Patent application number | Description | Published |
20080217876 | SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING A SCREEN - A display system and computer-readable medium are disclosed. The display system includes a base, a screen movably coupled to the base, and a control unit coupled to the screen. The control unit adjusts the screen to a position based on at least one condition. The at least one condition can be an attribute such as a height or an eye position. According to the system disclosed herein, the display system increases the convenience of a user by automatically adjusting the screen to an optimal position for the user. As a result, improved readability of the screen is achieved while simplifying the use of the display system. | 09-11-2008 |
20080295598 | SENSING A PAPER ROLL ULTRASONICALLY - A system for sensing paper on a paper roll includes an ultrasonic transducer positioned to be in contact with an outer surface of the paper roll; a transmitter circuit in communication with the ultrasonic transducer, the transmitter circuit providing a transmit signal to the ultrasonic transducer, the ultrasonic transducer generating an ultrasonic signal in response to the transmit signal; a receiver circuit in communication with the ultrasonic transducer, the receiver circuit providing a received signal indicative of an ultrasonic return echo from the paper roll, the ultrasonic return echo resulting from the ultrasonic signal interacting with the paper roll; and a processor circuit, in communication with the transmitter circuit and the receiver circuit, that determines an amount of paper remaining on the paper roll in response to the transmit signal and the receive signal, the processor providing an output signal when the amount of paper remaining falls below a threshold. | 12-04-2008 |
20090140850 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR SHOPPING CART SECURITY - A system for securing purchased items, includes: an enclosure for holding items selected by a user; a personal shopping system (PSS) further comprised of an input/output device, a scanner, software, and security features for securing the items selected by the user and placed in the enclosure; wherein the PSS is in electrical signal communication with a server; wherein the PSS is mechanically attached to the enclosure; wherein the user identifies themselves to the PSS; wherein the security features activate one of a series of visual indicators and alarms in response to various states and relationships between the enclosure, the items, and the user; and wherein the intensity, level, and duration of the series of visual indicators and alarms varies in response to the various states and relationships between the enclosure, the items, and the user. | 06-04-2009 |
20090323281 | CONTROLLING AN AIRFLOW PASSING INTO AN ELECTRONIC COMPONENT CABINET - Controlling an airflow passing into an electronic component cabinet includes passing an airflow into the electronic component cabinet through a first passage having a first filter, sensing a parameter of the airflow passing through the first passage, detecting a change in the parameter of the first airflow associated with a flow restriction at the first filter, and shifting a first flap from a first position allowing the airflow to pass unrestricted through the first passage, to a second position, wherein the first flap creates a flow restriction for the airflow passing though the first passage, and triggers an actuation mechanism based on the change in parameter of the first airflow. Controlling the airflow further includes opening a second flap that exposes a second passage having a second filter based on the triggering of the switch, and passing an airflow into the electronic component cabinet through the second passage. | 12-31-2009 |
20100311283 | LOCKING CONNECTOR FOR ENGAGING A USB RECEPTACLE - A locking connector for engaging a Universal Serial Bus (“USB”) receptacle, including: a connector housing having a locking cam opening on one side of the connector housing, the connector housing split along a longitudinal axis of the locking connector forming a connector housing gap on the same side of the connector housing as the locking cam opening; a locking cam surface positioned within the locking cam opening in contact with the connector housing; and a pivotable locking cam actuating lever connected to a top of the locking cam surface, the locking cam actuating lever having a locked position and an unlocked position, the locking cam surface in a rotated position expanding the connector housing when the cam actuating lever is in the locked position, the locking cam surface in a relaxed position with the connector housing not expanded when the cam actuating lever is in the unlocked position. | 12-09-2010 |
20130106575 | CONTROL OF WIRELESS IDENTIFICATION TAG ACTIVATION | 05-02-2013 |
20130106582 | COORDINATION OF TRANSMISSION OF DATA FROM WIRELESS IDENTIFICATION TAGS | 05-02-2013 |
20130106584 | IDENTIFIER SEQUENCING OF WIRELESS IDENTIFICATION TAGS | 05-02-2013 |
20130126611 | RFID SCANNING SYSTEM AND SHOPPING BAG WITH INTEGRATED RFID LOOP ANTENNA - A point of sale system includes a shopping bag having one or more RFID loop type antenna. One system includes a bag holder for securing the shopping bag while items are placed inside. Multiple bag holders may be incorporated on a carousel, which can be rotated to move an empty bag to a filling station at the checkout counter, and to move filled bags to an open area for retrieving the filled shopping bags. An RFID reader in communication with the bag holder uses one of the RFID loop antennas to read the RFID tags on the items placed in the bag. In a shopping bag having more than one RFID loop antenna, the RFID system controller may monitor the impedance of each RFID loop antenna and dynamically select one of the RFID loop antennas on the shopping bag as a function of the impedances. | 05-23-2013 |
20130147661 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR OPTICAL LANDMARK IDENTIFICATION FOR GPS ERROR CORRECTION - A system, method, and program product for determining an approximate position of a global positioning system (GPS) receiver of a global positioning receiver connected to a computer. The computer compares obtained image data of landmarks with a database of known landmarks to determine an approximate position of the GPS receiver at a specified time. The computer converts and transmits an error signal. | 06-13-2013 |
20130155595 | MULTI-MODE COMPUTING SYSTEMS FOR POINT OF SALE TRANSACTIONS - Multi-mode computing systems for point of sale transactions are disclosed. According to an aspect, a computing system includes a first housing and a processing device disposed in the first housing. A user interface and a first input/output interface is integrated with the first housing and in communication with the processing device. The first input/output interface is configured to receive power for delivery to the processing device. A second housing is configured to carry the first housing. An attachment mechanism is configured to selectively attach together the first housing and the second housing for carry of the first housing. A second input/output interface is configured to be communicatively coupled to the first input/output interface when the first housing and the second housing are attached. A power source is connected to the second input/output interface for delivery of power to the processing device via the first input/output interface. | 06-20-2013 |
20140268513 | DISPLAY SCREEN ASSEMBLY HAVING A SELECTIVELY ENGAGEABLE MOUNT ASSEMBLY - A display screen assembly is provided. The display screen defines a channel for allowing selective engagement of the display screen. A mount assembly is provided and includes a base for supporting the display screen assembly about a support surface, and a locking assembly that selectively engages the channel to thereby lock the mount assembly to the display screen. | 09-18-2014 |
20140324609 | MULTI-MODE COMPUTING SYSTEMS FOR POINT OF SALE TRANSACTIONS - Multi-mode computing systems for point of sale transactions are disclosed. According to an aspect, a computing system includes a first housing and a processing device disposed in the first housing. A user interface and a first input/output interface is integrated with the first housing and in communication with the processing device. The first input/output interface is configured to receive power for delivery to the processing device. A second housing is configured to carry the first housing. An attachment mechanism is configured to selectively attach together the first housing and the second housing for carry of the first housing. A second input/output interface is configured to be communicatively coupled to the first input/output interface when the first housing and the second housing are attached. A power source is connected to the second input/output interface for delivery of power to the processing device via the first input/output interface. | 10-30-2014 |
20150138720 | COMPUTING DEVICE DOCKING SYSTEMS - Computing device docking systems are disclosed. According to an aspect, a computing device docking system includes a docking station component having an opening defined within a surface. The system includes a pin including a body and an end having a member extending laterally from the body. The end of the pin is receivable within an opening of a computing device component for attaching the computing device component to the docking station. The pin is moveable within the opening between a first position and a second position. In the first position, at least a portion of the body and at least a portion of the member is positioned within the opening of the docking station component. In the second position, at least a portion of the body is within the opening and the member is outside of the opening of the docking station component. | 05-21-2015 |
20150145915 | PRINTERS AND PRINTER SYSTEMS FOR PRINTING IMAGES ON PAPER IN DIFFERENT CONFIGURATIONS AND FOR DISPENSING PRINTED PAPER IN DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS - Printers and printer systems for printing images on paper in different configurations and for dispensing printed paper in different directions are disclosed herein. According to an aspect, a printer includes a body defining openings. A printing unit is positioned within the body and can receive an instruction for printing an image. In a first print mode, the printing unit can print the image on the paper in a first configuration and dispense the paper in a first direction through one of the openings of the body. In the second print mode, the printing unit can print the image on the paper in a second configuration and dispense the paper in a second direction through another of the openings of the body. A sensing component can determine whether the printer is in the first print mode or the second print mode. | 05-28-2015 |
20150279535 | MAGNETIC LOCKING MECHANISMS, LINEAR MOVEMENTS GENERATORS, AND HOLDERS - Magnetic locking mechanisms, linear movement generators, and holders are disclosed. According to an aspect, a magnetic locking mechanism includes a first component defining a first recess. The magnetic locking mechanism also includes a second component defining a second recess. Further, the magnetic locking mechanism includes a third component being attached to a first magnet and capable of being positioned in a first position such that the third component is partially within the first and second recesses for holding the first and second components together in at least one direction. Further, the third component is capable of being positioned in a second position such that the third component is outside of the first recess. | 10-01-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20120290355 | Identification of Customer Behavioral Characteristic Data - Systems and methods for identifying one or more customer behavioral characteristics based on data received from one or more sources is provided. The system and method include receiving customer data from a first source which may include a current access parameter and a plurality of previous access parameters. A pattern may be identified in the current access parameter and previous access parameters. The system and method may include receiving customer data from a second data source different from the first data source. A second current access parameter and second plurality of previous parameters may be received and a pattern may be identified between the second current access parameter and the second previous parameters. The identified patterns may be compiled to identify one or more customer behavioral characteristics. | 11-15-2012 |
20120290398 | Content Distribution Utilizing Customer Behavioral Characteristic Data - Systems and methods for providing content to a user at an account accessing device is described A first user input may be received at a first account processing device. A type of channel between the user and the account accessing device, a temporal parameter associated with the first access, user used financial entity services associated with at least one account of the user and current allowable actions on the first account by the user may be determined. A second user input may be received indicating an action, of the current allowable actions, of the user at the first account accessing device. Content for output to the user upon another occurrence of the user accessing the first account accessing device may be determined. The content may be based upon at least one behavioral characteristic of the user and may be an offer for at least one user unused financial entity service. | 11-15-2012 |
20150032600 | COMMUNICATION NETWORK FOR COLLECTING DATA AND EXECUTING ELECTRONIC TRANSACTION SERVICES - In certain embodiments, a system for executing electronic transaction services comprises one or more processors operable to access first charge information associated with electronic transactions related to a plurality of nodes, access second charge information associated with electronic transactions related to a plurality of regulatory authorities, access a plurality of previously executed electronic transactions associated with a user, determine one or more transaction patterns based on the plurality of previously executed electronic transactions, determine a current cost associated with the one or more transaction patterns based at least in part on the first and second charge information, and determine, based at least in part on the first and second charge information, one or more proposed electronic transactions associated with a proposed cost less than the current cost. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032601 | COMMUNICATION NETWORK FOR COLLECTING DATA AND EXECUTING ELECTRONIC TRANSACTION SERVICES - In certain embodiments, a system for executing electronic transaction services comprises one or more interfaces operable to receive access credentials for a plurality of accounts associated with an entity, one or more processors communicatively coupled to at least one of the one or more interfaces, the one or more processors operable to access account data from the plurality of accounts, the one or more interfaces further operable to receive a service request from a user to execute a fund transfer involving a first of the plurality of accounts associated with the entity, the one or more processors further operable to determine one or more second of the plurality of accounts associated with the entity, and filter the one or more second of the plurality of accounts based on fund transfer limitations associated with the one or more second accounts to determine one or more proposed accounts. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032619 | COMMUNICATION NETWORK FOR COLLECTING DATA AND EXECUTING ELECTRONIC TRANSACTION SERVICES - In certain embodiments, a system for executing electronic transaction services comprises one or more interfaces operable to receive access credentials for a plurality of accounts held with a plurality of enterprises, wherein the plurality of accounts are associated with an entity and one or more processors communicatively coupled to at least one of the one or more interfaces, the one or more processors operable to access, account data from the plurality of accounts, monitor transactions in the plurality of accounts, determine one or more transaction patterns, determine one or more proposed transactions, wherein the one or more proposed transactions represent electronic transfers of funds involving one or more of the plurality of accounts, and determine one or more advantages to the entity associated with the one or more proposed transactions. | 01-29-2015 |
20150032620 | COMMUNICATION NETWORK FOR COLLECTING DATA AND EXECUTING ELECTRONIC TRANSACTION SERVICES - In certain embodiments, a system for executing electronic transaction services comprises one or more interfaces operable to receive service data related to a plurality of service requests, receive a first message identifying a user, an electronic transaction service, and a problem associated with the user and the electronic transaction service, communicate a second message to one or more service administrators identifying the user, the electronic transaction service, and the problem, receive, from at least one of the one or more service administrators, authorization credentials and a limit to the use of the electronic transaction service for the user, and one or more processors operable to determine whether the authorization credentials satisfy authorization criteria, and, if the authorization credentials satisfy the authorization criteria, apply the limit to a subsequent service request by the user. | 01-29-2015 |
20150363769 | Cryptocurrency Real-Time Conversion System - A system comprises a memory operable to store a set of conversion rules. The system also comprises a processor communicatively coupled to the memory. The processor is able to receive an electronic request for a cryptocurrency conversion requesting a conversion of a first currency into a second currency, wherein the second currency is a cryptocurrency. The processor is further able to retrieve price data associated with the first and second currencies and determine whether the conversion is optimal. In response to determining the conversion is optimal, the processor determines a plurality of exchange rates associated with converting the first currency into the second currency and determines an optimal exchange rate of the plurality of exchange rates. The processor is further able to initiate, essentially simultaneously as the determination that the conversion is optimal, converting the first currency into the second currency. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363772 | CRYPTOCURRENCY ONLINE VAULT STORAGE SYSTEM - A system may include a memory and processor. The processor may be configured to receive an electronic request to store a private key associated with a cryptocurrency. The processor may also be configured to generate a first vault key based at least in part upon the private key and generate a second vault key based at least in part upon the private key. The processor may also be able to facilitate the storage of the first vault key at a first data center and facilitate the storage of the second vault key at a second data center. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363773 | Cryptocurrency Aggregation System - A system includes a memory and a processor. The memory may store a customer account associated with a customer and an enterprise account associated with an enterprise. The processor may be communicatively coupled to the memory and may cause the system to receive a request to deposit a first amount of a cryptocurrency in the customer account from the customer. The processor may also cause the system to determine a public key associated with the customer account and receive the first amount of the cryptocurrency. The processor may further cause the system to determine a first value approximately equivalent to the first amount of cryptocurrency and associate the first value with the customer account. The processor is further able to aggregate the first amount of cryptocurrency with an aggregated amount of the cryptocurrency in the enterprise account and facilitate securing the public key in the enterprise account. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363777 | CRYPTOCURRENCY SUSPICIOUS USER ALERT SYSTEM - The system includes a memory and a processor. The memory may store user profiles of an enterprise. The processor may be communicatively coupled to the memory and may receive a request from a user to perform a cryptocurrency transaction with a third party. The processor may retrieve block chain information associated with the cryptocurrency transaction and determine whether one of the user profiles is associated with the user based on the retrieved block chain information and a stored cryptoidentifier associated with one of the user profiles. The processor may further determine whether one of the user profiles is associated with the third party based on the retrieved block chain information and at least one stored cryptoidentifier associated with one of the user profiles. The processor may determine whether the cryptocurrency transaction is suspicious based on the associated user profile and communicate an alert to the enterprise. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363778 | CRYPTOCURRENCY ELECTRONIC PAYMENT SYSTEM - A system includes a memory and a processor coupled to the memory. The processor may communicate with an electronic payment service, the electronic payment service providing a virtual account associated with the customer and determine that the customer initiated a request for a financial transaction, the financial transaction configured to transfer an amount of currency from the virtual account to a destination. The processor is also able to validate the financial transaction based at least upon data received from the electronic payment service and determine the customer account is associated with the virtual account based at least upon data received from the electronic payment service. The processor also may determine a quantity of cryptocurrency equivalent to the amount of currency (the quantity of cryptocurrency associated with the customer account) and transfer the quantity of cryptocurrency to the electronic payment service. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363782 | CRYPTOCURRENCY TRANSACTION VALIDATION SYSTEM - The system includes a memory and a processor. The memory may store a customer profile associated with a customer. The processor may be communicatively coupled to the memory and may receive a request from the customer to perform a cryptocurrency transaction with a third party. The processor may calculate a risk score for the cryptocurrency transaction and determine a number of required validations to confirm the cryptocurrency transaction based at least in part upon the risk score. The processor may further receive a number of validations from a plurality of miners and compare the number of received validations to the number of required validations. The processor is further able to determine whether the number of received validations complies with the number of required validations. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363783 | CRYPTOCURRENCY RISK DETECTION SYSTEM - The system includes a processor operable to receive a request from a customer to perform a cryptocurrency transaction with a third party. The processor may also retrieve block chain information associated with the cryptocurrency transaction. The processor may also determine the amount of cryptocurrency associated with the cryptocurrency transaction. The processor may further calculate a risk score for performing the cryptocurrency transaction based at least in part upon the block chain information and the amount of cryptocurrency. | 12-17-2015 |
20150363876 | Cryptocurrency Transformation System - A system comprises a memory operable to store a customer account, a first float account, and a second float account. The system further comprises a processor communicatively coupled to the memory. The processor may receive an electronic request for a currency exchange and determine exchange rates for exchanging a first currency for a second currency. The processor may also determine an optimal exchange rate. In response to determining the optimal exchange rate, the processor may determine a first amount of the first currency and associate the first amount with the customer account. The processor may also transfer the first amount of the first currency into the first float account and determine a second amount of the second currency. The processor is further able to associate the second amount with the second float account and transfer the second amount of the second currency to the customer. | 12-17-2015 |
20160110562 | SYSTEM FOR ENCODING CUSTOMER DATA - A system for transforming customer data includes a network interface and a processor. The network interface communicates a request for customer data associated with a determined set of customers. It also receives a customer profile code associated with the customer data, wherein the customer profile code comprises a first code segment and a second code segment. It further receives first and second rules associated with the customer profile code. The processor determines the set of customers, transforms the first and second code segments into customer data using the rules, and analyzes the customer data to determine an operations history for the set of customers. | 04-21-2016 |
20160110563 | SYSTEM FOR ENCODING CUSTOMER DATA - A system for encoding customer data includes a memory, a decision engine, a rules engine and an interface engine. The memory stores customer data associated with service levels and rules. The decision engine receives a request for customer data from a third party, determines that the third party is associated with a first service level, and retrieves the customer data associated with the first service level. The rules engine transforms customer data into first and second code segments by applying the rules. The rules engine combines at least the first code segment and the second code segment to form a customer profile code. An interface engine communicates the customer profile code to the third party. | 04-21-2016 |
20160110731 | SYSTEM FOR ENCODING CUSTOMER DATA - A system for authenticating a customer includes a network interface and a processor. The network interface communicates a request for customer data associated with a particular customer. It also receives a customer profile code associated with the customer, wherein the customer profile code comprises a first code segment and a second code segment. It further receives first and second rules associated with the customer profile code. The processor transforms the first and second code segments into customer data using the rules. It further authenticates the customer using the customer data. | 04-21-2016 |
20160110732 | SYSTEM FOR ENCODING CUSTOMER DATA - A system for transforming customer data includes a network interface and a processor. The network interface communicates a request for customer data associated with a particular geographical area. It also receives a customer profile code associated with the customer data, wherein the customer profile code comprises a first code segment and a second code segment. It further receives first and second rules associated with the customer profile code. The processor transforms the first and second code segments into customer data using the rules. It further analyzes the particular geographical area using the customer data. | 04-21-2016 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20110166989 | OFFSETTING LIABILITIES AND ATTRIBUTING REWARDS - Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatuses for determining, recommending, and/or executing a payment strategy for offsetting liabilities and/or attributing rewards. For example, in some embodiments, a method is provided for transferring offsetting funds from a first account to a second account. In such embodiments, the method includes: (1) determining that the second account has incurred a liability; and (2) transferring funds from the first account to the second account in an amount sufficient to offset the liability. In some embodiments, the determining step automatically triggers the transferring step, either immediately, nearly immediately, or sometime after the occurrence of the determining step. In some embodiments, the method further includes attributing rewards to the first account or the second account based at least partially on the transfer of offsetting funds from the first account to the second account and/or based at least partially on the second account incurring the liability. | 07-07-2011 |
20110166994 | DETERMINING A PAYMENT STRATEGY - Embodiments of the present invention relate to methods and apparatuses for determining, recommending, and/or executing a payment strategy. For example, in some embodiments, a method is provided for determining a payment strategy for using at least some funds from a first account to make two or more payments on a second account during a single pay period. In such embodiments, the method includes: (1) determining that the second account includes a payment due date and a minimum payment due; (2) determining a number of payments to make on the second account; (3) determining a payment amount for each payment, such that the total payment amount for all of the payments is sufficient to at least offset the minimum payment due; and (4) determining a triggering event for each payment, such that each of the payments is made on or before the payment due date. | 07-07-2011 |
20110184819 | AUDIBLE TRANSACTION PROCESS AND SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for assisting a consumer during a transaction with a vendor at a point of sale by providing transaction information to the consumer in an audible format. The system includes a consumer device and a payment terminal located proximate the point of sale. The consumer device, either a mobile device carried by the consumer or an immobile device also located proximate the point of sale, communicates with the payment terminal and receives transaction information such as product identity or amount information. The consumer device then produces sound waves audible to the consumer based on the communicated transaction information using one or more private and/or public listening devices. This audible transaction process can be performed automatically during a transaction or can be implemented based on consumer preference. | 07-28-2011 |
20110184820 | MOBILE DEVICE CONSUMER INTERFACE PROCESS AND SYSTEM - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for assisting a consumer during a transaction with a vendor at a point of sale by providing transaction information to the consumer via consumer-readable communications. In one embodiment, a payment terminal proximate the point of sale communicates a transaction information signal to the mobile device. The mobile device communicates the transaction information to the consumer in a consumer-readable format such as audible sound waves. In some embodiments, the consumer-readable communications include requests for consumer input. The consumer input is received by an input device proximate the mobile device and communicated to the payment terminal. In some embodiments consumer input is received by the payment terminal as well as the mobile device, and in some embodiments, the consumer chooses whether to use the mobile device as an interface or only to use the payment terminal. | 07-28-2011 |
20110184864 | CASH FOLDING APPARATUS AND METHOD - Embodiments of the present invention provide currency solutions for the visually impaired by, for example, providing automated teller machines (ATMs) or other cash dispensers configured to dispense folded bills to the customer. The bills are folded based on denomination to allow the customer receiving the bills from the cash dispenser to be able to identify the denomination of each bill. In some embodiments, the cash dispenser is configured to automatically identify whether the customer prefers to receive folded bills and, in some embodiments, the cash dispenser is configured to fold and dispense bills according to customer preferences. | 07-28-2011 |
20120197793 | DEPENDENT NOTIFICATION ALERT - Embodiments of the invention allow a primary user to add dependent users to one or more accounts (e.g., shared accounts) of the primary user, in order to control and monitor the transactions made by a dependent user who is authorized to make purchases using the user computer systems that are linked to the primary user's shared account. The shared account can be a credit account, a debit account, a credit line account, a pre-paid account, or any other type of account that can be used to pay for products. In other embodiments of the invention the primary user may be linked to the dependent user account, be it a shared account or the dependent user's own account, in order to receive notification alerts regarding the transactions that the dependent user is trying to make. | 08-02-2012 |
20120246024 | SELF-SERVICE HOME BUYING - According to some embodiments, a system comprises an interface and one or more processors. The interface receives a search request indicating that a buyer requests to search for properties to evaluate. The one or more processors determine one or more buyer preferences that describe preferred characteristics for the properties according to the buyer. The one or more processors also determine whether an available property located proximate to a device associated with the buyer satisfies at least a threshold amount of the buyer preferences. If the available property satisfies at least a threshold amount of buyer preferences, the interface communicates a notification recommending that the buyer evaluate the available property. | 09-27-2012 |
20120265678 | SOCIAL NETWORK PAYMENT SETTLEMENT SYSTEM - A method for effecting transfer of a payment amount to a merchant during a transaction between a customer and the merchant includes determining, using a processing device, a funds shortfall, accessing a funds sharing network comprising a plurality of users, identifying one or more of the users of the funds sharing network, requesting funds from the identified one or more users, and applying funds received from the one or more users to the funds shortfall. In some embodiments, identifying one or more of the users includes determining whether one or more of the users are indebted to the customer, determining levels of connection between two or more of the users and the customer, and developing a hierarchy of users based on the indebted users and the levels of connection. | 10-18-2012 |
20130046648 | SHOPPING LIST SYSTEM AND PROCESS - Embodiments of the invention allow a user to create a virtual shopping list that is used to identify offers for products in which the user is interested. The shopping list may be one single list or may be broken down into categories, in order to group like products together or group products together that can be purchased at one or more locations near each other. The shopping list may be transmitted to one or more businesses, such that the businesses may submit bid requests, in a reverse bid auction, for the one or more products on the shopping list. The best bids of the one or more businesses may be returned to the user. The bids may be identified as the best bids based on the lowest prices for the product, the best quality products, the proper quantities of the products, the locations at which the products are located, etc. | 02-21-2013 |
20130191193 | SHOPPING PLAN MANAGEMENT - Embodiments of the invention include systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer-program products that provide shopping plan optimization. In one embodiment of the invention, information associated with a shopping plan is retrieved by the system; the shopping plan may include a grocery or other shopping list. The system compares the information associated with the shopping plan to a database. The database may include information associated with a plurality of merchants and businesses. The system optimizes the shopping plan based at least partially on the comparison of the information associated with the shopping plan to the database. In an embodiment, the system optimizes the shopping by determining an efficient travel route based on the products and/or items in the shopping plan. | 07-25-2013 |
20130191232 | ENHANCED MOBILE APPLICATION FOR ASSISTING USERS AT A POINT OF TRANSACTION - Embodiments of the invention include systems, methods, and computer-program products that provide for an enhanced mobile application for assisting users at a point-of-transaction (POT). In one embodiment of the invention the POT assistance application program may determines that a user is conducting a transaction with a merchant. The user may utilize a user device to assist in the transaction. First, the user device may be paired with a POT system, such as a cash register. Once the devices are paired a communication link is created that allows the user to audibly and/or visually monitor the transaction using the user device. Furthermore, the user may flag an item for review during the transaction, silence the transaction, receive a subtotal for the transaction, select a payment method, or complete the transaction using the POT assistance application program. | 07-25-2013 |
20130191246 | DIRECTIONAL WAYFINDING - Embodiments of the invention include systems, methods, and computer-program products that provide for a unique directional wayfinding system. In one embodiment of the invention, products are received from the user, such as a shopping list or wish list. The system determines the location of the user, determines the location of the product in the business, determines a route from the user to the product, and provides instructions to the user along the route. In an embodiment, the system identifies and/or confirms the product when the user reaches the product. In at least one embodiment, the systems, methods, and computer-program products provide functionality for the visually-impaired to assist in everyday shopping for products in businesses. | 07-25-2013 |
20130191789 | CONTROLLING A TRANSACTION WITH COMMAND GESTURES - Embodiments of the invention include systems, methods, and computer-program products that provide for a unique system for controlling transactions based on command gestures. In one embodiment of the invention, a computer-implemented method determines that a user is conducting a transaction with a mobile device. The mobile device senses a gesture performed by the user with the mobile device and alters at least one aspect of the transaction based on the gesture. The gestures can control a wide variety of aspects of the transaction. For example, the user may flag an item for review during the transaction, silence the transaction, receive a subtotal for the transaction, select a payment method, or complete the transaction. In an embodiment, the user is able to customize the gestures to control the transaction according to the user's preferences. | 07-25-2013 |
20140006113 | ELIGIBILITY ASSISTANCE IN SOCIAL MEDIA OFFER SYSTEM | 01-02-2014 |
20140006128 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRESENTING OFFERS DURING A SHOPPING EXPERIENCE | 01-02-2014 |
20140006136 | EXPEDITED REGISTRATION AND PROCESSING OF OFFERS AT A POINT OF TRANSACTION | 01-02-2014 |
20140006149 | NOTIFYING CUSTOMERS POST-TRANSACTION OF ALTERNATIVE PAYMENT TYPES ACCEPTED BY A MERCHANT | 01-02-2014 |
20140006165 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PRESENTING OFFERS DURING AN IN-STORE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE | 01-02-2014 |
20140006175 | SOCIAL MEDIA OFFER SYSTEM | 01-02-2014 |
20140006183 | AUTOMATIC ACTIVATION OF MOBILE PAYMENT MECHANISMS BASED ON IDENTIFIED MOBILE PAYMENT TYPES ACCEPTED BY A MERCHANT | 01-02-2014 |
20140006199 | MOBILE SYSTEM FOR PRE-PROCESSING SALES RETURNS | 01-02-2014 |
20140006224 | SYSTEM FOR PRE-PROCESSING SALES RETURNS | 01-02-2014 |
20140006259 | SYSTEM FOR ITEM LEVEL PAYMENT VEHICLE SUGGESTION | 01-02-2014 |
20140006272 | NOTIFYING MOBILE DEVICE USERS OF A SUGGESTED PAYMENT TYPE PRIOR TO CONDUCTING A TRANSACTION AT A MERCHANT | 01-02-2014 |
20140006275 | ELECTRONIC IDENTIFICATION AND NOTIFICATION OF BANKING RECORD DISCREPANCIES | 01-02-2014 |
20140025468 | READABLE INDICIA FOR A REBATE REQUEST - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for processing readable indicia for a rebate request. An exemplary system is configured to: receive information associated with readable indicia associated with a rebate request; and process the readable indicia to issue a rebate associated with a rebate request, wherein the rebate comprises issuance of a credit associated with a purchase previously made from the merchant. | 01-23-2014 |
20140025574 | READABLE INDICIA FOR A PAYMENT CLAIM - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for processing readable indicia for a payment claim. An exemplary system is configured to: receive information associated with readable indicia associated with a payment claim; receive authentication credentials associated with the payment claim; and process the readable indicia and the authentication credentials to authorize a payment associated with the payment claim. | 01-23-2014 |
20140042218 | GENERATING READABLE INDICIA CUSTOMIZED FOR PRODUCT INFORMATION - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for collecting product information based on a navigation history of the user, the product information being associated with the product; generating a readable indicia based on the collected product information, wherein, in response to selection of the readable indicia, the readable indicia is configured to provide instructions for purchasing the product based on the collected product information; and presenting the readable indicia to the user for saving for subsequent consideration or distributing to one or more other users. In some embodiments, shipping information indicative of the user's desired destination address for the product is collected from user input and discount information is collected based on the navigation history of the user or user input. In such cases, the readable indicia may be generated based on all of the product information, the shipping information and the discount information. | 02-13-2014 |
20140046752 | ASSESSING ADVERTISEMENT IMPACT USING ADVERTISEMENT READABLE INDICIA - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for processing a readable indicia associated with an advertisement associated with a product. The invention presents a readable indicia in association with an advertisement, where the readable indicia includes instructions for triggering a data collection tool. The invention collects data from the data collection tool and analyzes characteristics of the readable indicia and the advertisement in order to determine a customer advertisement impact. The readable indicia may include information indicating at least one of a current date, a time of inception of the advertisement, a placement location of the readable indicia within the advertisement, or a visual characteristic of the readable indicia. | 02-13-2014 |
20140046854 | READABLE INDICIA FOR ADVERTISEMENTS - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for processing a readable indicia associated with an advertisement associated with a product. The invention decodes the readable indicia to determine product purchase information, wherein the product purchase information is associated with the product, receives authentication credentials associated with a payment account, and processes the authentication credentials to authorize a payment associated with the product purchase information. In some embodiments, the invention extracts a link from the readable indicia or a second readable indicia associated with the advertisement and initiates a user interface associated with the link. In some embodiments, the invention populates some or all the product purchase information into at least one of a user's notes, calendar or budget, and in some, the advertisement is placed proximate the product within a merchant's business. | 02-13-2014 |
20140156328 | TRANSACTION QUEUING - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for transaction queuing. In some embodiments, a system is configured to: receive information associated with an intended transaction, wherein a user will execute the intended transaction at a facility at a user-defined time; determine preliminary work associated with the intended transaction that can be performed prior to the user-defined time; and perform the preliminary work associated with the intended transaction. The preliminary work is placed on a transaction queue until the user arrives at the facility. | 06-05-2014 |
20140172559 | SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING LOCATION-BASED GOAL BALANCE INFORMATION - Systems, methods, and computer program products are provided for providing a notification to a consumer based on the location of the consumer. The system includes a computer apparatus including a processor and a memory; and a software module stored in the memory. The software module includes executable instructions that cause the processor to receive a goal corresponding to a specific product a consumer desires to purchase; determine a location associated with a mobile device of the consumer; identify a merchant that is located at or near the location associated with the mobile device of the consumer; determine whether the merchant offers for sale the specific product associated with the goal; provide a notification to the mobile device associated with the consumer based at least in part on determining that the merchant offers for sale the product, the notification comprising information related to the user's progress towards the goal. | 06-19-2014 |
20140278989 | DETERMINING AN OFFER BASED ON A PRE-PAID ACCOUNT BALANCE AND CONSUMER LOCATION - Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for determining an offer based on a balance value of a prepaid account and a location of a consumer who is the holder of the prepaid account. In some embodiments, a method is provided that includes: (a) receiving geographic location information associated with a consumer; (b) receiving information associated with the prepaid account of the consumer, wherein the consumer is a holder of the prepaid account; (c) determining a balance value of the prepaid account of the consumer; and (d) determining an offer to present to the consumer based at least partially on the balance value of the prepaid account and the location of the consumer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279004 | SEPARATING OFFERS ASSOCIATED WITH ONE ACCOUNT BASED ON GEOLOCATION OF ACCOUNT USERS - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for micro-targeting an offer based on geolocation information. An exemplary apparatus is configured to: determine a first user is accessing an account, wherein the account is associated with a first user and a second user, wherein the account is presented on a user interface; and in response to determining the first user is accessing the account, transmit a first offer to the first user based on geolocation information associated with the first user, wherein the first offer is presented on the user interface, and wherein the first offer enables the first user to receive a discount or a rebate on a transaction associated with the first offer. The apparatus may also be configured to transmit, in real-time, offers to the first user based on at least one of real-time or historical geolocation information associated with the first user. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279005 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AN OFFER BASED ON AN ACCOUNT BALANCE AND LOCATION OF A CONSUMER - Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for presenting an offer to a consumer based on account balance information and consumer location information. In some embodiments, a method is provided that includes: (a) receive geographic location information associated with the mobile computing device of the consumer; (b) receive information associated with the credit account of the consumer, wherein the consumer is a holder of the credit account; (c) determine whether the balance value of the credit account has an existing balance value greater than zero; and (d) present, via the mobile computing device of the consumer, the offer to the consumer based at least in part on determining that the geographic location of the mobile device of the consumer is proximate to or coincident with a location of the merchant and determining that the existing balance value of the credit account associated with the merchant is greater than zero. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279006 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING AN OFFER BASED ON AN ACCOUNT BALANCE AND LOCATION OF A CONSUMER - Embodiments of the present invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for determining an offer based on a balance value of a credit account a location of a consumer having the credit account. In some embodiments, a method is provided that includes: (a) receive geographic location information associated with a mobile computing device of the consumer; (b) receive information associated with the credit account of the consumer, wherein the consumer is a holder of the credit account; (c) determine a balance value of the credit account of the consumer; and (d) determine an offer to present to the consumer based at least partially on the balance value of the credit account and a determined location of the consumer. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279009 | SELF-SERVICE INTERCEPT ON OR OFF PREMISE - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for transmitting an offer to a user associated with an account. An exemplary apparatus is configured to: determine, based on geolocation information associated with a mobile device associated with the user, whether the mobile device is within a predetermined distance of a reference location; in response to determining the mobile device is within the predetermined distance of the reference location, transmit an offer to the mobile device, wherein the offer is associated with a product or a service, and wherein the offer has been previously communicated to the user; and provide an option for the user to accept the offer via the mobile device. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279483 | MOBILE PAYMENT VIA TRANSFER NETWORK - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for making a payment via a transfer network. In some embodiments, a first apparatus is configured to: receive readable indicia and payment information from a second apparatus, wherein the payment information comprises an amount of funds; identify an account associated with the readable indicia based on searching a database of records; process the payment information, wherein processing the payment information comprises transmitting to the identified account the determined amount of funds; transmit an acknowledgement of payment transfer to a third apparatus associated with the identified account. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279506 | USER INTERFACE FOR MOBILE PAYMENT VIA TRANSFER NETWORK - Embodiments of the invention are directed to systems, methods and computer program products for making a mobile payment via a transfer network. In some embodiments, a first apparatus is configured to: receive readable indicia from a second apparatus; enable a user to input payment information, wherein the payment information comprises at least one of a payee, a payment amount, or a payment source; transmit the readable indicia and the payment information to a third apparatus. | 09-18-2014 |
20140279799 | PROVIDING REWARDS BUCKETS AND SAVINGS TOWARDS SPECIFIC GOALS - Embodiments of the invention relate to systems, methods, and computer program products for providing a rewards program. The system, method, and computer program product are configured to determine that a customer has completed an action; determine that the customer has earned a reward based on the action; determine a category associated with the reward; and apply the reward to the category. In some situations, the categories are default categories provided by the financial institution. In other situations, the categories are defined by the customer. The system determines which category an earned award is routed into using a decision engine that evaluates the award and/or the action completed by the customer and compares the award and/or action to rules, such as default rules, custom rules, or dynamic rules. The categories may also include goals and the system assists in tracking customer's progress towards the goal. | 09-18-2014 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20090090372 | Equipment for Insertion of Objects into Smoking Articles - Apparatus incorporating a filter tow processing unit adapted to supply filter tow to a continuous rod forming unit includes an object insertion unit that positions objects within the filter tow to manufacture a filter rod containing objects positioned at predetermined intervals. The apparatus also includes an upper hopper that acts as a reservoir for a plurality of objects, and provides for supply of objects to a lower hopper. The lower hopper is shaped so that objects are stacked therein. The bottom of the lower hopper is shaped so as to cooperate with a portion of upper region of a rotating wheel. The peripheral face of the rotating wheel incorporates a plurality of spaced pockets, each pocket being of sufficient shape and size to accommodate one object. Objects within the lower hopper are aligned in a single line along a portion of the peripheral face in the upper region of the rotating wheel. Each object then is positioned at predetermined intervals within a continuous supply of filter material. Then, the filter material is formed into a continuous rod having individual objects positioned at predetermined spaced intervals within that rod. The continuous rod then is subdivided at predetermined intervals so as to form a plurality of filter rods (e.g., four-up filter rods containing four spaced objects). | 04-09-2009 |
20090194118 | SYSTEM FOR ANALYZING A FILTER ELEMENT ASSOCIATED WITH A SMOKING ARTICLE, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - A system and associated method for analyzing a filter element of at least one of a filter rod and a smoking article is provided. At least one sensor element is adapted to interact with the filter element so as to determine an object insertion status with respect thereto and to generate an output signal in response. The object insertion status includes at least one of an object presence within the filter element, an object absence from the filter element, a proper insertion of an object into the filter element, a defective insertion of an object into the filter element, a proper object within the filter element, and a defective object within the filter element. An analysis unit is in communication with the at least one sensor element and responsive to the output signal therefrom to generate an indicia corresponding to the object insertion status. | 08-06-2009 |
20100236561 | APPARATUS FOR INSERTING OBJECTS INTO A FILTER COMPONENT OF A SMOKING ARTICLE, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - An apparatus and associated method is provided for forming a rod for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements. A continuous supply of a filter material is formed into a continuous filter rod by a rod-forming unit. An object insertion unit is configured to insert a plurality of first objects and a plurality of second objects into the continuous filter rod. A rod-dividing unit is configured to subdivide the continuous filter rod, at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis thereof, into a plurality of filter rod portions such that each filter rod portion includes at least one first object and at least one second object disposed therein, with the first objects being different from the second objects. | 09-23-2010 |
20110048435 | Feeder System For Rod Components Of Tobacco Products, And Associated Method - A feeder system and associated method are provided for feeding rod components of a tobacco product, particularly a rod-shaped, cylindrical, or stick-type tobacco product, wherein such a tobacco product may be intended to be used in a smokeless manner. A hopper is configured to receive a plurality of rod components therein. A separator device is operably engaged with the hopper and is configured to receive one of the plurality of rod components at a time therefrom. An orienting device is operably engaged with the separator device. The orienting device is configured to receive the one of the plurality of rod components in a first orientation and to direct the one of the plurality of rod components into a second orientation, different from the first orientation, and toward a subsequent process. | 03-03-2011 |
20110169942 | FILTERED SMOKING ARTICLE INSPECTION SYSTEM, AND ASSOCIATED METHOD - An inspection system and associated method are provided for inspecting a smoking article having a smokable rod and a filter element serially secured together by a tipping material circumscribing a longitudinal periphery of the filter element and a portion of a longitudinal periphery of the smokable rod adjacent to the filter element. A transport device is configured to transport individual as-formed smoking articles from a first to a second position such that the tipping material associated with each smoking article is accessible at least about the portion of the longitudinal periphery of the smoking article. An inspection device is configured to optically inspect each smoking article, at least about the portion of the longitudinal periphery of the smoking article having the tipping material, as the smoking article is transported between the first and second positions, and to automatically determine from the optical inspection whether the inspected smoking article is defective. | 07-14-2011 |
20110271972 | SEGMENTED SMOKING ARTICLE WITH SHAPED INSULATOR - A cigarette includes lighting and mouth ends. It may include a smokable segment disposed at the lighting end. It also includes a mouth-end segment; an aerosol-generation system disposed between the lighting and mouth ends, which includes (i) a heat-generation segment adjacent the smokable segment, including a heat source configured to be activated by combustion of a smokable material and an insulation layer of a non-glass material that is woven, knit, or both, and (ii) an aerosol-generating segment with aerosol-forming material disposed between, but physically separate from, each of the heat generation segment and the mouth end; a piece of outer wrapping material that provides an overwrap around at least a portion of the aerosol-generating segment, the heat-generation segment, and at least a portion of the smokable segment; those segments being connected together by the overwrap to provide a cigarette rod; that is connected to the cigarette rod using tipping material. | 11-10-2011 |
20120067360 | SEGMENTED SMOKING ARTICLE WITH SUBSTRATE CAVITY - A cigarette includes lighting and mouth ends. It may include a smokable segment disposed at the lighting end. It also includes a mouth-end segment; an aerosol-generation system disposed between the lighting and mouth ends, which includes (i) a heat-generation segment adjacent the smokable segment, including a heat source and an insulation layer and (ii) an aerosol-generating segment including a substrate, which may include tobacco pellets and aerosol-forming material disposed in a substrate cavity between the heat generation segment and the mouth end; a piece of outer wrapping material that provides an overwrap around at least a portion of the aerosol-generating segment, the heat-generation segment, and at least a portion of the smokable segment and includes a foil strip laminated thereon; those segments being connected together by the overwrap to provide a cigarette rod; that is connected to the mouth-end segment using tipping material. | 03-22-2012 |
20120088643 | EQUIPMENT FOR INSERTION OF OBJECTS INTO SMOKING ARTICLES - An apparatus is disclosed for providing rods formed from a continuous supply of filter material for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements, each rod having individual objects placed at predetermined spaced intervals along the length thereof. The apparatus comprises a first hopper configured to provide a reservoir for objects, a second hopper positioned to receive objects from the first hopper, and a reciprocating screen disposed between the first hopper and the second hopper. The reciprocating screen defines a plurality of passageways therein, and the reciprocating screen is configured to facilitate transfer of the objects from the first hopper to the second hopper. The apparatus also comprises an object insertion unit in operable communication with the second hopper and configured to introduce a plurality of objects into engagement with the continuous supply of filter material. | 04-12-2012 |
20120193265 | CONTAINER FOR SMOKELESS TOBACCO PRODUCTS - A container adapted for storing a product is provided. The container includes a body having a bottom wall and a side wall. The bottom wall and the side wall define an internal storage compartment adapted for storage of a plurality of units of a product. The side wall has an outer peripheral surface. A rib structure is engaged with the body about the outer peripheral surface of the side wall and extends outwardly therefrom. A cover is configured to be removably engaged with the body. The cover includes a top wall and a peripheral flange having an inner surface. The inner surface is substantially smooth and is configured to interact with the rib structure when the cover is received over the outer peripheral surface of the side wall so as to form an interference fit. | 08-02-2012 |
20120298120 | APPARATUS FOR INSERTING OBJECTS INTO A FILTER COMPONENT OF A SMOKING ARTICLE - An apparatus and associated method is provided for forming a rod for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements. A continuous supply of a filter material is formed into a continuous filter rod by a rod-forming unit. An object insertion unit is configured to insert a plurality of first objects and a plurality of second objects into the continuous filter rod. A rod-dividing unit is configured to subdivide the continuous filter rod, at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis thereof, into a plurality of filter rod portions such that each filter rod portion includes at least one first object and at least one second object disposed therein, with the first objects being different from the second objects. | 11-29-2012 |
20120302416 | METHOD OF FORMING A ROD FOR USE IN THE MANUFACTURE OF CIGARETTE FILTERS - An apparatus and associated method is provided for forming a rod for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements. A continuous supply of a filter material is formed into a continuous filter rod by a rod-forming unit. An object insertion unit is configured to insert a plurality of first objects and a plurality of second objects into the continuous filter rod. A rod-dividing unit is configured to subdivide the continuous filter rod, at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis thereof, into a plurality of filter rod portions such that each filter rod portion includes at least one first object and at least one second object disposed therein, with the first objects being different from the second objects. | 11-29-2012 |
20130240326 | Feeder System for Rod Components of Tobacco Products, and Associated Method - A feeder system and associated method are provided for feeding rod components of a tobacco product, particularly a rod-shaped, cylindrical, or stick-type tobacco product, wherein such a tobacco product may be intended to be used in a smokeless manner. A hopper is configured to receive a plurality of rod components therein. A separator device is operably engaged with the hopper and is configured to receive one of the plurality of rod components at a time therefrom. An orienting device is operably engaged with the separator device. The orienting device is configured to receive the one of the plurality of rod components in a first orientation and to direct the one of the plurality of rod components into a second orientation, different from the first orientation, and toward a subsequent process. | 09-19-2013 |
20130281277 | EQUIPMENT FOR INSERTION OF OBJECTS INTO SMOKING ARTICLES - An apparatus is disclosed for providing rods formed from a continuous supply of filter material for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements, each rod having individual objects placed at predetermined spaced intervals along the length thereof. The apparatus comprises a first hopper configured to provide a reservoir for objects, a second hopper positioned to receive objects from the first hopper, and a reciprocating screen disposed between the first hopper and the second hopper. The reciprocating screen defines a plurality of passageways therein, and the reciprocating screen is configured to facilitate transfer of the objects from the first hopper to the second hopper. The apparatus also comprises an object insertion unit in operable communication with the second hopper and configured to introduce a plurality of objects into engagement with the continuous supply of filter material. | 10-24-2013 |
20140045665 | Apparatus for Inserting Objects Into a Filter Component of a Smoking Article - An apparatus and associated method is provided for forming a rod for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements. A continuous supply of a filter material is formed into a continuous filter rod by a rod-forming unit. An object insertion unit is configured to insert a plurality of first objects and a plurality of second objects into the continuous filter rod. A rod-dividing unit is configured to subdivide the continuous filter rod, at predetermined intervals along the longitudinal axis thereof, into a plurality of filter rod portions such that each filter rod portion includes at least one first object and at least one second object disposed therein, with the first objects being different from the second objects. | 02-13-2014 |
20140123992 | SEGMENTED SMOKING ARTICLE WITH SHAPED INSULATOR - A cigarette includes lighting and mouth ends. It also includes a mouth-end segment; an aerosol-generation system disposed between the lighting and mouth ends, which includes (i) a heat-generation segment adjacent the smokable segment, including a heat source configured to be activated by combustion of a smokable material and an insulation layer of a non-glass material that is woven, knit, or both, shaped to retain (e.g., by interlocking engagement with) the heat source, and (ii) an aerosol-generating segment with aerosol-forming material disposed between, but physically separate from, each of the heat generation segment and the mouth end; a piece of outer wrapping material that provides an overwrap around at least a portion of the aerosol-generating segment, the heat-generation segment, and at least a portion of the smokable segment; those segments being connected together by the overwrap to provide a cigarette rod; that is connected to the cigarette rod using tipping material. | 05-08-2014 |
20140247339 | Filtered Smoking Article Inspection System, and Associated Method - An inspection system and associated method are provided for inspecting a smoking article having a smokable rod and a filter element serially secured together by a tipping material circumscribing a longitudinal periphery of the filter element and a portion of a longitudinal periphery of the smokable rod adjacent to the filter element. A transport device is configured to transport individual as-formed smoking articles from a first to a second position such that the tipping material associated with each smoking article is accessible at least about the portion of the longitudinal periphery of the smoking article. An inspection device is configured to optically inspect each smoking article, at least about the portion of the longitudinal periphery of the smoking article having the tipping material, as the smoking article is transported between the first and second positions, and to automatically determine from the optical inspection whether the inspected smoking article is defective. | 09-04-2014 |
20150047655 | EQUIPMENT FOR INSERTION OF OBJECTS INTO SMOKING ARTICLES - An apparatus for providing rods for use in the manufacture of cigarette filter elements, each rod having individual objects placed at predetermined spaced intervals along the length thereof, comprises means for providing a continuous supply of rod filter material, a first hopper means for providing a reservoir for objects, and a second hopper means for providing a plurality of individual objects. The second hopper means is positioned to receive objects from the first hopper means. The apparatus also comprises a reciprocating screen means between the first hopper means and the second hopper means, means for positioning individual objects from the second hopper to within the supply of filter material at pre-determined spaced intervals, means for forming the filter material into a continuous rod having individual objects positioned at pre-determined spaced intervals within that rod, and means for subdividing the continuous rod at pre-determined intervals. | 02-19-2015 |
20150208721 | EQUIPMENT FOR INSERTION OF OBJECTS INTO SMOKING ARTICLES - An apparatus comprises a first hopper configured to provide a reservoir for objects, a second hopper positioned to receive objects from the first hopper, and an object insertion unit in operable communication with the second hopper and configured to introduce a plurality of objects into engagement with the continuous supply of filter material. The object insertion unit comprises a rotatable insertion wheel having a peripheral face, the peripheral face defining a plurality of spaced pockets for receiving individual objects therein; and a vacuum system disposed in operable communication with the insertion wheel and configured to apply a vacuum to at least a portion of the pockets to maintain the individual objects within the pockets during rotation of the insertion wheel. The upper hopper has an upper region that is adapted to contain and permit passage of objects and has a relatively high cross-sectional area relative to a lower region of the upper hopper. The lower hopper is adapted to contain objects so that those objects are arranged in a vertical plane. | 07-30-2015 |
20150359259 | SEGMENTED SMOKING ARTICLE WITH SUBSTRATE CAVITY - A cigarette includes lighting and mouth ends. It may include a smokable segment disposed at the lighting end. It also includes a mouth-end segment; an aerosol-generation system disposed between the lighting and mouth ends, which includes (i) a heat-generation segment adjacent the smokable segment, including a heat source and an insulation layer and (ii) an aerosol-generating segment including a substrate, which may include tobacco pellets and aerosol-forming material disposed in a substrate cavity between the heat generation segment and the mouth end; a piece of outer wrapping material that provides an overwrap around at least a portion of the aerosol-generating segment, the heat-generation segment, and at least a portion of the smokable segment and includes a foil strip laminated thereon; those segments being connected together by the overwrap to provide a cigarette rod; that is connected to the mouth-end segment using tipping material. | 12-17-2015 |
Patent application number | Description | Published |
20140066309 | Method for Enhancing the Performance of a Pesticide with Guanidines - The present invention relates to a method for enhancing the performance of a pesticide comprising the step of contacting an adjuvant and the pesticide, wherein the pesticide is present in a concentration of less than 10 wt % in the resulting composition containing the adjuvant and the pesticide, and wherein the adjuvant contains a guanidine of formula (A) as defined below, and/or a salt thereof. The invention also relates to a composition comprising an auxin-herbicide and said adjuvant; to a use of said adjuvant for enhancing the performance of a pesticide; and to a method of controlling undesired vegetation, which comprises allowing a herbicidal effective amount of said composition to act on plants, their habitat or on seed of said plants. | 03-06-2014 |
20140080706 | METHOD OF PREPARING AN AQUEOUS TANK MIX COMPRISING A BASE - The present invention relates to a method of controlling undesired vegetation, and/or phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired insect attack and/or regulating the growth of plants, which comprises the steps of A) preparing an aqueous tank mix which has a tank mix acidity of at least pH 5.0 comprising contacting a pesticide formulation, water, a base, and optionally an auxiliary; and B) allowing a pesticidal effective amount of said tank mix to act on crops, their habitat, on the undesired vegetation, on the respective pests, and/or on seed of said crops. It also relates to a use of a base for preparing an aqueous tank mix as defined in any of claims | 03-20-2014 |
20140171319 | Aqueous Composition Comprising a Pesticide and a Base Selected from an Alkali Salt of Hydrogencarbonate - The invention relates to a liquid aqueous composition, which has a pH value of at least 7.0, comprising a pesticide and a base selected from an alkali salt of hydrogencarbonate; a method for preparing said composition comprising a step of contacting a pesticide and a base selected from an alkali salt of hydrogencarbonate; and a method of combating harmful insects and/or phytopathogenic fungi, which comprises contacting plants, seed, soil or habitat of plants in or on which the harmful insects and/or phytopathogenic fungi are growing or may grow, plants, seed or soil to be protected from attack or infestation by said harmful insects and/or phytopathogenic fungi with an effective amount of the composition. | 06-19-2014 |
20150031539 | Tank mix adjuvant comprising an alkyl polyglucoside and a base - The present invention relates to a method for preparing a tank mix, which comprises the step of contacting a pesticide formulation, water, and a tank mix adjuvant, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises an alkyl polyglucoside and a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base, or in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base. The invention also relates to a use of a tank mix adjuvant for increasing the efficacy of a pesticide, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises an alkyl polyglucoside and a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base, or in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base; to a tank mix adjuvant which comprises an auxiliary, an alkyl polyglucoside and a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base; to a tank mix adjuvant which comprises an auxiliary, an alkyl polyglucoside and a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base; and to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired vegetation and/or undesired insect or mite attack and/or for regulating the growth of plants, wherein the tank mix is allowed to act on the respective pests, their environment or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, on the soil and/or on undesired plants and/or the crop plants and/or their environment. | 01-29-2015 |
20150051076 | Solid particulate tank mix adjuvant comprising a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate - The present invention relates to q method for preparing a tank mix, which comprises the step of contacting a pesticide formulation, water, and a tank mix adjuvant, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base. The invention also relates to a use of a tank mix adjuvant for increasing the efficacy of a pesticide, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base; to a tank mix adjuvant which comprises an auxiliary and a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate, wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base; and to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired vegetation and/or undesired insect or mite attack and/or for regulating the growth of plants, wherein the tank mix is allowed to act on the respective pests, their environment or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, on the soil and/or on undesired plants and/or the crop plants and/or their environment. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051077 | Liquid or particulate tank mix adjuvant comprising a base selected from a mixture of carbonate and hydrogencarbonate - The present invention relates to q method for preparing a tank mix, which comprises the step of contacting a pesticide formulation, water, and a tank mix adjuvant, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises a base, which contains a mixture of an alkali salt of carbonate and an alkali salt of hydrogencarbonate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base, or in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base. The invention also relates to a use of a tank mix adjuvant for increasing the efficacy of a pesticide, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises a base, which contains a mixture of an alkali salt of carbonate and an alkali salt of hydrogencarbonate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base, or in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base; to a tank mix adjuvant which comprises an auxiliary and a base, which contains a mixture of an alkali salt of carbonate and an alkali salt of hydrogencarbonate, wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base; to a tank mix adjuvant which comprises an auxiliary and a base, which contains a mixture of an alkali salt of carbonate and an alkali salt of hydrogencarbonate, wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base; and to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired vegetation and/or undesired insect or mite attack and/or for regulating the growth of plants, wherein the tank mix is allowed to act on the respective pests, their environment or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, on the soil and/or on undesired plants and/or the crop plants and/or their environment. | 02-19-2015 |
20150051078 | Glyphosate tank mix adjuvant comprising a base selected from a carbonate and/or a phosphate - The present invention relates to a method for preparing a tank mix, which comprises the step of contacting a glyphosate formulation, water, and a tank mix adjuvant, wherein the tank mix adjuvant comprises a base selected from a carbonate or an alkali salt of a phosphate, and wherein the tank mix adjuvant is present in form of an aqueous liquid, which contains at least 50 g/l of the base, or in form of a particulate solid, which contains at least 10 wt % of the base, wherein the tank mix has a tank mix acidity of at least pH 8.0, and wherein the tankmix contains at least 50 wt % water. The invention also relates to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired vegetation and/or undesired insect or mite attack and/or for regulating the growth of plants, wherein the tank mix is allowed to act on the respective pests, their environment or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, on the soil and/or on undesired plants and/or the crop plants and/or their environment. | 02-19-2015 |
20150150249 | Drift control agent comprising polypropylene glycol and a triblock polymer - The present invention relates to a method for preparing a tank mix, which comprises the step of contacting a pesticide formulation, water, and a tank mix adjuvant which comprises a polypropylene glycol and a triblock polymer comprising at least one polyethyleneoxide moiety and at least one polypropyleneoxide moiety; to the tank mix adjuvant; to a pesticide formulation comprising the tank mix adjuvant: to a method of controlling phytopathogenic fungi and/or undesired vegetation and/or undesired insect or mite attack and/or for regulating the growth of plants, wherein the tank mix is allowed to act on the respective pests, their environment or the plants to be protected from the respective pest, on the soil and/or on undesired plants and/or the crop plants and/or their environment, and to a use of the tank mix adjuvant or reducing the wind drift of a pesticide formulation. | 06-04-2015 |
20150181865 | Adjuvant comprising a 2-propylheptylamine alkoxylate, sugar-based surfactant, and drift-control agent and/or humectant - The present invention relates to an adjuvant comprising a sugar-based surfactant; a drift control agent and/or a humectant; and an alkoxylate, wherein the alkoxylate is an amine alkoxylate (A) or a quaternized derivative (AQ) of the amine alkoxylate (A) as defined below. It further relates to a method of preparing said adjuvant by contacting | 07-02-2015 |