus, and methods for kiosk accessibility via a mobile device. In some embodiments, a wireless mobile device has input features such as voice- control and GUI-based buttons that assist visually impaired people to send wireless messages for accessing features of a kiosk. The kiosk is equipped with wireless communication hardware and or software to receive messages from the mobile device for performing various kiosk-related operations, such a renting, vending, and or returning a product.
G07F 7/08 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by coded identity card or credit card
G06Q 20/32 - Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices using wireless devices
28.
Wireless communication for consumer-operated kiosks
Systems, apparatus, and methods for kiosk accessibility via a mobile device. In some embodiments, a wireless mobile device has input features such as voice-control and GUI-based buttons that assist visually impaired people to send wireless messages for accessing features of a kiosk. The kiosk is equipped with wireless communication hardware and or software to receive messages from the mobile device for performing various kiosk-related operations, such a renting, vending, and or returning a product.
A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal for various purposes. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area, such as a merchandising zone of the storage unit or a separate article removal bin. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area.
G06Q 20/00 - Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
G06Q 40/00 - FinanceInsuranceTax strategiesProcessing of corporate or income taxes
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 9/02 - Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when emptyAdvertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
30.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DYNAMIC BARCODE GENERATION RELATED TO EVENT TICKETING
A system and method of dynamically generating ticket barcodes for ticket orders is disclosed. A ticket order including tickets related to an event may be received from an article dispensing machine or another source. Random barcodes can be generated as the basis for the ticket barcodes. The ticket barcodes can be generated based on barcode attributes unique to a ticket supplier or a venue of the event. Such barcode attributes can include a barcode prefix, a barcode suffix, a barcode total length, and a barcode symbology. When the tickets in a ticket order are ready to be produced, images of the ticket barcodes can be generated and assigned based on the barcode attributes. The user experience for purchasing tickets from disparate ticket suppliers and/or venues can accordingly be simplified and streamlined.
A system and method of event ticketing utilizing an article dispensing machine is disclosed. A ticket order transaction related to an event is managed at an article dispensing machine by presenting a series of simple and easy to understand interface pages on a user interface. A user interacts with the interface pages to make decisions on aspects of the ticket order transaction. A listing of events available for ticket ordering on the article dispensing machine is curated by reviewing prospective events. The listing is curated based on the location of the article dispensing machine, the priority ranking of the event, the date and time of the productions, the category of the events, the location of the venue relative to the article dispensing machine, and/or other factors. A hyper-local listing of events can be presented so that the events that are most likely relevant to users.
A system and method for vending digital video discs is provided. A request is received from a user to complete a rental transaction for a first digital video disc. A database is queried to determine whether a quantity of a set of second digital video discs in a vending inventory exceeds a predetermined threshold. A discount offer notification is presented to the user to rent one of the set of second digital video discs, upon determining that the quantity of the set of second digital video discs exceeds the predetermined threshold. A second request from the user to rent one of the second set of digital video discs is received, and one of the set of second digital video discs is vended to the user.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 7/06 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, e.g. bottles
G07F 9/10 - Casings, e.g. with means for heating or cooling
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 11/04 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which magazines the articles are stored one vertically above the other
G07F 11/48 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports, e.g. magazine, being pivotally mounted
G07F 11/50 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
G07F 17/26 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for printing, stamping, franking, typing, or teleprinting apparatus
G07F 9/02 - Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when emptyAdvertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
G07F 17/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services
33.
Article vending machine and method for authenticating received articles
An article dispensing machine, system and method for authenticating an article returned to the article dispensing machine and an article for use in such a machine and system are disclosed herein. The returned article comprises an authentication code disposed on the surface of the returned article and a layer that is substantially opaque in visible light and at least partially overlays the authentication code. The article dispensing machine comprises a light source for illuminating the surface of the returned article so that the authentication code is visible through the layer, an image capture device for capturing an image of the authentication code when the surface is illuminated, and a processor for comparing the captured image to a master authentication code.
G07F 7/06 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, e.g. bottles
G07F 17/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services
34.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SIMULTANEOUS ARTICLE RETRIEVAL AND TRANSACTION VALIDATION
A system and method for dispensing an article from an article dispensing machine by reducing the amount of time for completing a transaction involving the article is provided. A request related to a selected article and payment information for a balance related to the selected article may be received at the article dispensing machine through a user interface. The payment information may be validated, and simultaneously and in parallel, the selected article may be retrieved from a storage unit in the article dispensing machine. The selected article may be dispensed from the article dispensing machine if the payment information is valid. If the payment information is not valid, the selected article may be returned to the storage unit. Quicker dispensing of articles during consumer transactions with the article dispensing machine may result. The articles may include media articles, such as DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and video game discs.
G07F 11/52 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about horizontal axes
35.
System and method for simultaneous article retrieval and transaction validation
A system and method for dispensing an article from an article dispensing machine by reducing the amount of time for completing a transaction involving the article is provided. A request related to a selected article and payment information for a balance related to the selected article may be received at the article dispensing machine through a user interface. The payment information may be validated, and simultaneously and in parallel, the selected article may be retrieved from a storage unit in the article dispensing machine. The selected article may be dispensed from the article dispensing machine if the payment information is valid. If the payment information is not valid, the selected article may be returned to the storage unit. Quicker dispensing of articles during consumer transactions with the article dispensing machine may result. The articles may include media articles, such as DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and video game discs.
G06F 17/00 - Digital computing or data processing equipment or methods, specially adapted for specific functions
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G07F 9/00 - Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
36.
System and method for optimizing utilization of inventory space for dispensable articles
A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal for various purposes. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area, such as a merchandising zone of the storage unit or a separate article removal bin. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area.
A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area. Quicker and more efficient removal and loading of articles from and to the article dispensing machine may result.
A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal, such as thinned articles, damaged articles, fraudulent articles, wrong title articles, and/or do not rent (DNR) articles. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area. The predetermined area may include a merchandising zone of the storage unit and a separate article removal bin. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area. The articles may include media articles, such as DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and video game discs. Quicker and more efficient removal and loading of articles from and to the article dispensing machine may result.
G07F 11/42 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which the magazines are horizontal the articles being delivered by motor-driven means
39.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTIMIZING UTILIZATION OF INVENTORY SPACE FOR DISPENSABLE ARTICLES
A system and method for optimizing the utilization of inventory space for articles dispensable from an article dispensing machine is provided. A subset of articles in the article dispensing machine may be targeted for removal, such as thinned articles, damaged articles, fraudulent articles, wrong title articles, and/or do not rent (DNR) articles. Based on a list of the subset of articles, the article dispensing machine may move the subset of articles from a storage unit to a predetermined area. The predetermined area may include a merchandising zone of the storage unit and a separate article removal bin. The subset of articles may be removed from the predetermined area, followed by loading of new articles to the predetermined area. The articles may include media articles, such as DVDs, Blu-Ray discs, and video game discs. Quicker and more efficient removal and loading of articles from and to the article dispensing machine may result.
G07F 11/42 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which the magazines are horizontal the articles being delivered by motor-driven means
40.
ARTICLE DISPENSING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR AUDITING INVENTORY WHILE ARTICLE DISPENSING MACHINE REMAINS OPERATIONAL
An article dispensing machine capable of performing an inventory audit of a portion of the inventory and automatically pausing the inventory audit in response to a customer transaction request and method for performing the same are shown. After completing the customer request, the article dispensing machine resumes the inventory auditing process. The article dispensing machine thereby remains available for customer use during the inventory auditing process.
G07F 11/42 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from non-movable magazines in which the magazines are horizontal the articles being delivered by motor-driven means
41.
System and method for providing supplemental information related to media content
A method of providing supplemental information synchronized with a piece of media content being played and related to a current state of the piece of media content being played is provided. The supplemental information may be transmitted to an electronic device in synchronization with the playing of the piece of media content on an audio/visual display interface. The method includes receiving identifying information from the electronic device and/or the audio/visual display interface, storing the identifying information in an active device table, receiving a viewing initiation notification, and transmitting the supplemental information to the electronic device in response to the viewing initiation notification. The electronic device may also transmit a request to begin playing the piece of media content. Transmission of the supplemental information may be paused, stopped, or resumed in synchronization with the piece of media content being played.
G06F 15/16 - Combinations of two or more digital computers each having at least an arithmetic unit, a program unit and a register, e.g. for a simultaneous processing of several programs
H04L 29/06 - Communication control; Communication processing characterised by a protocol
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
H04N 21/41 - Structure of clientStructure of client peripherals
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/43 - Processing of content or additional data, e.g. demultiplexing additional data from a digital video streamElementary client operations, e.g. monitoring of home network or synchronizing decoder's clockClient middleware
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
H04N 21/84 - Generation or processing of descriptive data, e.g. content descriptors
H04N 21/845 - Structuring of content, e.g. decomposing content into time segments
42.
Article dispensing machine and method for auditing inventory while article dispensing machine remains operational
An article dispensing machine capable of performing an inventory audit of a portion of the inventory and automatically pausing the inventory audit in response to a customer transaction request and method for performing the same are shown. After completing the customer request, the article dispensing machine resumes the inventory auditing process. The article dispensing machine thereby remains available for customer use during the inventory auditing process.
G07F 9/02 - Devices for alarm or indication, e.g. when emptyAdvertising arrangements in coin-freed apparatus
G06Q 10/08 - Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distributionInventory or stock management
G06Q 99/00 - Subject matter not provided for in other groups of this subclass
G07F 5/18 - Coin-actuated mechanismsInterlocks specially adapted for controlling several coin-freed apparatus from one place
G07F 11/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles
G07F 17/16 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures, or the like
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Providing consumer product reservation services, namely for DVDs, games, videos and optical storage discs. Secure delivery services in the field of tickets via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs, and/or optical storage disc players; Providing secure delivery services by electronic means; Computerized on-line secure delivery services in the field of tickets, namely, movie tickets, sporting event tickets, theater tickets, Broadway tickets, attraction tickets, museum tickets, state fair tickets and concert tickets via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs, and/or optical storage disc players; Online secure delivery services. Booking of seats for travel; Providing secure delivery services by means of physical delivery. Computerized and/or automated on-line ticketing services in relation to movie tickets, sporting event tickets, theater tickets, Broadway tickets, attraction tickets, museum tickets, state fair tickets and concert tickets, provided via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs, and/or optical storage disc players; Booking of seats for shows and sports events; Entertainment ticket agency services; On-line entertainment ticket agency services; Computerized on-line ordering and reservation services in the field of tickets, namely, movie tickets, sporting event tickets, theater tickets, Broadway tickets, attraction tickets, museum tickets, state fair tickets and concert tickets via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs, and/or optical storage disc players; Providing information in the field of entertainment via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs, and/or optical storage disc players; Provision of a database for performing online searches in the field of entertainment; Providing ticket reservation services for movie tickets, sporting event tickets, theater tickets, Broadway tickets, attraction tickets, museum tickets, state fair tickets and concert tickets.
44.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTIVE ACCRUAL OF CREDITS IN A VARIABLE VALUE TRANSACTION
A system and method of predicatively accruing a credit in a variable value transaction are provided. The variable value transaction may involve a piece of media content and include an initial balance and a remaining balance. The initial balance and the remaining balance may be dependent on the piece of media content and when the variable value transaction is completed. Credits may be accrued for a predicted redemption of the credit for the remaining balance, depending on the availability and applicability of the credits. A payment card may also be processed for some or all of the remaining balance. The remaining balance may not be known until the variable value transaction is completed. A pending revenue amount may be determined based on the accrual of the credits.
A system and method of optimizing the redemption of credits in a variable value transaction are disclosed. The variable value transaction may involve a piece of media content and include an initial balance and a remaining balance. The initial balance and the remaining balance may be dependent on the piece of media content and when the variable value transaction is completed. The remaining balance may not be known until the variable value transaction is completed. Credits may be assigned an order of availability for redemption based on credit redemption criteria such as a redemption priority, a product value, an expiration date, and/or a redemption value. The credits with a higher order of availability may be redeemed prior to credits with a lower order of availability.
A system and method of processing a variable value transaction with credits and a payment card are provided. The variable value transaction may involve a piece of media content and include an initial balance and a remaining balance. The initial balance and the remaining balance may be dependent on the piece of media content and when the variable value transaction is completed. Credits may be redeemed for some or all of the initial balance and/or the remaining balance, depending on the availability and applicability of the credits. The payment card may also be processed for some or all of the initial balance and/or the remaining balance. The remaining balance may not be known until the variable value transaction is completed.
A system and method of managing credit subscriptions corresponding to a customer are disclosed. The credit subscriptions may include quantities of one or more credits with predetermined validity durations. The credit subscriptions may be active for a subscription lifetime, and the credits may be redeemable in a variable value transaction involving a piece of media content. Managing a credit subscription may include receiving a subscription management message, translating a subscription package code to a quantity of credits, creating or renewing the credit subscription with the quantity of credits, modifying the credit subscription, or deleting the credit subscription. The subscription management message may include a customer number, a subscription package code, and a subscription lifetime specification. Credits and credit subscriptions may be created as a one-time issuance or may be automatically renewed on a periodic basis.
A system and method of converting currency items to credits that are redeemable in a variable value transaction are disclosed. Converting currency items to credits allows the credits to be used for satisfying an initial balance or a remaining balance of the variable value transaction involving a piece of media content. The conversion may include receiving a unique customer identifier identifying a customer, receiving a unique identifier of the currency items, and determining whether the currency item is valid for being converted to a credit. If the currency item is valid, a conversion ratio of the currency items to credits may be retrieved and a quantity of the credits may be calculated from the currency items, based on the conversion ratio. The quantity of the credits may be issued to the customer in a credits database. Invalid currency items may be rejected for conversion to the credit.
Methods of aggregating and importing user-generated and/or professional ratings of media content are provided. User-generated ratings may have been previously created at a ratings source by a user associated with a customer profile. The method for aggregating ratings includes importing the ratings from the ratings source, storing the ratings in a customer profile, normalizing the ratings, and storing the normalized ratings. The normalized rating may be used to determine recommendations and preferences. The method for importing ratings includes receiving authentication information for a ratings source, authenticating to the ratings source, importing the ratings from the ratings source, and storing the ratings in a customer profile. Changes in the ratings may be detected and updated in the customer profile.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
H04N 21/454 - Content filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
H04N 21/475 - End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. PIN [Personal Identification Number] or preference data
50.
System and method for generating media-related notifications
A method of generating notifications related to availability of media content is provided. The method includes receiving a watchlist subscription including a request to monitor for availability of media content. The method also includes detecting a change in the availability of media content based on the subscription, and if a change is detected, determining an access right and transmitting a notification of the change in the availability of the media content. The metadata of the media content is used in the subscriptions to determine when to generate notifications. The media content may include a media article, media selection, live content, or a theatrical media release.
Methods of aggregating and importing user-generated and/or professional ratings of media content are provided. User-generated ratings may have been previously created at a ratings source by a user associated with a customer profile. The method for aggregating ratings includes importing the ratings from the ratings source, storing the ratings in a customer profile, normalizing the ratings, and storing the normalized ratings. The normalized rating may be used to determine recommendations and preferences. The method for importing ratings includes receiving authentication information for a ratings source, authenticating to the ratings source, importing the ratings from the ratings source, and storing the ratings in a customer profile. Changes in the ratings may be detected and updated in the customer profile.
Methods of aggregating and importing user-generated and/or professional ratings of media content are provided. User-generated ratings may have been previously created at a ratings source by a user associated with a customer profile. The method for aggregating ratings includes importing the ratings from the ratings source, storing the ratings in a customer profile, normalizing the ratings, and storing the normalized ratings. The normalized rating may be used to determine recommendations and preferences. The method for importing ratings includes receiving authentication information for a ratings source, authenticating to the ratings source, importing the ratings from the ratings source, and storing the ratings in a customer profile. Changes in the ratings may be detected and updated in the customer profile.
A method of providing supplemental information synchronized with a piece of media content being played and related to a current state of the piece of media content being played is provided. The supplemental information may be transmitted to an electronic device in synchronization with the playing of the piece of media content on an audio/visual display interface. The method includes receiving identifying information from the electronic device and/or the audio/visual display interface, storing the identifying information in an active device table, receiving a viewing initiation notification, and transmitting the supplemental information to the electronic device in response to the viewing initiation notification. The electronic device may also transmit a request to begin playing the piece of media content. Transmission of the supplemental information may be paused, stopped, or resumed in synchronization with the piece of media content being played.
A system and method of searching for physical media articles available from article dispensing machines within a geographic proximity is provided. Searching may include matching keywords in search criteria or using predefined search criteria for browsing of static or dynamic listings of media content. The method includes receiving a search request including search criteria, and searching the metadata database for a physical media article matching the search criteria. The method also includes determining the availability of the matching media article at an article dispensing machine. The geographic location of article dispensing machines with available matching media articles is determined, based on personally identifying information such as an IP or MAC address. The geographic location may be limited by a proximity from an audio/visual display interface. A search result set with the matching media articles is provided, based on their availabilities.
Methods of aggregating and importing user-generated and/or professional ratings of media content are provided. User-generated ratings may have been previously created at a ratings source by a user associated with a customer profile. The method for aggregating ratings includes importing the ratings from the ratings source, storing the ratings in a customer profile, normalizing the ratings, and storing the normalized ratings. The normalized rating may be used to determine recommendations and preferences. The method for importing ratings includes receiving authentication information for a ratings source, authenticating to the ratings source, importing the ratings from the ratings source, and storing the ratings in a customer profile. Changes in the ratings may be detected and updated in the customer profile.
G06Q 30/02 - MarketingPrice estimation or determinationFundraising
H04N 21/258 - Client or end-user data management, e.g. managing client capabilities, user preferences or demographics or processing of multiple end-users preferences to derive collaborative data
H04N 21/45 - Management operations performed by the client for facilitating the reception of or the interaction with the content or administrating data related to the end-user or to the client device itself, e.g. learning user preferences for recommending movies or resolving scheduling conflicts
H04N 21/454 - Content filtering, e.g. blocking advertisements
H04N 21/462 - Content or additional data management e.g. creating a master electronic program guide from data received from the Internet and a Head-end or controlling the complexity of a video stream by scaling the resolution or bit-rate based on the client capabilities
H04N 21/475 - End-user interface for inputting end-user data, e.g. PIN [Personal Identification Number] or preference data
56.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR APPLYING PARENTAL CONTROL LIMITS FROM CONTENT PROVIDERS TO MEDIA CONTENT
Methods of filtering and modifying access to media content based on parental control limits are provided. The method for filtering media content includes receiving authentication information for a content provider, authenticating to the content provider, importing parental control limits from the content provider, storing the received parental control limits in a customer profile, and filtering the media content based on the parental control limits to produce a filtered list of the media content. The method for modifying access to media content includes authenticating to a customer profile with a unique customer identifier, retrieving parental control limits from the customer profile, and modifying access to the media content based on the retrieved parental control limits. Changes in the parental control limits at a content provider may be detected and updated in the customer profile.
A method of generating notifications related to availability of new media content is provided. The method includes receiving a notification subscription including a request to monitor for new media content. The method also includes detecting new media content based on the subscription, and if a change is detected, determining an access right and transmitting a notification of the new media content. The metadata of the new media content is used in the subscriptions to determine when to generate notifications. Media content may include media articles, media selections, theatrical media releases, live content, or miscellaneous media sources.
A method of generating notifications related to availability of media content is provided. The method includes receiving a watchlist subscription including a request to monitor for availability of media content. The method also includes detecting a change in the availability of media content based on the subscription, and if a change is detected, determining an access right and transmitting a notification of the change in the availability of the media content. The metadata of the media content is used in the subscriptions to determine when to generate notifications. The media content may include a media article, media selection, live content, or a theatrical media release.
A system and method of searching for physical media articles available from article dispensing machines within a geographic proximity is provided. Searching may include matching keywords in search criteria or using predefined search criteria for browsing of static or dynamic listings of media content. The method includes receiving a search request including search criteria, and searching the metadata database for a physical media article matching the search criteria. The method also includes determining the availability of the matching media article at an article dispensing machine. The geographic location of article dispensing machines with available matching media articles is determined, based on personally identifying information such as an IP or MAC address. The geographic location may be limited by a proximity from an audio/visual display interface. A search result set with the matching media articles is provided, based on their availabilities.
A method of searching for directly and indirectly matching media content in a metadata database is provided. Searching may include matching keywords in search criteria or using predefined search criteria for browsing of static or dynamic listings of media content. The method includes receiving a search request including search criteria, and searching the metadata database for a digital media selection matching the search criteria. A mapping of metadata of the media selection may be utilized to find a matching media article that directly or indirectly matches the search criteria. The method also includes determining availabilities of the matching media article and the matching media selection. A search result set with the matching media articles and matching media selections is provided, based on their availabilities. An associated content provider may be linked to the customer based on a subscription. The media selection may be accessed by an audio/visual display interface.
A method of searching for media content in a metadata database is provided. Searching may include matching keywords in search criteria or using predefined search criteria for browsing of static or dynamic listings of media content. The method includes receiving a search request including search criteria, and searching the metadata database for a physical media article matching the search criteria and a digital media selection matching the search criteria. The method also includes determining availabilities of the matching media article and the matching media selection. A search result set with the matching media articles and matching media selections is provided, based on their availabilities. The search result set may also include media articles and media selections that are indirectly associated with the search criteria. An associated content provider may be linked to the customer based on a subscription. The media selection may be accessed by an audio/visual display interface.
A method of substituting digital alternative media for a physical media article at an article dispensing machine to a customer is provided. The method includes receiving a request related to the media article through a user interface from the customer, identifying an associated content provider, and determining the alternative media selection at the associated content provider that corresponds to the media article. The method also includes receiving a unique customer identifier and identifying the associated content provider based on the unique customer identifier. The method further includes mapping the media article to the alternative media selection based on metadata. The media article may be available at the article dispensing machine or may be unavailable due to being out-of-stock or reserved to another customer. The associated content provider may be linked to the customer based on a subscription. The digital alternative media selection may be accessed by an audio/visual display interface.
A method of associating a first customer account for an article dispensing machine with a second customer account at a content provider. The article dispensing machine has a user interface. The method receives a unique customer identifier through the user interface, accesses the first customer account based on the unique customer identifier, and associates the second customer account at the content provider with the first customer account. The second customer account can include a customer subscription with access permission for a digital media selection at the content provider. In addition, the unique customer identifier can include at least one of a credit card number or a debit card number, and the method can apply a hash function to at least one of the credit card number or the debit card number to produce at least one of a hashed credit card number or a hashed debit card number.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Providing information in the field of entertainment via an interactive global computer network, networked kiosks, computers, mobile devices, game consoles, app-enabled TVs, and/or optical and magneto-optical disc players Computerized online search service in the field of entertainment, namely, providing a search engine for obtaining entertainment information on a global computer network
65.
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MAKING RENTAL INVENTORY AVAILABLE FOR SALE
A system and method for selling a rental media product having entertainment content therein via an automated vending machine are provided, The method receives a request from a user, the request identifying the rental media product, retrieves, from a database, product rental information relating to the rental media product, wherein the product rental information comprises a product release date* a last, maximum out-of-rent value, a sold-out date value, and a current on-hand count, determines whether the product rental, information satisfies a set of sales decision criteria, wherein the set of sales decision criteria includes a product, release date threshold, a last maximum ont-of-rent value threshold, a sold-out date requirement, and a current on-hand count threshold. The method further provides an offer to sell the rental media product if the plurality of sales decision criteria is satisfied, and vends the rental product from a vending apparatus to the user if the user accepts the offer for sale.
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 11/52 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about horizontal axes
66.
Article vending machine and method for authenticating received articles
An article dispensing machine, system and method for authenticating an article returned to the article dispensing machine and an article for use in such a machine and system. The article dispensing machine comprises an infrared light for illuminating the surface of the returned article, an image capture device for capturing the image of an authentication code on the returned article, and a processor for comparing the captured image to a master authentication code. The returned article comprises the authentication code printed in a carbon-containing ink and a substantially carbon free ink portion printed overtop of and at least partially concealing the authentication code, such that the authentication code is not visible in white light, but becomes visible when exposed to infrared light.
An article dispensing machine, system and method for authenticating an article returned to the article dispensing machine and an article for use in such a machine and system. The article dispensing machine comprises an infrared light for illuminating the surface of the returned article, an image capture device for capturing the image of an authentication code on the returned article, and a processor for comparing the captured image to a master authentication code. The returned article comprises the authentication code printed in a carbon-containing ink and a substantially carbon free ink portion printed overtop of and at least partially concealing the authentication code, such that the authentication code is not visible in white light, but becomes visible when exposed to infrared light.
G07F 7/10 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by coded identity card or credit card together with a coded signal
A method for facilitating a rapid return of a article to an article dispensing machine is provided. The article dispensing machine comprises a first user interface portion having the first user interface, a second user interface portion having a second user interface, and an article transfer portion for vending and returning articles. The method includes receiving from a first user interface a first request to return the article, determining whether the article transfer portion is available to enable the return of the article, and based on the availability determination, displaying through a first user interface screen associated with the first user interface portion information indicating whether to proceed with the return of the article or to wait for a notification to proceed with the return.
G07F 17/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services
G07F 11/50 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted
A method for facilitating a rapid return of a article to an article dispensing machine is provided. The article dispensing machine comprises a first user interface portion having the first user interface, a second user interface portion having a second user interface, and an article transfer portion for vending and returning articles. The method includes receiving from a first user interface a first request to return the article, determining whether the article transfer portion is available to enable the return of the article, and based on the availability determination, displaying through a first user interface screen associated with the first user interface portion information indicating whether to proceed with the return of the article or to wait for a notification to proceed with the return.
G07F 7/06 - Mechanisms actuated by objects other than coins to free or to actuate vending, hiring, coin or paper currency dispensing or refunding apparatus by returnable containers, e.g. bottles
G07F 17/00 - Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articlesCoin-freed facilities or services
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Computerized online retail services featuring pre-recorded videos; automated retailing (via vending machines) of entertainment content, media, DVDs, movies and games. Distribution of entertainment content; video-on-demand transmission services; video broadcasting; transmission of voice, data, images, signals, messages and information. Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks, and providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; renting (via vending machines) of entertainment content, media, DVDs, movies and games.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Computerized online retail services featuring pre-recorded videos; Automated retailing (via vending machines) of DVDs, motion pictures and games. Distribution of entertainment content; video-on-demand transmission services; video broadcasting; transmission of voice, data, images, signals, messages and information. Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks, and providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; renting (via vending machines) of entertainment content, media, DVDs, movies and games.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Computerized online retail services featuring pre-recorded videos; Automated retailing (via vending machines) of DVDs, motion pictures and games. Distribution of entertainment content; video-on-demand transmission services; video broadcasting; transmission of voice, data, images, signals, messages and information. Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks, and providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; renting (via vending machines) of entertainment content, media, DVDs, movies and games.
73.
System and method for communicating vending information
A system and method for communicating vending information for a digital video disc is provided. A plurality of vending transaction data is received, wherein each of the plurality of data comprises a transaction timestamp and corresponds to a rental transaction for a digital video disc. The plurality of vending transaction data is stored in a memory of a vending apparatus, and is encrypted. It is determined whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since a first transmission of transaction data from the vending apparatus, and a communication request is transmitted upon such determination to a remote control center. A signal is received at the vending apparatus from a control center in response to the communications request, and a plurality of vending transaction data is transmitted to the remote control center in response to receiving the signal.
A system and method for communicating secondary vending options for a vendible media product having entertainment content therein is provided. The system comprises a transaction network, and a database in communication with the transaction network, wherein the database stores a plurality of digital video disc titles and a plurality of locations and release dates corresponding to the digital video disc titles. A vending controller at a vending location receives a user request signal for a digital video disc, and determines whether the digital video disc is available in a vending inventory at the vending location. A central controller receives a first signal from the vending controller, wherein the first signal comprises a secondary vending option and a user electronic mail address. The central controller receives a second signal from the vending controller, wherein the second signal comprises an indication that the digital video disc is available in the vending inventory.
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G06F 17/30 - Information retrieval; Database structures therefor
G06Q 20/00 - Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
G06Q 10/06 - Resources, workflows, human or project managementEnterprise or organisation planningEnterprise or organisation modelling
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
B65H 1/00 - Supports or magazines for piles from which articles are to be separated
77.
ARTICLE VENDING MACHINE AND METHOD FOR EXCHANGING AN INOPERABLE ARTICLE FOR AN OPERABLE ARTICLE
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
B65H 1/00 - Supports or magazines for piles from which articles are to be separated
78.
Article vending machine and method for exchanging an inoperable article for an operable article
An article vending machine in a network of article vending machines capable of exchanging an inoperable rental article received from a user for an operable replacement article. The article dispensing machine checks customer identification information against one or more customer rental criteria to determine if the customer is eligible to exchange an inoperable article for an operable one. The article vending machine searches for an identical replacement article within an inventory of the machine itself and within inventories of the networked article vending machines. Alternatively, the article vending machine may provide a refund for the inoperable article.
G06Q 30/06 - Buying, selling or leasing transactions
G07F 11/54 - Coin-freed apparatus for dispensing, or the like, discrete articles from movable storage containers or supports the storage containers or supports being rotatably mounted about vertical axes
A network of DVD dispensing machines and method for accepting user-inputted coupon codes that are only accepted when certain restrictions are satisfied. In one aspect of the present invention, certain coupon codes are only accepted by kiosks located in certain geographic areas. In another aspect of the present invention, certain coupon codes are only accepted if the customer is a new customer opening a new account. In another aspect of the present invention, certain coupon codes are only accepted once per user account. In yet another aspect of the present invention, certain coupon codes are only accepted if the coupon codes are used at kiosks housed in certain vending partners or in stores affiliated with a certain entity.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Distributorship services in the field of video games, DVD's featuring movies, online retail store services featuring pre-recorded videos featuring entertainment in the nature of movies, motion picture films, television programs, Automated retail services, namely, providing retail facilities featuring automated retail vending machines featuring entertainment content, media, DVDs, * and * movies [ and video games, ] for purchase and rental Video-on-demand transmission services, video broadcasting, transmission of [ voice, ] data, images, [ data signals, messages ] and information by electronic communications networks Rental of video recordings by means of communications networks, and providing information in the field of entertainment by means of communications networks; providing facilities for DVD, * and * movie [, and video game ] rental
81.
System and method for communicating vending information
A system and method for communicating vending information is provided. The system includes a plurality of vending apparatuses, each containing a vending inventory comprised of vendible media products, and a control center in communication with the plurality of vending apparatuses configured to receive user information. The user information can include a vending request for a vendible media product and a location identifier. The system is further configured to select a vending apparatus from the plurality of vending apparatuses based on the location identifier, determine whether the requested vendible media product is in the vending inventory of the selected vending apparatus, and transmit an electronic message to a user-specified electronic mail address upon determining that the requested vendible media product is in the vending inventory of the selected vending machine.
A system and method for communicating secondary vending options for a vendible media product having entertainment content therein is provided. The system comprises a transaction network, and a database in communication with the transaction network, wherein the database stores a plurality of digital video disc titles and a plurality of locations and release dates corresponding to the digital video disc titles. A vending controller at a vending location receives a user request signal for a digital video disc, and determines whether the digital video disc is available in a vending inventory at the vending location. A central controller receives a first signal from the vending controller, wherein the first signal comprises a secondary vending option and a user electronic mail address. The central controller receives a second signal from the vending controller, wherein the second signal comprises an indication that the digital video disc is available in the vending inventory.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
(1) Vending machines. (1) Vending services namely providing access to vending machines and facilities for rental and sale of various products, namely entertainment media including motion pictures and video games; retail store services namely the rental and sale of entertainment media; rental and sale of DVD’s and gaming media through vending machines.
84.
System and method for calibrating a vending apparatus
A system and method for calibrating a vending apparatus is provided. A vertical base reference position of a selector arm is stored, wherein the vertical base reference position corresponds to one of a plurality of rows in a cylindrical storage device. A horizontal base reference position is stored, wherein the horizontal base reference position corresponds to a compartment identifier identifying a compartment within each of the plurality of rows. A position of the selector arm corresponding to a media storage compartment is also stored, wherein the position comprises a vertical position and a horizontal position. A motor is initiated to move the selector arm along a vertical axis, wherein a movement of the selector arm results in one of an increment and/or a decrement to the vertical position of the selector arm. A stepper motor is initiated to rotate the cylindrical storage device, wherein a rotation of the device results in one of an increment and/or a decrement to the horizontal position of the selector arm.
G06K 7/10 - Methods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by electromagnetic radiation, e.g. optical sensingMethods or arrangements for sensing record carriers by corpuscular radiation
85.
System and method for communicating vending information
A system and method for communicating vending information for a digital video disc is provided. A plurality of vending transaction data is received, wherein each of the plurality of data comprises a transaction timestamp and corresponds to a rental transaction for a digital video disc. The plurality of vending transaction data is stored in a memory of a vending apparatus, and is encrypted. It is determined whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since a first transmission of transaction data from the vending apparatus, and a communication request is transmitted upon such determination to a remote control center. A signal is received at the vending apparatus from a control center in response to the communications request, and a plurality of vending transaction data is transmitted to the remote control center in response to receiving the signal.
A system and method for communicating vending information for a digital video disc is provided. A plurality of vending transaction data is received, wherein each of the plurality of data comprises a transaction timestamp and corresponds to a rental transaction for a digital video disc. The plurality of vending transaction data is stored in a memory of a vending apparatus, and is encrypted. It is determined whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since a first transmission of transaction data from the vending apparatus, and a communication request is transmitted upon such determination to a remote control center. A signal is received at the vending apparatus from a control center in response to the communications request, and a plurality of vending transaction data is transmitted to the remote control center in response to receiving the signal.
A system and method for offline vending of digital video discs is provided. The method comprises the step of receiving, at a vending location and at a first time, a request for a digital video disc from a user interface. The method also comprises the step of determining whether a vending controller is capable of being placed in communication with a transaction network. Transaction data is stored, wherein the transaction data is provided by the user interface. The transaction data is stored in a memory, and comprises a title of the requested digital video disc and financial information provided by the user interface. The method also comprises encrypting the transaction data, and generating a signal for vending the digital video disc from a vending apparatus. The transaction network is polled at predetermined periodic intervals, and the transaction data is transmitted via the transaction network upon a determination that the vending controller can be placed is capable of being placed in communication with the transaction network.
A system and method for communicating vending information for a vendible media product having entertainment content therein is provided. The system comprises a transaction network, and a database in communication with the transaction network, wherein the database stores a plurality of digital video disc titles and a plurality of locations corresponding to the digital video disc titles. A first vending controller at a first location receives a user request signal for a digital video disc, and determines whether the digital video disc is in a vending inventory at the first vending location. A central controller receives a first signal from the first vending controller, wherein the first signal comprises a request for a location of the digital video disc. The central controller transmits a second signal to the first vending controller, wherein the second signal comprises the location of the digital video disc. A second vending controller at a second vending location receives a third signal from the central controller, wherein the third signal is an instruction to deliver the digital video disc to a specific user upon receipt of a specific user identification signal for the specific user.
A system and method for selling a rental digital video disc is provided. A request from a user to rent the digital video disc is received. First transaction data from a user interface is received, wherein the first transaction data comprises financial information corresponding to a user financial account. An electronic mail address is received, corresponding to a specific user. The digital video disc is vended from a vending machine, and it is determined whether a predetermined period of time has elapsed since a prior transmission of an electronic mail message to the electronic mail address. Upon such a determination, an electronic mail message is transmitted to the electronic mail address, wherein the message comprises a uniform resource locator specifying an Internet website through which the rental digital video disc can be purchased. The method also comprises the step of receiving second transaction data via the Internet website.
A61F 13/15 - Absorbent pads, e.g. sanitary towels, swabs or tampons for external or internal application to the bodySupporting or fastening means thereforTampon applicators
A system and method for managing vending inventory of digital video discs is provided. A plurality of digital video discs are stored in a plurality of storage compartments, wherein each of the compartments corresponds to a type of digital video disc. An inventory descriptor is generated, wherein the descriptor identifies a set of digital video discs. The inventory descriptor is scanned, causing a conveyor to convey the set of digital video discs from the storage compartments to a vending delivery module. The set of digital video discs is secured within the vending delivery module.
A system and method for regulating vendible media products is provided. A database stored information corresponding to a plurality of digital video discs within a vending apparatus at a vending location. A central server, having a memory, stores the database. An interface application interfaces with the central server and the database, and selects from the database a subset of the digital video discs. A vending processor within the vending apparatus receives a first signal from the central server, wherein the first signal comprises a list of digital video discs identifying the subset of digital video discs. The vending processor also generates a second signal to place the subset of digital video discs into a portable vending management module.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
(1) Automated DVD rental services; providing vending machines for the automated rental of DVDs; providing DVDs to renters and end-viewers through the automated rental of DVDs through vending machines.
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
(1) Vending machines that dispense digital entertainment content for rental and sale, including dispensing movies and games on DVD and on other digital storage media. (1) Providing DVDs to renters and end-viewers through the automated rental of DVDs through vending machines; rental of pre-recorded DVDs on a variety of subjects through automated vending machines.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
41 - Education, entertainment, sporting and cultural services
Goods & Services
Vending machines. Automated DVD rental services; providing vending machines for the automated rental of DVDs; providing DVDs to renters and end-viewers through the automated rental of DVDs through vending machines.
