Abstract: Systems, methods, and articles of manufacture for providing promotions at vending machines, such as by providing vending machine subscriptions to a category of products, are disclosed.

Abstract: A network service system provides services to a plurality of entities through a network. The system comprises at least one identity subsystem for managing identity information associated with the entities, at least one geographical information subsystem for managing information associated with geographical location of the entities, and at least one trust validation subsystem for authenticating the communication among the entities based on predefined preference. Further, the system comprises a network manager for communicating with one or more of the at least one identity subsystem, the at least one geographical location subsystem, the at least one trust validation subsystem and the plurality of entities to provide the services. The services may enable federation of the networks.

Abstract: The preferred computer apparatus and methods use computer technology in a unique way to motivate children to devote more time to educational and cultural enrichment, and encourages them to explore the appropriateness of various educational institutions that they may apply to for admission. In the preferred embodiment, educational material is provided at a child's local computer under control of a central computer system connected to it over a computer network. On completing a particular educational task, the child is rewarded with a certain number of points. Points that the child accumulates are stored centrally, and at least some of the points can be redeemed towards the purchase of goods and services offered through the system of the preferred embodiment by its commercial participants. The purchasing transactions are also administered by the central computer.

Abstract: A low-cost method for reducing rates of side effects from using drugs, healing substances and medical procedures, by means of segmentation of parameters related to the treatment procedure and healing processes in the body of humans or animals and using results of available clinical trials.

Abstract: In an effort to reduce employer health insurance related costs, at least one benefit under a health benefit plan is conditional on the employee voluntarily participating in a wellness program. The wellness program could include wellness categories such as a tobacco free category, normal blood pressure category, regular exercise category, a non-overweight category, a healthy cholesterol level category, a healthy blood glucose level category, and possibly even a category for participation in a health risk assessment. The invention may be implemented by an employer adopting a health plan with a higher deductible over a previous year, and providing credits against that deductible for employees who satisfy requirements regarding each of a variety of wellness categories. This should enable the employer to realize an immediate savings in the year that the invention is implemented, and future savings in years thereafter from healthier employees having lesser numbers of claims and smaller dollar claims.

Abstract: Products and processes are provided herewith for analyzing octane content in a fuel sample that include the step or steps of receiving an octane measurement of a fuel sample from a octane analyzer, rounding the octane measurement to a nearest recognized octane rating, comparing the rounded octane measurement with a listed octane rating for the fuel sample, and communicating results of the comparison to a user of the octane analyzer. The octane analyzer may be incorporated into a fuel pump or a vehicle. The results of the comparison may also be used to adjust the vehicle operating parameters to account for the actual octane rating of the fuel dispensed into the vehicle.

Abstract: A multi-use park for the living and the dead, which typically includes a bounded green space; asymmetric columbaria in the form of art objects, such as mosaics or sculptures; and a building for wedding ceremonies or celebrations, baptisms, graduation celebrations, retirement parties, picnics, and other events along the continuum of life. In other words the multi-use park, in one location, melds ongoing activities of the living, with remembering the dead. A method of use typically includes the step of a receiving payment to deploy the ashes of a deceased entity within the bounded green space of the multi-use park, wherein the ashes are deployed in an asymmetric columbarium having the appearance of an art object such as a sculpture or mosaic; and receiving payment to conduct a milestone life-continuum event, such as a graduation celebration, within the bounded green space of the multi-use park.

Abstract: A system and method for producing a static media disk is provided. The method includes designing a media graphic utilizing a computer graphics program. Next the media graphic is placed into a template within the computer graphics program. A media layer sheet is prepared for the installation of the media graphic onto the media layer sheet. The media layer is formed when the media graphic is installed on to the media layer sheet. The media layer has a first media surface and an opposing adhesive surface. The adhesive surface is for securing the media layer to the first surface of a core medium or media disc. The core medium has a material property and a shape property. The shape property substantially matches the media layer itself. The core medium has a first surface, second surface and thickness. The static media disc is then formed when the media layer is installed onto the core medium.

Abstract: A static ad frame used vertically and horizontally around the viewing area of a flat panel television or digital display to advertise, promote, market, and/or convey a message to individuals viewing content on the associated flat panel television or digital display via images and/or words printed on the frame's exposed front surface. It is preferably made from lightweight and rigid signboard material, and is attached to the front of the flat panel television or digital display via fastening means. No loss of functionality in the associated flat panel television or digital display occurs, or degradation of performance, as a result of signboard use. Content on the signboard is seen both actively and passively by viewers of the associated flat panel television or digital display. Optionally, a permanent message, an erasable surface that facilitates impromptu/dynamic messaging, lightweight cutouts creating 3-dimensional effects, and accommodation for infrared relay devices, may also be provided.

Abstract: A method of product price promotion, which is based on allocating a plurality of Cycled Discount Labels to product types and labeling a plurality of product type members. Cycled Discount Labels are associated with product type member lots. The price promotion option for each product type member, which is associated with a Cycled Discount Label, is calculated and presented to the consumer. The price promotion option for a product type member is further discounted as the product type member approaches its expiration date.

Abstract: The invention comprises a blank for an envelope including a front panel, a rear panel and a closure panel, the closure panel being connectable in use to the front panel, the blank having two gluing areas by which the closure panel may be connected to the front panel in use. A removable strip is provided between the gluing areas, the removable strip being of sufficient dimensions to receive indicia associated with a first mailing thereon, at least some of which indicia are removed when the envelope is opened by removing the removable strip after the first mailing. The envelope may also have a second removable area. The removable strip may be wide enough to reveal a response indicia imprinted on the first panel.

Abstract: A product announcement and merchandizing device and system is provided and includes a system and method for matching or merging a first product with one or more distinct products or services and displaying that merged message through use of a hang tag or an article identifier arrangement. The hang tag or article identifier has first and second sections with one or more individually operable and distinct fields. The system can actuate a message or other response in connection with receiving a particular signal or as part of an advertising campaign.

Abstract: A system and method for establishment and sustenance of Knowledge Continuity Process in a phase wise manner within an organization and/or among multiple organizations comprising knowledge drivers, business drivers, a leadoff team, a knowledge expert team, a knowledge administrator, knowledge distillation and diffusion, learning's from the past archive, business leagues, expert knowledge base, knowledge delivery characterized in that said system and method comprising: identifying a predetermined stage “n” of the organization; forming the leadoff team of individuals from the organization and from knowledge vendor; linking the knowledge drivers with the business drivers by said leadoff team; measuring a stage ‘n+1’ of the organization by individuals of the knowledge vendor; and providing a continuous improvement.

Abstract: One embodiment of the invention is a method for providing a financial instrument including determining a current account balance for a financial account, calculating a liability ratio for the financial account, and determining whether to transfer at least a portion of the account balance from a variable sub-account to a low-risk sub-account based on the liability ratio.

Abstract: At least a primary prior art, a secondary prior art and a combination of at least a teaching of the primary prior art or any part thereof in view of at least a teaching of the secondary prior art or any part thereof are relied upon, for example, to anticipate under 35 U.S.C. §102 and/or make obvious under 35 U.S.C. §103 a plurality of patent claims. Each of the primary prior art and the secondary prior art is, for example, any prior art (e.g., any prior art reference) charged to PHOSITA under 35 U.S.C. §103. All prior art references, for example, charged to PHOSITA under 35 U.S.C. §103 have been incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

Abstract: A system and method for comparing retirement plans against a selected group of similar plans is disclosed. In one embodiment, a computer system for evaluating a retirement plan comprises a computer server having a database comprising a plurality of data defining a plurality of characteristics of each of a plurality of retirement plans, software configured for identifying a subset of the plurality of retirement plans having characteristics comparable to characteristics of a selected retirement plan, software configured for permitting the selection of at least one report from a plurality of report types, and software configured for automatically generating the selected at least one report, where the at least one report comprises an evaluation of the characteristics of the selected retirement plan against the characteristics of the subset of the plurality of retirement plans.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for managing information relating to recycling activities. In one embodiment, a method is provided in which a consumer returns beverage containers to a redemption kiosk offering a significantly improved consumer experience. Rather than having to wait for an attendant to count the containers and provide value in exchange, an account is maintained for the consumer to which the containers' value is ascribed. The redemption kiosk projects a neat and sanitary appearance, and is designed to be situated in a parking lot outside a retail location so as not to occupy valuable floor space. Information on consumer recycling activities is captured and analyzed to support marketing activities.

Abstract: A method of choosing hair accessories based on a hair color of a user. The method includes browsing a display device containing a first set of hair accessories and a second set of hair accessories. Each hair accessory of the first and second sets is of a different accessory type and has a first or second color, respectively. The method also includes inputting the hair color of the user to a hair accessory selection device populated with information relating to the first and second colors and to a range of hair colors. The method further includes receiving from the hair accessory selection device one or more recommended hair accessories from the first and second sets that best match the hair color of the user. The method also includes selecting one or more accessories from the display device based upon the one or more recommended hair accessories.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to products that facilitate communication between a patient and a healthcare provider and methods of use thereof. Exemplary products include paper products (e.g., cards, sets or cards, or posters), computer program products, and electronic display devices.

Abstract: A method of establishing a referral network for the enrollment of individuals in a geriatric healthcare insurance plan comprising identifying an age-eligible population; developing and implementing recruiting strategies to establish a relationship with the age-eligible population; and generating potential members from the age-eligible population for enrollment in a geriatric healthcare insurance plan as senior class members; and engaging senior class members to become ambassadors that represent the geriatric healthcare insurance plan to other potential members. Retention strategies such as a points program and a referral resource network are provided to retain senior class members. The referral resource network is a network of senior class members that are available to offer services to other senior class members, including valuable special skills or knowledge or necessary services.

Abstract: A process and gaming method for determining whether individuals and leaders are liberal, conservative, or evil (LCE), in their thinking, actions, approach to governing, and life in general. The process is designed to quantify and rate individuals' political persuasion. The invention takes a straight line political scale and bends it into a circular spectrum to express politico positions. This invention uses this spectrum to create a parlor board game or a web based quantitative process/game which can allow live interactive participation. All individuals can be ranked within the liberal, conservative, and evil scale or Politico Spectrum created by this invention. An individual's motives and results must be considered when they fall into the Evil category. The process uses a series of questions, answers, and tests, and the plurality of the responses quantifiably ranks the individual participants within the spectrum.

Abstract: A method and a system for aggregating travel solutions from a plurality of travel sources are described which first includes setting up: markets, each made of a pair of geographic criteria with an optional directional indicator; sources of travel solutions per market; baskets of compatible travel sources including provider types and travel product characteristics; and basket rules for grouping baskets per market and product characteristics. Then, upon receiving a travel request including an itinerary and preferences, the basket rule best fitting the travel request is selected; the appropriate baskets for the selected basket rule are identified. After which, for each basket, the sources of travel solutions are determined and travel requests forwarded to each determined source. Responses are aggregated and displayed in a common format; thereby, allowing a transparent comparison of the travel solutions from the plurality of travel providers.

Abstract: A method for assessment of force properties generated by the fiber tip of one or more fibers, comprising the steps of: (a) providing a fiber sample of one or more fibers, the fiber sample having a free portion and an end; (b) suspending the fiber sample over a tactile sensor at least 0.

Abstract: A method for financing renewable energy systems includes offering a home loan to a homeowner in which the interest payable by the homeowner are tax deductible. A lease is also offered to the homeowner for the installation and use of a renewable energy system. A deposit of cash proceeds from the home loan is put into a trust held by an escrow agent for the single purpose of paying lease payments for the lease as each payment becomes due. Such that the proceeds from the home loan are effectively used to defease the debt represented by the lease.

Abstract: A system and method is provided for determining whether an attorney should exercise a peremptory challenge to excuse a prospective juror based on, for example: (1) the location of the juror in the selection order; (2) the rank or score assigned to each potential peremptory challenge; (3) the jurors identified as potential challenges for cause; (4) the probability of dismissal assigned to each potential challenge for cause; (5) the number of jurors needed to serve on the jury; (6) the number of peremptory challenges allowed by the court; (7) the number of jurors in the panel; and (8) the jurors who have already been selected, dismissed for cause, or peremptorily challenged.

Abstract: According to some embodiments, a method and an apparatus are provided to display a webpage comprising a fundraising interface and a selection of interactive games and educational programs, receive an indication of an interaction of a user with at least one of the interactive games and educational programs, and provide rewards associated with the user's interaction with the at least one of the interactive games and educational programs.

Abstract: A system and method for determining residency based upon the comparison of existing data in various datasets. Information relating to a new utility account in a first jurisdiction is inputted. The inputted information is compared with stored account information from a second jurisdiction. If the inputted information matches the stored account information, the inputted information is compared to information relating to vehicle registrations in the second jurisdiction. If a matching vehicle registration is found in the second jurisdiction, the matching vehicle registration in the second jurisdiction is compared with vehicle registrations in the first jurisdiction. If no matching vehicle registration is found in the first jurisdiction, identifying a vehicle corresponding to the matching vehicle registration information in the second jurisdiction as an unregistered vehicle in the first jurisdiction. The steps may be repeated for third, fourth or many jurisdictions.

Abstract: The present invention can increase the odds of choosing the right people for a team by considering their “rate of interest/knowledge” in multiple topics. Given a known contacts network, represented by nodes interconnected by links, several different sub-networks are identified within it, corresponding to different topics or areas of expertise required to a specific project. For each sub-network, there will be nodes with an associated grade, based on that person's knowledge/interest for the topic related to that sub-network. As such, each node/person receives a grade for each topic. Using these grades, a weight of each link between the nodes is calculated. This process is performed for every node for each topic and associated grade. After that, a superposition of all sub-networks is made and a multiple interest network is yielded.

Abstract: A method of performing a product transaction where an owner permits a user to use a product without regard for the creditworthiness of the user. The method includes the step of providing the product to the user by requiring the user to perform at least one preselected task without any regard at any time for the creditworthiness of the user. Also included is the step of preventing the user from using the product if the user does not perform the at least one preselected task. The preventing step is also performed by using a product-control mechanism that allows the owner to remotely control the product if the user does not perform the at least one preselected task. A product-control mechanism is also used to allow the owner to block operation of the product by the requestor.

Abstract: A method of reducing environmental impact by providing filtered water alternatives at various locations within grounds of an institution is provided. The method includes providing a branded filtered water system to an institution. The branded filtered water system including a plurality of portable, reusable water containers and a network of point-of-use water filtration devices to be placed at various locations within the institution. The point-of-use water filtration devices are interrelated by branding the point-of-use water filtration devices to provide a visual association with the filtered water system.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention provide systems and methods for automatically migrating a consumer from one prepaid financial account to another prepaid financial account based on preset trigger criteria. A prepaid payment device, such as a payroll card, may be issued to the consumer and associated with a prepaid financial account. The prepaid financial account may include a profile for the consumer. The issuer of the prepaid payment device may monitor the account activity and set trigger criteria that control when the consumer is automatically migrated from the current prepaid financial account and which type of new account the consumer is migrated into.

Abstract: An economic system does not involve credit or a determination of the creditworthiness of customers/retail business(es) who conduct transactions. The system includes plural no-credit transactions that produce revenue; and a mechanism for securitization of that revenue. A method of conducting an economy includes the steps of making plural no-credit transactions that produce revenue; and securitizing that revenue.

Abstract: Gift card distribution systems and methods are described for distributing a card issuer's or a plurality of card issuer's gift cards to consumers who are potential gift givers. The gift cards can be contained within a gift card multi-pack that features a plurality of gift card packages. Each gift card package can feature one of the gift cards, a mailing envelope, a greeting card, and an instruction sheet. The gift card package may also feature an advertisement. The gift giver can then mail or deliver one of the gift cards as well as other components of the gift card package to a gift recipient. The gift card multi-pack can include several shrink-wrapped gift card packages that can be mailed to a gift giver inside of a first class postage billing envelope.

Abstract: A device and method for preventing the dropping of money while change is being handed through a drive-through window from a cashier to a customer in an automobile. The cashier places the change is a specially designed envelope. The envelope has a pocket for holding the change and at least one third party ad is printed on the envelope. The cashier passes the envelope through the drive-through window. The customer grabs the envelope from the cashier and then removes the change from the envelope inside the automobile's interior. In a preferred embodiment, the envelope has shape characteristics and a printed image that relate to the business identity of the third party who paid for the ad. Also in a preferred embodiment, the fee paid by the third party ad purchaser surpasses the cost of the envelope to the fast food restaurant.

Abstract: Decorated products, such as toothbrushes, of substantially the same type and having substantially the same features (preferably functional features) except for a decorative element. The decorative element on each product is selected from a plurality of different decorative elements such that the products may be visually or aesthetically differentiated from one another by the differences in the decorative element associated therewith, while otherwise having the same functional characteristics. An exemplary embodiment is sleeved adult toothbrushes, the sleeves each having one of a variety of designs, the set of available designs including designs of different categories to appeal to different consumer bases (e.g., different ages, genders, styles, etc.) or to signal a time period for use of the product (e.g., a variety of designs for each of the four seasons to signal changing the toothbrush each season).

Abstract: A system and method for increasing efficiencies in the distribution and sales of pre-owned vehicles utilizing a communications network such as the internet. A purchase order agreement is made between a consumer and a dealer for purchase of one or more vehicles available for sale to dealers, viewed over the communications network. The sale is conditioned upon a selected vehicle first being acquired by the dealer subsequent to entry of the consumer and dealer into the purchase order agreement. The dealer acquires the selected vehicle through an auction limited to dealers. The system may be administered by an organization which is not itself a dealer or auction.

Abstract: A method for management of first in, first out stores is provided. The method includes producing parts at a primary process. The parts are processed at a secondary process. A storage region is provided that includes at least one store lane pair including a first store lane and a second store lane. The first store lane includes a pick side, a drop side and a plurality of receiving volumes extending from the pick side to the drop side. The second store lane includes a pick side, a drop side and a plurality of receiving volumes extending from the pick side to the drop side. The receiving volumes of the first store lane are filled with the parts in the order they are produced at the primary process in a first in, first out fashion from the pick side of the first store lane to the drop side of the first store lane using an automated guided vehicle sized and configured to pass through each of the plurality of receiving volumes.

Abstract: A system for the ordering and delivery of goods may comprise an ordering system for accepting a selection of the goods for purchase and a pneumatic mechanism for delivering the goods from a first location to a second location. The system may be located in gas stations so that a customer pumping fuel at a fuel delivery pump may be able to purchase and receive goods while at the fuel delivery pump without going inside the store of the gas station.

Abstract: Disclosed are systems and methods for recording, maintaining, and reporting tips and gratuities, optionally including details such as employee, task performed, and shift. In one aspect, inter-employee tip and gratuity transactions are tracked and verified. In another aspect, taxing authority forms and/or returns are automatically generated with substantially decreased administration time and cost, thereby facilitating a user's participation in voluntary taxing authority programs. Additionally, the training required by such programs is automatically monitored. In yet another aspect, tips and/or gratuities may be paid as wages. In another aspect of the present invention, employees are provided an opportunity to increase declared tips if the originally declared tips place employee in jeopardy of an audit. In another aspect, interfaces to third-party systems such as POS systems, payroll systems, and the like are provided to further minimize system administration time and data accuracy.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method for tracking and monitoring a patient's compliance with a medical device usage prescription for a medical device is disclosed. This method and system includes the steps of: (a) providing a minimum medical device usage compliance value for the medical device for a predetermined compliance period; (b) providing the quantity of compliance periods in a measurement cycle; and (c) determining a compliance period value as the number of compliance periods in the measurement cycle in which an actual medical device usage value is at least equal to the minimum medical device usage compliance value. In another embodiment, the method also includes: providing a weighting factor, and applying the weighting factor to at least one actual medical device session usage value.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and device for assisting in making a patient treatment plan. The method comprises: a step of acquiring first data reflecting the self-training condition of a patient in the recent past stage, and a medical record of the patient; a step of analyzing said first data based on said medical record and a first professional knowledge; and a step of generating a training guide based on the result of said step of analyzing and a second professional knowledge, said training guide serving to guide said patient in performing the next stage of training.

Abstract: A portable communication apparatus and method includes a portable AM transmitter assembly and antenna operably connected for broadcasting an AM signal to standard automobile radio receiver, such as on a travel information station frequency of 1610 KHz. The system is particularly constructed for mobility, durability, simplicity and ease of use, making it well adapted for use in emergency situations as well as for the broadcast of general community or travelers information at fixed or temporary locations during nonemergency times. For example, the entire present assembly 20 can be constructed with a total weight of less than about 130 lbs, allowing it to be easily moved by individuals and by low-weight-capable small capacity vehicles such as planes or boats or pick-up trucks.

Abstract: Disclosed is a hybrid financial security. The security is structured as a collateralized debt obligation which contains senior notes and income notes. Proceeds from the sale of the notes are utilized to purchase the underlying collateral, which is below investment grade debt obligations. The hybrid financial security has improved liquidity, lower volatility, and a shorter maturity term than a traditional collateralized debt obligation.

Abstract: The present invention relates to processes for the production of peptides, and the peptides produced accordingly. Peptides produced according to the invention may be produced more efficiently than peptides produced according to prior art processes. The production process of the invention may lead to advantages in yield, purity, and/or price. Methods of marketing peptides are also disclosed.

Abstract: Provided is a method for making a schedule of a first number of people needed to staff a health care department for a first time period. The method may comprise defining a first time period, defining a second time period, providing admission numbers, providing residence numbers, predicting a total admission number for the second time period, predicting admission numbers for each of a plurality of acuity levels for the first time period, predicting residence numbers for each acuity level for the first time period, predicting the first number of people, and outputting a schedule of the first number of people in the first time period.

Abstract: A method comprises the step of certifying a savings in carbon emission based upon a cleaning of a gas turbine engine.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method, system and computer product including a scheduling manager residing in memory; whereby the scheduling manager dynamically manages access of additional computer resources to be applied to work items of a program based on their valuations relative to the processing costs thereof.

Abstract: A system and method for targeted advertisement that includes embedding the content of the advertisement with the existing displayed content, which is optionally and more preferably broadcast video content. For example, the present invention relates to embedding advertising content within broadcast video content displayed on television screens. The system features a receiver that is connected to the video input and video output of the television set and can inject advertisements to the display. The advertisements are optionally selected according to a bidding algorithm that is preferably performed by an external server or other remote device; however, it is also possible that they are selected according to a different, non-bidding mechanism. The advertiser and/or the owner of the resource displaying the advertisement may optionally select or request the advertisement for display.

Abstract: Regulating human keratinous tissue (e.g., skin, hair, and/or nails). More particularly, the invention relates to regulating the cosmetic appearance and/or health of human keratinous tissue by orally administering a dietary supplement comprising a probiotic to a human. In another aspect, the invention also relates to a method of marketing, an article of commerce, and a personal care kit.

Abstract: A gift card assembly includes a support backer; a gift card formed separately from and supported by the support backer; a sticker formed separately from and supported by the support backer; and a panel formed separately from the support backer, the gift card, and the sticker. The gift card defines an activation feature configured to facilitate loading the gift card with monetary value. The sticker is releasably coupled with the panel. The panel is coupled with the support backer such that the sticker is coupled with the support backer only via the panel, and the panel fits entirely within a footprint of the support backer. Other method and product embodiments are disclosed.