Abstract: A system and method for merchandising a product or service. The system comprises a first perceived-as-three-dimensional image. The image comprises a directional preference and an indicia associated with the product or service. The system also comprises a display element associated with the product or service disposed at a first position upon a displaying element. The directional preference of the first perceived-as-three dimensional image relates to the location of the display element upon the displaying element.

Abstract: A self-checkout system 1 includes a console 2 for interacting with a user, in the form of consumer 3. This consumer 3 is located within a spatially defined control zone 4 during such interaction. An interface 5 is responsive to console 2 for receiving a first signal 6 indicative of an audible representation 7. A processor 8 is responsive to the signal 6 for selectively defining a second signal, in the form of ultrasonic transmission 9. An output, in the form of an ultrasonic transducer 10, is responsive to processor 8 for propagating transmission 9 to provide only in the control zone 4 audible representation 7. Representation 7 is substantially inaudible outside of zone 4.

Abstract: A warehousing system includes a container for storing at least one item, a first electronic (e.g., radio frequency identification (RFID)) module associated with the first container, and a controller which wirelessly communicates with first electronic module, for directing a transfer of said at least one item to and/or from said first container. The inventive system may include, for example, a hybrid retail/warehouse system which includes a facility having a shelving area, and a picking area adjacent to the shelving area, and a layout so as to minimize a picking area and a walking distance between a picking area and a shelving area.

Abstract: A shopping method comprises the steps of displaying a line of merchandise within a retail establishment; training sales assistants to operate portable sales checkout devices and to match the line of merchandise with shoppers' needs; recording purchases and simultaneously producing and delivering a paper sales receipt and a paper pickup voucher to each of the shoppers wherein, the pickup voucher identifies a pickup point access code, pickup point identity and pickup point compartment identity; reserving the pickup point compartment associated with the compartment identity; wrapping and marking the purchases with a pickup point access code, pickup point identity and pickup point compartment identity; delivering the purchases to the pickup compartments and enabling the pickup vouchers of the shoppers to provide access to the respective pickup compartments.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for securing a wheeled device such as a shopping cart is disclosed. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes a body having a pair of spaced stops with an intermediate trough. In use, the wheels of the cart are rolled along an upwardly extending face of one of the stops, over the stop and into the trough between the stops. In one embodiment, advertising is located on the surfaces of one or more of the stops. In one embodiment, the apparatus includes an LCD display located on one of the faces and a control system for presenting advertising and other information using the display.

Abstract: A method for providing sales support includes issuing a customer a mobile device and a corresponding identification, wherein the mobile device issues an electronic service request including a customer purchase order for a product having a product identifier, receiving the electronic service request including the customer purchase order, tracking a location of the mobile device issued to the customer, and delivering the product to a checkout register according to the location to which the mobile device is tracked.

Abstract: A method for evaluating customer service performance is implemented by a computer software application. Customers are presented with transaction specific questions to evaluate particular employees. A customer's response to a survey question is stored on a computer. Different performance indicators are calculated for the employee based on the responses to the customer surveys. The employee is evaluated based on these performance indicators.

Abstract: A method and system for presenting merchandise on a paved surface which employs permanently installed anchors each having a vertical sleeve. Poles of common height are inserted within the sleeves of the anchors in a manner defining a three dimensional merchandising region. The tops of the poles are interconnected by tensioned cable assemblies from which informational signage is suspended and retained by lower disposed retainer tensioned cables. Merchandising bays are established between mutually adjacent poles and entrance and exit regions are established in conjunction with a shopper aisle. A canopy is supported by poles and anchors over a cash/wrap station at the exit region.

Abstract: Variably printed media units from an uninterrupted supply are dispensed from vending machines in association with the dispensing of products or services from the machines. The media units, which can take a variety of forms including coupons, vouchers, tickets, collector cards, game pieces, pull tabs, stickers, and web decoders, promote the sales of products or services from the vending machines or other preferably local sales outlets.

Abstract: The invention relates to an off-road vehicle course associated with a commercial complex, such as vehicle dealership or group of dealerships, wherein consumers can test drive the off-road vehicles that they are interested in buying before making their purchase decisions, in the off-road conditions that the vehicles are designed for. The present invention also contemplates a business method wherein the dealership or dealerships can promote the off-road vehicle course as a means of attracting customers to the dealership or dealerships. The present invention also contemplates using an off-road vehicle course as a means of providing recreational entertainment to attract patrons to a commercial complex, such as a shopping center.

Abstract: A solution is to be created with a device for storing and transferring products in small packets as an independent, tower-like structure to be set up in traffic areas, with which a compact interim storage area can be made available at any desired location, particularly in the region of generally accessible traffic areas, for example pedestrian shopping zones or the like, whereby the loading position does not necessarily have to agree with the removal position.

Abstract: A method for creating ready-to-use products from a concentrated form of the products for sale at a retail price is disclosed. The apparatus to create the ready-to-use products generally comprises a source of one or more concentrated products. These concentrated products are delivered to a point of use which typically may be a small, consumer-sized container. The apparatus dilutes the concentrated product to an appropriate level. The final, ready-to-use product can be a wide variety of cleaning products. The method provides for a larger profit to the retailer than normally available from the sale of pre-filled cleaning products.

Abstract: The specification and drawings describe and show a package and delivery system method and display to be used in a retail business environment where customers choose to purchase an item represented by a displayed example. The delivery is handled through a central facility and a post card is used by the purchaser to notify the recipient of the impending receipt of the purchased item. The invention allows for a retailer to operate in essentially an inventory free environment. Graphic designs included on the postcard may be limited edition prints. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope of meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A method of providing a system of selecting feminine hygiene products to a consumer comprises the steps of: providing an array of feminine hygiene products from at least one array, wherein said array is comprised of one or more feminine hygiene products and wherein said array is adapted to correspond to a predetermined range of panty styles, and; providing information to said consumer regarding the products which make up said array, thereby enabling said consumer to select feminine hygiene products by panty style. A kit for use with the system of selecting feminine hygiene products comprises at least one feminine hygiene product, a package containing the product and indicia on the package to inform the consumer of a panty style with which said product is to be used.

Abstract: There is provided a rental item return apparatus including an opening to receive returned rental items, a store area for returned items and a chute arranged to connect the opening to the store area. The apparatus further includes a device arranged within the chute to uniquely identify and log each returned rental item.

Abstract: Merchandise is marketed from the premises of a merchant from which the merchandise is normally transported in bags supplied by the merchant. This may, for example, be a grocery store. The merchant provides customers with re-usable bags for transporting their purchases. These bags may be sold to the customers or they may be given away as a promotion. Each customer who returns to the store with the re-usable bags receives an award on the acquisition newly acquired merchandise. The award may be a discount on the newly acquired merchandise, a reward in a reward program or any other product or service that will attract customers. The newly acquired merchandise may be restricted to selected products identified by displays or advertising. Where a particular manufacturer's or supplier's product is selected as a product triggering a discount or is being offered at a discount, the manufacturer or supplier may pay the merchant or provide some other consideration.

Abstract: In a method of garment selection, a customer enters a retail outlet having a sales display including (a) a plurality of articles of clothing of a given type in different standard sizes and (b) a plurality of first sizing markers each corresponding to a respective one of the standard sizes and disposed in physical proximity to respective ones of the articles of clothing. The articles of clothing and the first sizing markers are disposed in an arrangement facilitating perception of the first sizing markers and selection of appropriate sizes of the articles of clothing by prospective customers.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a method for purchasing a consumer product. Particularly, a consumer purchases a consumer product in a package that may be refilled a predetermined number of times. The method generates less environmental waste, and allows the consumer to purchase consumer products at reduced costs.

Abstract: A method of operating a self-service checkout terminal includes the step of detecting an improper-terminal-use activity and generating an improper-use control signal in response thereto. The method also includes the step of operating a status device in a first mode of operation in response to generation of the improper-use control signal. The method further includes the step of updating an electronic log value in response to generation of the improper-use control signal. Moreover, the method includes the step of generating a first intervention signal if the log value has a predetermined relationship to a log threshold. The method also includes the step of operating the status device in a second mode of operation in response to generation of the first intervention control signal, wherein the first mode of operation is different from the second mode of operation.

Abstract: The method and apparatus of the present invention relates to a method of selling merchandise, particularly clothing fashions and accessories, to customers at locations convenient to the customer. Initially, potential customers are identified and contacted by direct telemarketing. If a customer is interested in purchasing merchandise, an appointment is scheduled at a location convenient to the customer. At the appointed time, a mobile store vehicle is driven to the appointed location. A customer can enter the vehicle. The fashion coordinator can present a brief fashion show. The customer can browse through the inventory displayed within the vehicle. A salesperson can merchandise the inventory and provide fashion suggestions to the customer. The customer can try on the merchandise within the vehicle. The customer can purchase the fashions within the vehicle.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and apparatus for generating coupons to provide discounts for purchases includes providing a computer-based kiosk at a retail establishment such as a grocery store. A user identification of a household is received at the kiosk. The kiosk outputs a series of targeted coupons which have been assigned to the individual household on the basis of at least one attribute of that household. Images of coupons may be formatted "on the fly" from parameters set forth in a coupon record. The system may further include an enhancement system which provides tools for enhancing the coupon offer data by designating particular offers as either a targeted coupon offer assigned to individual households as a function of purchases by that household or a mandatory coupon which is assigned to substantially all households.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for distributing, generating, and redeeming discount Virtual Coupons.TM., rebate or gift certificates or the like which may be used on conjunction with a frequency card program or the like. Virtual Coupons.TM. may be distributed electronically, for example, in the form of a diskette or CD-ROM software. Software on the diskette or CD-ROM may prompt a consumer to call a 1-800 number for a validation number or code. During the phone call, telemarketing personnel may request consumer demographic and or identification information which may be entered into a centralized database. Once the software is validated, a consumer may print out a list selected Virtual Coupons.TM. displayed on a Graphical User Interface (GUI). When a product is purchased, the UPC code of the product may be compared electronically with a list of Virtual Coupons.TM. authorized for a particular consumer. An appropriate coupon discount may then be applied and the Virtual Coupon.TM. may be considered "redeemed".

Abstract: A personalized shopping system and method is disclosed including a portable map bearing written identifications of articles arranged in a pictorial representation corresponding to their display locations in a store. The portable map includes a written index adjacent to the pictorial representation as a cross-reference for locating articles in the store. The portable map is useable as both a shopping list for selecting articles for purchase and as an in-store directory for locating the selected articles. Also provided is a portable clipboard adapted for use with the portable map. The portable clipboard includes mounts for removably mounting the clipboard to the grocery cart, wherein the means for removably mounting is operable between a stored position for supporting the clipboard stable against a working surface and an extended position for supporting the clipboard stable on a grocery cart.

Abstract: An order preparation method includes assembling, in a receptacle placed on an autonomous cart, articles listed in an order from a customer and stored in a warehouse. The unit weight of each article in stock is associated with an identification of this article and the receptacle is weighed after each article is deposited and the total weight of the articles deposited is deduced. This total weight is compared with a theoretical weight equal to the unit weight of the article to be picked multiplied by the corresponding quantity of articles, and a warning signal is emitted in the event that the total weight of the articles deposited is different, plus or minus a tolerance error, from the theoretical weight calculated.

Abstract: Dispensing device for hand scanners for use in a self-service store adapted for use of a self-scanning system, wherein the dispensing device comprises an identification device for the customers and a plurality of accommodating elements for hand scanners, the accommodating elements being so positioned that in the operating condition they are accessible from two otherwise separate sections of the store, and store array comprising such dispensing device.

Abstract: A vacuum beam product dispenser and singulator to dispense and singulate "soft" products in an automated order dispensing system (AOS) includes a product cartridge and an inclined conveyor belt. The conveyor belt picks the products from the bottom of the cartridge using a vacuum control element and carries it up the conveyor until it reaches a pinch roller that holds the product ready to be dispensed to a central conveyor of the AOS. Products are picked from the product cartridge by the inclined conveyor in a position such that a product will fall off the conveyor unless held by a vacuum generated by the vacuum control element. Thus, random multiples removed from the cartridge with the picked product fall off the conveyor. The product stream from the hopper is thereby singulated.

Abstract: A retail outlet with billing facilities has an integrated couponing system, including a printer to record on shoppers' coupons pay-off values randomly determined by the couponing system within predetermined parameters. Discount and other pay-off values are recorded on coupons associated with product categories. Value consideration is given a shopper by deducting the coupon value from the shopper's bill before shopper takes possession of the merchandise. Random prizes add excitement to the shopping experience.

Abstract: The present invention teaches apparatus, method and use for a portable shopper product information remote unit. A plurality of remote units are provided to shoppers within a retail establishment which uses bar code scanners at a cashier's counter to record products of the shopper's purchase. The units are retrieved from each shopper subsequent to a finished purchase and returned to a central maintenance system. The remote units' batteries are recharged and data updated with at least updated pricing information such that the bar code scanners at the cashier's counters and the remote units are provided with the same updated product pricing information.

Abstract: A vacuum beam product dispenser and singulator to dispense and singulate "soft" products in an automated order dispensing system (AOS) includes a product cartridge and an inclined conveyor belt. The conveyor belt picks the products from the bottom of the cartridge using a vacuum control element and carries it up the conveyor until it reaches a pinch roller that holds the product ready to be dispensed to a central conveyor of the AOS. Products are picked from the product cartridge by the inclined conveyor in a position such that a product will fall off the conveyor unless held by a vacuum generated by the vacuum control element. Thus, random multiples removed from the cartridge with the picked product fall off the conveyor. The product stream from the hopper is thereby singulated.

Abstract: A closed-loop computer-controlled merchandising coupon system which includes a coupon printer-dispenser installed at each supermarket, making it possible for a shopper to receive a merchandising coupon entitling him to a specified discount on the product identified in the coupon. The printer, which is computer-controlled, is linked to at least one manufacturer whose product is available in the supermarket, the manufacturer instructing the printer as to the data to be printed. The printer, when actuated by the shopper, prints on a universal coupon blank the identity of the manufacturer's product and the discount to which the holder is entitled as then determined by the manufacturer, the printed coupon then being dispensed. When the shopper purchases this product and redeems the coupon at a checkout counter at the supermarket, he is accorded the specified discount.

Abstract: The present invention describes the incorporation of self-serve checkout systems within a supermarket. The installation of self-serve checkout systems is shown whereby the productivity of the supermarket is maintained, no significantly increased floorspace requirements occur, the human supervisor of the self-serve checkout systems is able to strategically carry out his/her duties and the co-existence with conventional checkout lanes is allowed. As well, a method and apparatus for integrating a labor savings car order bag handling system with the checkout lanes of the supermarket is shown. In addition, a method and apparatus for augmenting the checkout productivity of produce items is shown.

Abstract: A self-service sales system for large containers such as pet food bags and the like includes a fixture having a plurality of container or bag shelves. A price channel positioned at each of the shelves contains product identification and marketing information. In addition, a plurality of Universal Product Code (UPC) symbol pads are fixed to the price channels. The symbol pads are attached by an adhesive coated foam strip. The pad contains a plurality of removable sheets, each of which are imprinted with a product description and UPC code. The purchaser may remove a sheet corresponding to each product to be purchased. The sheets are taken to the checkout counter where the UPC code is read. After payment for the product, the retailer retrieves the product for the customer.

Abstract: A vacuum beam product singulator to singulate "soft" products in an automated order dispensing system (AOS) is comprised of a product cartridge and an inclined conveyor belt. The conveyor belt picks the products from the bottom of the cartridge using a vacuum control element and carries it up the conveyor until it reaches a pinch roller that holds the product ready to be dispensed to a central conveyor of the AOS. Products are picked from the product cartridge by the inclined conveyor in an unbalanced position such that a product will fall off the conveyor unless held by a vacuum generated by the vacuum control element. Thus, random multiplies removed from the cartridge with the picked product fall off the conveyor. The product stream from the hopper is thereby singulated.

Abstract: A robot for serving a product dispensed from a product dispenser to a customer including a processor and a robotic arm. The processor stores a predetermined instruction set and generates command signals according to the instruction set. The robotic arm is responsive to certain ones of the command signals for transferring the dispensed product from a product dispense location to a position adjacent the customer for removal by the customer. The robot may further comprise a communications system for storing a set of predetermined messages and is responsive to certain other ones of the command signals for announcing selected ones of the messages. Furthermore, the robot may further include a transport system for transferring the dispensed product from the position adjacent the customer, the product dispense location and the position adjacent the customer beyond reach of the customer, to a position within reach of the customer.

Abstract: In an area accessible to browsing customers, at least one multiple-compartment display rack is provided. Each cell in the display rack removably receives an open-ended transparent plastic envelope containing a display card preferably printed with photographics, artwork and verbal indicia unique to a particular valuable article or service which is potentially available. Filed in series with the display card so as to have an end which protrudes further from the envelope mouth than the display card are a number of cards (from one to a plurality) which are tokens of units of the particular article or service, plus an additional card. Each of the first mentioned cards contains on its protruding end a consumer instruction, such as "TAKE CARD TO REGISTER", and elsewhere on its body, the title of the particular article to service. The additional card bears as its flag a consoling legend, such as "SORRY I'M RENTED".

Abstract: A person desiring to check out articles protected by security tags deposits these articles at one end of a check-out aisle. From there, they are transported to the opposite end of the check-out aisle as part of the check-out procedure. The person who deposited the articles is restrained from accompanying these articles all the way through the check-out aisle, but is able to reach its opposite end only via a path which is separate from the check-out aisle itself. That separate path is equipped with an electronic article surveillance system. The same separate path and its associated electronic article surveillance system serve several check-out aisles.

Abstract: Installation for restocking merchandise in a self-service shop in tiers of shelves (11, 12, 16) which extend parallel to each other with alleys for customers to move along. The tiers of shelves (11, 12) are assembled in islands (10) with front faces (11a, 12a) accessible to customers in the alleys and rear faces (11b, 12b) defining a central supply space (1) which is inaccessible to the customers. Transfer openings (21) in the sales floor (A) in the central spaces (1) give access to a storage floor (B) where stocks of the merchandise are stored. Mobile lift trucks (4,5) enable merchandise to be picked from the storage floor and transferred to the central space (1) where it is placed on the sales shelving (11, 12) through its rear faces (11b, 12b).

Abstract: A checkout station dispossesses a shopper of items identified by the shopper for purchase, which items contain theft-prevention indicators, and then detects the presence of any of such items in the possession of the shopper after the shopper has been dispossessed of the items. After the total cost of the items is printed and paid, the shopper is returned possession of the items.

Abstract: A retail footwear assembly including a storage zone containing a stock of shoes and a customer service zone. The customer service zone includes a service counter over which shoes can be passed, a walkway for sales personnel adjacent a first side of the service counter and communicating with the storage zone and a customer fitting area including seating adjacent a second side of the service counter opposite the walkway. In a first preferred embodiment, the storage zone is separated from the customer service zone by a partition, which defines a passage communicating with the walkway. In a second preferred embodiment, the storage zone includes high density shelving adjacent the walkway opposite the service counter.