Method and apparatus for dispensing discount coupons
January 13, 2015. Estimated Expiration Date is calculated based on simple USPTO term provisions. It does not account for terminal disclaimers, term adjustments, failure to pay maintenance fees, or other factors which might affect the term of a patent.Patent References 3387455 Device for encouraging the return of shopping carts Vehicle lock apparatus and method Distributed variable bandwidth switch for voice, data, and image communications Inventory management system using transponders associated with specific products Wireless PBX/LAN system with optimum combining Method and apparatus for dispensing discount coupons Paperless system for distributing, redeeming and clearing merchandise coupons X.25 Wide area network channel status display System for identifying heavy product purchasers who regularly use manufacturers' purchase incentives and predicting consumer promotional behavior response patterns InventorsApplicationNo. 348713 filed on 12/02/1994US Classes:705/14, Distribution or redemption of coupon, or incentive or promotion program194/211, Having electric circuit with switch operated by check705/26, Electronic shopping (e.g., remote ordering)705/27Presentation of image or description of sales item (e.g., electronic catalog browsing)ExaminersPrimary: Hayes, Gail O.Assistant: Tkacs, Stephen R. Attorney, Agent or FirmInternational ClassesG06F 017/60G06G 007/52 AbstractThe present invention resides in apparatus, and software, and a related method for selecting, printing, and dispensing a redeemable discount coupon and other offerings in response to the taking of or upon the return of a cart to a electronic coupon dispensing terminals. A computerized kiosk, updated by a remote command center, is located at the entrance of the corral. Customers receive a key at the check out counter to be used to access the dispenser for the selection of discount coupons. As the cart is replaced in the corral, the system is activated and the customer selects from a touch screen monitor and a dispenser prints and issues a manufacturer's coupon. Statistical information is gathered by the computer and relayed to the store CPU. Maintenance requirements are also relayed to the store CPU.Other References
Field of SearchCONTROL MECHANISM ACTUATED BY CHECK, OTHER THAN COIN (E.G., SLUG, TOKEN, CARD, ETC.), WHICH IS MUTILATED OR RETAINEDHaving electric circuit with switch operated by check SYSTEMS CONTROLLED BY DATA BEARING RECORDS Operations analysis Credit or identification card systems With vending Permitting access Mechanized store | |
