Abstract: A point-of-sale commercial transaction processing system, particularly suitable for the fast food industry, is provided. The transaction processing system utilizes (1) a customer interaction terminal (CIT) having a video display, an audio speaker, a microphone, and preferably a printer, (2) a computer system in communication with the customer interaction terminal (CIT) and running artificial intelligence routines to process or pre-process verbal requests provided into the microphone of the customer interaction terminal, and (3) a human-controlled response system in communication with the computer system which completes, corrects or verifies requests that cannot be satisfactorily completed by the artificial intelligence routines alone. The human-controlled response system is preferably in communication with the customer interaction terminal (CIT) and the customer via a high speed network connection.

Abstract: A vending machine includes a video camera for transmitting an image of a buyer to a remotely located human operator, a document reader for transmitting an image of identification document(s) to the remotely located human in control of the vending machine, and a user interface which gives the appearance that the machine is autonomous even though the operator's approval is required prior to vending an age-restricted item. The machine also includes a payment acceptor and a dispensing apparatus.

Abstract: A virtual assistant system for information retrieval and management and service request processing includes a user interaction device (UID), a server computer, a system computer, and a human-controlled call center. The UID permits the user to provide voice or written instructions to the system computer via the server computer. The system computer runs artificial intelligence (AI) routines to process or preprocess commands provided into the UID by the user. When possible, the AI routines complete the requested service. Where the AI routines alone are insufficient, a human-controlled call center corrects and completes the service requests. Skilled human labor, then, is only relied upon when needed by the system. A great range of service requests can be made including, e.g.