Abstract: A system comprises a client module installed on a vending machine, the vending machine displaying one or more items for purchase in a first arrangement, and a purchase fulfilment subsystem. A QR code is generated by the purchase fulfilment subsystem and transmitted to the client module. A first set of signals to initiate a transaction is transmitted by the user device to the purchase fulfilment system. The purchase fulfilment subsystem transmits to the user device a second set of signals to display elements in a second arrangement. The user device transmits a third set of signals to the purchase fulfilment subsystem related to activation of an element. The purchase fulfilment subsystem transmits to the client module a fourth set of signals comprising commands to enable the vending machine to dispense an item. The client module sends one or more instructions to the vending machine to dispense the item.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus are disclosed for managing a loyalty program. In some embodiments, a system includes a loyalty program management (LPM) system and a point-of-sale (POS) terminal. The POS terminal is configured to read a membership identifier, identify a plurality of goods, complete a sale of the identified plurality of goods to the member, and transmit, to the loyalty program management system, the read membership identifier and information about the identified plurality of goods. Based on the received information, the LPM system is configured to identify one or more point categories, and update earned loyalty points of the member in each of the identified one or more point categories. The LPM system is further configured to provide the POS terminal with a redemption value to be applied to the sale.

Abstract: A vehicle battery charger and a vehicle battery charging system are described and illustrated, and can include a controller enabling a user to enter a time of day at which the vehicle battery charger or system begins and/or ends charging of the vehicle battery. The vehicle battery charger can be separate from the vehicle, can be at least partially integrated into the vehicle, can include a transmitter and/or a receiver capable of communication with a controller that is remote from the vehicle and vehicle charger, and can be controlled by a user or another party (e.g., a power utility) to control battery charging based upon a time of day, cost of power, or other factors.

Abstract: A contactless locker system includes a set of laterally adjacent lockers that includes a first locker configured to store a first food item prepared by a restaurant. The first locker includes a first door that automatically opens and closes without a user physically touching the first door and a second door that automatically opens and closes without a user physically touching the second door.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatuses using a processor coupled to a non-transitory machine-readable medium storing instructions. The processor is configured to count a first amount of currency, wherein the first amount of currency is the actual amount of currency received by a teller money drawer, receive an indication of a second amount of currency, wherein the second amount of currency is an expected amount of currency, compare the first amount of currency to the second amount of currency, discover a discrepancy between the first amount of currency and the second amount of currency, and transmit discrepancy information to be displayed on a teller computing device.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a product inspection apparatus that may include an electronic device having a visual inspection software application. The visual inspection software application may activate a camera of the electronic device to capture images of a product, such as a vehicle. A display screen of the electronic device may present product images. The product images may be digitally processed, and augmented by the addition of computer-generated images associated with a status of inspection of each element of the vehicle in the product images. Each computer-generated image may include a graphical indicator associated with the status of inspection of a particular element. Each computer-generated image may be projected on top of a real world image of the particular element presented on the display screen.

Abstract: A system and method of transacting a prepaid product with an electronic mobile device that is used to electronically interface with a code, such as a QR code, bar code, RF signal or NFC signal, representing a prepaid product. The codes of multiple prepaid products of multiple prepaid product providers are grouped together on a single structure or in a single computer displayed in a shopping area. The electronic mobile device subsequently electronically interfaces with a point of sale device after electronically interfacing with said code to provide prepaid product information.

Abstract: A server that monitors a water purification apparatus according to a voice command and the water purification apparatus are provided, and according to an embodiment of the present disclosure, the server that monitors the water purification apparatus according to the voice command includes a voice processor that receives the voice command from the water purification apparatus and identifies a user who issues the voice command.

Abstract: A device implementing a system for sharing a voice profile includes a processor configured to receive a request to share a first voice profile corresponding to a first user account associated with a first device, with a second device associated with a second user account, the second device being voice-enabled, the first voice profile being stored on a first data store associated with the first user account. The processor is further configured to update a second data store associated with the second user account to include a reference to the first voice profile stored on the first data store, and to send, to the second device, a notification that the second data store has been updated to include the reference to the first voice profile.

Abstract: A vehicle battery charger and a vehicle battery charging system are described and illustrated, and can include a controller enabling a user to enter a time of day at which the vehicle battery charger or system begins and/or ends charging of the vehicle battery. The vehicle battery charger can be separate from the vehicle, can be at least partially integrated into the vehicle, can include a transmitter and/or a receiver capable of communication with a controller that is remote from the vehicle and vehicle charger, and can be controlled by a user or another party (e.g., a power utility) to control battery charging based upon a time of day, cost of power, or other factors.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for controlling maintenance of a fuel dispenser. In one exemplary embodiment, a system is provided having a fuel dispenser that includes an electronics module having a data processor, a remote enterprise server in communication with the electronics module, and a remote code processor in communication with the remote enterprise server. The data processor is configured to determine an authorization password based on data characterizing the fuel dispenser, to receive a remote password that is generated by the remote code processor based on the fuel dispenser data, to determine that the remote password matches the authorization password, and to cause the fuel dispenser to enter a maintenance mode.

Abstract: Provided are: a rack having a plurality of stages of storage units storing articles; a display device attached to the rack; and a management device configured to be capable of communicating with the display device and instruct the display device to display information on an article stored in the rack to which the display device is attached. The display device is a display that is capable of displaying image data relating to the article stored in the arranged rack. The management device displays and outputs image data on an article that needs to be taken out from the rack or stored in the rack and position information of a storage unit of the rack relating to the article according to instruction information.

Abstract: Examples associated with service kiosk device provisioning are described. One example receiving authentication information associated with a user at a service kiosk. A specification of a device to be delivered to the user, and provisioning data for configuring the device to be delivered to the user are also received at the service kiosk. A selected device is selected from a set of devices stored in compartments of the service kiosk. The set of devices are also operably connected to the service kiosk. The selected device is selected according to the device specification. The selected device is configured based on the provisioning data. A credential matching the authentication information is received from a user via an interface of the service kiosk. Physical access is provided to a compartment of the service kiosk in which the selected device is stored.

Abstract: Various embodiments are described herein that relate to data transmission system and methods that may be implemented in a system configured between a source device and a destination device. Data generated at the source device may be received at the data transmission system and processed to determine appropriate modifications. Modified data may then be transmitted to the destination device. In the event that the data transmission system is unable to process data, the system transmits the data directly to the recipient device to ensure continued operation of the source and destination devices. The data transmission system is capable of converting any form of signal into USB and/or UART signals for processing.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices for authenticating an authorization of a user of a motor vehicle can include sending a request signal for an authentication code and providing the authentication code via the computer to a device included in the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A handle for a product vending system includes a housing configured to be secured to a door of a product storage cabinet having a lock. The handle includes a display arranged on the housing, that is configured to show product information. A payment processing unit is arranged on the housing and is configured to detect or receive a payment. A control unit is configured to communicate with the lock of the product storage cabinet, such that when the payment is detected by the payment processing unit, the control unit is configured to unlock the lock of the product storage cabinet so as to provide access to a product stored in the product storage cabinet.

Abstract: A first communication channel is established between a contactless blank IC (integrated circuit) payment card and a mobile device. The mobile device is in proximity to the contactless blank IC payment card. A second communication channel is established, via the mobile device, between a remote personalization server computer and the contactless blank IC payment card. Payment card personalization data is received and stored in the contactless blank IC payment card. The data had been downloaded from the remote personalization server computer to the contactless blank IC payment card via the second communication channel.

Abstract: Examples described herein relate to apparatus and methods for managing rewards for a customer of a financial institution, including but not limited to, determining a transaction pattern associated with transactions made by the customer, determining a deviation from the transaction pattern, determining an event associated with the customer based on the deviation, and determining rewards that correspond to the event for the customer.

Abstract: Upon selection of a product selection icon on a user interface of a beverage vendor, a price per amount of the product is displayed to clearly depict product costs while also providing flexibility for having products of different price points. After selection of the product and upon successful payment validation, a dispensing gauge displays an amount of product dispensed and total current cost of a dispensing session at a location of the product selection icon. A selectable dispense icon is provided upon the successful payment to facilitate dispensing the selected product and a product icon is provided proximate to the selectable dispense icon. Within the dispensing session, upon selection of a second product selection icon, the dispensing gauge moves to the second product selection icon and accumulates additional cost for the transaction based on a cost per amount of a second product associated with the second product selection icon.

Abstract: The present invention provides a smart and automated system that is used for refueling of frac truck tanks during fracturing operations. The system is used to refuel the frac truck tanks which are constantly working in the high pressure and high-temperature zone for the fracturing of the wellbore to extract oil and gas. For safety, the system is equipped with explosion/fire free wiring system. The system incorporates inventive fuel valve to avoid the fuel clogging that increases the frac truck performance. The system employs artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud-based software for ease of operation and to maximize economic performance. The system is equipped with artificial intelligence and Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) software and incorporates charge pump and loop systems which maintain a predetermined pressure (in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI) unit) in each loop so as to maximize the performance and control function in the refueling system.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a collaborative offer portal is provided. A proposed offer is received from a manufacturer, including an offer structure and a number of consumers they wish to target. Transaction logs of a retailer are accessed to determine an audience for the offer by calculating a return on investment (ROI) for the customer base using the retailer's records given the offer type. The consumers are then grouped by their ROI distribution, and the ROI for the deal is calculated based upon the offer size in light of this distribution. From the offer ROI a discount percentage to be paid by the retailer versus the merchant can be created. The retailer may then choose to accept the offer for deployment.

Abstract: A fuel pre-purchasing and sharing system (and associated methods) is disclosed herein. The system allows consumers to pre-purchase fuel at a pre-purchased price, and redeem pre-purchased fuel at a subsequent time regardless of the current price of fuel posted at the point of re-fueling. The pre-purchased price can be based on current fuel prices of fuel at one or more service stations that are near to a consumer at the time that the fuel is pre-purchased. Pre-purchased fuel of one or more grades of fuel can be held in a pre-purchased fuel tank. The pre-purchased fuel tank can be shared with other consumers such that the other consumers can redeem pre-purchased fuel held in the pre-purchased fuel tank.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a network of autonomous vehicles, such as autonomous ground vehicles (“AGVs”) that deliver items to and/or from a destination location and/or perform a service. For example, a community (e.g., neighborhood, apartment complex) may include a plurality of autonomous vehicles that deliver payloads to different locations (e.g., homes, apartments) within the community for use or consumption. Some of the payloads are community items (e.g., microwave, stove top, cooking utensils) that are shared by members of the community and transferred between locations within the community by autonomous vehicles.

Abstract: A system and method for facilitating the ordering and generation of a beverage. The system and method are configured to receive an electrical signal in response to the activation by a second user of an electronic link corresponding to a recipe for the beverage shared by a first user. The system and method are further configured to generate a user interface having a user-selectable or user-inputtable order field for allowing the second user to order the beverage. The system and method are still further configured to receive an order for the beverage responsive to a user input made via the order field, and The system and method are yet still further configured to command the generation of the beverage responsive to the receipt of the order, and to effect the presentation of the beverage to the second user at a specified pickup location following the generation of the beverage.

Abstract: A system for providing a payment includes a processor and a memory configured to cause the system to receive a payment request representative of a payment amount, a payor identification, and a payee identification. The system includes means for determining payor cash holdings and payor available credit as well as authenticating the validity of a payment request and identity of the payor via received biometric data from a payor device. The system may further receive data representative of payee approved payment methods and determine a payment composition based on the payment amount, payor payment preferences, payor cash holdings and payor available credit. Based on the payee approved payment methods, the system may determine one or more payment types. The system may convey the payment amount to the payee in the form of one or more payment types and may fund the payment amount according to the payment composition.

Abstract: Systems and methods for providing a merchant-customer engagement system include a physical merchant location in which a customer may be tracked to determine products within the physical merchant location that the customer is interested in. A merchant may use a wearable merchant device that is configured to identify the customer via a camera that captures an image of the customer, and that image may be used to retrieve customer account information for that customer. Using the customer account information and the products that the customer is showing interest in, the wearable merchant device may be used to display merchant-customer engagement information next to a view of the customer to allow the merchant to help the customer while utilizing a variety of displayed information about the customer including, for example, past purchases, products browsed in-store and previously browsed online, time spent in an area of the physical merchant location, etc.

Abstract: A method and system for processing communications between travel service providers and travel insurers where travel service providers use different messaging formats. A travel service provider transmits itinerary data to a travel insurer in one messaging format. The travel insurer may then convert the itinerary data into a format compatible with the travel insurer's system and determine an optimal policy choice based on the itinerary data. The travel insurer may then transmit this choice to the travel service provider in the travel service provider's preferred messaging format, and the travel service provider offers the product to the consumer through the travel service provider's interface.

Abstract: Technologies are provided for generation of composite messages using qualifying events corresponding to respective ticketed performances and qualifying actions of a subscriber of a service platform. By analyzing qualifying events and qualifying actions jointly, the disclosed technologies supply a number of contextually-relevant individual messages collected in a composite message that is delivered to the subscriber periodically. The individual messages describe ticketed performances that are relevant to the subscriber. The composite message also provides reasons for the inclusion of the individual messages in the composite message. The individual messages can be arranged within the composite message according to a layout based on a ranking of priority scores. Each priority score conveys a level of relevancy of a ticketed performance with respect to a subscriber.

Abstract: Systems and methods for facilitating use of physical tokens in a transit system are disclosed. In one implementation, a method for facilitating use of physical tokens by a server includes generating a token identifier and generating, using a private key associated with the server, a cryptographic signature based on the token identifier. The method further includes transmitting the token identifier and the cryptographic signature to a token dispenser. The token dispenser is configured to dispense a physical token, and the physical token is configured to provide the token identifier and the cryptographic signature to a token validator.

Abstract: Enabling an unattended device to accept card present transactions comprises establishing short-range wireless communication between the unattended device and an application on a mobile device of a cardholder. The unattended device includes a card reader and wireless interface. The unattended device receives a transaction amount for a transaction between the cardholder and the unattended device. The card reader on the unattended device reads account information from a payment card of the cardholder presented to the card reader. The unattended device encrypts the account information and the transaction amount to generate encrypted transaction data. The unattended device transmits the encrypted transaction data to the application on the mobile device using the short-range wireless communication for forwarding to a payment processing network using a network link of the mobile device.

Abstract: A system for providing quality of service (QoS) levels to clients requesting certificates from a certificate management service is provided. The system includes an application programming interface (API) operable to receive certificate requests from each of a plurality of clients, each certificate request including a client identifier, a QoS manager operable to distribute the certificate requests to a corresponding client queue of a plurality of client queues based on the client identifier, select, based on at least one of a workflow and a client priority level, one or more of the certificate requests distributed to the plurality of client queues, and transmit the selected one or more certificate requests to a QoS queue of the certificate management service for processing.

Abstract: A store having an automated checkout can automatically associate multiple shoppers with a single purchase. For example, a mother and her children can walk independently through the store and select items. Upon checkout, the items selected by the mother and children can all be charged to the mother's credit card in a single purchase. The system and method discussed herein can capture images of multiple shoppers from one or more video streams of a store area, can associate the multiple shoppers with one another from the captured images when the multiple shoppers appear together in a check-in area of the store, can track the movement of the multiple shoppers within the store from the captured images, can track items selected by the multiple shoppers from the captured images, and can initiate a transaction that charges the selected items to an account associated with one of the multiple shoppers.

Abstract: Disclosed are devices, systems and methods for managing parking monitoring and enforcement. In one aspect, a method of determining whether a vehicle is present in a parking space includes monitoring the parking space with a first vehicle detection technique utilizing image processing and monitoring the parking space with a second vehicle detection technique that does not utilize image processing. The parking space can be monitored with a third vehicle detection technique that is different than the first and second vehicle detection techniques. A conclusion that a vehicle has entered or left the parking space can be determined upon a agreement of the multiple techniques employed.

Abstract: The automated dry-cleaning pickup is a kiosk. The automated dry-cleaning pickup is configured for use with a dry cleaning building. The automated dry-cleaning pickup distributes one or more dry cleaned apparel items to a client of the dry cleaning building. The automated dry-cleaning pickup comprises an antechamber, a door, and an access control system. The antechamber contains the one or more dry cleaned apparel items for delivery. The door controls the access of the client into the antechamber. The access control system: a) identifies the one or more dry cleaned apparel items requested by the client; b) locates and transports the identified one or more dry cleaned apparel items from a storage location to the antechamber; and, c) unlocks the door such that the client has access to the one or more dry cleaned apparel items in the antechamber.

Abstract: An automated teller machine (ATM) includes a network interface, an input/output device configured to exchange data with a customer, and a processing circuit comprising a processor and memory.

Abstract: An information processing device includes a display control unit that, when at least one NFC antenna has performed close-range wireless communication, effects a display of a communication prompter image that indicates the position of an NFC antenna which is different from the at least one NFC antenna and that prompts for close-range wireless communication with the different NFC antenna.

Abstract: This disclosure describes, in part, techniques for integrating functionality across multiple applications. For instance, an electronic device may operate an application in a first mode of operation, wherein the first mode of operation is associated with a first type of business. Based at least in part on operating the application in the first mode of operation, the electronic device may provide a first user interface that includes one or more first input options associated with the first type of business. The electronic device may then receive input associated with operating the application in a second mode operation, wherein the second mode of operation is associated with a second type of business. Based on the input, the electronic device may operate the application in the second mode of operation, which includes providing a second user interface that includes one or more second input options associated with the second type of business.

Abstract: A settlement processing system S is configured to perform a settlement process for a product picked up by a user based on information for settlement of the user, when closing of a door 12 of a vending machine 1 is detected after opening of the door 12 is detected. In addition, the settlement processing system S is configured to perform the settlement process for the product picked up by the user based on the information for settlement of the user, in a state in which the closing of the door 12 of the vending machine 1 is not detected after the opening of the door 12 is detected, when the state in which the user has moved from the vending machine 1 is detected.

Abstract: An unattended, automated checkout, computer-controlled automated store outlet and system is disclosed. A customer's identification and payment information are inputted and verified and the customer qualified to remove items from the automated store outlet. Each bay of the automated store outlet is normally locked, and after the customer accesses the bay can remove one or more items from the bay, which are automatically detected and identified and charged to the customer as part of the purchase transaction. These events occur at the location of each automated store outlet. Each automated store outlet communicates with a central control center, which can be used for live customer service and real time surveillance.

Abstract: A method and device for retrofitting a machine controller to accommodate one or more electronic peripheral devices is disclosed herein. A device with processor(s), memory, a slave interface, and host interface(s) performs as a virtual peripheral by registering itself as a slave to the machine controller coupled with the slave interface and performs as a virtual machine controller by registering peripheral(s) coupled with the host interface(s) as slaves to the device. The device receives a command from the machine controller via the slave interface and, in response to receiving the command: sends an acknowledgement to the machine controller via the slave interface; and relays the command to a respective peripheral via a respective one of the host interface(s), where the device sends signals to and from the machine controller asynchronous of sending signals to and from the peripheral(s).

Abstract: A commodity container includes a main body having a container space, first and second antennas, and a processing circuit. The first antenna is configured to receive tag information from one or more wireless tags in a first range covering at a first region of the container space. The second antenna is configured to receive tag information from one or more wireless tags in a second range covering at a second region the container space. The second range is different from the first range. The processing circuit is configured to store tag information received by the first antenna in a data storage unit, determine whether or not tag information received by the second antenna corresponds to the stored tag information, and generate a control signal for generation of a user notification when the tag information received by the second antenna does not correspond to the stored tag information.

Abstract: A server receives an association request initiated by a user of a first account. Based on the association request, an account identifier of a second account is identified. The first account is associated with the second account based on the account identifier. In response to associating the first account with the second account, a partial permission is granted to the first account for accessing the second account.

Abstract: The systems and methods provided herein are directed to a system for identifying and reporting partial refueling events. Fueling stations can evaluate when fuel prices may be negatively impacting revenue due to consumers choosing to not to fill their tanks. Stations may then make adjustments to fuel prices that are responsive to customer behavior.

Abstract: A system for enhanced security credit card has rechargeable battery, memory, processor, LCD display, thumbprint pad, magnetic swipe strip, multi-pin connector and USB port. The card is activated by the thumbprint of an authorized user, thereby turning on the blank LCD display to show a card number, expiration date, and CVV value. Additionally, the multi-pin connector is activated and inserted into credit card processing machine connector. This connection uploads the ‘PIN value, photograph and credit limit of the user on the processing machine display, verifying the user's identity and authorizing the credit card purchase. The use of a magnetic strip for credit card purchase also requires a ‘PIN’ value, which is provided by insertion of a thumbprint activated credit card multi-pin connector.

Abstract: The THIRD-PARTY VALUE ADDED WALLET FEATURES AND INTERFACES APPARATUSES, METHODS, AND SYSTEMS (“VAW”) facilitates allowing a third party service provider to integrate with an electronic wallet to provide a value-added service to a wallet consumer. The VAW may also be configured to facilitate the creation and funding of pre-paid accounts in a consumer's virtual wallet.

Abstract: A method for creating an augmented reality experience. The method includes receiving a value to associate with a stored value token, searching a database for one of products and services that are sold close to the value, matching at least one of a product and a service which is sold close to the value, and creating a record comprising a token identifier and a graphical item representing one of the product and service that is found during matching, receiving a request to initiate the augmented reality experience. The method further includes, in response to the request, preparing data comprising augmented reality information including a video file and the record. The method further includes sending the data over a computer network.

Abstract: A vehicle is provided that determines a first triggering event in predetermined triggering event information has occurred, in response to a first event, automatically forwards a first communication to a selected third party vendor to preorder a product or service of the selected third party vendor in connection with a transaction with the user, determines a second triggering event in the triggering event information has occurred, and in response to the later second event, automatically sends an authorization to complete the transaction by providing financial information to the selected third party vendor.

Abstract: A method of processing a transaction includes receiving a site location code. Site configuration information corresponding to the received site location code is received from a database. That information includes more product record(s), each corresponding to a reservable product or a non-reservable product. A selection of one or more of the product records in the retrieved information is received. If any selected product record corresponds to a reservable product, a reservation command is produced. That command requests reservation of selected reservable product(s). A method of selecting a product includes receiving a location input and determining a site location code with it. The site location code is transmitted and one or more product records are received. Representations of one or more of the received product records are presented and a selection of products is received. An indication of the selection is transmitted.

Abstract: Methods and systems for automatically monitoring a parking meter associated with a vehicle. The system includes a transceiver configured to receive location data of a mobile device associated with a user of the vehicle. The system includes an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle configured to receive or determine parking meter data associated with the parking meter. The ECU is configured to determine, based on the parking meter data, whether a time remaining on the parking meter is below a time threshold. The ECU is configured to automatically communicate, to the mobile device, a warning communication indicating the time remaining on the parking meter when the time remaining on the parking meter is below the time threshold and the location data of the mobile device indicates that a location of the mobile device is more than a threshold distance away from a location of the vehicle.

Abstract: In some examples, a system and method for generating a payment instrument are described. The method includes receiving a unique signature that a recipient intends to associate with the payment instrument; verifying that the received feature meets an acceptability criterion; generating a representation of the received signature, wherein the representation is in a form capable of being physically associated with the payment instrument, and wherein association is established by embedding or exposing the representation on the payment instrument; and causing physical generation of the payment instrument having associated therewith the representation of the signature.