Abstract: A lock and switch controller system, a lock and switch device with offline responsiveness, and system with flexible commands are present. The disclosure provides a lock and/or switch and controller system having a controller with a means of receiving readable alpha and/or numeric input manually from a user using a keypad or other means. The apparatus disclosed herein, provides for the compilation of commands, encrypted in the form of human readable tokens containing covert instructions for the remote control and management of target devices. Any instructions to an appliance or any other users' credentials can be encrypted by an administrator and/or owner and delivered to the controller of the appliance by a user without compromising any security. The lock and switch controller system operates independently and can accept new rules without the presence of the administrator or owner and without connectivity to any communications network.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method includes determining that a group of items left a space together based on RFID exit times and determining that at least one item of the group of items left the space without authorization by evaluating transactions that took place within a first time period before the at least one item left the space. A single investigation file is automatically created that includes the group of items that left the space together.

Abstract: The vending machine control system S performs authentication processing for authenticating a user on the basis of information on the user who is about to open a door 13 of a vending machine 1, and when the user is authenticated, performs control to unlock the door 13 of the vending machine 1. Then, the vending machine control system S identifies a product picked up from a storing chamber 12 after the door 13 is unlocked, and when a reserved product is included in the identified product, outputs different information depending on whether or not the authenticated user is a reservation person of the reserved product.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for detecting a suspicious and/or a non-suspicious activity during an electronic transaction performed by a user device. One method comprises identifying, by a monitoring and detection component, a starting check point in the electronic transaction. The monitoring and detection component may then receive contextual data from one or more sensors of the user device. Based on the contextual data and a machine learning model, the monitoring and detection component may determine whether an expected behavior occurred. Entry of user credentials may be enabled in response to determining that the expected behavior occurred, whereas the electronic transaction may be terminated in response to determining that the expected behavior did not occur.

Abstract: Systems and methods for beverage dispensing are disclosed herein. The beverage dispensing system can receive a connection request to pair a mobile computing device with a beverage dispensing device via a network. The connection request can include an identifier that can be verified to match a current identifier associated with the beverage dispensing device. The beverage dispensing system can generate a session between the mobile computing device and the beverage dispensing device that replicates a user interface of the beverage dispensing device on the mobile computing device. The beverage dispensing system can receive inputs from the mobile computing device during the session to obtain configuration parameters for a beverage and dispense the beverage from a nozzle based on the configuration parameters.

Abstract: A consumable item dispenser and method may include an ingredient storage unit configured to store a consumable ingredient used to produce consumable items by the dispenser. A sensor may be configured to sense an amount of consumable ingredient remaining to be dispensed. An input/output unit may be configured to communicate data over a communications network. A processing unit may be in communication with the sensor, and be configured to authenticate an electronic device associated with an operator and register the electronic device associated with the operator. A determination as to whether an amount of the ingredient in the ingredient storage unit is at or below a threshold level. The processing unit may generate a notification indicative that the ingredient is at or below a threshold level, and communicate the notification to the operator in response to being generated.

Abstract: A pesticide volume meter for a pesticide spray system comprises a flow sensor, which measures a flow rate of a pesticide dispensed by the pesticide spray system. The pesticide volume meter also comprises a memory and a control unit. The control unit determines a volume of pesticide dispensed by the pesticide spray system based on the measured flow rate, and stores the determined volume in the memory.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multi-purpose container (1) with an air freshening function for receiving cloths (31), in particular for use in a drink holder of a vehicle. The multi-purpose container comprises a housing (10) with a lid (20) for forming a receiving space (13) in the housing (10). The lid (20) has an opening (22) for the removal of cloths (31) from the receiving space (13) and a receiving recess (21) for receiving the scented insert (40).

Abstract: A mobile device is provided that includes biometric sensor(s), and a processor that causes the biometric sensor(s) to acquire a physiological marker of a user, and identify and authenticate the user. The processor sends a message to an authentication server that indicates the user is authenticated, and receives a response from the authentication server that includes a unique authentication code. The processor receives selection of a thereby selected over-the-counter (OTC) drug, and communicates with a point-of-sale (POS) system with contactless payment capability. The processor sends a purchase message to the POS system that includes the unique authentication code, an identifier of the selected OTC drug, and payment information. And the POS system communicates with the authentication server to validate the unique authentication code, and with an authorization server to authorize payment for the selected OTC drug based on the payment information.

Abstract: A beverage maker includes: a container; a fermentation tank; a beverage dispenser including a lever configured to control dispensing of the beverage and a limit switch configured to be turned on and off based on manipulation of the lever; a beverage dispensing channel that connects the container and the beverage dispenser and that guides the beverage; a beverage dispensing valve disposed in the beverage dispensing channel; a pressure sensor that measures gas pressure inside the container; and a controller. The controller detects whether the limit switch is turned on, opens the beverage dispensing valve to dispense the beverage accommodated in the container through the beverage dispenser based on detecting that the limit switch is turned on, determines a gas pressure value corresponding to the gas pressure inside the container measured by the pressure sensor, and determines a dispensed amount of beverage based on the gas pressure value.

Abstract: The system enables one to securely recycle an electronic device in a publicly accessible location. In particular, the embodiment described may be used by a mobile phone owner to submit his/her mobile phone for recycling via an electronic kiosk and receive compensation in some form. The compensation might be dispersed via cash, voucher, credit or debit card, or other magnetic or electronic transaction methods.

Abstract: Systems and methods for performing inventory management. The methods comprise: measuring, by an Out Of Stock (“OOS”) sensor at a first time, a first collective weight of a plurality of items disposed thereon; measuring, by the OOS sensor at a second later time, a second collective weight of a plurality of items disposed thereon; using the first and second collective weights to determine if an item has been added to or removed from the OOS sensor; and wirelessly communicating, from the OOS sensor to a remote computing device, a notification that an item has been added to or removed from the OOS sensor such that stored inventory information is updated accordingly. The OOS sensor comprises a base layer having a planar cross-sectional profile and an array of weight measuring sensors (e.g., piezoresistive sensors).

Abstract: A piece of hygiene equipment configured to dispense a consumable to a user includes a processing circuit and a radio circuit. The radio circuit is configured to receive and transmit a radio signal carrying payload data, and the processing circuit is configured to obtain information on a positional relationship to another device by instructing the radio circuit to receive and/or transmit a radio signal carrying first payload data. The processing circuit is configured to generate second payload data on the basis of the obtained information on the obtained positional relationship, and to instruct the radio circuit to transmit a radio signal carrying said second payload data.

Abstract: The present invention provides a control system that can be used to control switches and locks with a view to providing controlled access to target devices. The control system comprises a code-generating process that can generate commands or instructions to a target device which are encrypted. The commands can be presented as a numeric token and delivered to a customer, who can manually input the token into a controller of an access unit, containing a lock or a switch, which in turn manages access and functionality of a target device or appliance. A control system allows a lock or switch to operate independently based on internally programmed algorithms within a controller without any wireless communication.

Abstract: An apparatus for automated storage and dispensing of medications. Medications are stored in one or more inventory storage foam storage plates attached to a frame of the apparatus. Medications are delivered to the apparatus via a locked delivery container. A carrier mechanism retrieves medications from the inventory storage container and delivery container and moves medications to various subsystems of the apparatus. Information related to medications is communicated to a remote pharmacist prior to dispensing the medication. Multiple installations of the apparatus are centrally coordinated.

Abstract: This disclosure describes, in part, systems for tracking the removal of shopping bags or other items from a dispenser. Folded shopping bags are stacked in a holder so that a front shopping bag can be removed by pulling it along an axis that is parallel to the length and/or width dimension of the shopping bag. A motion sensor is positioned to sense movement of the front shopping bag as it is removed. Control logic monitors and/or analyzes data or other signals from the motion sensor and determines whether movement of at least a threshold distance has occurred. If movement of at least the threshold distance has occurred, the control logic concludes that a shopping bag has been removed and generates a corresponding event notice. Other system components may respond to the event notice by applying a charge for the removed shopping bag or by performing other actions.

Abstract: An agricultural product control system for an agricultural implement includes an actuator configured to control a penetration depth of an agricultural product application system within soil, a sensor positioned above a surface of the soil and configured to output a sensor signal indicative of agricultural product above the surface of the soil, and a controller including a memory and a processor. The controller is configured to receive the sensor signal indicative of the agricultural product above the surface of the soil, and output a control signal to the actuator indicative of instructions to adjust the penetration depth of the agricultural product application system based on the sensor signal indicative of the agricultural product above the surface of the soil.

Abstract: A fuel dispensing system for dispensing fuel into a vehicle comprises a stationary fuel tank adapted to contain a quantity of fuel. At least one fuel dispenser is in fluid communication with the fuel tank via piping. A pump is operative to transfer fuel from the fuel tank to the fuel dispenser. A level detector is located in the fuel tank. A tank monitor is in electronic communication with the level detector, the tank monitor being operative to produce information indicative of the quantity of fuel in the fuel tank. The fuel dispensing system further includes a fuel additive injection assembly comprising an additive reservoir configured to contain a quantity of fuel additive. A controller is in electronic communication with the tank monitor to receive information indicating a delivery of fuel into the fuel tank, the controller having a processor and memory operative to execute instructions determining when an additive quantity should be provided.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for monitoring and managing inventory of electronic devices having wireless communication capabilities are presented. Such electronic devices may include vaporization devices configured to communicate wirelessly with external devices for authorization. To monitor and manage inventory of the electronic devices, the electronic devices are configured to send device status messages via wireless communication to wireless connection devices, which in turn send inventory messages to a remote inventory server via a communication network. Based upon such inventory messages, the remote inventory server monitors inventory location and levels at retail locations. Inventory levels may be adjusted according to inventory distribution plans based upon such inventory information. In some embodiments, updates may be provided to electronic devices while in inventory by communication via the wireless connection devices.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method includes determining that a group of items left a space together based on RFID exit times and determining that at least one item of the group of items left the space without authorization by evaluating transactions that took place within a first time period before the at least one item left the space. A single investigation file is automatically created that includes the group of items that left the space together.

Abstract: A prescription handling system that takes filled prescription containers in an automated pharmacy and places them into a package for shipment is described. The handling system includes an inflow to feed containers to a turntable and a robot moves containers from the turntable to a container placement section, which places the containers in a pocket of a package for shipping. Each container for a prescription order is tracked to ensure that only associated containers are packaged together.

Abstract: A pill dispenser including a first primary ramp and a second primary ramp, which is opposite to the first primary ramp. Also included are a first secondary ramp and a second secondary ramp, which is opposite to the first secondary ramp. The first and second secondary ramps are both between the first and the second primary ramps. The pill dispenser further has an outlet including outlet sidewalls and an aperture through which pills are dispensed from, or loaded into, the pill dispenser. The outlet sidewalls extend to the aperture from the first primary ramp, the second primary ramp, the first secondary ramp, and the second secondary ramp.

Abstract: A shelf system includes: a shelf body with at least one storage space; an item identification pattern on a horizontal edge of the storage space and extending by a preset length along a length direction of the horizontal edge; an image capture unit configured to obtain image information of the storage space, the image information including the item identification pattern; and a processor configured to, based on the image information, determine storage situation of a matching item that matches the item identification pattern and is stored in a preset placement range in the storage space. The preset placement range is an extension space which is in the storage space and which is defined by a horizontal plane corresponding to an extension range of the item identification pattern by a preset extension length. There is a preset correspondence relationship between the item identification pattern and the matching item.

Abstract: A kiosk for vending and reverse-vending of mobile electronic devices. The kiosk includes a case that defines an inner compartment configured to store mobile devices for vending. The case includes a front panel and a user interface is positioned along the front panel. The kiosk includes a vending bay and a storage bay configured to receive user mobile devices. The kiosk includes a diagnostic cable wire harness configured to be accessible at the storage bay. The kiosk includes a computing device having a communication element configured for communication with at least one carrier server for service activation and/or de-activation.

Abstract: A recycling kiosk for recycling and financial remuneration for submission of an electronic device such as a mobile phone is disclosed herein. The recycling kiosk includes electrical connectors and an inspection area with an upper chamber, a lower chamber, a transparent plate and at least one camera in order to perform a visual analysis and an electrical analysis of the electronic device for determination of a value of the electronic device. The recycling kiosk also includes a processor and a display for user interaction.

Abstract: A fuel dispenser includes a fuel nozzle configured to be connected to a vehicle fuel system, fuel piping configured to transfer fuel from at least one fuel storage tank associated with the fuel dispenser through the fuel nozzle into the vehicle fuel system, and a fraud detection valve apparatus. The fraud detection valve apparatus includes a cutoff valve configured to selectively prevent flow of fuel, a flow sensor configured to sense a flow of fuel, and processing circuity. The processing circuitry is configured to receive an indication of flow of fuel through the fuel flow control valve apparatus, determine an authorization status, and in response to a determination of no authorization during flow, cause the cutoff valve apparatus to close.

Abstract: This disclosure describes a system for presenting items to a user at a presentation area within a materials handling facility. In some instances, a predicted items list that identifies items that are likely to be picked by a user are determined and, when the user arrives at the materials handling facility, those predicted items are presented to the user for selection. For example, predicted items may be determined and inventory holders that contain the predicted items may be routed to a presentation area and positioned for presentation to the user. The user may browse the presented items and pick the items they desire.

Abstract: Systems, devices, and methods for monitoring and managing inventory of electronic devices having wireless communication capabilities are presented. Such electronic devices may include vaporization devices configured to communicate wirelessly with external devices for authorization. To monitor and manage inventory of the electronic devices, the electronic devices are configured to send device status messages via wireless communication to wireless connection devices, which in turn send inventory messages to a remote inventory server via a communication network. Based upon such inventory messages, the remote inventory server monitors inventory location and levels at retail locations. Inventory levels may be adjusted according to inventory distribution plans based upon such inventory information. In some embodiments, updates may be provided to electronic devices while in inventory by communication via the wireless connection devices.

Abstract: A mobile device with a display, processor(s), and memory: identifies a retail machine configured for wireless communications based on broadcasted information transmitted by the retail machine and including an identifier corresponding to the retail machine; transmits the identifier to a server and receives from the server an electronic communication including a promotional offer for products or services offered by the retail machine; displays the promotional offer; detects selection of a promotional offer; receives a notification from the retail machine that a product or service was provided by the retail machine for a user of the mobile device; transmits confirmation information associated with the notification to the server, receives promotion validation information from the server indicating validation of the promotional offer; and based on the promotion validation information, displays information confirming application of the promotional offer.

Abstract: To provide a management apparatus capable of capturing a position of a specific individual satisfying a predetermined condition. A management apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a control unit. The control unit extracts, on the basis of first information that is generated by a sensor device worn by an individual and is related to a living body of the individual, a specific individual satisfying a predetermined condition, and generates, on the basis of position information related to a position of the specific individual, search information for causing a mobile object to move to the position of the specific individual.

Abstract: To provide a management apparatus capable of capturing a position of a specific individual satisfying a predetermined condition. A management apparatus according to an embodiment of the present technology includes a control unit. The control unit extracts, on the basis of first information that is generated by a sensor device worn by an individual and is related to a living body of the individual, a specific individual satisfying a predetermined condition, and generates, on the basis of position information related to a position of the specific individual, search information for causing a mobile object to move to the position of the specific individual.

Abstract: A wafer bonder apparatus, includes a lower chuck, an upper chuck, a process chamber and three adjustment mechanisms. The three adjustment mechanisms are arranged around a top lid spaced apart from each other and are located outside of the process chamber. Each adjustment mechanism includes a component for sensing contact to the upper chuck, a component for adjusting the pre-load force of the upper chuck, and a component for leveling the upper chuck.

Abstract: A system for selecting items to be stored in a warehouse from a list of candidate items. The system includes a computing device having a processor and a storage device storing computer executable code. The executed code is configured to: assign scores to the respective candidate items based on an item selection model; and select items from the candidate items to be stored in the warehouse according to the assigned scores under a capacity limit of the warehouse. The item selection model is configured with an Artificial Neural Network (ANN), having item data for an item as input and a score for that item as output. The score represents a probability that the item is to be stored in the warehouse. The ANN is trained by historical orders with an objective of maximizing a probability that the orders have their respective item(s) all stored in the same warehouse.

Abstract: Wireless-enabled kiosk systems and associated methods for recycling and performing other processes with mobile phones and other electronic devices are described herein. In various embodiments, the present technology includes systems and methods for wirelessly connecting a consumer-operated kiosk with an electronic device to facilitate processing (e.g., purchasing) the device. In some embodiments, the present technology includes using a wireless link to identify a device, evaluate a device, resolve device issues to enable purchase of the device, locate a device, etc. Various other aspects of the present technology are described herein.

Abstract: A system for providing fuel type recommendations includes a mobile polling device communicatively coupled to one or more computing devices installed on-board of a vehicle for receiving vehicle's operational data from the on-board computing devices. The system further includes a cloud-based computing environment including a memory configured to store one or more processes and a processor adapted to execute the one or more processes using the cloud-based computing environment. The processor, when executing the one or more processes, is operable to receive vehicle's operational data from the mobile polling device. The processor is further operable to analyze the received vehicle's operational data to identify recommended fuel type and to provide one or more fuel type recommendations indicative of the recommended fuel type.

Abstract: A seed delivery apparatus and methods in which a seed conveyor delivers seed from a metering device to a furrow in a controlled manner to maintain seed placement accuracy within the furrow.

Abstract: A product conveyance apparatus includes an actuator, a movement portion, a first position detection portion, a second position detection portion, and a controller. The controller performs a process of causing the actuator not holding a product to move to a predetermined position, detecting the position of the actuator and storing the position as a first position, a process of causing the actuator to move on a basis of a movement instruction value and hold the product, causing the actuator holding the product to move to the predetermined position, detecting the position of the product held by the actuator, and storing the position as a second position, and a process of correcting and updating the movement instruction value on a basis of difference between the first position and the second position.

Abstract: In general, transparent fuel dispensers are provided, and in particular methods and devices are provided for increasing visibility on a fuel dispensing device. In one embodiment a fuel dispenser is provided having a display that is at least partially transparent at least during certain modes of operation. The display can display information on portions thereof during certain modes of operation as well.

Abstract: An interactive touch system comprising: a touchpad, an electronic assembly linked electronically to the touchpad and comprising communication means able to receive data to be displayed on a screen of the touchpad and program updates, a card for converting control signals of the touchpad, linked to the touchpad, being linked to an electrical generator and also linked and driven by the electronic assembly, an electronic card able to control the lighting up of the back lighting system, being linked to the electrical generator and also linked and driven by the electronic assembly, a touch controller linked to the touchpad connected to the electronic assembly. The electronic system, the control card for the lighting up of the backlighting system, the card for converting the video signals and the touch controller are incorporated in the back of said touchpad and are linked by an action facility.

Abstract: Techniques for authorizing fuel purchases based on vehicle available fuel tank capacity. The authorization may be performed on a transaction basis, such that each fueling event may be independently authorized. A current fuel tank capacity for the vehicle is obtained, and transmitted to an authorization entity. An authorization is obtained for dispensing a quantity of fuel that does not exceed the current fuel tank capacity.

Abstract: Examples of distributed workload management are disclosed. In one example implementation according to aspects of the present disclosure, a partial data table is received from a main data table. A data view is generated in real time in response to a received data view request. The data view is based at least in part on a plurality of data view configuration properties and the partial data stored in the received partial data table. The partial data table stores data that represents at least a partial copy of main data stored in a main data table. The partial data table and the main data table are then synchronized.

Abstract: A system and a method for determining at least one of availability and price of a product includes an electronic storage device having a database of merchant transactions stored therein; an access path for allowing access to information concerning the transactions, including when a given product has been sold and the price at which the product was sold, and a processor for assembling the information concerning at least one of sales of the given product and the price at which it was sold, to provide at least one of locations where the product is available, and the price at which the product was sold at the location or locations. A computer readable non-transitory storage medium stores instructions of a computer program which, when executed by a computer system, results in performance of steps of the method for determining at least one of availability and price of a product.

Abstract: An embodiment includes a system comprising a first vending machine (VM), the first VM comprising: an exterior chassis having a top, bottom, backside, front side, and first and second sides that couple the front side to the backside; a wireless short range communications node included in the chassis; and an actuator coupled to a compartment included in the chassis; wherein (a) the actuator provides a vended good to an aperture in the front side upon actuation, and (b) each of the front side and first and second sides includes no physically manipulatable consumer interface with which the consumer can control the first VM via direct physical manipulation of the first VM. Other embodiments are described herein.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention can include systems and methods for providing a combined product for dispensing from a product dispenser. In one embodiment, a system can provide a combined product for dispensing from a product dispenser. The system can include a code generation module operable to receive data associated with a plurality of product recipes; and generate a machine readable item with a combined recipe including the plurality of product recipes, wherein the machine readable item configures a product dispenser to dispense the combined recipe.

Abstract: A smoothie dispenser (20, 20S, 20A) comprises a frame (22); a smoothie receptacle storage section (24); and a receptacle conformed chiller section (26). The smoothie receptacle storage section (24) is provided within the frame (22) and configured to house plural smoothie receptacles (30) at a first temperature. The chiller section (26) is arranged to receive a selected smoothie receptacle released from the smoothie receptacle storage section and configured to crystallize contents of the selected smoothie receptacle. The receptacle conformed chiller section (26) is “receptacle conformed” in the sense that a surface of the chiller section is configured to conform to (e.g., have a surface of shape to mate with or to form substantially greater than linear contact with) at least a portion an exterior profile or periphery of the selected smoothie receptacle.

Abstract: Determining a fuel card usage exception with the use of a computer that receives fuel card transaction data responsive to a fuel purchase event. The fuel card transaction data identifies a quantity of fuel purchased for a vehicle using a fuel card. In addition, the computer receives first fuel level data and second fuel level data of the vehicle that identifies a quantity of fuel present in a fuel tank of the vehicle prior to a fuel purchase event and after a fuel purchase event respectively. The computer can determine an exception associated with the fuel purchase event based on the fuel card transaction data, the first fuel level data, and the second fuel level data. Responsive to detecting an exception associated with the fuel purchase event, the computer may generate an alert and transmit the alert for presentation by a computing device of a user.

Abstract: A telemeter system in which information that has an effect on a state of communication between a terminal device and a central device can be readily and accurately reported from the terminal device to the central device. When a central device transmits a request signal for prescribed measurement result information to a terminal device, a terminal control component of the terminal device extracts the measurement result information from a measurement component, and transmits the measurement result information to the central device. When a communication component of the central device receives the measurement result information, a center control component stores the received measurement result information in a storage component. The state of communication between the terminal device and the central device is reported to an administrator as necessary.

Abstract: A device receives a request for a flight path for a UAV to travel from a first location to a second location, and determines capability information for the UAV based on component information of the UAV. The device calculates the flight path based on the capability information, identifies multiple recharging stations located on or near the flight path, and selects a recharging station from the multiple recharging stations based on one or more factors. The device generates flight path instructions, for the flight path, that instruct the UAV to stop and recharge at the recharging station. The device provides the flight path instructions to the UAV to permit the UAV to travel from the first location to a location of the recharging station, stop and recharge at the recharging station, and travel from the location of the recharging station to the second location via the flight path.

Abstract: A system for receiving and auditing objects according to an embodiment of the invention includes a housing having a front panel, a receiving area, an auditing area, and a drop chute, wherein the receiving area includes a shelf, the front panel includes an opening, a door assembly having a pushing wall and a second pushing wall and assembly moveable between an open position in which an object can be inserted through the opening and into the receiving area, and a closed position in which the door assembly prevents access to the receiving area, wherein the pushing wall moves the object from the shelf into the auditing area as the door assembly closed; and a control system coupled to a camera and switch, wherein the door assembly activates the switch when it is in the closed position, the control system images the object with the camera in response to switch activation.

Abstract: Disclosed is a display module including a transparent display panel and a frame to fix a side of the transparent display panel, wherein the frame has a communication unit to receive data from the outside, a controller to process the received data and to output a drive command corresponding to the processed data and a display drive unit to drive the transparent display panel in response to the drive command from the controller. A display system includes a system body and a display module detachably mounted in the system body.