Abstract: A system (128) for distributing at least one item from a set of media content items is disclosed. The system comprises the set of media content items, which can be warehoused in a vending machine (112) or in a remote server (524). The system further comprises a portable storage device (100) having at least one user selectable icon (104) and an associated reference pointer to a corresponding media content item in the set. Also, the system comprises the vending machine (112), which is responsive to a signal from the portable storage device (100), the signal being dependent upon a user selection of the icon (104). The vending machine is capable of locating the corresponding media content item, and reproducing the item on an output medium (118).

Abstract: A hand-held device for alerting a user when scheduled medications, nutritional supplements, nutrients and minerals should be ingested. The device includes a processor positioned and a memory unit connected to the processor for storing user input data concerning a schedule for ingesting desired medications, nutritional supplements, nutrients and minerals. A display screen displays a message from the processor related to the schedule and function keys are connected to the processor for inputting the data concerning the schedule. The data includes a signal identifing the desired medications, nutritional supplements, nutrients and minerals to be ingested and a time at which they are to be ingested. The processor monitors a time of day and alerts the user when a scheduled time arrives. A speaker is connected to the processor for generating an audible alarm signal and alerting the user when a scheduled time arrives.

Abstract: A publication-dispensing apparatus that permits a user to select from among the publications in memory to which the user has a subscription, and to print at least a portion of a selected publication. The publication-dispensing apparatus permits travelers having a subscription to a newspaper, magazine, or other publication to obtain a copy of the subscribed publication, or a copy of an individual article from the subscribed publication, without paying the full cost of a new copy.

Abstract: A medication system prevents medication mistake by checking kinds and doses of pharmaceuticals, coincidence of patient, and so on, when a doctor forms a clinical chart, when a pharmacist prepares the pharmaceuticals following the clinical chart or when the prepared pharmaceuticals are medicated to the patient. Patient barcodes showing the kinds and doses of the pharmaceuticals to be medicated are affixed on the clinical chart when the pharmacist prepares the pharmaceuticals, the barcodes provided on a receptacle or a package of the pharmaceuticals are read by a barcode reader and contents are compared by accessing a database in a server by a second terminal equipment. Furthermore, a patient barcode provided in the vicinity of a bed of an inpatient is read by a portable terminal equipment; the patient barcodes are compared to be judged whether the patients coincide or not.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a vending machine for engraved medals and a method of automatically engraving medals wherein an engraver is contained in the vending machine, and if a coin or a note is inserted into the vending machine and a starting button is pushed according to messages displayed on a monitor, a desired type of medal is selected and loaded on a bed of the engraver to be engraved according to a selected image, and the engraved medal is taken out outside the vending machine.

Abstract: A data template for a personalized printed product, where data fields for specific graphical components of the product indicate whether or not these graphical components can be edited and specify an edit order. An application parses the data template and presents the operator with interface screens in a sequence determined by edit order fields. Each interface screen prompts the user to complete the entry of a graphical component.

Abstract: A multi-function transaction processing system including a transaction terminal having a data entry facility and a transaction processor, the transaction processor being communicatively associated with a control processor that defines user accounts and issues one or more authorization codes associated with the user account(s) in response to payment authorities provided at the transaction terminal utilizing a payment authority input of the data entry facility. Furthermore, a printer assembly is communicatively associated with the transaction terminal and generates a card assembly, the card assembly including a first portion containing the authorization code thereon, and a second portion including additional promotional materials thereon. The user account as defined by the control assembly, includes a defined value, the authorization code provided being utilized to facilitate a transaction in accordance with that defined value.

Abstract: A user interactive custom nail polish color and effects dispensing system and method of doing business, including for both point of sale and remote (e.g., via internet) transactions.

Abstract: A vending machine includes a request receiving portion for receiving request information of products desired by a user; a receipt number issuing portion for issuing receipt number information for each of the received request information; an information storing portion for storing the request information in connection with the receipt number issuing portion, a receipt number transmitting portion for transmitting receipt number information to the terminal designated by the user who made the request, a receipt number obtaining portion for obtaining the receipt number information from the terminal of the user who came to the front of the vending machine, a job information extracting portion for extracting the request information corresponding to the obtained receipt number information from the information storing portion and a job controlling portion for controlling the product to be ejected to an outlet portion in accordance with the extracted request information.

Abstract: A vending machine for vending computer software and electronic data into a user's portable device and for providing in one embodiment, travel information, maps etc. either as data or as a printout. The machine has a display to show items available and a keyboard for entering the user's requests. A central unit directs operation of various parts of the apparatus. Connectors for different devices, such as ebook, PDA, and smart cards are provided.

Abstract: An automated drug dispensing system includes a cabinet adapted to store a variety of prepackaged pharmaceuticals in a plurality of bins for filling patient prescriptions. Each bin stores a particular variety of packaged multiple-dose pharmaceutical. Each variety of pharmaceutical is associated with a particular code. A controller receives request signals and in response generates dispense signals. Each bin includes a dispenser coupled to the controller for dispensing the packaged pharmaceuticals therefrom in response to a dispense signal sent from the controller. After a package is dispensed, a code reader determines the code of the dispensed package and verifies whether the code on the dispensed package matches the code of the requested package.

Abstract: The invention provides a photographic processing system and a method of processing customer image orders. The method comprises the step of selecting a picture package corresponding to a processed film. The picture package includes information on non-customer-film image files relating to the processed film and digitally printing images obtained by scanning the processed film to generate output format images. The method further comprises the step of automatically printing one or more of the non-customer-film image files to be included with the output format images. Preferably, the non-customer-film image files are printed on the same print medium (e.g. photosensitive paper) as the output format images.

Abstract: A method for personalizing a product at the point of sale by a consumer. The method may include the steps of selecting a product, purchasing the product, selecting a shrink-wrap sleeve to be applied to the product, placing the sleeve on the product, and affixing the sleeve on the product.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for customizing the cosmetics used by a consumer. A consumer provides selection data and a cosmetic product formula is generated therefrom, base ingredients are then dispensed in accordance with the formula and a customized cosmetic product is delivered onto an intermediate surface for subsequent application. Further, a cartridge providing fluids to a customized cosmetic device is disclosed comprising one or more fluids, the fluids are stored in the cartridge, and one or more openings are provided for dispensing the fluids to a customized cosmetic product.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing information that generally includes retrieving or receiving a block of electronic information from a remote information source at a predetermined time. The block of electronic information retrieved from the remote source is stored on a data storage unit. A user interface is provided that is configured to produce a selection signal based upon an input from a user regarding the information intended for purchase by the user. A step of receiving and verifying a payment is performed based upon the selection signal input by the user. Once payment is verified, the electronic information corresponding to the materials being purchased is retrieved from the data storage unit based upon the selection signal. The portion of the block of electronic information selected by the user for purchase is then printed on a medium and dispensed to the user.

Abstract: Systems and methods associated with ordering, producing and/or distributing incentive messages. Systems can include means for receiving requests for incentive messages, for receiving payment for the incentive messages, and for transferring the incentive message to a receiver. Such incentive messages can include a trophy and a negotiable instrument. The trophy can be detachable from the negotiable instrument. Methods can include providing one or more incentive messages.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for customizing the cosmetics used by a consumer. A consumer provides selection data and a cosmetic product formula is generated therefrom, base ingredients are then dispensed in accordance with the formula and a customized cosmetic product is delivered onto an intermediate surface for subsequent application. Further, a cartridge providing fluids to a customized cosmetic device is disclosed comprising one or more fluids, the fluids are stored in the cartridge, and one or more openings are provided for dispensing the fluids to a customized cosmetic product.

Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for customizing a cosmetic product at the point of sale to a customer. The apparatus includes a program for receiving external information on at least one of the customer's skin properties and converting the information to a corresponding formula. A formulation unit is provided for preparing the corresponding formula. This unit includes a mechanism for receiving the corresponding formula as a set of operating instructions, reservoirs for containing different cosmetic chemical compositions, pumps and a mechanism for activating the pumps to dose the chemical compositions into a common dosing chamber in a manner determined by the operating instructions. Importantly, the pumps must have pistons capable of reciprocating and rotating motion.

Abstract: An automated drug dispensing system includes a cabinet adapted to store a variety of prepackaged pharmaceuticals in a plurality of bins for filling patient prescriptions. Each bin stores a particular variety of packaged multiple-dose pharmaceutical. Each variety of pharmaceutical is associated with a particular code. A controller receives request signals and in response generates dispense signals. Each bin includes a dispenser coupled to the controller for dispensing the packaged pharmaceuticals therefrom in response to a dispense signal sent from the controller. After a package is dispensed, a code reader determines the code of the dispensed package and verifies whether the code on the dispensed package matches the code of the requested package.

Abstract: An original design watch or original design dial for a watch manufacturing machine in accordance with a design information inputted by a customer to apply promptly its demand. The design information inputted by the customer through an input apparatus (2, 102) is transferred to a manufacturing apparatus (14, 114) and utilized as a command for operation and a design pattern to be drawn. The manufacturing apparatus (14, 114) chooses a housing assembly (20) or a dial plate (120) in accordance with the operational command of the design information, and prints the designed pattern of drawing, picture, photograph or character given by the customer on the dial in accordance with the design information. Then, the dial (120), watch hands and a cover glass are furnished onto the housing assembly (20) in accordance with the selection specified by the design information. The completed watch is sold by an automatic vending machine or by a sales person in usual manner.

Abstract: This invention allows the user to prepare customized wrapping paper at a kiosk by downloading an image into the kiosk, selecting a wrapping paper background at the kiosk, selecting wrapping paper quality and dimensions at the kiosk, viewing the customized wrapping paper at the kiosk, and printing the customized wrapping paper at the kiosk.

Abstract: A system for monitoring and dispensing medical items includes a plurality of hook registers (10). Each of the hook registers includes sensors (48, 60, 62, 64) sensing the removal or addition of a medical item to the storage location on the hook register. Each hook register has a microprocessor (66) connected to the sensor which stores a count of the items added or removed from the location. The microprocessor also includes location identifying information specifically associated with the particular hook register. The microprocessor is periodically polled by a controller (72) which reads and stores the count and location identifying information from each of the hook registers. The controller information is periodically read by a data terminal (76) which is connected through a local area network (82) to a remote computer (84) having a processor and data store.

Abstract: An interactive internet photo terminal for composing an electronic self-image photo message utilizing a “live” image background of the terminal's location. The photo terminal includes a cash and credit receiving device, video camera and message composition input control monitor interconnected to a CPU and telecommunication connector capability.

Abstract: A publication vending apparatus and method includes a display and at least one input device for selecting a publication. A paper supply apparatus is provided. A printing device receives paper from paper supply apparatus and prints the pages of the publication using text and graphic information and printing information particular to the publication. A binding apparatus sorts and binds the paper into a publication.

Abstract: A locker type delivering system according to this invention includes a plurality of merchandise delivering equipment installed at public sites, accepts designation of a place and a time by a customer when the customer orders the merchandise, manages ordering information about the order of the merchandise inclusive of the designation on the basis of an ordering code, and sends the ordering code to the customer. Settling means provided to merchandise delivering equipment acquires ordering information corresponding to the input of the ordering code, and controls the unlocking the door of the corresponding locker by generating a suitable release code when an appropriate amount of money based on this ordering information is received. Therefore, this system can safely accomplish settlement of the charge and delivery of the merchandise to unspecified customers while protecting privacy of the customers.

Abstract: A dispensing apparatus having a plurality of programmable buttons adapted to activate a sequence that dispenses a desired amount of product. A circuit board is coupled between dispense activation buttons, a programming button and a valve manifold and includes a timer, accumulator, memory and controller together to operate solenoid valves. In learn mode, the cumulative time that a particular button is depressed is programmed into a memory circuit and associated with that button. In dispense mode, depressing that dispense activation button causes power to be supplied to a solenoid, thereby directing pressurized air to a particular pump responsible for pumping a particular type of product from a source to the dispensing head. Power is supplied to the solenoid for a time period stored in memory during the programming steps. In this way, the dispensing apparatus can be easily programmed to dispense a desired amount of product having various viscosities.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a fuel dispenser system and a system for managing dispenser systems. The system comprises of at least one fuel dispenser having a peripheral, a point of sale terminal for initiating dispensing transactions and for controlling the peripheral on the fuel dispenser and a processor connected between the point of sale terminal and the dispenser for translating commands between the point-of-sale terminal and the dispenser and for translating response between dispenser and the point-of sale terminal. The present invention also includes a managing processor communicating with each dispenser system for administering the activities of the dispenser system.

Abstract: A system for dispensing and containing a consumer product to a customer comprising the receiving a purchaserequest for the consumer product; presenting at least one question to the customer wherein the customer is asked if the customer will pay an extra fee to receive the consumer product in a toy container machine shaped like a model airplane with a moveable cargo door for accessing the consumer product; receiving an answer to the question from the customer, and; dispensing the consumer product in the toy container machine shaped like a model airplane with a moveable cargo door for accessing the consumer product if the answer indicates that said consumer agrees to pay the extra fee. Alternatively, no fee may be charged and a logo for or a business may be included on the toy container machine shaped like a model airplane. The system is particularly useful in airports.

Abstract: This invention relates to kiosks. Such structures of this type, generally, allow the user to prepare customized wrapping paper at the kiosk.

Abstract: A process is provided for the customization of consumer products, wherein said consumer products are prepared according to selections of product characteristics and made by a consumer, optionally reconstituted with one or more other components, and dispensed from a vending system at the point-of-sale of said consumer products. A vending system is also provided for the customization of consumer products, wherein said consumer products are prepared according to selections of product characteristics and made by a consumer, optionally reconstituted with one or more other components and dispensed from said vending system at the point-of-sale of said consumer products.

Abstract: A kiosk system and method is provided for accepting and processing customer orders and payments in a retail environment. The kiosk system and method is particularly applicable to the restaurant business and may include a consumer display screen for visually displaying product information of products that can be ordered at the kiosk, structure that is operable by the consumer for placing a consumer order composed of at least one product selected from products for which information is displayed on the consumer display screen and structure for accepting payment for the order from the consumer, which typically will include a cash payment by the consumer.

Abstract: Information stored in a corporate database is monitored and used to determine when certain business-related events have occurred. Event information is transmitted over the Internet to a print production facility, where it is used to fire one or more event rules, which in turn automatically generate print requisitions or print production orders. In one variation, print requisitions are routed through an existing and commercially available procurement system before a print production order is generated. The system can monitor and handle events from multiple corporations, each having its own business-related event rules, and each potentially having its own procurement approval system.

Abstract: A method and system for selecting and producing a customized cosmetic or pharmaceutical formulation is disclosed below. The system can be implemented in an Internet based system or a stand-alone version, such as a Kiosk. An improved method of custom formulation is presented which utilizes the user's preferences and profile, as well as external factors. The customized formulation can be directed to a manufacturing facility for on-demand production. Alternatively, a printout of the formulation can be provided for subsequent use at point-of-sale locations, such as a cosmetics store or a pharmacy. The custom formulation software can also be provided in conjunction with a cosmetics manufacturing kit for use in home or business application.

Abstract: A vending machine including a method of creating a set of instructions for the manipulation of an image is disclosed including the steps of displaying an initial array of sample images for a user to select from; accepting a user's selection of at least one of the sample images; utilizing attributes of the images the selection to produce a further array of sample images; iteratively applying the previous steps until such time as the user selects at least one final suitable image; utilizing the steps used in the creation of the sample image as the set of instructions; outputting the set of instructions. The method can further include scanning a user's photograph and utilizing the scanned photograph as an initial image in the creation of each of the sample images. The instructions can be printed out in an encoded form on one surface of a card in addition to printing out a visual representation of the instructions on a second surface of the card.

Abstract: A system and method which allows third-parties to monitor company inventory via the Internet and World Wide Web (“web”) and automatically order needed items. The present invention also provides a forum through which resellers and customers may directly interact to resell surplus and used equipment. The present invention may also allow a third party to act as a broker, thereby assuring that both the equipment purchased is actually delivered, and that the seller is properly compensated.

Abstract: A newspaper vending machine is equipped with a computerized control and an infrared (IR) communications transceiver. A user equipped with an IR transceiver may download an electronic copy of an article, an electronic copy of the newspaper itself or a network address where these may be obtained. The IR link is also used to transfer digital cash or payment authorizations to the vending machine in exchange for the information.

Abstract: A document dispensing system comprising a companion document data transfer device and a document dispenser having a document variables data input terminal, a document printer, a digital data input port coupled to the companion document data transfer device, a companion document data memory, an operational program memory, and a digital controller programmed to store new companion document data in the companion document data memory and to control the document printer in accordance with the document variables data, the new companion document data, and the operational program data. Replacement companion document data is downloaded from the data transfer device to the companion document data memory via the digital data input port.

Abstract: The system for automatically dispensing medications or other medical elements includes several groupings, i.e. vaults, of storage members, each vault containing approximately 100 individual cartridges, which each contain packages of unit-of-use doses of a given medication or other medical supply, such as syringes. Each storage member includes an ejector which ejects selected medications/supplies to a supply trough. The packages in the trough are moved to a central collator, which dispenses them to a bin receptacle which has been moved underneath the collator and which is typically identified with a particular patient. Information concerning medications/supplies for a particular patient is stored in a system database and used to determine the particular medications/supplies dispensed into a given bin. Bar coding is used to maintain control over the bins, and the medications, forming a closed information/control system.

Abstract: The system for automatically dispensing medications or other medical elements includes several groupings, i.e. vaults, of storage members, each vault containing approximately 100 individual cartridges, which each contain packages of unit-of-use doses of a given medication or other medical supply, such as syringes. Each storage member includes an ejector which ejects selected medications/supplies to a supply trough. The packages in the trough are moved to a central collator, which dispenses them to a bin receptacle which has been moved underneath the collator and which is typically identified with a particular patient. Information concerning medications/supplies for a particular patient is stored in a system database and used to determine the particular medications/supplies dispensed into a given bin. Bar coding is used to maintain control over the bins, and the medications, forming a closed information/control system.

Abstract: The present invention provides a fuel delivery system capable of controlling a fuel dispenser's vapor recovery system based on the absence or presence of an on-board vapor recovery system on the vehicle. This system includes a fuel dispenser having a vapor recovery system, a controller capable of controlling the vapor recovery system, a receiver and an antenna operating in conjunction with the receiver to receive a signal emitted from a transponder on a vehicle indicative of the absence or presence of an on-board vapor recovery system, in addition to a type of vehicle tank or characteristic thereof. When the controller determines from the transponder signal information relating to on-board vapor recovery and/or tank characteristics, the controller will control its vapor recovery system accordingly.

Abstract: A system for communicating with a card distribution center for selecting, ordering, and sending social expression cards using a personal computer. The user can enter names and addresses of card recipients into the system wherein the information is maintained in a database. The system displays digitized images of the cards on a display screen which are retrieved from a card database. From the cards displayed, the user can select cards for designated recipients and enter personalized messages and a digitized signature. The user may then send the order to a card distribution center, which processes the order, retrieves and prints the selected card images, including any user messages or user signature, and mails the cards to designated recipients or customers. The system maintains a database of all recipients, addresses, associated occasions and dates, card preferences, relationships and order history.

Abstract: A system for creating and ordering custom designed imprintable media. The system includes a one or more first computers coupled to a central computer. The first computers are configured and arranged to input a type indicating one of a plurality of imprintable media, custom design information to engrave on an imprintable medium of the type input, and order information, and to display an image of the custom design to appear on the imprintable medium. Example custom design information includes text, clip-art, and size and shape of the imprintable medium. Custom designs and orders are automatically transmitted to a second computer for order processing.

Abstract: The invention provides a self-service computer having a monitor which can access and display documents using browser software, and including software for providing at least one image which includes controls for the browser software. A microphone, speaker, camera and serial input device can be added to the kiosk to extend its functionality. The serial input device can be provided as a card swipe reader, a bar code reader, a smart card reader, a personal identification verifier and combinations of these. Examples of personal identification verifiers include palm print readers, retina scanners, voice analyzers, finger print scanners, DNA testers, and the like.

Abstract: A system for dispensing sample products and premiums which includes at least one data entry terminal operable for identifying particular circumstances including items being purchased by a given consumer and for generating an output signal identifying each of the products or other qualifiers, memory means for storing at least one sample/premium file which identifies each product or qualifier for which a given sample or premium should be dispensed, a data processor coupled to the data entry terminal and the memory and operable for receiving the output signal from the data entry terminal, for comparing the products or other qualifiers identified therein to the sample/premium file and for generating a sample/premium dispense signal if any of the purchased products or other qualifiers are listed in the sample file, and sample/premium dispensing device coupled to the microprocessor and operative for receiving the sample/premium dispense signal and dispensing a sample or premium.