A portable hub for updating a memory in a plurality of electronic devices is disclosed. The memory in the electronic devices is adapted to store an encryption algorithm and a data set. Each of said devices also has a security certificate, a remote wireless card and a processor. The portable hub includes a chassis and a grip on the chassis to facilitate movement of the portable hub by a single person from a first geographic location to a second geographic location. The portable hub also includes a power supply and a server having a main memory, an input and a display. The portable hub also includes a main wireless card coupled to the server and a security certificate associated with the server. The main memory is adapted to store a main encryption algorithm and a main data set to be transferred to the plurality of electronic devices. The server is programmed to provide a prompt via the display and to receive an answer to the prompt via the input. The server is adapted to be coupled to the plurality of electronic devices through a secure and encrypted wireless connection made between the main wireless card and the respective remote wireless cards to update the data set stored in the respective memories of the electronic devices. The power supply, the server, the main memory, and the main wireless card are secured to the chassis for support during movement of the portable hub. A local area network comprising a portable hub and a plurality of electronic devices is also disclosed. Method of using the portable hub and the local area network are also disclosed.
H04L 9/32 - Dispositions pour les communications secrètes ou protégéesProtocoles réseaux de sécurité comprenant des moyens pour vérifier l'identité ou l'autorisation d'un utilisateur du système
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Software as a service (SAAS), namely, hosting software for use by election officials in registering voters, and conducting elections in the field of voting services; Software as a service (SAAS), namely, hosting software for use by others for use in supporting automated precinct and polling place management systems; Software as a service (SAAS), namely, hosting software for use by others for use in secure online delivery and return of electronic ballots; Software as a service (SAAS), namely, hosting software for use by others for use in printing and tabulating ballots delivered and returned online
3.
Voting systems and methods for encoding voting selection data in a compressed format
Various voting systems are disclosed that include a voting device configured to: provide a user interface that presents one or more voting choices for each of one or more contests and enables a voter to select one or more of the voting choices for each of the one or more contests; create a bitmap comprising a plurality of bit cells each of which corresponds to one of the voting choices of one of the contests, wherein each of the bit cells stores a binary digit that indicates whether the voter selected the voting choice corresponding to the bit cell; convert the binary digits stored in the bitmap to a compressed string of characters; generate one or more selection barcodes that encode the compressed string of characters; and print the one or more selection barcodes on a paper medium to create a paper ballot. The voting systems also include a ballot tabulation device configured to: read the one or more selection barcodes printed on the paper ballot to decode the compressed string of characters; convert the compressed string of characters to binary digits; analyze the binary digits to determine the selected voting choices; and store the selected voting choices in a cast vote record for the paper ballot. Various voting methods that utilize encoding schemas for compressing voting selection data are also disclosed.
G06K 19/06 - Supports d'enregistrement pour utilisation avec des machines et avec au moins une partie prévue pour supporter des marques numériques caractérisés par le genre de marque numérique, p. ex. forme, nature, code
H03M 13/00 - Codage, décodage ou conversion de code pour détecter ou corriger des erreursHypothèses de base sur la théorie du codageLimites de codageMéthodes d'évaluation de la probabilité d'erreurModèles de canauxSimulation ou test des codes
A voting system comprises a ballot tabulation device that tabulates each of a plurality of paper ballots by determining one or more contest selections marked on the paper ballot and storing the contest selections within a cast vote record (CVR) for the paper ballot. One or more of the paper ballots comprises a provisional ballot on which is printed an identification code that represents or is associated with a voter code assigned to a voter who cast the provisional ballot. During the tabulation process, a direct or indirect link is provided between the CVR and the voter code for the provisional ballot. The voting system also comprises an election management system that identifies the CVR associated with each of one or more inputted voter codes, i.e., the voter codes assigned to voters who have had a change in eligibility status, and updates the total vote count to include or exclude the contest selections stored within that CVR as applicable. Preferably, the election management system is configured to prevent a user from accessing the contest selections stored in the CVR for the provisional ballot based on the voter code. For audit purposes, a ballot code may also be printed on each paper ballot, wherein the ballot code may optionally serve as the identification code for a provisional ballot.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
G06F 16/901 - IndexationStructures de données à cet effetStructures de stockage
G06K 7/14 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation électromagnétique, p. ex. lecture optiqueMéthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation corpusculaire utilisant la lumière sans sélection des longueurs d'onde, p. ex. lecture de la lumière blanche réfléchie
G06F 16/9035 - Filtrage basé sur des données supplémentaires, p. ex. sur des profils d'utilisateurs ou de groupes
A computer-implemented method for preserving the anonymity of a provisional ballot cast by a voter in an election whose eligibility to vote in the election is not yet determined comprises including a machine-readable identification marking representing an identification code associated with the voter on the paper card utilized by a voting device associating the identification code represented by the machine-readable identification marking with the contest choices stored in the results database. In this manner, upon a determination that the voter is either eligible or ineligible to vote in the election, the contest choices of the voter can be included in or excluded from, respectively, the results of the election by identifying the identification code associated with the voter and including or excluding, respectively, the contest choices associated with the identification code.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
Automated entry of voting selections that were properly marked on the paper ballot during ballot adjudication. A ballot processing system is configured to generate an optical, machine-readable code that includes data representative of the voting selections for all contests that were properly marked on the paper ballot. An electronic voting system is configured to read the code and present to the election official only contests having improper markings on the paper ballot (i.e., requiring adjudication).
A tamper-evident attachment for a cable tie includes a ratchet head cover configured to couple to a ratchet head of the cable tie such that the ratchet head cover covers at least a portion of a head opening of the ratchet head to inhibit access a pawl in the ratchet head. The ratchet head cover defines at least one slot-shaped opening configured to align with the head opening of the ratchet head when the ratchet head cover is coupled to the ratchet head. The at least one slot-shaped opening is sized and shaped to receive a strap of the cable tie therethrough.
A tamper-evident attachment for a cable tie includes a ratchet head cover configured to couple to a ratchet head of the cable tie such that the ratchet head cover covers at least a portion of a head opening of the ratchet head to inhibit access a pawl in the ratchet head. The ratchet head cover defines at least one slot-shaped opening configured to align with the head opening of the ratchet head when the ratchet head cover is coupled to the ratchet head. The at least one slot-shaped opening is sized and shaped to receive a strap of the cable tie therethrough.
A portable voting booth that includes a table having a top surface and a bottom surface, a plurality of legs configured to support the table, and a plurality of leg supports attached to the table and configured to stabilize the legs during use of the voting booth. In some embodiments, the leg supports are movable from an open position to a closed position in which the leg supports are immovably secured to the table for storage. Preferably, the leg supports are disengaged from the legs and generally flush with the bottom surface of the table when the leg supports are in the closed storage position.
Automated entry of voting selections that were properly marked on the paper ballot during ballot adjudication. A ballot processing system is configured to generate an optical, machine-readable code that includes data representative of the voting selections for all contests that were properly marked on the paper ballot. An electronic voting system is configured to read the code and present to the election official only contests having improper markings on the paper ballot (i.e., requiring adjudication).
G06K 7/10 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation électromagnétique, p. ex. lecture optiqueMéthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation corpusculaire
G06K 1/12 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour marquer les supports d'enregistrement sous la forme numérique autrement que par poinçonnage
G06K 7/14 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation électromagnétique, p. ex. lecture optiqueMéthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation corpusculaire utilisant la lumière sans sélection des longueurs d'onde, p. ex. lecture de la lumière blanche réfléchie
G09F 3/00 - Étiquettes, fiches ou moyens analogues d'identification ou d'indicationSceauxTimbres-poste ou timbres analogues
G09F 3/10 - Fixage ou fixation par des moyens n'entrant pas dans la composition du matériau de l'étiquette elle-même par une couche adhésive
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
[ Computer hardware for use in elections, namely, document printer, monitor and scanner; ] software application which enables printing of a ballot on demand for pre-election-day voters, absentee voters, early voters, and election-day voters
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
Embedded firmware for ballot scanners with the function of the firmware to correct for variations in the alignment of marks on ballots that may occur when a ballot is printed or scanned so that the scanner may read the ballot accurately
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
Computer hardware for use in elections, namely, document printer, monitor and envelope scanner; downloadable software for interfacing with a user's computer and generating reports of voter data; downloadable software for updating a voter database
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
Computer hardware for use in elections, namely, document printer, monitor and envelope scanner [ ; downloadable software for interfacing with a user's computer and generating reports of voter data; downloadable software for updating a voter database ]
A system for remotely monitoring a plurality of ballot tabulation devices is provided. The ballot tabulation devices are located at a plurality of polling locations, each of which is operable to process a plurality of marked paper ballots and maintain health status information for the device. The system includes a central server located remotely from the ballot tabulation devices that is operable to periodically receive the health status information for each device and generate an alert that identifies any irregularities associated with each device based on the received health status information. Preferably, the health status information is encoded in a machine-readable code that is displayed on a display screen of the ballot tabulation device, and a reading device is used to read the machine-readable code from the display screen and transmit the health status information to the central server.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
39 - Services de transport, emballage et entreposage; organisation de voyages
40 - Traitement de matériaux; recyclage, purification de l'air et traitement de l'eau
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
(1) Election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; election services in the field of voting systems comprising software and hardware for voting by internet, mail, phone or in person; administration, management and voting site support, namely, providing guidance to election staff on use of voting hardware and software for elections for others; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of voting systems; voting services, namely, providing automated vote by mail processing service for others, namely, ballot printing, inserting for mailing, mail tracking and providing an audit trail; computer software development services namely, the design of computerized voting systems for others; design and printing of paper ballots for others; design of electronic ballots for others; validation of election results; software as a service (SAS), namely, hosting software for the use of others in registering voters, qualifying candidates and conducting elections in the field of voting services, supporting automated precinct and polling place management systems, secure online delivery and return of electronic ballots, printing and tabulating ballots delivered and returned online.
26.
System and method for decoding marks on a response sheet
A ballot tabulation device includes a scanner operable to obtain an image of at least a portion of a paper ballot that includes a voter response area. A processor applies a virtual template to the image to identify a center point for the voter response area. The virtual template comprises a set of characteristic points positioned in predetermined locations in relation to the center point of the voter response area, wherein the characteristic points comprise points that are common to a plurality of sample ballot images. The processor also defines a response window that is centered on the center point of the voter response area, and analyzes the response window to determine if the voter response area is marked by a voter.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
A system for remotely monitoring a plurality of ballot tabulation devices is provided. The ballot tabulation devices are located at a plurality of polling locations, each of which is operable to process a plurality of marked paper ballots and maintain health status information for the device. The system includes a central server located remotely from the ballot tabulation devices that is operable to periodically receive the health status information for each device and generate an alert that identifies any irregularities associated with each device based on the received health status information. Preferably, the health status information is encoded in a machine-readable code that is displayed on a display screen of the ballot tabulation device, and a reading device is used to read the machine-readable code from the display screen and transmit the health status information to the central server.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
A system for reporting election results from a plurality of ballot tabulation devices to a central server is provided. Each ballot tabulation device is operable to generate a machine-readable code that encodes the election results for the ballot tabulation device and present the machine-readable code by either displaying the machine-readable code on a display screen or printing the machine-readable code on a printable medium. The system also includes a plurality of reading devices each of which is used to read the machine-readable code presented by the ballot tabulation device and transmit the election results for the ballot tabulation device to the central server.
A ballot tabulation device includes a scanner operable to obtain an image of at least a portion of a paper ballot that includes a voter response area. A processor applies a virtual template to the image to identify a center point for the voter response area. The virtual template comprises a set of characteristic points positioned in predetermined locations in relation to the center point of the voter response area, wherein the characteristic points comprise points that are common to a plurality of sample ballot images. The processor also defines a response window that is centered on the center point of the voter response area, and analyzes the response window to determine if the voter response area is marked by a voter.
A system and method for reporting voting device information is provided. In one aspect, the system is used to remotely monitor ballot tabulation devices. Each device maintains health status information that is encoded in a machine-readable code and displayed on a display screen of the device. A reading device is used to read the machine-readable code and transmit the health status information to a central server, which generates an alert if the health status information indicates any irregularities associated with the device. In another aspect, the system is used to report election results from ballot tabulation devices to a central server. Each device generates a machine-readable code that encodes the election results for the device and presents the machine-readable code by, for example, displaying the code on a display screen or printing the code on a printable medium. A reading device is used to read the machine-readable code and transmit the election results for the device to a central server.
A system and method for reporting voting device information is provided. In one aspect, the system is used to remotely monitor ballot tabulation devices. Each device maintains health status information that is encoded in a machine-readable code and displayed on a display screen of the device. A reading device is used to read the machine-readable code and transmit the health status information to a central server, which generates an alert if the health status information indicates any irregularities associated with the device. In another aspect, the system is used to report election results from ballot tabulation devices to a central server. Each device generates a machine-readable code that encodes the election results for the device and presents the machine-readable code by, for example, displaying the code on a display screen or printing the code on a printable medium. A reading device is used to read the machine-readable code and transmit the election results for the device to a central server.
A system for remotely monitoring a plurality of voting devices across a jurisdiction that avoids election result tampering. The system comprise a plurality of voting devices located at a plurality of polling locations for the jurisdiction, wherein each voting device is programmed to generate and maintain health status information that provides an indication of any irregularities associated with operation of the device. A central server is located at a central election office for the jurisdiction remote from the voting devices at the polling locations, wherein the central server is operable to periodically receive the health status information for each voting device as transmitted over a communication network and is programmed to identify any irregularities associated with operation of the device based on the received health status information.
A voting system including a universal voting station and a tabulation device. The voting station is operable to receive an activation card on which it prints a voter's voting selection. The voter may choose to have the voting station transmit the voting selection to the tabulation device and deposit the activation card into a ballot box, or return the activation card to the voter. The tabulation device is operable to scan and tabulate the voting selections on both marked paper ballots and printed activation cards. The ballot box is preferably a common ballot box that is positioned to receive activation cards from the voting station and paper ballots and activation cards from the tabulation device.
A voting system including an accessible voting station and a tabulation device. The accessible voting station is operable to receive an activation card on which it prints a voter's voting selection. The voter may choose to have the accessible voting station transmit the voting selection to the tabulation device and deposit the activation card into a ballot box, or return the activation card to the voter. The tabulation device is operable to scan and tabulate the voting selections on both marked paper ballots and printed activation cards. The ballot box is preferably a common ballot box that is positioned to receive activation cards from the accessible voting station and paper ballots and activation cards from the tabulation device.
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
35 - Publicité; Affaires commerciales
39 - Services de transport, emballage et entreposage; organisation de voyages
40 - Traitement de matériaux; recyclage, purification de l'air et traitement de l'eau
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
(1) Voting machines; computer printers and computer scanners for use in the field of elections; vote tabulator machines; downloadable software for input of voter data; hardware and software for use in voting via the internet, mail, phone and in person; computer hardware and software for ballot printing; computer software which generates paper ballots; computer software for creating an election database of voter registration information; computer software systems for use by voters to search and view election information and print an unofficial ballot; database management software for use to search and view voter information.
(2) Voting machines; computer printers and computer scanners for use in the field of elections; vote tabulator machines; downloadable software for input of voter data; hardware and software for use in voting via the internet, mail, phone and in person; computer hardware and software for ballot printing; computer software which generates paper ballots; computer software for creating an election database of voter registration information; computer software systems for use by voters to search and view election information and print an unofficial ballot; database management software for use to search and view voter information. (1) Election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; election services in the field of voting systems comprising software and hardware for voting by internet, mail, phone or in person; administration and management of elections for others; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of voting systems; voting services, namely, providing automated vote by mail processing service for others, namely, ballot printing, inserting for mailing, mail tracking and providing an audit trail; voting computer hardware and software systems development for others; design and printing of paper ballots for others; design of electronic ballots for others; validation of election results; software as a service, namely, hosting software for the use of others in the field of elections.
(2) Election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; election services in the field of voting systems comprising software and hardware for voting by internet, mail, phone or in person; administration and management of elections for others; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of voting systems; voting services, namely, providing automated vote by mail processing service for others, namely, ballot printing, inserting for mailing, mail tracking and providing an audit trail.
(3) Voting computer hardware and software systems development for others; design of paper ballots for others; design of electronic ballots for others; software as a service, namely, hosting software for the use of others for use by election officials in registering voters, qualifying candidates and conducting elections in the field of voting services; software as a service, namely, hosting software for use by others for use in supporting automated precinct and polling place management systems; software as a service, namely, hosting software for use by others for use in secure online delivery and return of electronic ballots; software as a service, namely, hosting software for use by others for use in printing and tabulating ballots delivered and returned online; on-site support of elections for others, namely, computer software and hardware troubleshooting in the nature of diagnosing computer software and hardware problems and call center services in the nature of technical support help desk services.
40 - Traitement de matériaux; recyclage, purification de l'air et traitement de l'eau
35 - Publicité; Affaires commerciales
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
Voting services for others, namely, ballot printing; printing of paper ballots for others Election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; retail services by direct solicitation in the field of voting systems comprising software and hardware for voting by internet, mail, phone or in person; administration and management of elections; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of voting systems; voting services, namely, providing automated vote by mail processing service for others, namely, inserting for mailing, mail tracking and providing an audit trail Voting systems development for others; design of paper ballots for others; design of electronic ballots for others; validation of election results; software as a service (SAAS), namely, hosting software for the use of others in registering voters, qualifying candidates, and conducting elections in the field of voting services, supporting automated precinct and polling place management systems, secure online delivery and return of electronic ballots, printing and tabulating ballots delivered and returned online; consulting services to election staff on the use of voting hardware and software for elections
40 - Traitement de matériaux; recyclage, purification de l'air et traitement de l'eau
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
35 - Publicité; Affaires commerciales
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
printing of paper ballots for others; voting services, namely, providing automated vote by mail processing service for others, namely, ballot printing voting machines; printers and scanners for use in the field of elections; voting machines, namely, vote tabulator machines; downloadable software for input of voter data; hardware and software for use in voting via the internet, mail, phone and in person; computer hardware and software for ballot printing; computer software which generates paper ballots; computer software for creating an election database of voter registration information; computer software systems consisting of computer hardware and software for use by voters to search and view election information and print an unofficial ballot; database management software for use to search and view voter information election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; election services in the field of voting systems comprising software and hardware for voting by internet, mail, phone or in person; administration and management of elections for others; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of manual, electronic and online voting systems; voting services, namely, providing automated vote by administrative mail processing service for others, namely, inserting ballots for mailings, mail tracking and date stamping inbound mail to provide an audit trail voting computer hardware and software systems development for others; design of paper ballots for others; design of electronic ballots for others; software as a service, namely, hosting software for the use of others for use by election officials in registering voters, qualifying candidates and conducting elections in the field of voting services; software as a service, namely, hosting software for use by others for use in supporting automated precinct and polling place management systems; software as a service, namely, hosting software for use by others for use in secure online delivery and return of electronic ballots; software as a service, namely, hosting software for use by others for use in printing and tabulating ballots delivered and returned online; on-site support of elections for others, namely, computer software and hardware troubleshooting in the nature of diagnosing computer software and hardware problems and call center services in the nature of technical support help desk services
38.
Integrated voting system and method for accommodating paper ballots and audio ballots
A voting system includes an accessible voting station and a tabulation device. The accessible voting station presents an audio ballot to a voter and receives one or more voting selections entered in response to the audio ballot from the voter. The accessible voting station also prints a ballot that includes the entered voting selections and scans at least a portion of the ballot to determine the voting selections printed thereon. The accessible voting station further presents an audio representation of the scanned voting selections to the voter and receives a confirmation of the audio representation of the scanned voting selections from the voter. The tabulation device tabulates the voting selections printed on the ballot by scanning the printed ballot or receiving voting selection information extracted from the printed ballot from the accessible voting station.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
Computer software systems for use by voters to search and view election information and print an unofficial ballot for reference and use at a polling place; computer software systems that aggregate voter profiles and unofficial voting selections of voters; computer software systems for use by subscribers to research, create reports and view defined reports based on voter profiles and unofficial voting selections; computer software systems by which voters and subscribers can communicate via an electronic means, namely, email, instant messaging, forums, chat rooms, and text messaging; database management software for use by internet users to search and view specific voter information about their particular registration information, namely, where to vote, registration status and provisional information
A system for processing folded documents is disclosed. The system includes an input hopper configured to receive a stack of folded documents and an imaging area in which each of the documents is imaged. A pick-up mechanism is configured to transport each of the folded documents from the input hopper to the imaging area. The pick-up mechanism includes first and second barriers that are spaced apart to define a gap through which each of the folded documents is passed, wherein the gap is dimensioned to prevent passage of more than one of the folded documents. Preferably, the system also includes a detection system that is operable to detect the passage of more than one of the folded documents through a detection zone.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE VOTING STATION FOR PRINTING A VOTE SUMMARY; HANDICAP ACCESSIBLE VOTING STATION FOR PRINTING A VOTE SUMMARY IN COMBINATION WITH AN IMAGE-BASED DIGITAL SCANNER AND TABULATOR AND A BALLOT BOX
42.
System and method for synchronizing electronic poll book voter databases
The present invention is directed to a system and method for synchronizing electronic poll book voter databases. The system includes a plurality of electronic poll books in communication over a network, each poll book having a unique identifier and each including a voter database of voter information. Each poll book is operable to transmit its unique identifier in an information packet and receive information packets from other poll books. Each poll book arranges the transmitted and received unique identifiers in order according to a predetermined ordering scheme, and establishes communication with two other poll books and exchanges voter database information to ensure all databases have updated information. With the communication established as described, the poll books form a ring network and database information is propagated from poll book to poll book to synchronize the databases between all of the poll books.
G06F 15/16 - Associations de plusieurs calculateurs numériques comportant chacun au moins une unité arithmétique, une unité programme et un registre, p. ex. pour le traitement simultané de plusieurs programmes
G06F 11/00 - Détection d'erreursCorrection d'erreursContrôle de fonctionnement
G06F 17/30 - Recherche documentaire; Structures de bases de données à cet effet
The present invention is directed to a system and method for un-issuing a voting credit that has been erroneously issued to a voter in an election. The system includes an electronic poll book that is used to check-in a voter by locating the appropriate voter record and analyzing the voter record to determine whether a voting credit has been issued to the voter in the election. If a voting credit has been issued to the voter, the electronic poll book displays an indication that the voter has already voted in the election. If it is determined that the voting credit was erroneously issued to the voter, a poll worker enters an un-issue code into the poll book. The poll book verifies the validity of the un-issue code and updates the voter record so as to un-issue the voting credit. As such, the voter may vote a regular ballot in the election.
The present invention is directed to a system and method that allows a central election office to maintain control over actions taken on voting devices located at various polling locations. In an exemplary embodiment, a poll worker or other user contacts the central election office with a request to perform an action on a voting device. An election management system located at the central election office executes a hashing algorithm to generate a first hash code associated with the action. The central election office communicates the first hash code to the polling location, and the poll worker or other user inputs the first hash code into the voting device. The voting device executes the same hashing algorithm to generate a second hash code associated with the action, and compares the second hash code to the first hash code to verify the validity of the first hash code. If the validity of the first hash code is verified, the voting device permits the poll worker or other user to perform the action on the voting device.
A ballot processing system for processing a plurality of ballots having one or more voting selections marked thereon. The system includes an input area configured to receive a stack of ballots to be processed, an output area configured to store the processed ballots, and a transport path operable to transport each of the ballots from the input area to the output area. In an exemplary embodiment, the transport path comprises a planar section positioned between a first curve section and a second curve section to form a generally S-shaped path. The length of the transport path allows each of the ballots to be processed prior to reaching the output area.
A ballot processing system for processing paper ballots having one or more voting selections marked thereon. The system includes an input area configured to receive a stack of ballots to be processed, a processor operable to determine the voting selections marked on the ballots, and an output area configured to store the processed ballots. In an exemplary embodiment, a printing device is operable to print a unique identifier on each of the ballots during each pass through the system. A detector is operable to detect the printed identifier so as to verify that each of the ballots was processed during a previous count of the ballots and/or to prevent double-processing of the ballots. The system also includes a printer operable to print a report that identifies ballot information in relation to the unique identifier for at least a portion of the processed ballots.
B41L 19/00 - Appareils ou machines à polycopier ou imprimer à usage de bureau ou autres fins commerciales, d'un type particulier ou adaptés à un but particulier, et non prévus ailleurs
B41L 45/00 - Sortes ou types de machines à imprimer les adresses ou machines similaires à imprimer en série
A ballot processing system for processing a plurality of ballots having one or more voting selections marked thereon. The system includes an input area configured to receive a stack of ballots to be processed, an output area configured to store the processed ballots, and a transport path operable to transport each of the ballots from the input area to the output area. In an exemplary embodiment, the transport path comprises a planar section positioned between a first curve section and a second curve section to form a generally S-shaped path. The length of the transport path allows each of the ballots to be processed prior to reaching the output area.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
51.
Ballot processing system for printing identifiers on paper ballots
A ballot processing system for processing paper ballots having one or more voting selections marked thereon. The system includes an input area configured to receive a stack of ballots to be processed, a processor operable to determine the voting selections marked on the ballots, and an output area configured to store the processed ballots. In an exemplary embodiment, a printing device is operable to print a unique identifier on each of the ballots during each pass through the system. A detector is operable to detect the printed identifier so as to verify that each of the ballots was processed during a previous count of the ballots and/or to prevent double-processing of the ballots. The system also includes a printer operable to print a report that identifies ballot information in relation to the unique identifier for at least a portion of the processed ballots.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
A ballot tabulation device and method for tabulating paper ballots that have been printed according to ballot style. In an exemplary embodiment, the ballot tabulation device includes an input device, such as a touch screen display, that enables a user to enter a precinct identification code for a paper ballot. The device also includes a scanner operable to scan the paper ballot, and a processing circuit operable to decode one or more voting selections marked on the paper ballot. The processing circuit is further operable to tabulate the decoded voting selections and include the tabulated voting selections within the vote tally associated with the precinct identification code. Other exemplary embodiments are also disclosed.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
A secure ballot box includes a main compartment for receiving ballots, a case including a base and a cover supported by the main compartment, and a scanner supported within the base. The cover is coupled with the base and is moveable between a closed position enclosing the scanner and an open position exposing at least a portion of the scanner. The case and scanner are removable from the main compartment for easy transport. A sensor, operable to detect the height of the ballots collected within the main compartment, is coupled with the scanner to switch the scanner to an off mode such that additional ballots will not be accepted when the height of ballots within the main compartment reaches a predetermined threshold level.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
An integrated suite of modular software used in election
management to define election data, create ballot images and
tabulator files, burn election data and passwords to media,
and for gathering, aggregating and reporting results.
55.
System and method for detecting security features on paper ballots
The present invention is directed to a system and method for detecting security features on paper ballots. The security features allow a ballot tabulator to distinguish between an authentic ballot and a counterfeit ballot that does not include the required security feature. One or more security sensors in the ballot tabulator are operable to detect the security feature on the ballot, and provide an output indicating the presence or absence of the security feature. The ballot tabulator preferably generates a visual alert and/or audio alert if the security sensor does not detect the security feature on the paper ballot.
The present invention is generally directed to a ballot marking device adapted to mark a ballot and either return the marked ballot to the voter or automatically deposit the marked ballot into a secure ballot box attached to the marking device. The device includes a presentation device operable to present to the voter a plurality of election choices and ballot handling choices, and an input device operable to receive from the voter at least one selection corresponding to the election choices and at least one instruction corresponding to the ballot handling choices. The device also includes a marking mechanism operable to record the received voter selection on the ballot, a transport mechanism operable to transport the ballot through the device, and a diverter operable to direct the ballot from the transport mechanism into the attached ballot box. An associated method is also disclosed.
G06K 17/00 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour faire travailler en coopération des équipements couverts par plusieurs des groupes principaux , p. ex. fichiers automatiques de cartes incluant les opérations de transport et de lecture
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
35 - Publicité; Affaires commerciales
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
VOTING MACHINES; DOWNLOADABLE SOFTWARE FOR INPUT OF VOTER DATA; HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE FOR USE IN VOTING VIA THE INTERNET, MAIL, PHONE AND IN PERSON ELECTION RESULTS DATA TABULATION SERVICES; PREPARING ELECTION RESULTS REPORTS; RETAIL SERVICES BY DIRECT SOLICITATION IN THE FIELD OF VOTING SYSTEMS COMPRISING SOFTWARE AND HARDWARE FOR VOTING BY INTERNET, MAIL, PHONE OR IN PERSON; ADMINISTRATION AND MANAGEMENT OF ELECTIONS FOR OTHERS; VOTER OUTREACH SERVICES, NAMELY, PROVIDING INFORMATION REGARDING USE OF VOTING SYSTEMS; COLLECTION OF ELECTION DATA VOTING SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT FOR OTHERS; DESIGN OF PAPER BALLOTS FOR OTHERS AND DESIGN OF ELECTRONIC BALLOTS FOR OTHERS; VALIDATION OF ELECTION RESULTS
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
AN INTEGRATED SUITE OF MODULAR SOFTWARE USED IN ELECTION MANAGEMENT TO DEFINE ELECTION DATA, CREATE BALLOT IMAGES AND TABULATOR FILES, BURN ELECTION DATA AND PASSWORDS TO MEDIA, AND FOR GATHERING, AGGREGATING AND REPORTING RESULTS
A circuit interfaced between a first USB host and a second USB host for providing unidirectional transmission of data signals from the first USB host to the second USB host is provided. A first converter circuit is operable to receive data signals from the first USB host and convert them from a USB protocol to a second communications protocol. A second converter circuit is operable to receive the converted data signals from the first converter circuit and convert them from the second communications protocol to the USB protocol for transmission to the second USB host. The first and second converter circuits are electrically connected to each other in such a manner as to provide a transmission path from the first USB host to the second USB host and to disable a transmission path from the second USB host to the first USB host.
An integrated voting system and method for accommodating paper ballots and audio ballots. The voting system includes a voting device operable to scan a paper ballot with one or more marked voting selections and tabulate the marked voting selections. The voting system also includes an accessible voting station in communication with the voting device. The accessible voting station comprises a voting console operable present an audio ballot to a voter via headphones, and receive one or more voting selections entered in response to the audio ballot from the voter. A printer is also provided to print a printed ballot that includes the entered voting selections. The voting device is operable to tabulate the printed voting selections by scanning the printed ballot or receiving voting selection information extracted from the printed ballot from the accessible voting station.
A modular integrated software and hardware suite accepts data exported from a voter registration database corresponding to requests for mail ballots, sorts the information as necessary for ballot preparation, creates a road map for ballot mailing preparation, provides for mail presorting, scans returned ballot envelopes using a ballot envelope scanner, accepts data from such ballot envelope scanner, and matches the data from the scanned returned ballots with information in the voter registration database, sorts ballots that cannot be electronically matched to a particular voter into a separate stack for manual processing, automates the signature verification process for electronically matched ballots, and returns updated data to the voter registration database. A ballot envelope scanner uses a passive feed system, a separator brush, a variable speed straight paper path to minimize jamming through the ballot envelope scanner. The ballot envelope scanner also works in connection with a workstation application.
G06K 7/10 - Méthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation électromagnétique, p. ex. lecture optiqueMéthodes ou dispositions pour la lecture de supports d'enregistrement par radiation corpusculaire
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
35 - Publicité; Affaires commerciales
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
[ Voting machines; DOWNLOADABLE software for input of voter data; hardware and software for use in voting via the Internet, mail, phone and in person ] Election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; retail services by direct solicitation in the field of voting systems comprising software and hardware for voting by Internet, mail, phone or in person; administration and management of elections for others; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of voting systems; collection of election data Voting systems development for others; design of paper ballots for others and design of electronic ballots for others; validation of election results
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
35 - Publicité; Affaires commerciales
42 - Services scientifiques, technologiques et industriels, recherche et conception
Produits et services
[ Voting machines; downloadable software for input of voter data; hardware and software for use in voting via the Internet, mail, phone and in person ] Election services, namely, election results data tabulation services; preparing election results reports; administration and management of elections for others; voter outreach services, namely, providing information regarding use of voting systems; collection of election data [ Electronic voting systems development for others; developing software for input of voter and candidate data; design of paper ballots for others and design of electronic ballots for others; developing software and hardware for voting via the Internet, mail, phone and in person ]
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
Database management software for use by Internet users to search and view specific voter information about their particular registration information including, but not limited to, where to vote, registration status and provisional voting information
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
computer software which allows election officials to register voters, qualify candidates and conduct elections by utilizing separate modules of the system for each such function
09 - Appareils et instruments scientifiques et électriques
Produits et services
computer software designed for medium to large jurisdictions, which allows election officials to register voters, qualify candidates and conduct elections by utilizing separate modules for each such function
