| NCR Corporation Patent applications |
| Patent application number | Title | Published |
|---|
| 20120136737 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLEMENTING AN IMPROVED USER INTERFACE - An apparatus, system and method are presented for implementing a user interface on a self-service or assisted service terminal. The terminal includes a computer, LCD display and touch-screen device. Software implemented by the computer receives input from the touch-screen device to determine complex interactions with the display that are then used to select and/or modify functions and features provided by the terminal. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120136736 | PLATFORM AND METHOD FOR INTEGRATING SERVICES IN A TERMINAL OR KIOSK - A software platform and method are presented for integrating loosely coupled services or offerings provided across a retail environment into self-service terminals configured to perform different type of retail functions. The integration is accomplished with little or no modifications to existing software applications that provide the services or offerings. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120136733 | TECHNIQUES FOR SECURE CREDIT CARD TRANSACTIONS - A consumer registers a credit card at a point-of-sale device for additional security. The point-of-sale device does not require the additional security for processing credit card transactions. Subsequently, when the consumer presents the credit card at the point-of-sale device for a particular credit card transaction, the additional security is provided by the consumer and verified before the credit card and the particular credit card transaction is permitted to be sent to a card processor associated with the credit card. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120136727 | INFORMATION ACCESS MANAGEMENT - Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to transmit applications to mobile devices. The applications may operate to enable the reception of source and advertising information from a wireless transmitter. Reception may occur at a wireless receiver in a mobile device, as part of a single transmission and without prior solicitation by the mobile device. The source information can identify a source associated with the advertising information. The advertising information is stored in the mobile device when the source information and/or distance information associated with the source information comply with conditions included in a storage policy associated with the mobile device. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120133596 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLEMENTING AN IMPROVED USER INTERFACE ON A TERMINAL - An apparatus, system and method are presented for implementing a user interface on a terminal. The terminal includes a processor, LCD display and touch-screen device. Software implemented by the processor receives input from the touch-screen device to determine complex interactions with the display that are then used to select and/or modify functions and features provided by the terminal. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120133595 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR IMPLEMENTING AN IMPROVED USER INTERFACE ON A KIOSK - An apparatus, system and method are presented for implementing a user interface on a kiosk terminal. The terminal includes a processor, LCD display and touch-screen device. Software implemented by the processor receives input from the touch-screen device to determine complex interactions with the display that are then used to select and/or modify functions and features provided by the terminal. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120132704 | VISUAL ACCESS TOKEN - A method of creating a visual access token is described. The method comprises: receiving an input referencing private information without revealing the private information; retrieving the referenced private information using the referencing input; encoding the retrieved private information as part of a visual image for use as a visual access token; and presenting the visual access token on a display of a portable communication device for machine reading. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120132700 | METHODS OF TWO-SIDED PRINTING - An application or print driver on a point-of-sale terminal determines the break point of a transaction record to be printed on two sides of media. The print data is sent to the printer in a particular amount of print data for print on the front side followed by a particular amount of print data for print on the back side. The application or print driver then alternates between the print data on the front and the print data on the back until the end of the transaction record is transmitted. When all print data for the front is transmitted, an end of front data indicator is sent. When all print data for the back is transmitted, an end of back data indicator is sent. When both indicators are sent, the printer is allowed to cut the transaction record. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120132665 | Media Cassette - A media cassette comprises: a base on which a stack of media items may be placed, a pusher plate biased towards the base and a plurality of drive rollers located beneath the profiled surface and partially protruding through apertures defined in the profiled surface. The base includes a profiled surface extending from a central low region disposed along an axis of the base to higher regions on opposing sides of the central low region. The pusher plate is operable to urge a stack of media items onto the profiled surface. The plurality of drive rollers are operable to drive a media item in contact with the profiled surface out of the media cassette. | 05-31-2012 |
| 20120127307 | Controllable Kiosk Return Gate - Techniques are described to substantially reduce a return of wrong DVD or return of a right DVD in an improperly sized DVD case to a DVD rental kiosk. An RFID tag on the DVD, as well as an RFID tag on the case, are sensed external to the kiosk. A controllable shutter normally closes the return slot and is driven open only upon detecting the correct predetermined condition or conditions. A supplemental camera may be employed to detect if a single DVD in its case is being placed proximate the return slot by the user. Help screens are employed as part of the above described system to reduce potential customer frustration from returning a DVD to the wrong DVD rental kiosk and the like. | 05-24-2012 |
| 20120124365 | ACCESSING A SECURE TERMINAL - A method of accessing content on a secure terminal is described. The method comprises: capturing an image of a visual code presented on a display of a secure terminal. The method then involves decoding the visual code to ascertain (i) a set of connection parameters and (ii) a unique identifier. The set of connection parameters are used to establish a connection with the secure terminal. The method also comprises receiving the content from the secure terminal via the established connection in response to transmission of the unique identifier. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120119433 | PICK UNIT - A pick unit is described. The pick unit comprises: a frame and a picking assembly. The frame comprises (i) one or more guides for receiving a currency cassette, (ii) a tortuous pathway for guiding and supporting a cam follower, and (iii) a detent. The picking assembly comprises: (i) a guide edge configured to abut the detent when the picking assembly is moved to an initial alignment position, (ii) a cam follower configured to align with the pathway when the removable picking assembly is moved from the initial alignment position to an engagement position, and (iii) a gear train configured to engage with an upper gear external to the pick unit when the removable picking assembly is moved to an engaged position at which the cam follower has reached an end of the tortuous pathway. | 05-17-2012 |
| 20120110467 | CENTRALIZED USER PREFERENCE MANAGEMENT FOR ELECTRONIC DECISION MAKING DEVICES - Systems and techniques for centralized user preference management for electronic decision making devices are provided. A user preference profile is received. A user preference profile manager may transmit a user preference from the user preference profile to a requesting user transaction terminal. the user preference manager may also receive a dynamic user preference from a user preference profile and extend the user preference profile with the dynamic user preference, where the dynamic user preference includes a preference definition and the preference definition includes read and write access controls for the dynamic user preference. Then the user manager may update the user preference profile based on data received from the user transaction terminal. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120110311 | CUSTOMIZED KIOSK MODES OF OPERATION - Techniques for customized kiosk modes of operation are provided. A kiosk is configured to recognize periods of operation that are slow, moderate, or busy. A number of factors can be used to automatically recognize these periods and change the periods on demand. For each type of period (slow, moderate, or busy), the kiosk uses a different customized mode of operation so as to optimally use the kiosk for the benefit of the kiosk owner, customers interfacing with the kiosk, and marketers selling advertisements via the kiosk. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109826 | TECHNIQUES FOR CONDUCTING SINGLE OR LIMITED USE PURCHASES VIA A MOBILE DEVICE - A customer uses a mobile device to acquire a mobile app thereon. The mobile device is configured by a cloud-based service to escrow one or more card numbers mapped by a financial facility to the customer's primary account's number. Further security limitations can be configured into the mobile app by the cloud-based service. Subsequently, the customers uses the mobile app at a point-of-sale location to access one or more of the escrowed card numbers to make purchases; these purchases can be made while the mobile device lacks any connectivity to a network. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109791 | CASH MANAGEMENT OF SELF-SERVICE TRANSACTIONAL DEVICES - Devices and techniques for cash management of self-service transactional terminals are provided. Cash flow, cash holding cost, and cash service cost data, associated with one or more self-service transactional devices are received. An optimal cash reset value and associated interval between services calls may be calculated based on the cash flow data, the cash holding cost data, and the cash service cost data. The cash reset value being the amount of cash left in each of the one or more self-service transactional devices after a service call. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109761 | APPARATUS, METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR A POINT OF SALE TERMINAL - An apparatus, system and method are presented for a point of sale terminal including a scanner. A display device, a printer device and a magnetic strip reader device are connected to the scanner. A processor in the scanner executes software that causes the processor to operate the scanner, the attached devices and provide the features and functions of the point of sale terminal. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109419 | LOCKABLE COMPARTMENT ACCESS MANAGEMENT - Apparatus, systems, and methods may operate to receive reservation requests for travel reservations associated with a common carrier. Responsive to receiving a request, an access control code to control access to a lockable compartment within a vehicle designated to provide transportation associated with the travel reservation may be generated. The compartment may be a luggage compartment, such as an overhead bin on an airplane. The code may be transmitted to a mobile device carried by the passenger associated with the reservation, and used to provide lockable access to the compartment. Additional apparatus, systems, and methods are disclosed. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109372 | DISTRIBUTED ITEM DISPENSER MANAGEMENT - Systems and techniques for distributed dispenser management are provided. A list of item selections is received, the list including at least one item with an item type. A collection of one or more dispenser groups may be identified, where each dispenser group in the collection includes a unique combination of one or more item dispensers with a combined unreserved inventory sufficient to dispense each item in the list. An item dispenser group may then be selected from the collection based on even depletion. The items in the list may be reserved from the selected dispenser group. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109369 | TANGIBLE STORAGE MEDIA ACCESS MANAGEMENT - Apparatus, systems, and methods operate to receive a request to access a selected one of a plurality of tangible storage media held in substantially rectangular tangible storage media storage racks. Each rack has first and second opposing sides substantially parallel to a media insertion axis of the rack in a horizontal plane. Operations may include rotating a vertical spindle about its longitudinal axis, the spindle coupled to the plurality of racks with a corresponding plurality of arms having substantially equal length. Rotation provides access to grippers located to extract the selected media along the media insertion axis. A side axis coinciding with the first opposing side of a first one of the racks intersects the second opposing side of a second one of the racks, the first one of the racks being adjacent the second one of the racks. Additional embodiments are disclosed. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120109367 | DIGITAL MEDIA TRANSACTION KIOSK AND METHOD - A digital media transaction kiosk and method which provide security for digital media. An example kiosk includes a digital media identifier for reading an identifier of a digital media item on a representative of the digital media item provided by the customer, and a digital media dispenser for dispensing the digital media item to the customer using the identifier. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105205 | ITEM CHECKOUT DEVICE WITH WEIGH PLATE ANTENNA - An item checkout device with antenna which minimizes orientation sensitivity of RFID labels. An example checkout device includes a scale, a weigh plate on the scale, a radio frequency identification label reader antenna including a first portion within the weigh plate and a second portion below the first portion, and a radio frequency identification label reader coupled to the second portion. The second portion includes a conductive layer with substantially orthogonal slots having radiating edges, a drive circuit for driving the slots to radiate a circularly polarized electromagnetic field, and a non-conductive layer separating the conductive layer from the drive circuit. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120105197 | TECHNIQUES FOR AUTOMATING RENTAL CAR TRANSACTIONS - A customer uses a wireless portable device to interact with a remote cloud-based car rental service. Details at check in are recorded and the customer is authorized to take possession of the car. At checkout, additional details are noted, a receipt is produced, and the customer leaves the car at the car facility. The check-in and checkout process can be achieved without any car rental attendant. That is, the customer via the wireless portable device and with the assistance of the remote cloud-based car rental service completely achieves check in and checkout for a car rental. | 05-03-2012 |
| 20120101631 | Compact Media Disc Vending or Rental Kiosk - A low cost compact kiosk for media disc vending or rental is described. Reduced height and an effective disc drop arrangement allow gravity fed dispensing of media discs simplifying design by eliminating complex robotics requiring trained personnel for maintenance. One such kiosk is approximately 76 cm (30 inches)×58 cm (23 inches)×15 cm (6 inches) and can hold at least 375 standard 1.2 mm thick by 12 cm diameter DVDs. | 04-26-2012 |
| 20120095851 | TRANSACTION TERMINAL - A transaction terminal which includes a projector instead of a liquid crystal display. The transaction terminal includes a projector for projecting images of transaction screens on a surface during a transaction, an input device for recording operator selections in the transaction screens during the transaction, and a computer for generating the images of the transaction screens, for displaying the screens via the projector, and for processing the operator selections during the transaction. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120091194 | Techniques for disparate barcode transaction processing - Techniques for disparate barcode transaction processing are provided. A first barcode associated with a first service is presented at a self-service device, which is associated with processing a second barcode for a second service; the first barcode is disparate from the second barcode. The self-service device identifies the second barcode as a foreign barcode and consults an external service. The external service identifies a next transaction of an itinerary for a customer associated with the second barcode and communicates that to the self-service device. The self-service device completes the next transaction on behalf of the customer. | 04-19-2012 |
| 20120089927 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MANAGING UNAVAILABLE ITEMS IN SHARED SCREEN DATA - A system and method of managing unavailable items in shared screen data which provides access to modified screen data substantially simultaneously. The system includes a first computer including a display for displaying a screen containing items from screen data including modified screen data during a transaction. The modified screen data reflects that at least one of the items is unavailable. The first computer shares the screen data with a second computer. The first computer is also for displaying an indication that the at least one item is unavailable substantially simultaneously following modification of the screen data and upon selection of the at least one item at one of the first and second computers. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120089426 | Techniques for automated profile-based transaction processing - Techniques for automated profile-based transaction processing are provided. A customer uses a cloud-based service to establish one or more transaction profiles. When that customer subsequently accesses a self-service device to perform a transaction, the cloud-based service is automatically contacted and the transaction is automatically completed on behalf of the customer at the self-service device using a particular one of the customer's transaction profiles. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120089425 | Trip monitoring and inferential location based services - Techniques for trip monitoring and inferential location based services are provided. Itineraries for trips of a customer are monitored. As transactions complete in the itineraries, inferences are made to infer the geographical locations for the customer. The inferred geographical locations are used along with preferences for the customer to deliver customized content to the customer and to perform one or more automated actions on behalf of the customer associated with next transactions of the itineraries. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120087547 | PRODUCE RECOGNITION METHOD - A produce recognition method which uses hierarchical Bayesian learning and kernel combination, and which offers classification-oriented synergistic data integration from diverse sources. An example method includes providing a classifier having a plurality of inputs, each input being adapted to receive produce data of a different modality; mapping the produce data to the respective input of the classifier by a computer; for each input, independently operating on the data relating to that input to create a feature set by the computer; comparing each feature in the feature set to respective pre-trained data for that feature to produce a similarity description set; combining all similarity description sets using a dedicated weighting function to produce a composite similarity description by the computer; and deriving a plurality of class values from the composite similarity description to create a recognition result for the produce item by the computer. | 04-12-2012 |
| 20120074218 | Checkout Methods and Apparatus - A system readily adaptable to both periods of normal and peak store activity. A primary barcode scanner is employed to scan most items, and a secondary handheld barcode scanner is employed to scan items, such as large or bulk items left in a customer's shopping cart during normal operation. During peak periods, the secondary handheld barcode scanner is employed by a second store employee to prescan a second customer's items. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120073744 | UV AND THERMAL GUARD - An image element having an imperceptible message that becomes readily apparent when the image element is exposed to an excessive amount of heat and/or UV radiation is provided. The image element may be associated with a material such that, upon becoming readily apparent, the imperceptible message provides a warning that the material has been exposed to excessive heat and/or UV radiation. | 03-29-2012 |
| 20120069378 | Automatic print failure detection and correction - Automatic print failure detection and correction are presented. An image is produced on media as it passes through a printer, the image produced by a first print head of the printer. The image is then inspected as it appears on the media for a predefined quality level. When the quality level is unacceptable, remote network notifications can be sent from the printer for proactive maintenance to be performed on the printer. In addition, when the quality level is unacceptable, a copy of the image can be automatically reproduced on an opposite side of the media using a different print head of the printer. | 03-22-2012 |
| 20120066462 | UPDATING MULTI-MEDIA CONTENT IN A DIGITAL DOWNLOAD KIOSK - A method of updating multi-media content at a digital download kiosk is described. The method comprises receiving a secure portable storage device into a portable device reader/writer in the kiosk; reading the secure portable storage device to ascertain if authorized multi-media content is stored thereon; uploading the multi-media content from the secure portable storage device to a data store accessible by the kiosk; and indicating when the multi-media content has been uploaded. The portable storage device may have been received by mail from a supplier, and the method may further comprise removing the portable storage device from the portable storage device reader/writer, and returning the removed portable storage device to the supplier by mail. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120066105 | ENROLLMENT FOR ELECTRONIC BANKING SERVICES - A method of enrolment for electronic banking services is described. The method involves receiving a transmitted image (or images) of a financial document. The method further comprises: locating banking information from a portion of the image and performing optical character recognition to extract the located banking information. The method also includes locating customer name and customer address information from another portion of the image and performing optical character recognition to extract a customer name and customer address from the located customer name and customer address information. The method uses this extracted banking and/or customer information to enroll the customer for electronic banking services. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120066089 | MULTI-MEDIA CONTENT AT A DIGITAL DOWNLOAD KIOSK - A digital download kiosk network is described. The network comprises: an authorization database including a digital rights management facility; a first digital download kiosk coupled to the authorization database to receive digital rights management data; and a second digital download kiosk coupled to the authorization database to receive digital rights management data, and coupled to the first digital download kiosk in a peer-to-peer manner to share multi-media content therebetween. | 03-15-2012 |
| 20120055982 | Checkout Methods and Apparatus - Item characteristic databases, such as item weight databases are employed in a variety of checkout contexts in stores. As one example, a security weight database is often employed in a security check during self-checkout in which an item's weight is checked during bagging against a stored weight for the item. Approaches for extending such security checks for a single item or items sold in small quantities are addressed. | 03-08-2012 |
| 20120047036 | TRANSACTION SYSTEM WHICH COMBINES VEHICLE BATTERY CHARGING WITH OTHER SERVICES - A transaction system which combines vehicle battery charging with other services. The transaction system includes a vehicle battery charging system, a display, an input device, a payment peripheral, and a self-service computer for displaying choices for a battery charging service and at least one other service via the display, for recording a user selection of the battery charging service and the at least one other service via the input device, for obtaining payment for the battery charging service via the payment peripheral, for operating the vehicle battery charging system to apply charging current to a vehicle battery, and for facilitating completion of the at least one other service. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120044154 | SELF-SERVICE TERMINAL - A self-service terminal is described. The terminal includes first and second touch sensitive units. Each of these touch sensitive units includes a display and a touch sensitive panel overlying the display. The second customer display is configured differently to the first customer display. The terminal also includes a processor operable to present (i) a screen comprising a plurality of different selectable options to a customer on the first customer display, and (ii) a screen associated with a selected selectable option on the second customer display, so that the customer can use the second touch sensitive unit to enter transaction details in a more private manner than by using the first touch sensitive unit. | 02-23-2012 |
| 20120030583 | PERSONALIZED KIOSK - A method is provided for personalized touch-based computing devices for individual users. A user would provide identification data to a touch-based computing device. The touch-based computing device, or ordering system that supports the touch-based computing device, identifies the user from the identification data and retrieves user interface format data from a database. User interface data is retrieved and transmitted to the touch-based computing device. A user interface is displayed to the user in a format based on the user interface format data. The format of the user interface and the order of items displayed in the user interface are controlled by the user interface format data. Transaction data from the user is stored in a database and the transaction data may also be used to improve how the data is displayed for future visits. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120030003 | POINT OF SALE VIRTUAL CUSTOMER SESSION - A terminal and methods are presented for displaying customer information about a transaction occurring on a point of sale terminal on a customer's portable computing device. Creating a virtual session on the portable computing device permits additional information to be presented to the customer. The invention allows the virtual session to be started and ended without the need for assistance by an operator for the point of sale terminal. | 02-02-2012 |
| 20120007304 | MEDIA DEPOSITORY - A bunch sheet depository is described. The depository comprises: a pressure plate for pressing on a bunch of sheets; a picker aligned with the pressure plate and arranged to remove sheets individually from the bunch of sheets; a link arm including (i) a pivot, (ii) an urging portion coupled to the pressure plate and (iii) a resilient member; and an actuator coupled to the resilient member. The actuator is operable, when actuated, to move the resilient member to rotate the link arm about the pivot and thereby cause compression of the bunch of sheets by the pressure plate using a force from the resilient member that reduces as the resilient member relaxes in response to the pressure plate moving as sheets are removed from the bunch of sheets. | 01-12-2012 |
| 20120000978 | SELF-SERVICE CHECKOUT PAY STATION LOCATED REMOTE FROM A PRODUCE WEIGHING SCALE AND METHODS OF OPERATING SUCH A SELF-SERVICE CHECKOUT PAY STATION - A self-service checkout pay station is located at a store exit section of a retail grocery store and is located remote from a produce weighing scale located in a produce section of the retail grocery store. The self-service checkout pay station comprises a communications circuit arranged to (i) communicate with a communications circuit associated with the produce weighing scale, and (ii) communicate with a communications circuit associated with a barcode gun server which is located remote from the produce weighing scale. The self-service checkout pay station further comprises an electronic processor arranged to (i) receive from the barcode gun server a barcode list in response to receiving an end of transaction signal, (ii) recognize from the barcode list at least one barcode chit which is associated with a produce item, (iii) request produce item information from the produce weighing scale based upon at least some barcode information obtained from the at least one barcode chit, and (iv) receive from the produce weighing scale an image of the produce item which was previously captured at the produce weighing scale when a retail customer placed the produce item on the produce weighing scale. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20120000976 | PRODUCE WEIGHING SCALE WITH A CAMERA AND METHODS OF OPERATING A PRODUCE WEIGHING SCALE HAVING A CAMERA - A produce weighing scale is provided for a retail grocery store. The produce weighing scale comprises a base, a weighing platform disposed on the base, and a touchscreen arranged to enable a retail customer to enter produce data associated with a produce item and to view display screens which contains instructions to operate the produce weighing scale. An actuatable camera is positioned over the weighing platform and is provided for, when actuated, capturing at least a partial image of a produce item which has been placed on the weighing platform. Electronic control circuitry is arranged to (i) provide an actuation signal to actuate the camera in response to a retail customer placing a produce item on the weighing platform, and (ii) display a barcode chit on the touchscreen to allow a retail customer to self-scan the displayed barcode chit without having to print the barcode chit. | 01-05-2012 |
| 20110313914 | ADJUSTABLE MOUNTING APPARATUS FOR A PERIPHERAL DEVICE OF A SELF-SERVICE RETAIL ITEM CHECKOUT STATION - A self-service retail item checkout station comprises a peripheral device for interacting with a customer while the customer is conducting a self-service retail item checkout transaction at the station. The self-service retail item checkout station further comprises a non-swiveling mounting mechanism including (i) a slidable mounting portion on which the peripheral device is mounted, and (ii) a fixed mounting portion on which the slidable mounting portion is supported for sliding movement between a retracted position in which a customer in a standing position at the station can more easily interact with the peripheral device an extended position in which a customer in a seated position at the station can more easily interact with the peripheral device. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110309142 | PAYMENT CARD READER APPARATUS AND METHOD OF OPERATING A PAYMENT CARD READER APPARATUS - A payment card reader apparatus is provided for enabling a retail customer purchasing goods or services from a retail establishment to make payment for purchased goods or services. A housing enclosure has a front panel which faces toward the retail customer and an interior chamber located behind the front panel. A payment card reader portion is disposed in the interior chamber and is provided for receiving a payment card from the retail customer. A customer input pad portion is disposed in the interior chamber and is provided for (i) receiving input data from the retail customer after the payment card reader portion has received a payment card from the retail customer, and (ii) providing a trigger signal in response to receiving input data from the retail customer. An actuatable camera portion is disposed in the interior chamber and is provided for, when actuated in response to the trigger signal, capturing an image of the retail customer while the retail customer is providing input data to the customer input pad portion. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110308917 | Methods and Apparatus for Germicidal Irradiation of Checkout System Surfaces - A germicidal irradiation approach to killing germs on conveyors and other check out surfaces in stores, such as grocery stores, which sell articles such as food items where possible contamination from leaks and the like is a concern. An adaptable, portable ultraviolet light apparatus is provided to irradiate surfaces such as conveyor belts. | 12-22-2011 |
| 20110307375 | VEHICLE RENTAL TRANSACTION SYSTEM AND METHOD - A vehicle rental transaction system and method which provide a vehicle lot owner with a choice of options for vehicle security and customer convenience. The vehicle rental transaction system includes a computer for identifying a customer as part of a rental transaction involving a vehicle, and for sending a wireless message to the vehicle containing instructions for preparing the vehicle for the customer. Example instructions include, but are not limited to, unlocking doors and a trunk of the vehicle, adjusting power seats and power mirrors in accordance with customer preferences, adjusting climate control settings in accordance with the customer preferences, adjusting radio station settings in accordance with the customer preferences, and adjusting GPS settings in accordance with the customer preferences. | 12-15-2011 |
| 20110296355 | Techniques for self adjusting kiosk display information - Techniques for self adjusting kiosk display information are provided. Presentation information is centered within a display of the kiosk. A center location for the presentation information is custom recalibrated within the display based on direction of a user. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110295704 | Techniques for assisted self checkout - Techniques for assisted self checkout are provided. Customers or store personnel use scan devices that are independent of a self-checkout kiosk as they shop in a store to scan goods that are to be purchased. The transactions are independent of any particular checkout terminal. When the customer is ready to checkout, the customer approaches a checkout station and the transaction for the customer is located and recalled. The customer completes payment at the station to end the transaction and exit the store. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110292152 | Dual-sided thermal print folding - Dual-sided thermal print folding techniques are presented. A dual-sided thermal printer includes a folding mechanism to custom fold a substrate. The substrate is imaged on both sides by the dual-sided thermal printer as it passes through the dual-sided thermal printer and is custom folded by the folding mechanism of the dual-sided thermal printer. | 12-01-2011 |
| 20110288997 | SELF-SERVICE TERMINAL - A method of executing a transaction for a user at a self-service terminal is described. The method comprises: (a) sensing a stroke gesture delineated by the user on a touch-sensitive panel; (b) recognizing the delineated stroke gesture; and (c) matching the delineated stroke gesture to one of a plurality of defined transaction strokes, each defined transaction stroke being associated with a specific transaction. The method further comprises (d) executing the specific transaction associated with the matched transaction stroke. | 11-24-2011 |
| 20110243632 | Media position sensing - Media positioning sensing techniques are presented. A position on a substrate is detected based on adhesive or characteristics that enhance an adhesive applied to the substrate. | 10-06-2011 |
| 20110205326 | LINERLESS LABELS - Linerless labels are presented. A label includes a specific pattern or set of patterns of adhesive applied to one side of the label. The adhesive pattern(s) reduces contact between a cutter blade of a printer and the adhesive on the one side of the label. Moreover, the adhesive patterns reduce buildup of adhesive on the cutter blade and reduce buildup at specific locations on the cutter blade. That is, the adhesive patterns more evenly distribute adhesive buildup across the cutter blade. Consequently, the cutter blade can be used for a longer period of time before the cutter blade needs to be cleaned of the adhesive. | 08-25-2011 |
| 20110161184 | Weight detection for cashier checkout terminals - Weight detection mechanisms for cashier checkout terminal are provided. When a transaction by a customer concludes at a cashier checkout terminal, a check is made to determine if a product was left behind on a baggage unit associated with the cashier checkout terminal. When excess weight is detected on the baggage unit at the conclusion of the transaction, one or more alerts are generated to raise awareness with the customer that the product has not been retrieved by the customer from the baggage unit. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110158126 | High speed wireless infrastructure - High speed wireless infrastructures and techniques are provided. Wireless radios are situated within an enterprise, each radio positioned at the end of the wireless frequency range for that of a neighboring radio. Each radio wireless transmits using direction steerable antennas at 60 Gigahertz. At lease one radio is interfaced to a back-end enterprise information server. Each radio capable of interfacing to a consumer's wireless device within the enterprise when that wireless device is within range of the directional steerable antennas. The wireless radios and the back-end information server combine to form a high speed wireless communication network within the enterprise. | 06-30-2011 |
| 20110154499 | Methods and Apparatus for Selecting and Delivering Content - Systems and techniques for selecting and delivering entertainment content. User preference information for entertainment content to accompany user activities is collected and associated with a user. Upon indication by a user of a desire to receive content and designation of an activity to be accompanied by the content, content items are selected and assembled into a package so that the content items may be played in sequence using a user device. The content items comprising the package are delivered to the user device. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110152076 | One-ply two-sided thermal imaging labels - A print media representing a label is constructed having two components. A first component is capable of being thermally imaged on both a front and back side of the print media. The second component is affixed to the first component but capable of being separated there from. Also, the second component includes adhesive material along a portion of its backside to adhere the print media to an object. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110151964 | Methods and Apparatus for Managing Stored Cash Value for Use in Gaming Transactions - Systems and techniques for managing stored cash value in gaming operations. A server stores patron account information relating to a stored cash value account, with the stored cash value account information being usable for gaming transactions using a gaming machine belonging to a gaming machine network and communicating with the server. The server communicates with a stored cash value transaction machine allowing the patron to deposit currency for credit to the stored cash value account and to make redemptions from the account. The account may be associated with a token that can be presented at gaming machines for play and at the stored cash value transaction machine for deposits and redemptions. In addition, a loyalty account may also be associated with the token, so that presentation of the token allows for identification of the loyalty account for credit based on play and for reward redemption. | 06-23-2011 |
| 20110138486 | Methods and Apparatus for Secure Distribution of Protected Content - Systems and techniques for protection and delivery of content. Upon initiation of a user account for use in conducting transactions involving delivery of content to a user, digital rights management (DRM) information is created and stored in association with user information. A copy of the DRM information is provided to or made accessible to the user in such a way that the DRM information can made accessible to a suitable playback device to allow playing of content protected with the DRM information. When a user enters into a transaction to receive content, the DRM information associated with the user is used to protect the content before delivery to the user. When the user wishes to play the content, the removable media device storing the user's DRM information must be present in order to allow playing of the content. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110134202 | THERMAL PRINTER AND PRINTING DEVICE - According to an aspect of the present invention, a thermal printer includes a housing in which a space is formed, printing means disposed in the housing, a cover disposed in the housing and which comes into contact with and separates from the housing when rotated, thereby opening and closing the space, urging means for urging the cover in a direction away from the housing, an engaging part which is disposed in the housing and which prevents the movement of the cover in a direction away from the housing when engaged with the cover, a pressed part which is disposed rotatably in the cover and which moves the engaging part when pressed, thereby releasing engagement between the cover and the engaging part, and elastic means arranged to urge the pressed part in a direction away from the engaging part. | 06-09-2011 |
| 20110131660 | Methods and Apparatus for Transfer of Content to a Self Contained Wireless Media Device - Systems and techniques for transferring data to a storage device. A storage device includes storage, a processor, and a wireless transceiver, as well as a connector allowing the storage device to operate according to an appropriate standard when connected to a playback or data device. The storage device can communicate with a data transfer station to wirelessly receive data from the station. A user may select data to be transferred to a removable media device, and the station transfers the data over a wireless connection. The removable media device stores the data in memory as it is received. Once the data has been received, the data can be played or otherwise used in any playback or data device to which the storage device may be connected for use as a memory device. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110131591 | Methods and Apparatus for Dispensing Recorded Content - Systems and techniques for self service delivery of content stored on removable media. A self service terminal stores a plurality of titles in a repository, and copies of titles are stored to removable media devices maintained in the self service terminal. In response to a user selection of an available title made during a transaction, a removable media device storing a copy of the selected title is delivered to the user. Anticipated demand is estimated and titles are stored to removable devices as needed to maintain an inventory to meet the estimated demand, including overwriting existing titles already stored on removable media, and overwriting returned media as needed. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110131087 | Techniques for generating a product path with custom advertisements - Techniques for generating a product path with custom advertisements are provided. A kiosk interacts with a consumer to acquire a product or service search within a facility. The kiosk generates a path to the product or service starting from the kiosk and ending at a location with the facility where the product or service can be found. Additionally, custom advertisements are interspersed throughout the path for other goods and services available at the facility. The kiosk then delivers the path with the custom advertisements to the customer for locating the product or service. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110130635 | Medical self-service - Techniques for medical self-service are provided. A kiosk interacts with a patient to establish a patient identity, acquire medical records for the patient, and acquire one or more medical vital readings for the patient. The kiosk then packages the information in a summary that is electronically provided to medical personnel before a patient is addressed by the medical personnel at a medical facility. | 06-02-2011 |
| 20110106708 | Techniques for temporary access to enterprise networks - Techniques for temporary access to enterprise networks are provided. Devices of customers are detected and authenticated for temporary enterprise network access to a facility of an enterprise when the customers are in a configurable geographic distance to that facility. Temporary access credentials for accessing select resources of the facility or enterprise network are pushed to the processing device upon successful authentication. When one or more terminating actions are detected, the temporary access credentials are revoked and access to the enterprise network ceases. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110102485 | Multipurpose printer - A multipurpose printer and techniques for operating the printer are presented. A printer includes first and second print elements. During a first mode of operation for the printer, both the first and second print elements are configured to image both first and second sides of print media passing through the printer. During a second mode of operation, the first print element is prevented from interfacing with at least portions of the first side of the media that include adhesive materials affixed thereto. | 05-05-2011 |
| 20110099104 | Methods and Apparatus for Stored Value Token Creation - Systems and techniques for managing creation, delivery, and redemption of stored value tokens such as gift cards and electronic gift cards. An interface presented to a donor at a terminal allows the donor to specify details of a token, including token value and whether the token is to be associated with a particular retailer or group of retailers. The donor is also able to specify restrictions on the use of the token. For example, the donor may prohibit the purchase of particular categories of products or may specify categories of products authorized for purchase and the amount that may be spent for each category. The donor is also able to specify particular products to be purchased. A token definition is stored and a token associated with the definition is delivered to a recipient. When the recipient presents the token for redemption, the token is redeemed according to the definition. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110099044 | Methods and Apparatus for Promotional Display of Images of Products Presented for Entry Into Purchase Transactions - Systems and techniques for managing promotional displays, including images of products being presented for entry into transactions. As each product is presented, an analysis is performed of promotional information relating to the product to determine the eligibility of the product for promotional display and to determine parameters governing such a promotional display. Promotional displays of one or more products are presented based on the results of the analysis. | 04-28-2011 |
| 20110078033 | Methods and Apparatus for Produce Identification - Systems and techniques for produce identification for transaction processing. A produce item to be entered into a transaction is identified using time resolved reflectance spectroscopy. A produce item is injected with laser light over a selected range of wavelengths, and light emitted from the produce item is detected and measured over time. The measurement is processed to generate absorption and scattering spectra for the produce item. The absorption and scattering spectra are compared against those of known produce items, and upon determination that an acceptable match has been achieved, a transaction record is updated with information relating to the produce item. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110077856 | Methods and Apparatus for Travel Information - Systems and techniques for providing travel information. An information terminal offers a user an opportunity to select to receive travel information. Upon such a selection by the user, selections and information are received from the user to indicate the user's needs. The selections and information may take the form of explicit selections and entries, or submission of an identifier associated with a use record indicating user needs. Information submitted by the user is examined and appropriate travel directions, local area information, and information relating to the destination or points along the route are furnished to the user. If desired, a user record may be updated with information related to the current transaction. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110073656 | Methods and Apparatus for Imaging Bar Code Scanning - Improved systems and techniques for imaging bar code processing. One or more cameras are deployed in a bar code scanner, oriented so that an imaging device of each camera is oriented such that rows of data elements in the imaging device are oriented nonorthogonally with respect to a preferred orientation of a bar code. One or more imaging devices captures bar code data representing light and dark spaces of the bar code. The captured bar code data is analyzed to create one or more rows of data completely transecting the bar code, and the rows of data are processed to generate a scan signal which is in turn processed to extract bar code data. | 03-31-2011 |
| 20110071912 | Methods and Apparatus for Visually Assisted Fast Food Order Preparation - Systems and techniques for providing feedback to improve accuracy of order assembly. Images corresponding to items comprising an order transaction are presented in a display. As items are moved to an order assembly area, each item is detected and an image corresponding to the item is removed from the display. If an incorrect item is detected, an error message identifying the incorrect item is displayed. Once all items comprising the order have been detected, a completion message is displayed. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110068169 | SELF-SERVICE TERMINAL - A self-service terminal for reading wireless tags incorporated into media items is described. The terminal comprises a media acceptor for receiving media items, such as banknotes incorporating an RFID tag, and a wireless tag reader for reading received media items incorporating wireless tags. The terminal may also include a wireless tag reader for reading wireless tags in media items that are being transported to determine if multiple superimposed media items are present. The terminal may include a wireless tag reader for reading wireless tags in media items presented as a bunch, and subsequently retracted, to determine if any of the presented media items had been removed. | 03-24-2011 |
| 20110010271 | Methods and Apparatus for Self Service Transactions From Multiple Vendors - Systems and techniques for managing orders from one or more of a plurality of vendors. A self service terminal includes a display presenting order icons that may be moved to an open area for initiation of an order, and a plurality of vendor icons representing different vendors. Initiating an order opens a transaction record for the order, and moving a vendor icon to an order icon opens a selection menu allowing selections from the vendor represented by the icon. The transaction record is continuously updated as selections are made. Upon a user selection to complete the order, a payment interface is presented allowing for payment. Upon payment, an order identifier is created and displayed, together with instructions for collecting or receiving the order, and order information is transmitted to each vendor contributing to the order, in association with the order identifier. | 01-13-2011 |
| 20110000963 | Methods and Apparatus for Product Price Verification and Information Display - Systems and techniques for automated customer display of product information. A price verification and product information station broadcasts a radiofrequency identification (RFID) interrogation signal and receives an RFID return message from an RFID tag affixed to a product in the immediate vicinity of the station. The station relays the return message to a server, which generates information responsive to the return message, for example, by decoding the RFID return message to extract product information included in the RFID return message. The server organizes and formats the product information extracted from the return message, and the retrieved information, and transmits it to the station, which displays the information. | 01-06-2011 |
| 20100325001 | SYSTEM AND KIOSK FOR COMMERCE OF OPTICAL MEDIA THROUGH MULTIPLE LOCATIONS - A kiosk dispenses and receives recorded optical media using an interconnected central server, through an Internet Service Provider. The central server has databases and processing capabilities and is connected to a credit verification system. The databases collect inventory administration information and customer data (e.g., credit card information and email addresses) from the kiosks. The central server initiates credit verification, sends receipts to customers via email and maintains databases for remote inventory-control and administration of the kiosk network. A kiosk may identify a recorded disk for automated restocking and perform quality assessment of a recorded disk. The kiosk may provide publishing-on-demand or act as a portal for remotely served advertisements. The kiosk preferably includes a rotatable carousel with a selection of DVDs. A digital camera captures a digital image of a disk barcode and internal software rotates the image to “read” the barcode, to control inventory and access issues. | 12-23-2010 |
| 20100253716 | DIRECT THERMAL AND INKJET DUAL-SIDED PRINTING - In one embodiment there is provided a dual-sided printer including a direct thermal print head positioned proximate to a first platen and an inkjet print head positioned proximate to a second platen. The direct thermal print head is in a substantially opposed relation to the second platen and the inkjet print head is in a substantially opposed relation to the first platen to facilitate thermal printing on a first side of installed media and inkjet printing on a second side of the installed media. | 10-07-2010 |
| 20100162144 | Methods and Apparatus for User Interface Management in Point of Sale Applications - Systems and techniques for managing implementation of user interfaces and related elements of a point of sale application. A stencil is created to define aspects of a user interface to be used with on or more point of sale applications. A user interface defined by the stencil is integrated with a point of sale application model, with integration including establishing bindings between elements defined by the stencil and corresponding elements of the application and importing appropriate specific elements defined by the model to more generalized elements defined by the stencil. An integrated point of sale configuration is loaded to one or more point of sale stations for use in point of sale operations. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100162091 | Methods and Apparatus for Internet Browsing and Searching Employing Geographic Location Information - Systems and techniques for managing Internet navigation and browsing results and other information using a visual geographic interface. A user interface including a map display is presented, along with interface elements for searching, browsing, and otherwise retrieving information. Results lists are compiled based on user inputs and geographic information is associated with each item in the results list. The items in the results list are presented to the user in a map display, with facilities for changing the organization and presentation of results according to user inputs including graphical inputs defining geographic areas of interest. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100162030 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR INITIATING CORRECTIVE ACTION FOR AN ELECTRONIC TERMINAL - A method and device are provided for initiating corrective actions for a terminal, such as an ATM. A method of initiating corrective actions for a terminal comprises, monitoring a fault status of a first component, detecting a fault status of the first component with a first trigger plug-in, activating a first action plug-in based upon the detected fault status of the first component, and recycling the first component. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100161343 | METHOD AND SYSTEM OF OBTAINING DIAGNOSTIC DATA FROM A DEVICE AT A REMOTE LOCATION - A system and method of obtaining diagnostic data from a device at a remote location in one embodiment includes establishing a communications link between a service location and a customer location remote from the service location, transmitting first diagnostic data from a device at the customer location over the communications link, receiving the first diagnostic data at the service location, generating an action request at the service location in response to the received first diagnostic data, transmitting the action request to the customer location, receiving the action request at the customer location, authorizing the received action request, obtaining second diagnostic data associated with the action request from the device, and transmitting the second diagnostic data to the service location. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100160032 | Methods and Apparatus for Self Service Dispensing and Redemption of Gaming Chips - Systems and techniques for self service transaction processing for gaming chips using radiofrequency (RFID) verification and authentication. A self service terminal receives inputs and selections from a patron purchasing gaming chips and dispenses chips conforming to the patron's purchase request. As chips are being dispensed, RFID information is read from each chip and compared against centrally stored information for the chip to confirm the validity, identity, and value of the chip. The terminal also receives deposits of chips for redemption and reads RFID information from each chip submitted for redemption, comparing the information read from the chip against centrally stored information before accepting the chip for redemption. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100155484 | Methods and Apparatus for Providing a Changing Field of View in Image Based Bar Code Scanning - Systems and techniques for image based bar code scanning. A rotating spinner is positioned to reflect images to an imaging device within the scanner so that a field of view of the scanner encompasses images reflected by the spinner to the imaging device. The rotation of the spinner causes the field of view of the scanner to change. Fixed mirrors positioned and oriented to reflect images to the spinner and from the spinner to the imaging device further shift the field of view of the scanner as the rotating spinner causes images reflected from different mirrors to be delivered to the imaging device. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100155482 | Methods and Apparatus for Increased Range of Focus in Image Based Bar Code Scanning - Systems and techniques for improved focal range for image based bar code scanning. An image based bar code scanner includes an imaging device comprising a lens array of one or more fixed focus lenses, and an imaging element. The lens array and the imaging element are disposed so that an image, or image elements, of a bar code moving before the lens array is focused at different distances on different portions of the imaging element. Focused images or image elements are identified and captured, and these captured images are processed to extract bar code information. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100155476 | Methods and Apparatus for Automated Product Identification in Point of Sale Applications - Systems and techniques for product identification using terahertz radiation detection. An area of interest is illuminated with radiation in the terahertz frequency range and terahertz radiation reflected from objects within the area of interest is detected and a detector signal based on the detected radiation is processed to generate identifying information for the objects. The generated identifying information may be compared against stored identifying information for products and the result of the comparison is used to select a product or group of products for which the comparison produces a match. Processing of the detector signal may generate a spectral signature characteristic of reflective and absorptive properties of an object under illumination, and the spectral signature may be compared with stored spectral signature information for products. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100155471 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR AUTOMATED ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM - An automated access control system and method in one embodiment includes a storage rack comprising a plurality of storage compartments, a user port, a memory including program instructions for placing a key within one of the plurality of storage compartments, associating the key with the one of the plurality of storage compartments, identifying a user, associating the user and the stored key, removing the stored key from the one of the plurality of storage compartments, and making the removed key accessible to the user at the user port, and a processor operably connected to the memory for executing the program instructions. | 06-24-2010 |
| 20100085410 | Printer with adhesive capabilities - A printer with adhesive capabilities is presented. A printer includes one or more printing elements to image one or two sides of print media. The printer also includes an adhesive element to apply or activate adhesive material on at least one of the two sides of the print media. | 04-08-2010 |
| 20100078903 | SHOPPING CART WITH A SELF-CHARGING SYSTEM - A shopping cart is equipped with an electrical/electronic component(s), such as a shopping assistant, that is electrically powered by a rechargeable power supply. A system is provided for continuously recharging the power supply as the shopping cart is propelled by the customer. In one embodiment, the wheels of the shopping cart are linked to a potential energy storage component, such as a coil spring. The spring is wound with each movement of the shopping cart, regardless of the distance that the cart travels. When the coil spring has been wound to a pre-determined torque, the spring is released to drive an input to an electrical generator. Once the potential energy in the spring has been dissipated the winding cycle begins again. | 04-01-2010 |
| 20100052857 | Methods and Apparatus for Distance Determination for Radiofrequency Identification Devices - Systems and techniques for reading radio frequency identification (RFID) tags and determining the distance between a reader and a tag being read. A plurality of interrogation signals are transmitted to an RFID tag, with signals at a first frequency being transmitted at a plurality of antenna polarizations and signals at a second frequency being transmitted at a plurality of antenna polarizations. The antenna polarizations are chosen such that return signals resulting from the signals and traveling along reflective paths will sum to zero. Return signals received from the tag are averaged, and phase shift information exhibited by the return signals is determined. The phase shift information for the return signals and frequency information for the interrogation signals is used to compute the distance between the reader and the tag. | 03-04-2010 |
| 20090284576 | PRINTER - A printer comprising a main unit, a cover, a first print head provided in the cover, a second print head provided in the main unit, and a hinge mechanism. The cover can rotate around the hinge mechanism, between a first state and a second state in which the cover is opened and closed, respectively, with respect to the main unit. The first print head and the second print head can rotate along the locus of the cover. | 11-19-2009 |
| 20090268007 | PRINTER - A printer comprising a main unit, a cover, a first print head provided in the cover, a second print head provided in the main unit, and a hinge mechanism. The cover can rotate around the hinge mechanism, between a first state and a second state in which the cover is opened and closed, respectively, with respect to the main unit. The first print head and the second print head can rotate along the locus of the cover. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090268005 | PRINTER - A printer comprising a main unit, a cover, a first print head provided in the cover, a second print head provided in the main unit, and a hinge mechanism. The cover can rotate around the hinge mechanism, between a first state and a second state in which the cover is opened and closed, respectively, with respect to the main unit. The first print head and the second print head can rotate along the locus of the cover. | 10-29-2009 |
| 20090231300 | Methods and apparatus for improved electrical connection for touch screen display devices - Systems and techniques for providing an electrical connection for a touch screen display sensor. A substrate is fabricated with vias passing through the substrate, and a suitably thin film conductive coating applied to a touch area. Traces, suitably thick film silver frit traces, are placed on the substrate, with a trace extending from a corner of the touch area to a respective via, and including an annular ring around an opening of the via. A conductive pin is secured in each via, with each pin being soldered to the annular ring surrounding the opening of the via in which the pin is secured. The touch screen sensor is then suitably laminated with a protective covering, mounted in a frame, and mounted in a display device in such a way that the pins make contact with a connector of the display device. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090230194 | Connector placement and routing for optical barcode scanner - A bar code scanner is configured for placement in a retail checkout counter. The barcode scanner includes a box-shaped scanner housing to be received by the checkout counter. The box-shaped scanner housing includes a front portion and a rear portion with a recess formed in the rear portion. The recess includes two opposing walls oriented substantially perpendicular to the scanner window plane. A first socket is positioned in a first of the two opposing walls of the recess. A second socket is positioned in a second of the two opposing walls of the recess. The first socket is oriented to receive a first connector in a direction that is different from a direction perpendicular to the window plane. The second socket is oriented to receive a second connector in a direction that is opposite the first direction. | 09-17-2009 |
| 20090182638 | Self-guiding interface for customer service machines - A customer service machine, such as a self check-out terminal, includes a visual indicator and a proximity sensor associated with certain functional components or stations of the terminal, such as itemization, bagging and payment stations. The visual indicator is configured to provide a visual signal to either encourage or deter customer activity at the particular station, depending upon whether any activity is required to further a transaction being conducted at the terminal. The proximity sensor at each station determines whether the customer is about to take action at that station. A controller determines whether the action is appropriate, and if not activates the visual indicator to deter such action, or if so activates the visual indicator to encourage such action. In one embodiment, the visual indicator includes a red light that is illuminated to deter action and a green light that is activated to encourage action. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090182499 | Method and apparatus for augmented reality shopping assistant - An augmented reality shopping system in one embodiment includes a store communication network, a memory including program instructions for receiving a product location request, associating the received request with product information stored in a product database, determining the location of the product within the store, receiving shopper location information, determining a route between the determined location of the product and the shopper location based upon the shopper location information, generating route rendering data based upon the determined route, and transmitting the route rendering data through the store communication network. The system further includes a processor operably connected to the store communication network and to the memory for executing the program instructions and a mobile display device operably connected to the processor through the store communication network for rendering an overlay image using the transmitted route rendering data. | 07-16-2009 |
| 20090169282 | HEAT-ACTIVATED LINERLESS LABEL - A heat-activated linerless label comprises a heat-activated adhesive coating. Portions of the heat-activated adhesive coating are selectively activated by a thermal printer. | 07-02-2009 |
| 20090160975 | Methods and Apparatus for Improved Image Processing to Provide Retroactive Image Focusing and Improved Depth of Field in Retail Imaging Systems - Systems and techniques for image capture and management in a retail environment. One or more retail cameras are directed so as to capture digital images. Each camera is configured so as to provide image information that can be used in a retroactive focusing process. Captured images are retroactively focused to provide sharp images of objects of interest, and the objects of interest are used in appropriate retail applications, such as site security, transaction security, and inventory control. | 06-25-2009 |
| 20090152345 | Methods and Apparatus for Automated Order Delivery in Customer Service Applications - Systems and techniques for automated partial order delivery. After a customer has entered a self service order and presented payment, the customer is able to present a receipt at an automated dispensing station. An automated dispensing mechanism retrieves order information associated with the receipt and allows dispensing of products, such as drink cups at a fast food restaurant, whose purchase is reflected in the order. Upon release of all the authorized products, authorization for dispensing of products is revoked. If a predetermined time passes after the last release, authorization is temporarily revoked, renewable upon subsequent presentation of the receipt, if products that have not yet been dispensed are reflected in the order. | 06-18-2009 |
| 20090108067 | Methods and Apparatus for Managing Bar Code Scanner Configuration and Data - Systems and techniques for bar code scanner management and communication. A bar code scanner is equipped to support the use of universal serial bus (USB) devices as clients. The scanner controls and communicates with external devices. For example, a removable storage device, such as a universal serial bus (USB) drive is loaded with instructions to be recognized and executed by the scanner upon connection of the storage device to a scanner USB port. The instructions may be prepared at a workstation presenting applications for constructing elements for performing various operations, such as updating configuration settings, upgrading scanner firmware, diagnostics, and data collection. A set of instructions, which may take the form of a disk image, for performing specified operations is prepared and transferred to the removable device, or created directly on the device. Upon connection of the device to a scanner, the scanner reads and executes the instructions. | 04-30-2009 |
| 20090094140 | Methods and Apparatus for Inventory and Price Information Management - Systems and techniques for managing product inventory and pricing and product information. A moving camera platform is directed to desired locations in an environment to capture visual information relating to shelf labels affixed to shelves in the environment and visual information relating to products on the shelves. Image recognition is performed on the visual information to extract information on the shelf labels. The information from the shelf labels is compared against corresponding stored information, and mismatches between the shelf label information and the stored information are noted. Image recognition is also performed on the visual information to extract inventory information of the products. The inventory information is also compared against corresponding stored information, and mismatches between the inventory information and the stored information are also noted. | 04-09-2009 |
| 20090039166 | Methods and Apparatus for Positioning Objects for Scanning By a Hybrid Laser and Imaging Scanner - Systems and techniques for assuring proper presentation of a bar code for imaging scanning in a hybrid laser and imaging bar code scanner A scanner includes elements for laser bar code scanning and imaging bar code scanning, and includes indicia for assuring proper presentation by a user of a bar code suited to imaging scanning. Indicia may include targeting features on a scan window, designed so as to minimize interference with bar code scanning, or may alternatively include features alongside a scan window. Alternative indicia may include removable holders for securing an object bearing a bar code in an appropriate position, and further alternative indicia may include visible targeting beams so that a user can be assured that imaging scanning may be satisfactorily performed on bar code placed in a visible targeting beam. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090039165 | Methods and Apparatus for a Bar Code Scanner Providing Video Surveillance - Systems and techniques for monitoring checkout transactions using video supplied by a camera integrated into a scanner used at a checkout station. The provides a view of an area of interest, and video is supplied to one or more remote locations, such as a security station or a product identification assistance station. An employee at a security station monitors a video stream transmitted to the station. When a product is entered into a transaction, a still frame of the video stream may be transmitted, suitably integrated with retrieved product information associated with the product. The employee may issue an alert on detecting an anomaly. An employee at an assistance station may be signaled by a user as needed, and may view video supplied to the assistance station to identify a product. The product identification may be supplied to the user, who may then make a transaction entry. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20090039164 | Methods and Apparatus for Image Recognition in Checkout Verification - Systems and techniques for automated checkout verification. Product identification information is received and used as an index to retrieve a set of images associated with the identified product. The images may provide multiple views of the product. As the product is presented for purchase, an image of the product is captured and compared with the set of retrieved images. If it is determined that the captured image does not match the set of retrieved images, a security alert is issued. | 02-12-2009 |
| 20080319903 | System and method for interacting with a self-service terminal - Systems and methods for processing custom structured tags at a self-service terminal are disclosed. Custom structured tags received by a self-service terminal can include information to identify one or more devices attached to the terminal and identify one or more types of data to be obtained from a user by use of the attached devices. In some embodiments, a browser can natively interpret the custom structured tags. The self-service terminal can also be configured to receive and decode structured tags identifying or more actions to be performed by the device, such as printing a transaction record or dispensing currency. | 12-25-2008 |
