US20040190694A1 - Power and telecommunications access vending machine - Google Patents
Power and telecommunications access vending machine Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20040190694A1 US20040190694A1 US10/819,168 US81916804A US2004190694A1 US 20040190694 A1 US20040190694 A1 US 20040190694A1 US 81916804 A US81916804 A US 81916804A US 2004190694 A1 US2004190694 A1 US 2004190694A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- customer
- vending
- channel access
- telecommunications
- telecommunications channel
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/0014—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for vending, access and use of specific services not covered anywhere else in G07F17/00
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/08—Payment architectures
- G06Q20/12—Payment architectures specially adapted for electronic shopping systems
- G06Q20/127—Shopping or accessing services according to a time-limitation
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
- G06Q20/08—Payment architectures
- G06Q20/18—Payment architectures involving self-service terminals [SST], vending machines, kiosks or multimedia terminals
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F15/00—Coin-freed apparatus with meter-controlled dispensing of liquid, gas or electricity
- G07F15/003—Coin-freed apparatus with meter-controlled dispensing of liquid, gas or electricity for electricity
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F15/00—Coin-freed apparatus with meter-controlled dispensing of liquid, gas or electricity
- G07F15/12—Coin-freed apparatus with meter-controlled dispensing of liquid, gas or electricity in which metering is on a time basis
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
- G07F17/16—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for devices exhibiting advertisements, announcements, pictures or the like
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
- G07F9/001—Interfacing with vending machines using mobile or wearable devices
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
- G07F9/00—Details other than those peculiar to special kinds or types of apparatus
- G07F9/002—Vending machines being part of a centrally controlled network of vending machines
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L12/00—Data switching networks
- H04L12/02—Details
- H04L12/14—Charging, metering or billing arrangements for data wireline or wireless communications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L12/00—Data switching networks
- H04L12/02—Details
- H04L12/14—Charging, metering or billing arrangements for data wireline or wireless communications
- H04L12/1432—Metric aspects
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04L—TRANSMISSION OF DIGITAL INFORMATION, e.g. TELEGRAPHIC COMMUNICATION
- H04L12/00—Data switching networks
- H04L12/02—Details
- H04L12/14—Charging, metering or billing arrangements for data wireline or wireless communications
- H04L12/1453—Methods or systems for payment or settlement of the charges for data transmission involving significant interaction with the data transmission network
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M7/00—Arrangements for interconnection between switching centres
- H04M7/006—Networks other than PSTN/ISDN providing telephone service, e.g. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), including next generation networks with a packet-switched transport layer
- H04M7/0066—Details of access arrangements to the networks
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H04—ELECTRIC COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUE
- H04M—TELEPHONIC COMMUNICATION
- H04M3/00—Automatic or semi-automatic exchanges
- H04M3/38—Graded-service arrangements, i.e. some subscribers prevented from establishing certain connections
Definitions
- This invention relates generally to the vending of electricity, telecommunications and/or other utilities in public or semi-public places. More specifically, this invention relates to the operation of computers and other electrical and electronic devices while traveling away from home.
- Portable computers have become indispensable communications tools that are used to send and receive voice, fax, email and video messages from and to almost any point in the world. These devices access a variety of communication networks via wired, wireless or fiber telecommunications channels. However, computer compatible access to telecommunications channels is also not readily available in public and semi-public places.
- Malaspina (U.S. Pat. No. 5,544,784) addresses the battery life issue and tries to solve it by vending recharged batteries. This proposed solution to the problem is complicated by the shapes, sizes, and electrical characteristics of the many batteries on the market.
- Wilkinson U.S. Pat. No. 5,263,565
- his invention is fundamentally a parking meter and he does not provide for vending power without the parking space. Further, there is no protection from the weather as it was not contemplated that the electricity would be useful for another purpose. Furthermore, while this invention does provide for credit card payments, it does not provide for a telecommunications link for payment or other information.
- Ng et al. U.S. Pat. No. 5,103,957 defines a microprocessor-based parking meter without any power vending capability or ability to accept credit card payments.
- This invention includes a wireless communications interface for communications between the microprocessor and an external device.
- the communications interface is intended to connect to a portable computer that is used to change rates within the meter.
- Some vending machines have also been defined for the purpose of charging electric vehicles. Like the combination meters, these vending machines require specific means for connecting to the vehicle, specific means for charging the vehicle's batteries, and/or specific means for measuring/metering the power consumed. Most importantly, these machines incorporate battery charging circuitry and are only capable of charging car batteries, not operating customer equipment such as computers.
- Some telecommunications channels that are accessible in public places may come with a communications instrument such as a payphone, pay facsimile or pay TV.
- a communications instrument such as a payphone, pay facsimile or pay TV.
- Some of these payphones used in conjunction with a telecommunications channel have an RJ11 receptacle that is intended to connect special accessories for the physically impaired and which might be able to be used for a computer connection.
- these payphone installations do not provide AC power to operate an accessory or a computer and are limited to providing access to the telephone network line connected to the payphone.
- These payphones cannot and do not provide fiber, cable or other types of communications channel access. Further these payphones that do accept credit cards as a means of payment still require the central office to process the transaction before the phone can be used.
- An object of this invention is to provide access to electrical power, a telecommunications channel or channels and/or other utilities or services for a fee.
- the customer determines the method of payment, the length of time of access and which of the utilities or services to utilize.
- the fee is based upon the length of time of access and which utilities or services are accessed.
- This invention provides access to one or more utilities after the customer provides payment in electronic form (e.g. credit card, debit card, smart card, or other forms of electronic or magnetic currency devices) or, optionally, currency.
- electronic form e.g. credit card, debit card, smart card, or other forms of electronic or magnetic currency devices
- currency e.g. credit card, debit card, smart card, or other forms of electronic or magnetic currency devices
- no physical payment method is required, and payment is carried out through software that is present in the user's laptop or other device.
- payment is not made during the transaction, and the user is identified through some type of authentication. These can include RF ID cards, hotel keys, ID cards, software or anatomical characteristics such as fingerprint, voiceprint or retinal pattern identification.
- the customer selects which utilities or services they require, typically by just connecting to the appropriate connector (also know as outlet, receptacle, or plug) either through physical means or through wireless connections such as infrared.
- the transaction then begins when some form of payment or user identification is received.
- This microprocessor also communicates with the customer via a user interface to provide details on the progress of the transaction.
- the user interface is not particularly limited and need not even include a visual display on the vending machine.
- this microprocessor is called by a central computer system over a telecommunication channel and may be requested to call back to the central computer.
- This vending device then calls the central computer and transfers all transaction data, machine status and related information to the central computer. After the data has been transferred to the central computer, the central computer can download any new data, such as new rates, to the vending device.
- This device does not need to know the rates in effect unless it is accepting payment in currency form or from pre-paid electronic cards or pre-paid laptop software (i.e. “e-money”).
- the central computer summarizes the data and processes the payment information and schedules technicians to visit those units that require maintenance or have full coin/currency boxes.
- the power may come from an internal power source (such as a battery) or one or more external power sources.
- the type of power source is not limited to 120 VAC, 60 Hz power.
- the unit may obtain power from a different power source and change it to 120 VAC for a traveler.
- Examples of different local power sources include 220 VAC, 50 Hz and 100 VAC, 50 Hz.
- the unit may have a local power source connector on it as well for those customers who have equipment that can utilize the local power source.
- the power may also pass through a noise and surge protection circuit before it is provided to the customer's equipment. Where more than one power source is available, the customers select the source they require by plugging their equipment into the appropriate connector.
- Vending telecommunications channel access includes providing access to the high speed data channels that are emerging for computer use as well as the typical telephone networks and cellular lines.
- These various telecommunications channels which include ISDN, T1, T3, cable, SONET, xDSL, broadband, baseband and other channels, have not previously been available for a fee in public and semi-public locations.
- the vending machine with a high speed data line can be used to provide customers with voice communication capabilities via the Internet or other voice over data networks.
- Internet phones can use data lines to call anywhere in the world and bypass the traditional telephone system (plain old telephone system, hereinafter POTS) which is often more expensive than Internet connections.
- POTS plain old telephone system
- the vending machine could have an Internet compatible, telephone style handset or other microphone/speaker setup for an Internet phone.
- the vending machine could use high-speed data lines and video cameras to provide customers with video phone capability via the Internet or other data networks so that the person on the other end can see as well as hear the caller.
- Another object of this invention is to provide a secure area, such as a storage locker, in which a customer can leave their electronic and electrical devices. While the devices are in this secure area, they can recharge their batteries and/or perform autonomous operations such as upload and download messages.
- the invention can incorporate a storage locker or other structure with a locking cover.
- Another object of this invention is portability.
- this invention is not limited to a fixed location.
- the invention could be used at fairs, outdoor concerts and similar sites where permanent installations are not cost effective. In these cases, it might be more cost effective to have one control unit operating multiple vending machines.
- These multiple vending machines may be arranged in the form of a kiosk to allow multiple customers access to the vending machine at the same time.
- almost any combination of functional components of the vending machine could be moved to a location remote from the machine. This could be accomplished, for example, by networking a cluster of machines to a server either on site or at a remote location.
- Vending electric power at airports and other public places for any electrical device including, but not limited to, computers, cell phones, pagers and vehicles;
- Vending telecommunications access and electricity or other fuel to vehicles where communications is also useful for vehicle diagnostics or customer communications while re-fueling or while parked;
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the present invention for vending both power and telecommunications channel access.
- FIG. 2 is a simplified front view of a vending machine operating panel based upon the vending machine of FIG. 1.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention for vending power only.
- FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the present invention for vending telecommunications channel access only.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention configured in a telephone booth style structure.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention configured in a kiosk structure.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention configured as a storage locker.
- FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the main program loop within the power and telecommunications vending machine.
- FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the program element that supports the transfer of transaction information to the central computer system.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a free standing kiosk showing multiple vending machines.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a kiosk designed for placement against a wall.
- FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the invention with optionally attached components.
- FIG. 1 a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of a power and telecommunications vending machine 100 for vending power and telecommunications channel access is illustrated.
- a microprocessor-based central control unit 106 controls the state of a switchable power circuit 104 and a switchable telecommunications channel access circuit 120 .
- the switchable power circuit 104 switches power on and off at the power connector 108 .
- the switchable power circuit 104 receives input power from an external source that has been processed by the noise and surge protection circuit 102 . Alternatively, no switchable power circuit is necessary, and the unit always remains in the “on” position.
- the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit 120 switches the telecommunications channel on and off at the telecommunications channel access connector 122 .
- the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit 120 provides access to an external telecommunications channel that is protected by the noise and surge protection circuit 118 .
- a vending transaction starts when a customer provides payment at the payment processing unit 114 and connects to the power connector 108 and/or the telecommunications channel access connector 122 .
- no payment mechanism is required, and the vending transaction starts when a customer is identified.
- the user can be billed at a later date.
- the identification is used as additional security for use in conjunction with electronic or magnetic payment cards or software e-money.
- the customer can monitor the state of the vending machine and the transaction via the user interface 110 .
- the user interface may be a visual display or some other type of progress indicator such as an auditory signal.
- the vending machine could instruct or inform the user via an audio speaker.
- the user interface can be present inside or uploaded to the user's laptop or other device thereby obviating the need for an interface within the vending machine unit.
- the use of a card access system which prevents usage by ejecting the user's card would also obviate the need for a visual or aural interface.
- the transaction ends when the customer disconnects from the power connector 108 and the telecommunications channel access connector 122 or wireless connector (not shown).
- the connector does not employ copper wires.
- a light pipe i.e. fiber optic cable connector
- the central control unit 106 can detect that the customer has disconnected from the power connector 108 when power usage detection circuit 112 senses that power usage has dropped to zero.
- the central control unit 106 uses a telecommunications access circuit 116 (such as a modem) to determine when the telecommunications channel is no longer in use. Payment information and transaction length information are retained in retentive memory within the central control unit 106 . This memory retains the data in the event of a power failure.
- a central computer calls the vending machine 100 over the external telecommunications channel. If the telecommunications channel is not busy, the central control unit 106 answers the call using the modem 116 and hangs up to prevent unauthorized access. After hanging up, the central control unit 106 uses the modem 116 to call a pre-programmed number for the central computer and then transfers all transaction and payment information in retentive memory to the central computer.
- the fee charged for the transaction is a function of the convenience of the vending machine 100 and the length of time that the customer uses the machine, not on how much power is consumed. As a result, metering of power is not necessary.
- the payment processing unit 114 can accept payment in currency, coin or electronic form.
- the electronic forms include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards and pre-paid cards or software payment (i.e. “e-money”) in which payment is downloaded to the user's laptop and then uploaded to the vending machine.
- e-money software payment
- Modifications to this embodiment can include devices that only support electronic forms of payment and still other devices that only support currency/coin payment.
- the payment step can be substituted with an authentication step whereby once the user is verified through some form of authentication the vending can proceed.
- the modem 116 is only available to and used by the central control unit 106 .
- the modem 116 can also be made available to the customer.
- an extra connector is present that allows the customer to connect from their serial, parallel or other I/O port to the modem 116 .
- This extra connection can also allow high speed communications without forcing the customer to invest in their own expensive or bulky external modem.
- the user first calls the central control unit.
- the central control unit then calls an ISP in the area that services the particular unit.
- the ISP sets up the connection to the unit.
- the lines may be high bandwidth data lines that are not “dial up” lines but which are set-up in advance.
- the user has a high speed modem in their laptop, and the vending machine simply gateways the user's modem's signal.
- the user uses a high speed modem in the vending machine which gateways those signals to high bandwidth lines.
- telecommunications lines can be connected to a device.
- One line can be dedicated to the vending device and the other line can be dedicated to the customer.
- a single line can be shared between multiple terminals. This is particularly feasible when sharing a high bandwidth data line.
- the high bandwidth line will be brought into the server, and it will be electronically shared with the various vending terminals.
- the central control unit 106 is autonomous and controls the operation of the vending machine 100 completely. It typically does not seek preapproval for the transaction to begin. It is possible to modify this and require the central control unit 106 to contact a central computer and obtain payment approval before allowing a transaction to begin. It is noted that in some instances, no bank authorization is required. In this case, upon successful connection to the vending machine, the vending machine calls a billing computer for payment authorization. The billing computer would approve or disapprove the transaction based on information stored in the billing computer. This obviates the need to contact a bank for approval.
- the vending machine 100 only vends power and telecommunications access.
- the machine can be designed to vend one or more additional utilities or services such as natural gas or steam.
- This device would be used for vending utilities or services to buildings or vehicles.
- the vending machine could contain multiple types of power connectors. For instance, one connector may provide low current and another connector may provide higher current for such applications as building maintenance tasks like vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, etc.
- the high current connector may be housed within the vending machine or it can be located remotely from the vending machine, and the unit would remotely turn the connector on and off.
- the vending machine's higher current connectors would be controlled by a swipe card or other magnetic/electronic card in the event it is desirable for the building to charge for all power usage.
- the high current connectors can be housed with the unit or left in the wall in the vicinity of the vending machine and controlled remotely. An additional application for these high current connectors is to provide means for cleaning, security or other building personnel to indicate their presence at the unit at a particular time. Then, the building management company can monitor the progress of these personnel.
- the power usage detection circuit 112 can be removed.
- the user interface 110 includes a push-button, or similar device, that allows the customer to terminate the transaction.
- noise and surge protection circuits 102 and 118 eliminate one or both of the noise and surge protection circuits 102 and 118 without effecting the function of the machine. It is also possible to have multiple noise and surge protection circuits 102 and 118 , one for each power source and one for each telecommunication channel. Those preferred embodiments with multiple power sources are provided in markets where the customer may require different voltage/frequency operation such as 115 VAC @ 60 Hz, 220 VAC @ 50 Hz and others such as 100 VAC @ 50 or 60 Hz.
- multiple power connectors 108 are also provided. Multiple power connectors 108 can also be provided in certain markets where the customer may require different mechanical forms for the same power such as the many European versions of the power connector. In this case, the vending machine would connect to a external power source, such as a European power source, and then utilize a power conversion circuit to convert to 120 VAC, 60 Hz for travelers in need of compatible power. In addition, certain preferred embodiments have an internal power source for use in markets where external power is not available.
- multiple telecommunications channels are provided in certain preferred embodiments for markets where the customer may require different performance choices such as ISDN, cable and standard telephone lines.
- multiple telecommunications channel access connectors 122 are also provided.
- Multiple telecommunication channel access connectors 122 are also provided in certain preferred embodiments for markets where the customer may require different mechanical forms for the same telecommunications channel such as the many European equivalents of the RJ-11 connector.
- the user would be able to select an ISP of their choice. The user could prearrange with the vending machine company for access to a particular ISP. The server would then call the ISP and make the network connection with the ISP.
- FIG. 2 there is illustrated a simplified front view of an operating panel of one implementation of the vending machine 100 described in the preceding paragraphs.
- the customer sees an operating panel 101 with a user interface 110 comprising two lights referred to as READY and AVAILABLE.
- the operating panel 101 includes a payment processing unit 114 in the form of a credit card swipe reader; a power connector 108 in the form of a standard duplex, 115 VAC connector; and a telecommunications channel access connector 122 in the form of a standard RJ-11 telephone line connector.
- the READY light is on.
- the customer swipes their credit card through the credit card reader 114 and plugs their equipment into the appropriate connectors 108 and/or 122 .
- the central control unit 106 receives valid card information from the credit card reader 114 , it 1) turns on power to the duplex connector 108 via the switchable power circuit 104 , 2) turns on telecommunications channel access at the RJ-11 connector 122 via the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit 120 , 3) turns on the AVAILABLE light 110 , and 4) and pulses the READY light 110 slowly for the remainder of the transaction.
- the central control unit 106 If the central control unit 106 does not receive valid data from the payment processing unit 114 , it blinks the READY light 110 quickly for several seconds without enabling power or telecommunications channel access this indicates that the customer should swipe the card again or try another card.
- the user interface comprises of three lights that turn on and off in particular patterns to inform the customer as to how the transaction is progressing.
- these lights may be replaced or augmented by a video display unit (VDU) which provides more detailed instruction to the customer on vending machine operation and detailed information on the progress of the transaction including the accumulated charges.
- VDU video display unit
- no VDU or display light is required, and the user interface can be present in the user's laptop.
- a sound based interface or card reject system can eliminate the need for a display.
- the VDU could be combined with a keyboard or other push-buttons that would allow the customer to select the language for the display, the connectors to be activated and, optionally, when to terminate the transaction. In the later case, the customer could push a button that would terminate the transaction and the connection, even though he had not disconnected from the connectors.
- the user interface includes a printer or similar device to provide the customer with a receipt for the transaction.
- the central computer can also download new operating instructions, rate information and advertisements that can be displayed at the user interface thereby removing the need for changing a sign posted next to the device that contains this information.
- FIG. 3 there is illustrated a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of a power vending machine 200 for vending power only.
- This vending machine 200 is similar to the vending machine 100 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, except that the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit and telecommunications channel access connector are deleted. All other components of this vending machine 200 operate in the same manner as described above.
- the power connector 108 may be a bus bar or power distribution panel for distributing large quantities of power. The fee charged in this transaction is again a function of the convenience of the vending machine 200 and the length of the transaction, not the amount of power consumed.
- the payment processing unit 114 can also accept payment in currency, coin or electronic form.
- the electronic forms include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards and pre-paid cards. Certain preferred embodiments only support electronic forms of payment and still others only support currency/coin payment. In still other embodiments, no payment mechanism is required, and software payments or billing based on authentication of the user is employed.
- the central control unit 106 is autonomous and controls the operation of the vending machine 200 completely. It can also be modified so that the central control unit 106 must contact a central computer for approval before allowing the transaction to continue and receive power.
- the vending machine 200 only vends power. It can also be modified so that the machine vends one or more additional utilities or services such as natural gas or steam. This would allow for vending utilities or services to buildings or vehicles.
- high power connectors are made available to building maintenance personnel, who operate the connector using an electronic or magnetic card. This provides an additional benefit to the building by providing means of tracking the location and work efficiency of building personnel.
- the power usage detection circuit 112 can also be removed from the vending machine.
- the user interface 110 includes a push-button which allows the customer to terminate the transaction. Indeed, no switchable power is necessary; the unit could simply remain in the “on” position continuously.
- the noise and surge protection circuit 102 can be eliminated without affecting the function of the machine.
- multiple noise and surge protection circuits 102 it is also possible to have multiple noise and surge protection circuits 102 , one for each power source. Multiple power sources are provided in markets where the customer may require different voltage/frequency operation such as 115 VAC @ 60 Hz and 220 VAC @ 50 Hz. When multiple power sources are provided, multiple power connectors 108 are also provided. Multiple power connectors 108 are also provided for markets where the customer may require different mechanical forms for the same power such as the many European versions of the 220 VAC @ 50 Hz connector. In addition, it is possible to provide an internal power source for use in markets where external power is not available or in an incompatible format.
- FIG. 4 there is illustrated therein a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of a telecommunications vending machine 300 for vending telecommunications channel access.
- This embodiment eliminates the power vending components and is particularly useful for connecting computers and other high speed telecommunications equipment to high performance telecommunications channels. All other components operate as described above.
- the payment processing unit 114 can accept payment in currency, coin or electronic form.
- the electronic forms include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, pre-paid cards. Certain embodiments only support electronic forms of payment and still others only support currency/coin payment. Still others use software payments. In still another option, payment is not made during the transaction, and the user is identified through some type of authentication. These can include RF ID cards, hotel keys, software or anatomical characteristics such as fingerprint, voiceprint or retinal pattern identification.
- the modem 116 is only available to and used by the central control unit 106 .
- the modem 116 is also available to the customer.
- an extra connector is present that allows the customer to connect their serial, parallel or other I/O port to the modem 116 .
- This embodiment is typically used to make high speed communications available without forcing the customer to invest in their own expensive or bulky external modem.
- the telecommunications port is bi-directional and can be use for both outbound and inbound calls (e.g. receiving a fax).
- vending machine If high bandwidth data lines are present in the vending machine and made available to the user, some new types of applications become available. For example, a telephone style handset or other microphone/speaker system would allow the user to place voice calls over a network via data lines. This so-called Internet phone offers the advantages of bypassing the POTS and offering reduced long distance rates. With the addition of a video camera either in the vending machine or the user's laptop, the vending machine can use data lines to provide the user with video phone capability.
- the central control unit 106 is autonomous and controls the operation of the vending machine 300 completely. In another version, the central control unit 106 must contact a central computer for approval before allowing a transaction to begin. In still another embodiment, one control unit could operate multiple vending machines. In fact, almost any combination of functional components of the vending machine could be moved to a location remote from the machine. This means a cluster of machines could be tied in a network to a server.
- the machine vends one or more additional utilities or services such a natural gas or steam.
- This modification is used for vending utilities or services to buildings or vehicles.
- a building worker such as a cleaning service would connect to high power connectors and begin service by swiping an electronic/magnetic card through the vending machine.
- noise and surge protection circuit 118 providing multiple noise and surge protection circuits 118 and providing multiple telecommunications channel access connectors 122 .
- FIGS. 1 through 4 show the basic components of the vending machine.
- a preferred embodiment for the structure of a vending machine 100 includes a work surface or other place to set up a portable computer and related items, optionally a place to sit and optionally a lockable cover to allow the customer to leave their equipment unattended.
- FIG. 5 there is illustrated a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a standard telephone booth style structure 500 for vending power and telecommunications access.
- the operating panel 501 is located on the side wall 503 of a vending unit 502 .
- Panel 501 contains electrical receptacles 508 , video display unit 510 , telecommunications access connectors 522 , and card swipe 514 .
- This structure 500 provides a working surface 506 and a seat 504 in each unit. All other components of the vending machine are hidden within the physical structure.
- no payphone or telephone is present.
- a telephone or payphone may be present for the customer's use while the vending machine is in use. This would require that the telecommunications channel used by the vending machine be separate from that of the payphone. Still another modification is to have the vending machine and the payphone share the same telecommunications channel.
- FIG. 6 there is illustrated a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a kiosk shaped telephone booth style structure 600 for vending power and telecommunications access.
- the operating panel 601 is located on the side wall of a vending unit 602 .
- Panel 601 contains electrical receptacles 608 , video display unit 610 , telecommunications access connectors 622 and card swipe 614 .
- This embodiment provides a working surface 606 and an adjustable seat 604 in each unit. All other components of the vending machine are hidden within the physical structure.
- no payphone or telephone is present.
- a telephone or payphone may be present for the customer's use while the vending machine is in use.
- This embodiment requires that the telecommunications channel used by the vending machine is separate from that of the payphone. It is also possible to have the vending machine and the payphone share the same telecommunications channel.
- a lockable door or locking pull-down or pull-out cover is provided which covers the equipment on the work surface 506 / 606 and the connections to the operating panel 501 / 601 .
- This cover mechanism allows the customer to leave their equipment operating while they are otherwise occupied.
- the cover can be unlocked by a key that comes with the cover or unlocked by the same credit card that is paying for the transaction.
- FIG. 7 there is illustrated a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a storage locker 700 for vending power and telecommunications access.
- the power connectors 708 and the telecommunications channel access connectors 722 are located on the back wall of an individual storage unit 702 .
- the payment processing unit 714 and the user interface 110 are located at the door to the unit or can otherwise be external to the storage area. All other components are hidden within the physical structure.
- the credit card used to pay for the transaction is also used as the key to the storage unit, while another embodiment uses a standard key lock.
- Other embodiments of the storage locker delete the telecommunications channel access connectors and related circuits.
- the storage locker could be used, for example to enable the user to receive a facsimile or other inbound data.
- An additional modification contemplated for all embodiments is a direct Internet connection that would allow the customer full, high speed Internet access without going through their ISP or on-line service and without the limitations of a dial-up connection.
- one of the telecommunication channels available at the vending machine is connected to an Internet router, terminal server or similar function and cannot be used for other communication purposes.
- the customer's connection to this channel is via an ethernet or other high speed port on their computer using standard Internet browser software.
- the vending machine 100 is incorporated within the mechanical structure of a telephone or payphone.
- the payment processing unit 114 may be used to pay for the vending of power, telecommunications channel access and phone calls.
- the vending machine can use the telephone line connected to the telephone as the telecommunications channel.
- the vending machine has at least one telecommunications channel separate from that of the telephone.
- the telephone and the vending machine may share the payment processing unit and, optionally, the central control unit and user interface.
- these embodiments may function autonomously and authorize the transactions themselves, or they may require approval from a central computer or central office, or a combination thereof.
- the telecommunications access circuit 116 is generally a modem with its own intelligence and interface circuitry.
- Computer technology is currently changing to reduce the cost and complexity of the modem by moving the intelligence into the central control unit 106 and its program.
- the telecommunications access circuit may further evolve to the point where it is a built-in function within the central control unit 106 .
- the power provided to the customer is 115 VAC.
- Most of the preferred embodiments of the power and telecommunications access vending machine 100 as depicted in FIG. 1, provide at least one AC power connection and no DC power connection. However, there are some embodiments that provide at least one DC power connection without an AC power connection and still others with at least one AC power connection.
- All of the embodiments of the power vending machine 200 as depicted in FIG. 3, provide at least one AC power connection. Some of these embodiments also provide at least one DC power connection.
- Most of the preferred embodiments of the storage locker 700 provide at least one AC power connection and no DC power connection. However, there are some embodiments that provide at least one DC power connection without an AC power connection and still others with at least one AC power connection.
- the central control unit 106 In certain embodiments of the power and telecommunications access vending machine 100 and the telecommunications vending machine 300 , it is necessary for the central control unit 106 to monitor the customer's use of the telecommunications channel to determine how much to charge for the usage or to limit usage to a certain cost level. For example, this could be used when the customer is paying using software “e-money” located in their laptop.
- the telecommunications access circuit includes circuitry that monitors the routing and address related data at the beginning of a connection.
- the central control unit 106 monitors the call to determine the area code or country code to determine that the connection is allowed by the particular installation and, if not, to block the call by turning off the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit.
- the customer may be charged more for a call to certain locations.
- FIG. 8 provides the flowchart for the main program that is executed by the central control unit 106 .
- program execution starts when the vending machine of FIG. 2 is initially turned on. Alternatively, no switchable power is present and the power connector is always on as shown in FIG. 12. Upon power up, the program:
- the program When the program receives new card data, it performs a series of validity checks to determine that the read operation was correct and that the card is one that the vending machine is programmed to accept. If the new card data is not acceptable, the program blinks the Ready light in the fast pattern to indicate to the customer that the customer should swipe the card again or try a different card. If the new card data is acceptable, the program starts the transaction by recording the transaction start time and turning on the switchable power circuit (when present), the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit (when present) and the Available light (when present).
- the program blinks the Ready light in the slow pattern and monitors the power usage and telecommunications channel usage.
- the program terminates the transaction by recording the stop time and turning off the switchable power circuit (when present), the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit (when present) and the Available light (when present).
- FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart for the program element that services periodic calls from a central computer
- the program is activated by an interrupt generated by the modem when an incoming call is detected.
- the modem can only detect an incoming call if the telecommunications channel is not in use. This is not the case if bi-directional data lines are present. In this case, a single line can be used for outbound and inbound calls.
- the modem by its nature, automatically answers the call and establishes a carrier with the calling computer.
- the program terminates the connections as soon as it receives two characters from the caller without exchanging any information. If the two characters are not CO (Call Office) the program ignores the call and waits for another incoming call. Otherwise, if a transaction is currently in progress, the program waits for the transaction to be completed.
- CO Common Office
- the program initiates a call to the home office computer using a phone number that is resident within the program.
- the home office computer answers and the modems establish a link, the program uploads its identification number, its transaction data and its status. For security, the transaction data is encoded and a checksum is appended to the message. If any errors are indicated by the home office computer, the data is repeated. After the upload is completed, the home office computer downloads any new data or program changes that it has for the vending machine. If any errors are encountered, the information is repeated.
- FIG. 10 which illustrates a kiosk with access to four sides
- 800 represents a sign on the kiosk
- 802 depicts the vending machine.
- the kiosk of this embodiment can accommodate up to four vending machines.
- 804 refers to a shelf where the user can place their laptop computer.
- Numeral 806 refers to the base of the kiosk.
- FIG. 11 shows another style of kiosk. This kiosk is designed for placement against a wall and accommodates up to three users. 900 represents a sign on the kiosk. 902 refers to the vending machine. The users place their laptop on shelf 904 , and the unit is supported by a base 906 .
- FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing additional features of the invention.
- the power circuit may either be switchable or always in the “on” position.
- Customers may initiate vending machine access using user authentication methods such as retinal pattern, finger print or voice print identification.
- a video camera can provide video phone capability.
- Either a microphone/speaker combination or handset can provide Internet phone access.
Abstract
A vending machine for dispensing telecommunications access is disclosed. A customer interested in using the telecommunications access makes a payment into the payment processing unit which forwards the payment information to the central control unit. The central control unit reports the transaction information to a central computer system via its modem connected to a telecommunication channel. Access to the same telecommunication channel or another channel can be made available to the customer via a switchable telecommunications access circuit which is also controlled by the central control unit. The customer connects to the telecommunications channel via the telecommunications access connector. The central control unit provides information on the progress of the vending transaction to the customer via the user interface. The central control unit determines when the transaction is completed by sensing the cessation of usage via the usage detection circuit or via customer action at the user interface.
Description
- This application is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/270,108 filed on Oct. 15, 2002, currently pending, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/985,930 filed on Nov. 6, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,466,658, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/594,028 filed on Jun. 15, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,314,169, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/156,487 filed on Sep. 18, 1998, now abandoned, which is a continuation application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/796,562 filed on Feb. 6, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,812,643.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- This invention relates generally to the vending of electricity, telecommunications and/or other utilities in public or semi-public places. More specifically, this invention relates to the operation of computers and other electrical and electronic devices while traveling away from home.
- 2. Discussion of the Related Art
- In this era of communications, individuals are increasingly dependent on a variety of electronic devices to receive and send information. This dependency has resulted in a large number of battery-operated devices which allow an individual to stay in touch while traveling. A major limitation in the operation of these devices is battery life. To overcome this limitation, many of these devices can operate on and recharge from an AC power line. However, AC power for this purpose is not readily available in most public and semi-public places including airports, bus terminals, convention centers and restaurants.
- Portable computers have become indispensable communications tools that are used to send and receive voice, fax, email and video messages from and to almost any point in the world. These devices access a variety of communication networks via wired, wireless or fiber telecommunications channels. However, computer compatible access to telecommunications channels is also not readily available in public and semi-public places.
- Malaspina (U.S. Pat. No. 5,544,784) addresses the battery life issue and tries to solve it by vending recharged batteries. This proposed solution to the problem is complicated by the shapes, sizes, and electrical characteristics of the many batteries on the market.
- A more general solution to the problem is found in those parking meters which provide AC power for an engine block heater or battery charger. Wilkinson (U.S. Pat. No. 5,263,565) defines a combination meter that can allocate a payment between an electricity account and a parking space account automatically based upon whether electricity is being used or not. However, his invention is fundamentally a parking meter and he does not provide for vending power without the parking space. Further, there is no protection from the weather as it was not contemplated that the electricity would be useful for another purpose. Furthermore, while this invention does provide for credit card payments, it does not provide for a telecommunications link for payment or other information.
- Ng et al. (U.S. Pat. No. 5,103,957) defines a microprocessor-based parking meter without any power vending capability or ability to accept credit card payments. This invention includes a wireless communications interface for communications between the microprocessor and an external device. Like Wilkinson, Ng is based upon the concept of renting a parking space. The communications interface is intended to connect to a portable computer that is used to change rates within the meter.
- Other combination meters have been defined for the purpose of charging electric vehicles. These meters require specific means for connecting to the vehicle, specific means of charging the vehicle's batteries and/or specific means for measuring/metering the power consumed. Most importantly, these combination meters rent space for a vehicle so that the fee charged is for parking space rental and for electricity. Additionally, none of these meters is designed to operate a computer.
- Some vending machines have also been defined for the purpose of charging electric vehicles. Like the combination meters, these vending machines require specific means for connecting to the vehicle, specific means for charging the vehicle's batteries, and/or specific means for measuring/metering the power consumed. Most importantly, these machines incorporate battery charging circuitry and are only capable of charging car batteries, not operating customer equipment such as computers.
- Some telecommunications channels that are accessible in public places may come with a communications instrument such as a payphone, pay facsimile or pay TV. Some of these payphones used in conjunction with a telecommunications channel have an RJ11 receptacle that is intended to connect special accessories for the physically impaired and which might be able to be used for a computer connection. However, these payphone installations do not provide AC power to operate an accessory or a computer and are limited to providing access to the telephone network line connected to the payphone. These payphones cannot and do not provide fiber, cable or other types of communications channel access. Further these payphones that do accept credit cards as a means of payment still require the central office to process the transaction before the phone can be used.
- An object of this invention is to provide access to electrical power, a telecommunications channel or channels and/or other utilities or services for a fee. The customer determines the method of payment, the length of time of access and which of the utilities or services to utilize. The fee is based upon the length of time of access and which utilities or services are accessed.
- This invention provides access to one or more utilities after the customer provides payment in electronic form (e.g. credit card, debit card, smart card, or other forms of electronic or magnetic currency devices) or, optionally, currency. Alternatively, no physical payment method is required, and payment is carried out through software that is present in the user's laptop or other device. In still another option, payment is not made during the transaction, and the user is identified through some type of authentication. These can include RF ID cards, hotel keys, ID cards, software or anatomical characteristics such as fingerprint, voiceprint or retinal pattern identification. The customer selects which utilities or services they require, typically by just connecting to the appropriate connector (also know as outlet, receptacle, or plug) either through physical means or through wireless connections such as infrared. The transaction then begins when some form of payment or user identification is received. The transaction ends when the customer disconnects from all of the connectors or otherwise indicates that the customer is finished. The microprocessor controls the vending process and records the transaction information in retentive memory.
- This microprocessor also communicates with the customer via a user interface to provide details on the progress of the transaction. The user interface is not particularly limited and need not even include a visual display on the vending machine. Periodically, this microprocessor is called by a central computer system over a telecommunication channel and may be requested to call back to the central computer. This vending device then calls the central computer and transfers all transaction data, machine status and related information to the central computer. After the data has been transferred to the central computer, the central computer can download any new data, such as new rates, to the vending device. This device does not need to know the rates in effect unless it is accepting payment in currency form or from pre-paid electronic cards or pre-paid laptop software (i.e. “e-money”). In fact, using the software forms of payment such as billing through an Internet service provider (hereinafter “ISP”) or using software “currency”, no physical payment method need be included in the vending machine. The central computer summarizes the data and processes the payment information and schedules technicians to visit those units that require maintenance or have full coin/currency boxes.
- When this invention is used to vend power, the power may come from an internal power source (such as a battery) or one or more external power sources. The type of power source is not limited to 120 VAC, 60 Hz power. For example, the unit may obtain power from a different power source and change it to 120 VAC for a traveler. Examples of different local power sources include 220 VAC, 50 Hz and 100 VAC, 50 Hz. The unit may have a local power source connector on it as well for those customers who have equipment that can utilize the local power source. The power may also pass through a noise and surge protection circuit before it is provided to the customer's equipment. Where more than one power source is available, the customers select the source they require by plugging their equipment into the appropriate connector.
- Vending telecommunications channel access includes providing access to the high speed data channels that are emerging for computer use as well as the typical telephone networks and cellular lines. These various telecommunications channels, which include ISDN, T1, T3, cable, SONET, xDSL, broadband, baseband and other channels, have not previously been available for a fee in public and semi-public locations.
- The vending machine with a high speed data line can be used to provide customers with voice communication capabilities via the Internet or other voice over data networks. These so-called “Internet phones” can use data lines to call anywhere in the world and bypass the traditional telephone system (plain old telephone system, hereinafter POTS) which is often more expensive than Internet connections. The vending machine could have an Internet compatible, telephone style handset or other microphone/speaker setup for an Internet phone.
- Similarly, the vending machine could use high-speed data lines and video cameras to provide customers with video phone capability via the Internet or other data networks so that the person on the other end can see as well as hear the caller.
- Current payphones require central office support to enable a transaction (call). This invention allows the transaction regardless of the capabilities of the central office. In some alternative embodiments of the invention, more than one telecommunications channel will be available to the customer. In such a case, the customer will normally choose the required channel by plugging the equipment into the appropriate connector or by connecting through infrared or other wireless connection. One example of a wireless connector is an armored fiber optic cable that could be permanently attached to the unit. At the other end is a large mechanical clip. The armored fiber optic would enter into the back of the clip. The user who had a notebook computer with an IR port would place the clip on the notebook so it is grasping the top and bottom of the notebook. In this arrangement, the end of the armored fiber optic cable is aimed directly into the IR port of the laptop.
- Another object of this invention is to provide a secure area, such as a storage locker, in which a customer can leave their electronic and electrical devices. While the devices are in this secure area, they can recharge their batteries and/or perform autonomous operations such as upload and download messages. In this case, the invention can incorporate a storage locker or other structure with a locking cover.
- Another object of this invention is portability. Using an internal power source and wireless telecommunications channels, this invention is not limited to a fixed location. In this configuration, the invention could be used at fairs, outdoor concerts and similar sites where permanent installations are not cost effective. In these cases, it might be more cost effective to have one control unit operating multiple vending machines. These multiple vending machines may be arranged in the form of a kiosk to allow multiple customers access to the vending machine at the same time. Similarly, almost any combination of functional components of the vending machine could be moved to a location remote from the machine. This could be accomplished, for example, by networking a cluster of machines to a server either on site or at a remote location.
- The invention is envisioned to have, but not limited to, the following applications:
- Vending electric power at airports and other public places for any electrical device including, but not limited to, computers, cell phones, pagers and vehicles;
- Vending telecommunications channel access at airports and other public places for any communications device including portable computers and special telecommunications devices for the physically impaired;
- Vending the combination of power and telecommunications access onboard moving vehicles such as ships, airplanes and buses;
- Vending power, communications and other utilities at rental properties, public playgrounds and camp sites;
- Vending telecommunications access and electricity or other fuel to vehicles where communications is also useful for vehicle diagnostics or customer communications while re-fueling or while parked;
- Vending power and optionally telecommunications access to electronic equipment locked in storage lockers to allow batteries to recharge and/or to allow autonomous operations such as upload and download messages while the customer is otherwise occupied.
- Vending power and other utilities to building operations to facilitate and monitor cleaning or other repair and maintenance activities.
- Other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings wherein preferred embodiments of the invention have been selected for exemplification and from the individual features and relationships of the respective appended claims.
- The above and other objects and features of the present invention will be clearly understood from the following description with respect to a preferred embodiment thereof when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals have been used to denote the same or similar parts or elements, and in which:
- FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the present invention for vending both power and telecommunications channel access.
- FIG. 2 is a simplified front view of a vending machine operating panel based upon the vending machine of FIG. 1.
- FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the present invention for vending power only.
- FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the present invention for vending telecommunications channel access only.
- FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the present invention configured in a telephone booth style structure.
- FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the present invention configured in a kiosk structure.
- FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the present invention configured as a storage locker.
- FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the main program loop within the power and telecommunications vending machine.
- FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the program element that supports the transfer of transaction information to the central computer system.
- FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a free standing kiosk showing multiple vending machines.
- FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a kiosk designed for placement against a wall.
- FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the invention with optionally attached components.
- While this specification concludes with claims defining the features on the invention that are regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better understood from a consideration of the following description in conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried forward.
- Referring now to FIG. 1, a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of a power and
telecommunications vending machine 100 for vending power and telecommunications channel access is illustrated. In this vending machine, a microprocessor-basedcentral control unit 106 controls the state of aswitchable power circuit 104 and a switchable telecommunicationschannel access circuit 120. Theswitchable power circuit 104 switches power on and off at thepower connector 108. Theswitchable power circuit 104 receives input power from an external source that has been processed by the noise andsurge protection circuit 102. Alternatively, no switchable power circuit is necessary, and the unit always remains in the “on” position. - Similarly, the switchable telecommunications
channel access circuit 120 switches the telecommunications channel on and off at the telecommunicationschannel access connector 122. The switchable telecommunicationschannel access circuit 120 provides access to an external telecommunications channel that is protected by the noise andsurge protection circuit 118. - A vending transaction starts when a customer provides payment at the
payment processing unit 114 and connects to thepower connector 108 and/or the telecommunicationschannel access connector 122. Alternatively, no payment mechanism is required, and the vending transaction starts when a customer is identified. Once identified, the user can be billed at a later date. Or, the identification is used as additional security for use in conjunction with electronic or magnetic payment cards or software e-money. Once attached and initiated, the customer can monitor the state of the vending machine and the transaction via theuser interface 110. The user interface may be a visual display or some other type of progress indicator such as an auditory signal. For example, the vending machine could instruct or inform the user via an audio speaker. Alternatively, the user interface can be present inside or uploaded to the user's laptop or other device thereby obviating the need for an interface within the vending machine unit. Similarly, the use of a card access system which prevents usage by ejecting the user's card would also obviate the need for a visual or aural interface. - The transaction ends when the customer disconnects from the
power connector 108 and the telecommunicationschannel access connector 122 or wireless connector (not shown). In a further embodiment, the connector does not employ copper wires. In this case, a light pipe (i.e. fiber optic cable connector) would be used to connect the user to the vending machine. Thecentral control unit 106 can detect that the customer has disconnected from thepower connector 108 when powerusage detection circuit 112 senses that power usage has dropped to zero. Thecentral control unit 106 uses a telecommunications access circuit 116 (such as a modem) to determine when the telecommunications channel is no longer in use. Payment information and transaction length information are retained in retentive memory within thecentral control unit 106. This memory retains the data in the event of a power failure. - Periodically, a central computer calls the
vending machine 100 over the external telecommunications channel. If the telecommunications channel is not busy, thecentral control unit 106 answers the call using themodem 116 and hangs up to prevent unauthorized access. After hanging up, thecentral control unit 106 uses themodem 116 to call a pre-programmed number for the central computer and then transfers all transaction and payment information in retentive memory to the central computer. - The fee charged for the transaction is a function of the convenience of the
vending machine 100 and the length of time that the customer uses the machine, not on how much power is consumed. As a result, metering of power is not necessary. - In this preferred embodiment, the
payment processing unit 114 can accept payment in currency, coin or electronic form. The electronic forms include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards and pre-paid cards or software payment (i.e. “e-money”) in which payment is downloaded to the user's laptop and then uploaded to the vending machine. Modifications to this embodiment can include devices that only support electronic forms of payment and still other devices that only support currency/coin payment. Alternatively, the payment step can be substituted with an authentication step whereby once the user is verified through some form of authentication the vending can proceed. - The
modem 116 is only available to and used by thecentral control unit 106. In a modification of this embodiment, themodem 116 can also be made available to the customer. For this modification, an extra connector is present that allows the customer to connect from their serial, parallel or other I/O port to themodem 116. This extra connection can also allow high speed communications without forcing the customer to invest in their own expensive or bulky external modem. In this embodiment, the user first calls the central control unit. The central control unit then calls an ISP in the area that services the particular unit. The ISP then sets up the connection to the unit. The lines may be high bandwidth data lines that are not “dial up” lines but which are set-up in advance. In one embodiment, the user has a high speed modem in their laptop, and the vending machine simply gateways the user's modem's signal. In another embodiment, the user uses a high speed modem in the vending machine which gateways those signals to high bandwidth lines. - It is possible also to have two separate telecommunications lines connected to a device. One line can be dedicated to the vending device and the other line can be dedicated to the customer. Or, a single line can be shared between multiple terminals. This is particularly feasible when sharing a high bandwidth data line. The high bandwidth line will be brought into the server, and it will be electronically shared with the various vending terminals. It is possible to provide more than one type of telecommunications channel to the device. These types include, but are not limited to T1, ISDN, XDSL, broadband and baseband. For example, if these lines are provided, two lines can be regular phone lines and one can be an ISDN line. In such a situation, the customer would have access to connect their device to a RJ-11 connector or an ISDN connector. The remaining phone line could then be dedicated for use by the vending device. Recently, there has been a proliferation of different types of connectors for high speed telecommunications. Suitable connectors can be determined by those skilled in the art.
- The
central control unit 106 is autonomous and controls the operation of thevending machine 100 completely. It typically does not seek preapproval for the transaction to begin. It is possible to modify this and require thecentral control unit 106 to contact a central computer and obtain payment approval before allowing a transaction to begin. It is noted that in some instances, no bank authorization is required. In this case, upon successful connection to the vending machine, the vending machine calls a billing computer for payment authorization. The billing computer would approve or disapprove the transaction based on information stored in the billing computer. This obviates the need to contact a bank for approval. - In FIG. 1, the
vending machine 100 only vends power and telecommunications access. In a modification of this embodiment, the machine can be designed to vend one or more additional utilities or services such as natural gas or steam. This device would be used for vending utilities or services to buildings or vehicles. For this and other uses, the vending machine could contain multiple types of power connectors. For instance, one connector may provide low current and another connector may provide higher current for such applications as building maintenance tasks like vacuum cleaners, floor polishers, etc. The high current connector may be housed within the vending machine or it can be located remotely from the vending machine, and the unit would remotely turn the connector on and off. The vending machine's higher current connectors would be controlled by a swipe card or other magnetic/electronic card in the event it is desirable for the building to charge for all power usage. The high current connectors can be housed with the unit or left in the wall in the vicinity of the vending machine and controlled remotely. An additional application for these high current connectors is to provide means for cleaning, security or other building personnel to indicate their presence at the unit at a particular time. Then, the building management company can monitor the progress of these personnel. - In another modification of the power and telecommunications vending machine, the power
usage detection circuit 112 can be removed. For this device, theuser interface 110 includes a push-button, or similar device, that allows the customer to terminate the transaction. - Other modifications of the power and telecommunications access vending machine eliminate one or both of the noise and
surge protection circuits surge protection circuits - When multiple power sources are provided,
multiple power connectors 108 are also provided.Multiple power connectors 108 can also be provided in certain markets where the customer may require different mechanical forms for the same power such as the many European versions of the power connector. In this case, the vending machine would connect to a external power source, such as a European power source, and then utilize a power conversion circuit to convert to 120 VAC, 60 Hz for travelers in need of compatible power. In addition, certain preferred embodiments have an internal power source for use in markets where external power is not available. - Similarly, multiple telecommunications channels are provided in certain preferred embodiments for markets where the customer may require different performance choices such as ISDN, cable and standard telephone lines. When multiple telecommunications channels are provided, multiple telecommunications
channel access connectors 122 are also provided. Multiple telecommunicationchannel access connectors 122 are also provided in certain preferred embodiments for markets where the customer may require different mechanical forms for the same telecommunications channel such as the many European equivalents of the RJ-11 connector. In another embodiment, the user would be able to select an ISP of their choice. The user could prearrange with the vending machine company for access to a particular ISP. The server would then call the ISP and make the network connection with the ISP. - Referring now to FIG. 2, there is illustrated a simplified front view of an operating panel of one implementation of the
vending machine 100 described in the preceding paragraphs. The customer sees anoperating panel 101 with auser interface 110 comprising two lights referred to as READY and AVAILABLE. Theoperating panel 101 includes apayment processing unit 114 in the form of a credit card swipe reader; apower connector 108 in the form of a standard duplex, 115 VAC connector; and a telecommunicationschannel access connector 122 in the form of a standard RJ-11 telephone line connector. - When the customer first approaches the
vending machine 100, the READY light is on. The customer swipes their credit card through thecredit card reader 114 and plugs their equipment into theappropriate connectors 108 and/or 122. If thecentral control unit 106 receives valid card information from thecredit card reader 114, it 1) turns on power to theduplex connector 108 via theswitchable power circuit 104, 2) turns on telecommunications channel access at the RJ-11connector 122 via the switchable telecommunicationschannel access circuit 120, 3) turns on theAVAILABLE light 110, and 4) and pulses theREADY light 110 slowly for the remainder of the transaction. - If the
central control unit 106 does not receive valid data from thepayment processing unit 114, it blinks theREADY light 110 quickly for several seconds without enabling power or telecommunications channel access this indicates that the customer should swipe the card again or try another card. - When the customer is finished, they merely disconnect from the
connectors central control unit 106 automatically senses this event, records the end of the transaction, turns off theAVAILABLE light 110 and returns theREADY light 110 to be on continuously. - In the preferred embodiment of FIG. 2, the user interface comprises of three lights that turn on and off in particular patterns to inform the customer as to how the transaction is progressing. In other preferred embodiments, these lights may be replaced or augmented by a video display unit (VDU) which provides more detailed instruction to the customer on vending machine operation and detailed information on the progress of the transaction including the accumulated charges. On the other hand, no VDU or display light is required, and the user interface can be present in the user's laptop. Alternatively, a sound based interface or card reject system can eliminate the need for a display.
- In certain embodiments, the VDU could be combined with a keyboard or other push-buttons that would allow the customer to select the language for the display, the connectors to be activated and, optionally, when to terminate the transaction. In the later case, the customer could push a button that would terminate the transaction and the connection, even though he had not disconnected from the connectors.
- In still other preferred embodiments, the user interface includes a printer or similar device to provide the customer with a receipt for the transaction.
- The central computer can also download new operating instructions, rate information and advertisements that can be displayed at the user interface thereby removing the need for changing a sign posted next to the device that contains this information.
- Referring now to FIG. 3, there is illustrated a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of a
power vending machine 200 for vending power only. Thisvending machine 200 is similar to thevending machine 100 of FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, except that the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit and telecommunications channel access connector are deleted. All other components of thisvending machine 200 operate in the same manner as described above. In large implementations of thisvending machine 200, thepower connector 108 may be a bus bar or power distribution panel for distributing large quantities of power. The fee charged in this transaction is again a function of the convenience of thevending machine 200 and the length of the transaction, not the amount of power consumed. - In this embodiment, the
payment processing unit 114 can also accept payment in currency, coin or electronic form. The electronic forms include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards and pre-paid cards. Certain preferred embodiments only support electronic forms of payment and still others only support currency/coin payment. In still other embodiments, no payment mechanism is required, and software payments or billing based on authentication of the user is employed. - As in FIG. 1, the
central control unit 106 is autonomous and controls the operation of thevending machine 200 completely. It can also be modified so that thecentral control unit 106 must contact a central computer for approval before allowing the transaction to continue and receive power. - In FIG. 3, the
vending machine 200 only vends power. It can also be modified so that the machine vends one or more additional utilities or services such as natural gas or steam. This would allow for vending utilities or services to buildings or vehicles. In a particular embodiment, high power connectors are made available to building maintenance personnel, who operate the connector using an electronic or magnetic card. This provides an additional benefit to the building by providing means of tracking the location and work efficiency of building personnel. - The power
usage detection circuit 112 can also be removed from the vending machine. In this modification, theuser interface 110 includes a push-button which allows the customer to terminate the transaction. Indeed, no switchable power is necessary; the unit could simply remain in the “on” position continuously. - Like the first embodiment, the noise and
surge protection circuit 102 can be eliminated without affecting the function of the machine. - It is also possible to have multiple noise and
surge protection circuits 102, one for each power source. Multiple power sources are provided in markets where the customer may require different voltage/frequency operation such as 115 VAC @ 60 Hz and 220 VAC @ 50 Hz. When multiple power sources are provided,multiple power connectors 108 are also provided.Multiple power connectors 108 are also provided for markets where the customer may require different mechanical forms for the same power such as the many European versions of the 220 VAC @ 50 Hz connector. In addition, it is possible to provide an internal power source for use in markets where external power is not available or in an incompatible format. - Referring now to FIG. 4, there is illustrated therein a block diagram of a preferred embodiment of a
telecommunications vending machine 300 for vending telecommunications channel access. This embodiment eliminates the power vending components and is particularly useful for connecting computers and other high speed telecommunications equipment to high performance telecommunications channels. All other components operate as described above. - In this preferred embodiment, the
payment processing unit 114 can accept payment in currency, coin or electronic form. The electronic forms include, but are not limited to, credit cards, debit cards, smart cards, pre-paid cards. Certain embodiments only support electronic forms of payment and still others only support currency/coin payment. Still others use software payments. In still another option, payment is not made during the transaction, and the user is identified through some type of authentication. These can include RF ID cards, hotel keys, software or anatomical characteristics such as fingerprint, voiceprint or retinal pattern identification. - In the embodiment of FIG. 4, the
modem 116 is only available to and used by thecentral control unit 106. In a modification of this embodiment, themodem 116 is also available to the customer. For this modification, an extra connector is present that allows the customer to connect their serial, parallel or other I/O port to themodem 116. This embodiment is typically used to make high speed communications available without forcing the customer to invest in their own expensive or bulky external modem. - In a further embodiment, the telecommunications port is bi-directional and can be use for both outbound and inbound calls (e.g. receiving a fax).
- If high bandwidth data lines are present in the vending machine and made available to the user, some new types of applications become available. For example, a telephone style handset or other microphone/speaker system would allow the user to place voice calls over a network via data lines. This so-called Internet phone offers the advantages of bypassing the POTS and offering reduced long distance rates. With the addition of a video camera either in the vending machine or the user's laptop, the vending machine can use data lines to provide the user with video phone capability.
- In one version of the device, the
central control unit 106 is autonomous and controls the operation of thevending machine 300 completely. In another version, thecentral control unit 106 must contact a central computer for approval before allowing a transaction to begin. In still another embodiment, one control unit could operate multiple vending machines. In fact, almost any combination of functional components of the vending machine could be moved to a location remote from the machine. This means a cluster of machines could be tied in a network to a server. - Like the other embodiments, it is also possible that the machine vends one or more additional utilities or services such a natural gas or steam. This modification is used for vending utilities or services to buildings or vehicles. In these applications, a building worker such as a cleaning service would connect to high power connectors and begin service by swiping an electronic/magnetic card through the vending machine.
- It is also possible to modify the embodiment of FIG. 4 to provide power at no charge for equipment that is connected to the machine.
- Other possible modifications include elimination of the noise and
surge protection circuit 118 providing multiple noise andsurge protection circuits 118 and providing multiple telecommunicationschannel access connectors 122. - FIGS. 1 through 4 show the basic components of the vending machine. A preferred embodiment for the structure of a
vending machine 100 includes a work surface or other place to set up a portable computer and related items, optionally a place to sit and optionally a lockable cover to allow the customer to leave their equipment unattended. - Referring now to FIG. 5, there is illustrated a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a standard telephone
booth style structure 500 for vending power and telecommunications access. In this embodiment, theoperating panel 501 is located on theside wall 503 of avending unit 502.Panel 501 containselectrical receptacles 508,video display unit 510,telecommunications access connectors 522, andcard swipe 514. Thisstructure 500, provides a workingsurface 506 and aseat 504 in each unit. All other components of the vending machine are hidden within the physical structure. - In this embodiment, no payphone or telephone is present. In other embodiments, a telephone or payphone may be present for the customer's use while the vending machine is in use. This would require that the telecommunications channel used by the vending machine be separate from that of the payphone. Still another modification is to have the vending machine and the payphone share the same telecommunications channel.
- Referring now to FIG. 6, there is illustrated a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a kiosk shaped telephone
booth style structure 600 for vending power and telecommunications access. In this embodiment, theoperating panel 601 is located on the side wall of avending unit 602.Panel 601 containselectrical receptacles 608,video display unit 610,telecommunications access connectors 622 andcard swipe 614. This embodiment provides a workingsurface 606 and anadjustable seat 604 in each unit. All other components of the vending machine are hidden within the physical structure. In this embodiment, like FIG. 5, no payphone or telephone is present. In other embodiments, a telephone or payphone may be present for the customer's use while the vending machine is in use. This embodiment requires that the telecommunications channel used by the vending machine is separate from that of the payphone. It is also possible to have the vending machine and the payphone share the same telecommunications channel. - In another preferred embodiment of the vending machine in a kiosk or standard telephone booth type structure, a lockable door or locking pull-down or pull-out cover is provided which covers the equipment on the
work surface 506/606 and the connections to theoperating panel 501/601. This cover mechanism allows the customer to leave their equipment operating while they are otherwise occupied. In this modification, the cover can be unlocked by a key that comes with the cover or unlocked by the same credit card that is paying for the transaction. - Referring now to FIG. 7, there is illustrated a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a
storage locker 700 for vending power and telecommunications access. In this embodiment thepower connectors 708 and the telecommunicationschannel access connectors 722 are located on the back wall of anindividual storage unit 702. Thepayment processing unit 714 and theuser interface 110 are located at the door to the unit or can otherwise be external to the storage area. All other components are hidden within the physical structure. In this embodiment, the credit card used to pay for the transaction is also used as the key to the storage unit, while another embodiment uses a standard key lock. Other embodiments of the storage locker delete the telecommunications channel access connectors and related circuits. The storage locker could be used, for example to enable the user to receive a facsimile or other inbound data. - An additional modification contemplated for all embodiments is a direct Internet connection that would allow the customer full, high speed Internet access without going through their ISP or on-line service and without the limitations of a dial-up connection. In this case, one of the telecommunication channels available at the vending machine is connected to an Internet router, terminal server or similar function and cannot be used for other communication purposes. The customer's connection to this channel is via an ethernet or other high speed port on their computer using standard Internet browser software.
- In another modification of the device, it is possible that the
vending machine 100 is incorporated within the mechanical structure of a telephone or payphone. In this embodiment, thepayment processing unit 114 may be used to pay for the vending of power, telecommunications channel access and phone calls. The vending machine can use the telephone line connected to the telephone as the telecommunications channel. In another embodiment the vending machine has at least one telecommunications channel separate from that of the telephone. In these embodiments, the telephone and the vending machine may share the payment processing unit and, optionally, the central control unit and user interface. Furthermore, these embodiments may function autonomously and authorize the transactions themselves, or they may require approval from a central computer or central office, or a combination thereof. - When the telecommunications channel is part of the POTS network, the
telecommunications access circuit 116 is generally a modem with its own intelligence and interface circuitry. Computer technology is currently changing to reduce the cost and complexity of the modem by moving the intelligence into thecentral control unit 106 and its program. In the future, the telecommunications access circuit may further evolve to the point where it is a built-in function within thecentral control unit 106. - In the preferred embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the power provided to the customer is 115 VAC. Most of the preferred embodiments of the power and telecommunications
access vending machine 100, as depicted in FIG. 1, provide at least one AC power connection and no DC power connection. However, there are some embodiments that provide at least one DC power connection without an AC power connection and still others with at least one AC power connection. - All of the embodiments of the
power vending machine 200, as depicted in FIG. 3, provide at least one AC power connection. Some of these embodiments also provide at least one DC power connection. - Most of the preferred embodiments of the
storage locker 700, as depicted in FIG. 7, provide at least one AC power connection and no DC power connection. However, there are some embodiments that provide at least one DC power connection without an AC power connection and still others with at least one AC power connection. - In certain embodiments of the power and telecommunications
access vending machine 100 and thetelecommunications vending machine 300, it is necessary for thecentral control unit 106 to monitor the customer's use of the telecommunications channel to determine how much to charge for the usage or to limit usage to a certain cost level. For example, this could be used when the customer is paying using software “e-money” located in their laptop. In these embodiments, the telecommunications access circuit includes circuitry that monitors the routing and address related data at the beginning of a connection. For example, if the telecommunications channel is a POTS line, thecentral control unit 106 monitors the call to determine the area code or country code to determine that the connection is allowed by the particular installation and, if not, to block the call by turning off the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit. Alternatively, the customer may be charged more for a call to certain locations. - Referring now to FIG. 8, which provides the flowchart for the main program that is executed by the
central control unit 106, program execution starts when the vending machine of FIG. 2 is initially turned on. Alternatively, no switchable power is present and the power connector is always on as shown in FIG. 12. Upon power up, the program: - 1. Initializes its internal registers and the
telecommunications access circuit 116 so that that circuit is capable of answering incoming calls. - 2. Turns off each of the switchable circuits.
- 3. Performs internal diagnostics to determine vending machine status.
- 4. Turns on the Ready light (when present) and waits for a customer to swipe a payment card at the card reader.
- When the program receives new card data, it performs a series of validity checks to determine that the read operation was correct and that the card is one that the vending machine is programmed to accept. If the new card data is not acceptable, the program blinks the Ready light in the fast pattern to indicate to the customer that the customer should swipe the card again or try a different card. If the new card data is acceptable, the program starts the transaction by recording the transaction start time and turning on the switchable power circuit (when present), the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit (when present) and the Available light (when present).
- Throughout the transaction, if a visual display unit is present, the program blinks the Ready light in the slow pattern and monitors the power usage and telecommunications channel usage. When the customer has stopped using both power and the telecommunications channel for six seconds, the program terminates the transaction by recording the stop time and turning off the switchable power circuit (when present), the switchable telecommunications channel access circuit (when present) and the Available light (when present).
- When the program has completed all its steps, its returns to a waiting mode for the next customer to swipe their card.
- Referring now to FIG. 9, which illustrates a flowchart for the program element that services periodic calls from a central computer, the program is activated by an interrupt generated by the modem when an incoming call is detected. The modem can only detect an incoming call if the telecommunications channel is not in use. This is not the case if bi-directional data lines are present. In this case, a single line can be used for outbound and inbound calls. The modem, by its nature, automatically answers the call and establishes a carrier with the calling computer. The program terminates the connections as soon as it receives two characters from the caller without exchanging any information. If the two characters are not CO (Call Office) the program ignores the call and waits for another incoming call. Otherwise, if a transaction is currently in progress, the program waits for the transaction to be completed.
- When the transaction ends or if no transaction is in progress, the program initiates a call to the home office computer using a phone number that is resident within the program. When the home office computer answers and the modems establish a link, the program uploads its identification number, its transaction data and its status. For security, the transaction data is encoded and a checksum is appended to the message. If any errors are indicated by the home office computer, the data is repeated. After the upload is completed, the home office computer downloads any new data or program changes that it has for the vending machine. If any errors are encountered, the information is repeated.
- When the download is complete, the program clears the transaction memory and reports the successful completion of this task to the home office computer. Finally this program element terminates the call and waits for the next incoming call.
- Referring to FIG. 10, which illustrates a kiosk with access to four sides,800 represents a sign on the kiosk, and 802 depicts the vending machine. The kiosk of this embodiment can accommodate up to four vending machines. 804 refers to a shelf where the user can place their laptop computer.
Numeral 806 refers to the base of the kiosk. - FIG. 11 shows another style of kiosk. This kiosk is designed for placement against a wall and accommodates up to three users.900 represents a sign on the kiosk. 902 refers to the vending machine. The users place their laptop on
shelf 904, and the unit is supported by abase 906. - FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing additional features of the invention. In this diagram, the power circuit may either be switchable or always in the “on” position. Customers may initiate vending machine access using user authentication methods such as retinal pattern, finger print or voice print identification. In a further embodiment, a video camera can provide video phone capability. Either a microphone/speaker combination or handset can provide Internet phone access.
- It is to be understood that in applicants' earliest application, the payment mechanism was broadly described and was intended to include the following means of identifying users:
- using a MAC address of the customer's computer;
- using the serial number of the microprocessor or hard drive;
- using a unique hardware feature of the computer that is built-in at manufacture or added post sale;
- using a unique software feature that is stored in the computer on either a temporary or permanent basis, e.g. a cookie, a file, a program, or a script whether encrypted or not;
- using a digital identity stored on one or more servers which authenticates the customer and links the customer's identity with his/her payment information.
- It is also to be understood that in applicants' earliest application, the customer interface was broadly described and was intended to include the following:
- a heads-up display;
- a projection display;
- a display that is also used for general advertising;
- a display that is remote from the rest of the machine;
- a display that has a printer for receipts.
- It is also to be understood that in applicants' earliest application, the electronic circuit for determining when the transaction is complete was broadly described and was intended to include the following:
- software/hardware timing of messages to determine inactivity and therefore, end of the transaction;
- detecting approval of the credit card authorization.
- It is also to be understood that in applicants' earliest application, the telecommunications channel access circuit was broadly described and was intended to include the following:
- allowing certain local or directed communications (advertising or site information) even while external communication is blocked pending payment or payment approval.
- It is also to be understood that in applicants' earliest application, the switchable circuit was broadly described and was intended to include the following:
- use of a router.
- It is also to be understood that although the present invention has been described with regard to preferred embodiments thereof, various other embodiments and variants may occur to those skilled in the art, which are within the scope and spirit of the invention, and such other embodiments and variants are intended to be covered by the following claims.
Claims (50)
1. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer, said method comprising the steps of:
receiving payment information from the customer to initiate a vending transaction;
providing a customer interface for indicating the status of the vending transaction;
providing an electronic circuit for determining when the vending transaction is completed;
enabling access to at least one external telecommunications channel at the beginning of the vending transaction and disabling access at the end of the vending transaction;
enabling a connection to an external telecommunications device of the customer; and
providing a control unit for receiving payment information from the customer and controlling the electronic circuit and a telecommunications channel access circuit.
2. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes receiving cash in a cash payment receiving device.
3. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes receiving information to initiate an electronic payment.
4. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 3 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes receiving information from at least one of a credit card, debit card, smart card, prepaid card and RF ID card.
5. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 3 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes authenticating the customer.
6. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 5 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes using a fingerprint recognition device.
7. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 5 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes using a voice recognition device.
8. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 5 , wherein said step of receiving payment information includes using a retinal pattern recognition device.
9. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 3 , further comprises the step of authorizing a billing transaction for initiating the electronic payment.
10. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 9 , wherein said step of authorizing a billing transaction includes using a separate billing computer.
11. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 9 , wherein said step of authorizing a billing transaction includes using a billing computer located within a vending machine.
12. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing the customer interface includes using at least one light on a surface of a vending machine to indicate the status of the vending transaction.
13. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing the customer interface includes using a video display unit on a surface of a vending machine to indicate the status of the vending transaction.
14. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing the customer interface includes using an auditory signal generated by a vending machine to indicate the status of the vending transaction.
15. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing the customer interface includes using a mechanism that interfaces with software supplied by the customer to indicate the status of the vending transaction.
16. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing the customer interface includes using a card reader for approving a card supplied by the customer.
17. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling access to at least one external telecommunications channel includes using a switchable channel access circuit.
18. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device includes using a high bandwidth channel connector.
19. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device includes using a fiber optic line connector.
20. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device includes using a copper line connector.
21. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using an infrared connector.
22. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device includes using a local telephone line connector.
23. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 18 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device includes using a modem disposed in a vending machine.
24. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a predetermined connector.
25. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 24 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device includes using an RJ-11 connector.
26. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a telecommunications channel access connector adapted to be connected to a dial-up telephone line.
27. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a RJ-11 connector.
28. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a fiber optic line connector.
29. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using an infrared line connector.
30. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a modem disposed in a vending machine.
31. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a telecommunications channel access circuit adapted to be connected directly to an Internet connection via an Internet Service Provider selected by a vending machine.
32. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a telecommunications channel access circuit adapted to be connected directly to an Internet connection via an Internet Service Provider selected by the customer.
33. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , further comprises the step of transmitting and receiving voice communications over the external telecommunications channel using a microphone and a speaker.
34. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , further comprises the step of sending video images over the external telecommunications channel using a video camera connected to a vending machine.
35. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a transceiver to connect wirelessly to the external telecommunications device.
36. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 35 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using an infrared transceiver.
37. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , further comprises the step of supplying power to a vending machine by an electrical generator.
38. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing a control unit include providing a control unit located remote from a vending machine.
39. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 38 , wherein said step of providing a control unit includes using a telecommunications channel access circuit located remote from the vending machine.
40. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , further comprises the step of using circuitry for controlling a plurality of vending machines.
41. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of vending telecommunications channel access to a customer includes providing a vending machine disposed in a booth.
42. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of vending telecommunications channel access to a customer includes providing a vending machine disposed in a kiosk.
43. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 42 , wherein said step of vending telecommunications channel access to a customer includes providing a plurality of vending machines which are present in a kiosk so that multiple users can simultaneously use each of the plurality of vending machines.
44. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of vending telecommunications channel access to a customer includes providing a vending machine disposed in a storage locker.
45. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of vending telecommunications channel access to a customer includes providing a vending machine disposed on a wall mounting device.
46. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing a control unit includes using a telecommunications channel access circuit in a building so that the external telecommunications channel can be located remotely from a vending machine to vend telecommunications.
47. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to the external telecommunications device of the customer includes using a telecommunications channel access circuit which comprises at least two different types of data lines.
48. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 47 , wherein said step of enabling a connection to an external telecommunication device of the customer includes using the data lines which can be of any type that are used by a telecommunications supplier.
49. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer as claimed in claim 1 , wherein said step of providing the control unit includes using a payment mechanism which comprises a mechanism that interfaces with software that is resident on equipment of the customer.
50. A method for vending telecommunications channel access to a customer using a vending system, said method comprising the steps of:
receiving payment information from the customer to initiate a vending transaction;
providing a customer interface for indicating the status of the vending system;
providing an electronic circuit for determining when the vending transaction is completed;
enabling access to at least one external telecommunications channel at the beginning of the vending transaction and disabling access at the end of the vending transaction;
enabling a connection to an external telecommunications device of the customer; and
providing a control unit for receiving payment information from the customer and controlling the electronic circuit and a telecommunications channel access circuit.
Priority Applications (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US10/819,168 US20040190694A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2004-04-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US11/245,443 US20060182240A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2005-10-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US11/387,871 US20060182241A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2006-03-24 | System providing direct internet access in public or semi-public places |
Applications Claiming Priority (6)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US08/796,562 US5812643A (en) | 1997-02-06 | 1997-02-06 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US15648798A | 1998-09-18 | 1998-09-18 | |
US09/594,028 US6314169B1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2000-06-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US09/985,930 US6466658B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2001-11-06 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US10/270,108 US6721400B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2002-10-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US10/819,168 US20040190694A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2004-04-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US10/270,108 Continuation US6721400B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2002-10-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
Related Child Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/245,443 Continuation US20060182240A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2005-10-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20040190694A1 true US20040190694A1 (en) | 2004-09-30 |
Family
ID=26853232
Family Applications (6)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/594,028 Expired - Fee Related US6314169B1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2000-06-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US09/985,930 Expired - Fee Related US6466658B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2001-11-06 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US10/270,108 Expired - Fee Related US6721400B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2002-10-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US10/819,168 Abandoned US20040190694A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2004-04-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US11/245,443 Abandoned US20060182240A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2005-10-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US11/387,871 Abandoned US20060182241A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2006-03-24 | System providing direct internet access in public or semi-public places |
Family Applications Before (3)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/594,028 Expired - Fee Related US6314169B1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2000-06-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US09/985,930 Expired - Fee Related US6466658B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2001-11-06 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US10/270,108 Expired - Fee Related US6721400B2 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2002-10-15 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
Family Applications After (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/245,443 Abandoned US20060182240A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2005-10-07 | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US11/387,871 Abandoned US20060182241A1 (en) | 1997-02-06 | 2006-03-24 | System providing direct internet access in public or semi-public places |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (6) | US6314169B1 (en) |
Cited By (10)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040093279A1 (en) * | 1998-07-02 | 2004-05-13 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Copyright management apparatus, electronic copyrighted work sales apparatus, electronic book display apparatus, key information management apparatus, and electronic copyrighted work distribution management system in which apparatuses are connected by communication line |
US20060259426A1 (en) * | 2005-05-12 | 2006-11-16 | Blama Michael J | Apparatus and method for producing electronic media on demand |
US20070045411A1 (en) * | 2005-08-29 | 2007-03-01 | Stephen Honingford | Pay for use power outlet |
GB2468107A (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2010-08-25 | Airvod Ltd | In-flight entertainment and power distribution system |
US20130097070A1 (en) * | 2011-10-18 | 2013-04-18 | Raymond Bradford Baker | Smart outlet |
US20150249353A1 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2015-09-03 | Nrg Energy, Inc. | Power Pack Vending Apparatus, System and Method of Use |
US9443268B1 (en) | 2013-08-16 | 2016-09-13 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Bill payment and reporting |
CN109584455A (en) * | 2018-08-09 | 2019-04-05 | 费先艳 | Deposit formula for charging to mobile phone shares charging system |
US10325314B1 (en) | 2013-11-15 | 2019-06-18 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Payment reporting systems |
US10671749B2 (en) | 2018-09-05 | 2020-06-02 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Authenticated access and aggregation database platform |
Families Citing this family (187)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US8982856B2 (en) | 1996-12-06 | 2015-03-17 | Ipco, Llc | Systems and methods for facilitating wireless network communication, satellite-based wireless network systems, and aircraft-based wireless network systems, and related methods |
US7054271B2 (en) | 1996-12-06 | 2006-05-30 | Ipco, Llc | Wireless network system and method for providing same |
US6314169B1 (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 2001-11-06 | Poweroasis, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US6628764B1 (en) * | 1997-02-14 | 2003-09-30 | Statsignal Systems, Inc. | System for requesting service of a vending machine |
US6891838B1 (en) * | 1998-06-22 | 2005-05-10 | Statsignal Ipc, Llc | System and method for monitoring and controlling residential devices |
US6437692B1 (en) | 1998-06-22 | 2002-08-20 | Statsignal Systems, Inc. | System and method for monitoring and controlling remote devices |
US6914893B2 (en) | 1998-06-22 | 2005-07-05 | Statsignal Ipc, Llc | System and method for monitoring and controlling remote devices |
US8410931B2 (en) | 1998-06-22 | 2013-04-02 | Sipco, Llc | Mobile inventory unit monitoring systems and methods |
US7650425B2 (en) | 1999-03-18 | 2010-01-19 | Sipco, Llc | System and method for controlling communication between a host computer and communication devices associated with remote devices in an automated monitoring system |
FR2796233B1 (en) * | 1999-07-09 | 2001-08-31 | Schlumberger Systems & Service | OPEN ARCHITECTURE TELEPHONY SYSTEM |
US6814282B2 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2004-11-09 | First Data Corporation | Systems and methods of introducing and receiving information across a computer network |
US7104440B2 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2006-09-12 | First Data Corporation | Money transfer systems and methods for travelers |
US7617157B2 (en) | 2002-01-03 | 2009-11-10 | The Western Union Company | Method for receiving electronically transferred funds using an automated teller machine |
US8494956B2 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2013-07-23 | The Western Union Company | Internet funds transfer system using ATM pickup |
US7664703B2 (en) * | 1999-10-26 | 2010-02-16 | The Western Union Company | Value transfer systems and methods |
US8025212B2 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2011-09-27 | The Western Union Company | Cash payment for remote transactions |
US7428982B2 (en) * | 1999-10-26 | 2008-09-30 | The Western Union Company | Systems and methods for price matching on funds transfers |
US6502747B1 (en) | 1999-10-26 | 2003-01-07 | First Data Corporation | System and method for performing money transfer transaction using TCP/IP |
US6908031B2 (en) * | 1999-10-26 | 2005-06-21 | First Data Corporation | Systems and methods for price matching on funds transfers |
US20030069856A1 (en) * | 2001-10-10 | 2003-04-10 | First Data Corporation | Method and system for performing money transfer transactions |
US6488203B1 (en) * | 1999-10-26 | 2002-12-03 | First Data Corporation | Method and system for performing money transfer transactions |
US6577720B1 (en) * | 1999-12-29 | 2003-06-10 | Nortel Networks Corporation | System and method for providing high-speed communications using a public terminal |
US7376587B1 (en) | 2000-07-11 | 2008-05-20 | Western Union Financial Services, Inc. | Method for enabling transfer of funds through a computer network |
JP2001241225A (en) * | 2000-02-28 | 2001-09-04 | Full Time System:Kk | Specific unlocking system for locker |
US6917853B2 (en) | 2000-05-23 | 2005-07-12 | Munroe Chirnomas | Method and apparatus for controlling rented or leased or loaned equipment |
CA2416130A1 (en) | 2000-07-11 | 2002-01-17 | First Data Corporation | Wide area network person-to-person payment |
US6542589B1 (en) * | 2000-11-13 | 2003-04-01 | Douglas M. Baskin | Method of telephone access to internet secretarial services |
US7266533B2 (en) | 2000-12-15 | 2007-09-04 | The Western Union Company | Electronic gift greeting |
US20020087462A1 (en) * | 2000-12-28 | 2002-07-04 | First Data Corporation | Method and system for electronic transfer of funds implementing an automated teller machine in conjunction with a manned kiosk |
US7865430B1 (en) | 2001-03-26 | 2011-01-04 | Usa Technology, Inc. | Cashless transaction payment module |
US7690495B1 (en) | 2001-03-26 | 2010-04-06 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Card reader assembly |
US8596529B1 (en) | 2001-03-26 | 2013-12-03 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Interactive interface effectuated vending |
US7593897B1 (en) * | 2001-06-19 | 2009-09-22 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Wireless system for communicating cashless vending transaction data and vending machine audit data to remote locations |
US7076329B1 (en) | 2002-04-12 | 2006-07-11 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Cashless vending transaction management by a vend assist mode of operation |
US7630939B1 (en) | 2001-03-26 | 2009-12-08 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | System and method for locally authorizing cashless transactions at point of sale |
US9853759B1 (en) | 2001-03-31 | 2017-12-26 | First Data Corporation | Staged transaction system for mobile commerce |
US7117183B2 (en) | 2001-03-31 | 2006-10-03 | First Data Coroporation | Airline ticket payment and reservation system and methods |
US8150763B2 (en) | 2001-03-31 | 2012-04-03 | The Western Union Company | Systems and methods for staging transactions, payments and collections |
US7107249B2 (en) | 2001-03-31 | 2006-09-12 | First Data Corporation | Electronic identifier payment systems and methods |
US7184989B2 (en) | 2001-03-31 | 2007-02-27 | First Data Corporation | Staged transactions systems and methods |
US20020188378A1 (en) * | 2001-06-12 | 2002-12-12 | Davin Sufer | Vending machine wireless point of sale inventory system |
KR100422170B1 (en) * | 2001-08-21 | 2004-03-11 | 권황섭 | Apparatus for power controlled in public telecommunication terminal |
US7269737B2 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2007-09-11 | Pay By Touch Checking Resources, Inc. | System and method for biometric authorization for financial transactions |
US9189788B1 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2015-11-17 | Open Invention Network, Llc | System and method for verifying identity |
US7624073B1 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2009-11-24 | Yt Acquisition Corporation | System and method for categorizing transactions |
US7437330B1 (en) | 2002-09-20 | 2008-10-14 | Yt Acquisition Corp. | System and method for categorizing transactions |
US8200980B1 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2012-06-12 | Open Invention Network, Llc | System and method for enrolling in a biometric system |
US7533809B1 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2009-05-19 | Yt Acquisition Corporation | System and method for operating a parking facility |
US7765164B1 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2010-07-27 | Yt Acquisition Corporation | System and method for offering in-lane periodical subscriptions |
US7464059B1 (en) | 2001-09-21 | 2008-12-09 | Yt Acquisition Corporation | System and method for purchase benefits at a point of sale |
US8489063B2 (en) | 2001-10-24 | 2013-07-16 | Sipco, Llc | Systems and methods for providing emergency messages to a mobile device |
US7480501B2 (en) | 2001-10-24 | 2009-01-20 | Statsignal Ipc, Llc | System and method for transmitting an emergency message over an integrated wireless network |
US8244632B2 (en) | 2001-10-26 | 2012-08-14 | First Data Corporation | Automated transfer with stored value |
US8374962B2 (en) | 2001-10-26 | 2013-02-12 | First Data Corporation | Stored value payouts |
US7424527B2 (en) | 2001-10-30 | 2008-09-09 | Sipco, Llc | System and method for transmitting pollution information over an integrated wireless network |
US20030160811A1 (en) * | 2002-02-27 | 2003-08-28 | Zigler Christian Oxholm | Information stand with an automated e-mail generation |
US20040030648A1 (en) * | 2002-08-08 | 2004-02-12 | Munroe Chirnomas | Methods of doing the business of machine vending |
US6756765B2 (en) * | 2002-10-08 | 2004-06-29 | Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V. | System and method for charging users to recharge power supplies in portable devices |
US7305199B2 (en) * | 2003-02-12 | 2007-12-04 | Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba | Display control apparatus for image forming apparatus |
US7437051B1 (en) | 2003-03-06 | 2008-10-14 | Sprint Communications Company L.P. | Secure infrared beaming communication link |
FR2852459B1 (en) * | 2003-03-11 | 2007-03-02 | Lionel Coq | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR RECHARGING PORTABLE ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS |
US7388859B2 (en) * | 2003-04-01 | 2008-06-17 | Gateway Inc. | Telephone having an integrated high speed connection and data transfer system comprising same |
US7362816B1 (en) * | 2003-04-28 | 2008-04-22 | Xtendwave, Inc. | Inversion of channel distortion by adaptive wavelet lifting |
WO2005031954A2 (en) * | 2003-09-22 | 2005-04-07 | Valence Technology, Inc. | Electrical systems, power supply apparatuses, and power supply operations methods |
ES2668356T3 (en) | 2003-10-06 | 2018-05-17 | Powersys, Llc | Power generation systems and power generation methods |
US7756086B2 (en) | 2004-03-03 | 2010-07-13 | Sipco, Llc | Method for communicating in dual-modes |
US8031650B2 (en) | 2004-03-03 | 2011-10-04 | Sipco, Llc | System and method for monitoring remote devices with a dual-mode wireless communication protocol |
JP2005332237A (en) * | 2004-05-20 | 2005-12-02 | Sanden Corp | Vending machine |
US20080195498A1 (en) * | 2004-09-28 | 2008-08-14 | First Data Corporation | Wireless network systems having accessibility based on usage of an account |
US8152054B2 (en) | 2004-10-19 | 2012-04-10 | The Western Union Company | Money transfer systems and methods |
WO2006081206A1 (en) | 2005-01-25 | 2006-08-03 | Sipco, Llc | Wireless network protocol systems and methods |
US8774963B2 (en) | 2005-03-15 | 2014-07-08 | Inventor Holdings, Llc | Systems and methods for providing network access |
US8060247B2 (en) | 2005-04-22 | 2011-11-15 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for communicating secondary vending options |
CA2605550A1 (en) | 2005-04-22 | 2006-11-02 | Eric Hoersten | System and method for selling a rental media product |
US7392940B2 (en) | 2005-05-18 | 2008-07-01 | The Western Union Company | In-lane money transfer systems and methods |
US8672220B2 (en) | 2005-09-30 | 2014-03-18 | The Western Union Company | Money transfer system and method |
GB2452889A (en) * | 2006-05-17 | 2009-03-18 | William H Ferguson | Vending of an electronic guide device and system therefore |
US20080065428A1 (en) * | 2006-09-07 | 2008-03-13 | Tyler Duffy | Automated Campground System |
US20080072509A1 (en) * | 2006-09-22 | 2008-03-27 | Eberhardt Mark J | Small footprint public workspace system |
US20080140565A1 (en) * | 2006-12-07 | 2008-06-12 | Debenedetti Vittorio G | Intelligent power port |
US7933835B2 (en) | 2007-01-17 | 2011-04-26 | The Western Union Company | Secure money transfer systems and methods using biometric keys associated therewith |
US8818904B2 (en) | 2007-01-17 | 2014-08-26 | The Western Union Company | Generation systems and methods for transaction identifiers having biometric keys associated therewith |
US20080191006A1 (en) * | 2007-02-09 | 2008-08-14 | First Data Corporation | ATM With Award Feature |
US8504473B2 (en) | 2007-03-28 | 2013-08-06 | The Western Union Company | Money transfer system and messaging system |
US7783571B2 (en) | 2007-05-31 | 2010-08-24 | First Data Corporation | ATM system for receiving cash deposits from non-networked clients |
US20090014460A1 (en) * | 2007-07-12 | 2009-01-15 | Kobus Ii Joseph M | Mobile self-contained power vending station and method |
US8768789B2 (en) | 2012-03-07 | 2014-07-01 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for optimizing utilization of inventory space for dispensable articles |
US8712872B2 (en) | 2012-03-07 | 2014-04-29 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for optimizing utilization of inventory space for dispensable articles |
US9886809B2 (en) | 2007-09-28 | 2018-02-06 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | Article dispensing machine and method for auditing inventory while article dispensing machine remains operational |
US7956570B2 (en) | 2008-01-07 | 2011-06-07 | Coulomb Technologies, Inc. | Network-controlled charging system for electric vehicles |
US7952319B2 (en) * | 2008-01-07 | 2011-05-31 | Coulomb Technologies, Inc. | Street light mounted network-controlled charge transfer device for electric vehicles |
US20090177580A1 (en) * | 2008-01-07 | 2009-07-09 | Lowenthal Richard W | Collection of electric vehicle power consumption tax |
EP2260407A4 (en) * | 2008-02-25 | 2012-12-12 | Rivermine Software Inc | System and method for using lifecycle telecommunications expense management (tem) data to predict the outcome of changes to telecommunications infrastruture |
KR100976182B1 (en) * | 2008-03-05 | 2010-08-17 | 한국전자통신연구원 | Apparatus for charging electric powered vehicle and PAN method for the same |
WO2009124316A1 (en) * | 2008-04-04 | 2009-10-08 | Alexander Livingston | Battery pack system |
US8531162B2 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2013-09-10 | International Business Machines Corporation | Network based energy preference service for managing electric vehicle charging preferences |
US20090313174A1 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2009-12-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Approving Energy Transaction Plans Associated with Electric Vehicles |
US7991665B2 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2011-08-02 | International Business Machines Corporation | Managing incentives for electric vehicle charging transactions |
US8498763B2 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2013-07-30 | International Business Machines Corporation | Maintaining energy principal preferences in a vehicle |
US20090313034A1 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2009-12-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Generating Dynamic Energy Transaction Plans |
US8266075B2 (en) | 2008-06-16 | 2012-09-11 | International Business Machines Corporation | Electric vehicle charging transaction interface for managing electric vehicle charging transactions |
US20090313032A1 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2009-12-17 | International Business Machines Corporation | Maintaining Energy Principal Preferences for a Vehicle by a Remote Preferences Service |
US9751416B2 (en) * | 2008-06-16 | 2017-09-05 | International Business Machines Corporation | Generating energy transaction plans |
US8918336B2 (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2014-12-23 | International Business Machines Corporation | Energy transaction broker for brokering electric vehicle charging transactions |
US8918376B2 (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2014-12-23 | International Business Machines Corporation | Energy transaction notification service for presenting charging information of an electric vehicle |
US8103391B2 (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2012-01-24 | International Business Machines Corporation | System for detecting interrupt conditions during an electric vehicle charging process |
US8725551B2 (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2014-05-13 | International Business Machines Corporation | Smart electric vehicle interface for managing post-charge information exchange and analysis |
US20100049533A1 (en) * | 2008-08-19 | 2010-02-25 | International Business Machines Corporation | Executing an Energy Transaction Plan for an Electric Vehicle |
FR2939573B1 (en) * | 2008-12-09 | 2011-04-08 | Romain Marie Michel Lecarpentier | UNIT FOR CHARGING A BATTERY OF A PORTABLE ELECTRICAL DEVICE |
US20100228687A1 (en) * | 2009-03-03 | 2010-09-09 | Lewis Jr Donald Davis | Electricity Vending Devices And Associated Methods |
DE102009015033A1 (en) * | 2009-03-26 | 2010-10-07 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Authorized electricity consumer |
US8386103B2 (en) * | 2009-04-30 | 2013-02-26 | Muse Green Investments LLC | Electric vehicle recharging station |
US20110011930A1 (en) * | 2009-04-30 | 2011-01-20 | Gary Starr | Parking meter with ev recharging capability |
US8996162B2 (en) | 2009-09-05 | 2015-03-31 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | Article vending machine and method for exchanging an inoperable article for an operable article |
US9104990B2 (en) | 2009-09-05 | 2015-08-11 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | Article vending machine and method for exchanging an inoperable article for an operable article |
US20110145141A1 (en) * | 2009-10-02 | 2011-06-16 | James Blain | Method and apparatus for recharging electric vehicles |
US20110227531A1 (en) * | 2010-03-21 | 2011-09-22 | Joseph Rajakaruna | Systems and methods for recharging an electric vehicle |
US20110258093A1 (en) * | 2010-04-20 | 2011-10-20 | Vito Antoci | Portable Power Distribution Enhancements |
US8930266B2 (en) * | 2010-05-24 | 2015-01-06 | Simpa Networks, Inc. | Techniques for progressive purchasing |
US8538581B2 (en) | 2010-09-03 | 2013-09-17 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | Article vending machine and method for authenticating received articles |
US9569911B2 (en) | 2010-08-23 | 2017-02-14 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | Secondary media return system and method |
DE102010040388A1 (en) * | 2010-09-08 | 2012-03-08 | Siemens Aktiengesellschaft | Service machine for obtaining and / or charging an energy store for an electric bicycle |
US20120078413A1 (en) * | 2010-09-29 | 2012-03-29 | Baker Jr Therman A | Secured electrical recharging facility method and apparatus |
CN102088461B (en) * | 2010-12-29 | 2012-05-23 | 广东电网公司电力科学研究院 | Communication control method between region-level master station and remote system |
EP2698975A4 (en) * | 2011-04-13 | 2015-01-28 | Nec Casio Mobile Comm Ltd | Charging reservation support system, mobile terminal device, charging reservation support method and program |
US9346365B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-05-24 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for electric vehicle (EV) charging, charging unit (CU) interfaces, auxiliary batteries, and remote access and user notifications |
US10572123B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2020-02-25 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Vehicle passenger controls via mobile devices |
US11270699B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2022-03-08 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Methods and vehicles for capturing emotion of a human driver and customizing vehicle response |
US9697503B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2017-07-04 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for providing recommendations to vehicle users to handle alerts associated with the vehicle and a bidding market place for handling alerts/service of the vehicle |
US9365188B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-06-14 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for using cloud services to assign e-keys to access vehicles |
US9818088B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2017-11-14 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Vehicles and cloud systems for providing recommendations to vehicle users to handle alerts associated with the vehicle |
US11294551B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2022-04-05 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Vehicle passenger controls via mobile devices |
US9104537B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-08-11 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for generating setting recommendation to user accounts for registered vehicles via cloud systems and remotely applying settings |
US9229905B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-01-05 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for defining vehicle user profiles and managing user profiles via cloud systems and applying learned settings to user profiles |
US11370313B2 (en) | 2011-04-25 | 2022-06-28 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Methods and systems for electric vehicle (EV) charge units and systems for processing connections to charge units |
US10824330B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2020-11-03 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Methods and systems for vehicle display data integration with mobile device data |
US9123035B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-09-01 | Angel A. Penilla | Electric vehicle (EV) range extending charge systems, distributed networks of charge kiosks, and charge locating mobile apps |
US9648107B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2017-05-09 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and cloud systems for using connected object state data for informing and alerting connected vehicle drivers of state changes |
US9180783B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-11-10 | Penilla Angel A | Methods and systems for electric vehicle (EV) charge location color-coded charge state indicators, cloud applications and user notifications |
US9285944B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-03-15 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for defining custom vehicle user interface configurations and cloud services for managing applications for the user interface and learned setting functions |
US9536197B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2017-01-03 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for processing data streams from data producing objects of vehicle and home entities and generating recommendations and settings |
US9215274B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-12-15 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for generating recommendations to make settings at vehicles via cloud systems |
US10217160B2 (en) | 2012-04-22 | 2019-02-26 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Methods and systems for processing charge availability and route paths for obtaining charge for electric vehicles |
US9581997B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2017-02-28 | Angel A. Penilla | Method and system for cloud-based communication for automatic driverless movement |
US11132650B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2021-09-28 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Communication APIs for remote monitoring and control of vehicle systems |
US9371007B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-06-21 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for automatic electric vehicle identification and charging via wireless charging pads |
US9230440B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-01-05 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for locating public parking and receiving security ratings for parking locations and generating notifications to vehicle user accounts regarding alerts and cloud access to security information |
US10289288B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2019-05-14 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Vehicle systems for providing access to vehicle controls, functions, environment and applications to guests/passengers via mobile devices |
US9493130B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-11-15 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for communicating content to connected vehicle users based detected tone/mood in voice input |
US9809196B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2017-11-07 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Methods and systems for vehicle security and remote access and safety control interfaces and notifications |
US9171268B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-10-27 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for setting and transferring user profiles to vehicles and temporary sharing of user profiles to shared-use vehicles |
US10286919B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2019-05-14 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Valet mode for restricted operation of a vehicle and cloud access of a history of use made during valet mode use |
US9189900B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-11-17 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for assigning e-keys to users to access and drive vehicles |
US11203355B2 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2021-12-21 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Vehicle mode for restricted operation and cloud data monitoring |
US9288270B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-03-15 | Angel A. Penilla | Systems for learning user preferences and generating recommendations to make settings at connected vehicles and interfacing with cloud systems |
US9139091B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2015-09-22 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for setting and/or assigning advisor accounts to entities for specific vehicle aspects and cloud management of advisor accounts |
US9348492B1 (en) | 2011-04-22 | 2016-05-24 | Angel A. Penilla | Methods and systems for providing access to specific vehicle controls, functions, environment and applications to guests/passengers via personal mobile devices |
WO2012174171A2 (en) | 2011-06-14 | 2012-12-20 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for substituting a media article with alternative media |
EP2734972A4 (en) | 2011-07-20 | 2014-12-03 | Redbox Automated Retail Llc | System and method for providing the identification of geographically closest article dispensing machines |
US8751038B2 (en) | 2011-08-01 | 2014-06-10 | Elwha Llc | Vending devices having ad-watching as consideration |
WO2013019818A2 (en) | 2011-08-02 | 2013-02-07 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for generating notifications related to new media |
US8384347B2 (en) | 2011-08-08 | 2013-02-26 | General Electric Company | Methods and systems for charging an energy storage device |
WO2013025392A2 (en) | 2011-08-12 | 2013-02-21 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for applying parental control limits from content providers to media content |
US9947167B2 (en) | 2011-08-26 | 2018-04-17 | Elwha Llc | Treatment system and method for ingestible product dispensing system and method |
US20130331981A1 (en) | 2012-06-12 | 2013-12-12 | Elwha LLC, a limited liability company of the State of Delaware | Substrate Structure Deposition Treatment System And Method For Ingestible Product System And Method |
US10115093B2 (en) * | 2011-08-26 | 2018-10-30 | Elwha Llc | Food printing goal implementation substrate structure ingestible material preparation system and method |
US10026336B2 (en) | 2011-08-26 | 2018-07-17 | Elwha Llc | Refuse intelligence acquisition system and method for ingestible product preparation system and method |
US10192037B2 (en) | 2011-08-26 | 2019-01-29 | Elwah LLC | Reporting system and method for ingestible product preparation system and method |
US20130054255A1 (en) * | 2011-08-26 | 2013-02-28 | Elwha LLC, a limited liability company of the State of Delaware | Controlled substance authorization and method for ingestible product preparation system and method |
US9997006B2 (en) | 2011-08-26 | 2018-06-12 | Elwha Llc | Treatment system and method for ingestible product dispensing system and method |
US10121218B2 (en) | 2012-06-12 | 2018-11-06 | Elwha Llc | Substrate structure injection treatment system and method for ingestible product system and method |
US10239256B2 (en) | 2012-06-12 | 2019-03-26 | Elwha Llc | Food printing additive layering substrate structure ingestible material preparation system and method |
US9045049B2 (en) * | 2011-08-28 | 2015-06-02 | Irobot Corporation | System and method for in situ charging of a remote vehicle |
US8521599B2 (en) | 2011-10-28 | 2013-08-27 | General Electric Company | Charging system, kiosk, and method of reserving a power charging device and supplying current to a power storage device |
US20130132307A1 (en) * | 2011-11-17 | 2013-05-23 | Rwdg Enterprises, Inc. | Managing the use of secure compartments in charging stations for portable electronic devices |
WO2013096668A2 (en) * | 2011-12-20 | 2013-06-27 | Angaza Design, Inc. | Solar lighting with pay-as-you go technology |
US9855947B1 (en) | 2012-04-22 | 2018-01-02 | Emerging Automotive, Llc | Connected vehicle communication with processing alerts related to connected objects and cloud systems |
CN102693587A (en) * | 2012-05-29 | 2012-09-26 | 辽宁省电力有限公司沈阳供电公司 | Power customer rechargeable card paying business management system and method |
US9747253B2 (en) | 2012-06-05 | 2017-08-29 | Redbox Automated Retail, Llc | System and method for simultaneous article retrieval and transaction validation |
CN102832977A (en) * | 2012-09-04 | 2012-12-19 | 深圳盈烨创新通讯技术有限公司 | Method for rapidly switching multiple operating modes of near-field communication equipment |
US20150100393A1 (en) * | 2013-10-04 | 2015-04-09 | Tseng-Fu Yeh | Toll charging device |
CN106462846B (en) | 2014-04-02 | 2021-04-06 | 安加扎设计股份有限公司 | Solar lighting using pay-as-you-go technology |
US9400981B2 (en) | 2014-04-03 | 2016-07-26 | Cubic Corporation | Micro video assistant |
US11315373B2 (en) | 2018-04-30 | 2022-04-26 | Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P. | Device storage isolation |
ES1217614Y (en) * | 2018-07-04 | 2018-12-13 | Rosello Ciscar Jose | Urban multifunction setpoint |
US11195159B1 (en) * | 2018-08-31 | 2021-12-07 | American Airlines, Inc. | Systems and methods for payment processing during vehicular travel |
WO2023158664A1 (en) * | 2022-02-16 | 2023-08-24 | Cantaloupe, Inc. | Method and system to generate an event when a serial interface is disconnected |
Citations (25)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US735505A (en) * | 1900-12-04 | 1903-08-04 | Gen Electric | Charging device for electromobiles. |
US3213994A (en) * | 1964-11-23 | 1965-10-26 | Herbert J Hohler | Coin operated engine heater |
US4052655A (en) * | 1975-09-10 | 1977-10-04 | Joseph Vizza | Battery recharging meter |
US4184580A (en) * | 1977-06-15 | 1980-01-22 | Ellis Austin J Jr | Coin operated battery charger and charging system check |
US4289226A (en) * | 1979-12-03 | 1981-09-15 | Wilkinson Rudolph P | Electric vehicle battery recharging station |
US4383210A (en) * | 1980-06-18 | 1983-05-10 | Wilkinson Rudolph P | Apparatus and method for recharging an energy storage device |
US4517412A (en) * | 1982-03-09 | 1985-05-14 | Martha Newkirk | Card-actuated telecommunication network |
US4532418A (en) * | 1982-08-30 | 1985-07-30 | The Detroit Edison Company | Microprocessor electric vehicle charging and parking meter system structure and method |
US4577061A (en) * | 1982-09-07 | 1986-03-18 | Kurt Katzeff | Arrangement for a pay telephone payment system utilizing a payment card within the telecommunication system |
US4667141A (en) * | 1985-05-17 | 1987-05-19 | Helen H. Smith Steele | Coin or token operated portable car starter |
US4777469A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1988-10-11 | Ultratec, Inc. | Public terminal receptacle |
US4894717A (en) * | 1988-03-28 | 1990-01-16 | Kabushiki Kaisha Fulltime System | Delivered article storage control system |
US4897868A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1990-01-30 | Ultratec, Inc. | Public terminal receptacle |
US5008928A (en) * | 1990-01-22 | 1991-04-16 | Easyfax, Inc. | Public access facsimile system |
US5029094A (en) * | 1989-07-24 | 1991-07-02 | Wong Edward Y | Computerized parking meter system |
US5065156A (en) * | 1990-07-26 | 1991-11-12 | Denis Bernier | Computer controlled parking meter |
US5297664A (en) * | 1992-06-26 | 1994-03-29 | Tseng Ling Yuan | Electric charging/parking meter |
US5317691A (en) * | 1989-05-02 | 1994-05-31 | Norand Corporation | Data communication system with communicating and recharging docking apparatus for hand-held terminal |
US5327066A (en) * | 1993-05-25 | 1994-07-05 | Intellectual Property Development Associates Of Connecticut, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for dispensing a consumable energy source to a vehicle |
US5386462A (en) * | 1991-10-02 | 1995-01-31 | Accumulata Verwaltungsgesellschaft Mbh | Vending system with a given number of compartments |
US5563491A (en) * | 1992-03-30 | 1996-10-08 | Tseng; Ling-Yuan | Combined parking meter and electric-vehicle battery charger with remote status receiver |
US5569993A (en) * | 1993-04-19 | 1996-10-29 | Keith; Arlie L. | Charging batteries of electric vehicles |
US5602905A (en) * | 1995-01-23 | 1997-02-11 | Mettke; Richard P. | On-line communication terminal/apparatus |
US5812643A (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 1998-09-22 | Powertel, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US6314169B1 (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 2001-11-06 | Poweroasis, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
Family Cites Families (15)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US4829561A (en) * | 1988-03-25 | 1989-05-09 | Tek Electronics Manufacturing Corporation | Apparatus for optically coupling a terminal unit to the public telephone network through a pay telephone instrument and the like |
CA1317638C (en) * | 1988-09-09 | 1993-05-11 | Stephen B. Meads | Mobile pay telephone system |
US5222123A (en) * | 1990-01-08 | 1993-06-22 | Motorola, Inc. | Registration and automatic call redirecting for cordless telephone systems |
US5105460A (en) * | 1991-03-11 | 1992-04-14 | Williams John S | Plug-in telephone facility |
US5515424A (en) * | 1993-12-13 | 1996-05-07 | At&T Corp. | System and method for providing selected video images to local telephone stations |
US5637845A (en) * | 1994-12-12 | 1997-06-10 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Credit and bank issued debit card operated system and method for controlling a prepaid card encoding/dispensing machine |
US5619024A (en) * | 1994-12-12 | 1997-04-08 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Credit card and bank issued debit card operated system and method for controlling and monitoring access of computer and copy equipment |
US5854975A (en) * | 1994-12-23 | 1998-12-29 | Freedom Wireless, Inc. | Prepaid security cellular telecommunications system |
US5835061A (en) * | 1995-06-06 | 1998-11-10 | Wayport, Inc. | Method and apparatus for geographic-based communications service |
US5774670A (en) * | 1995-10-06 | 1998-06-30 | Netscape Communications Corporation | Persistent client state in a hypertext transfer protocol based client-server system |
US5745884A (en) * | 1996-10-21 | 1998-04-28 | Mobile Area Networks, Inc. | System and method for billing data grade network use on a per connection basis |
US5875296A (en) * | 1997-01-28 | 1999-02-23 | International Business Machines Corporation | Distributed file system web server user authentication with cookies |
USD418878S (en) * | 1998-10-27 | 2000-01-11 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Sign holder |
USD415742S (en) * | 1998-10-27 | 1999-10-26 | Usa Technologies, Inc. | Laptop data port enclosure |
US20020112076A1 (en) * | 2000-01-31 | 2002-08-15 | Rueda Jose Alejandro | Internet protocol-based computer network service |
-
2000
- 2000-06-15 US US09/594,028 patent/US6314169B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2001
- 2001-11-06 US US09/985,930 patent/US6466658B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2002
- 2002-10-15 US US10/270,108 patent/US6721400B2/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
2004
- 2004-04-07 US US10/819,168 patent/US20040190694A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2005
- 2005-10-07 US US11/245,443 patent/US20060182240A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2006
- 2006-03-24 US US11/387,871 patent/US20060182241A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (27)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US735505A (en) * | 1900-12-04 | 1903-08-04 | Gen Electric | Charging device for electromobiles. |
US3213994A (en) * | 1964-11-23 | 1965-10-26 | Herbert J Hohler | Coin operated engine heater |
US4052655A (en) * | 1975-09-10 | 1977-10-04 | Joseph Vizza | Battery recharging meter |
US4184580A (en) * | 1977-06-15 | 1980-01-22 | Ellis Austin J Jr | Coin operated battery charger and charging system check |
US4289226A (en) * | 1979-12-03 | 1981-09-15 | Wilkinson Rudolph P | Electric vehicle battery recharging station |
US4383210A (en) * | 1980-06-18 | 1983-05-10 | Wilkinson Rudolph P | Apparatus and method for recharging an energy storage device |
US4517412A (en) * | 1982-03-09 | 1985-05-14 | Martha Newkirk | Card-actuated telecommunication network |
US4532418A (en) * | 1982-08-30 | 1985-07-30 | The Detroit Edison Company | Microprocessor electric vehicle charging and parking meter system structure and method |
US4577061A (en) * | 1982-09-07 | 1986-03-18 | Kurt Katzeff | Arrangement for a pay telephone payment system utilizing a payment card within the telecommunication system |
US4667141A (en) * | 1985-05-17 | 1987-05-19 | Helen H. Smith Steele | Coin or token operated portable car starter |
US4897868A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1990-01-30 | Ultratec, Inc. | Public terminal receptacle |
US4777469A (en) * | 1987-07-17 | 1988-10-11 | Ultratec, Inc. | Public terminal receptacle |
US4894717A (en) * | 1988-03-28 | 1990-01-16 | Kabushiki Kaisha Fulltime System | Delivered article storage control system |
US5317691A (en) * | 1989-05-02 | 1994-05-31 | Norand Corporation | Data communication system with communicating and recharging docking apparatus for hand-held terminal |
US5029094A (en) * | 1989-07-24 | 1991-07-02 | Wong Edward Y | Computerized parking meter system |
US5008928A (en) * | 1990-01-22 | 1991-04-16 | Easyfax, Inc. | Public access facsimile system |
US5065156A (en) * | 1990-07-26 | 1991-11-12 | Denis Bernier | Computer controlled parking meter |
US5386462A (en) * | 1991-10-02 | 1995-01-31 | Accumulata Verwaltungsgesellschaft Mbh | Vending system with a given number of compartments |
US5563491A (en) * | 1992-03-30 | 1996-10-08 | Tseng; Ling-Yuan | Combined parking meter and electric-vehicle battery charger with remote status receiver |
US5297664A (en) * | 1992-06-26 | 1994-03-29 | Tseng Ling Yuan | Electric charging/parking meter |
US5569993A (en) * | 1993-04-19 | 1996-10-29 | Keith; Arlie L. | Charging batteries of electric vehicles |
US5327066A (en) * | 1993-05-25 | 1994-07-05 | Intellectual Property Development Associates Of Connecticut, Inc. | Methods and apparatus for dispensing a consumable energy source to a vehicle |
US5602905A (en) * | 1995-01-23 | 1997-02-11 | Mettke; Richard P. | On-line communication terminal/apparatus |
US5812643A (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 1998-09-22 | Powertel, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US6314169B1 (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 2001-11-06 | Poweroasis, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US6466658B2 (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 2002-10-15 | Poweroasis, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
US6721400B2 (en) * | 1997-02-06 | 2004-04-13 | Poweroasis, Inc. | Power and telecommunications access vending machine |
Cited By (16)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20040093279A1 (en) * | 1998-07-02 | 2004-05-13 | Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha | Copyright management apparatus, electronic copyrighted work sales apparatus, electronic book display apparatus, key information management apparatus, and electronic copyrighted work distribution management system in which apparatuses are connected by communication line |
US20060259426A1 (en) * | 2005-05-12 | 2006-11-16 | Blama Michael J | Apparatus and method for producing electronic media on demand |
US20070045411A1 (en) * | 2005-08-29 | 2007-03-01 | Stephen Honingford | Pay for use power outlet |
GB2468107A (en) * | 2008-12-18 | 2010-08-25 | Airvod Ltd | In-flight entertainment and power distribution system |
US20130097070A1 (en) * | 2011-10-18 | 2013-04-18 | Raymond Bradford Baker | Smart outlet |
US9443268B1 (en) | 2013-08-16 | 2016-09-13 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Bill payment and reporting |
US10269065B1 (en) | 2013-11-15 | 2019-04-23 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Bill payment and reporting |
US10325314B1 (en) | 2013-11-15 | 2019-06-18 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Payment reporting systems |
US11239674B2 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2022-02-01 | Nrg Energy, Inc. | Power pack vending apparatus, system and method of use for charging packs with biased locking arrangement |
US20150249353A1 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2015-09-03 | Nrg Energy, Inc. | Power Pack Vending Apparatus, System and Method of Use |
US10084329B2 (en) * | 2014-02-28 | 2018-09-25 | Nrg Energy, Inc. | Power pack vending apparatus, system, and method of use for charging power packs with biased locking arrangement |
CN109584455A (en) * | 2018-08-09 | 2019-04-05 | 费先艳 | Deposit formula for charging to mobile phone shares charging system |
US10880313B2 (en) | 2018-09-05 | 2020-12-29 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Database platform for realtime updating of user data from third party sources |
US10671749B2 (en) | 2018-09-05 | 2020-06-02 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Authenticated access and aggregation database platform |
US11265324B2 (en) | 2018-09-05 | 2022-03-01 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | User permissions for access to secure data at third-party |
US11399029B2 (en) | 2018-09-05 | 2022-07-26 | Consumerinfo.Com, Inc. | Database platform for realtime updating of user data from third party sources |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20020064258A1 (en) | 2002-05-30 |
US20060182241A1 (en) | 2006-08-17 |
US6721400B2 (en) | 2004-04-13 |
US6466658B2 (en) | 2002-10-15 |
US6314169B1 (en) | 2001-11-06 |
US20060182240A1 (en) | 2006-08-17 |
US20030091168A1 (en) | 2003-05-15 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6721400B2 (en) | Power and telecommunications access vending machine | |
CA2227589C (en) | Power and telecommunications access vending machine | |
US5265155A (en) | Method and apparatus for prepayment of telecommunication connections in a telecommunication switching network | |
US4706275A (en) | Telephone system | |
USRE43368E1 (en) | Methods and system for remote access to and payment for products delivered from automated apparatus | |
JPH06121075A (en) | Pre-paid system using portable terminal equipment | |
EP0865644B1 (en) | System for facilitating the ordering and paying of services by means of a communication network | |
JPH0548757A (en) | Amenity access method and device | |
EP1184823B1 (en) | System for facilitating the ordering and paying of services by means of a communication network | |
BR9713025B1 (en) | process for facilitating prepayment of communications services, for operating a communications network, and, communications system. | |
JPS60220655A (en) | System for constituting public communication network using personal identification code | |
KR100824182B1 (en) | System and method for authentication and payment using smart card in voip services | |
US7165719B2 (en) | Method for controlling a service-providing device | |
KR100425915B1 (en) | Multi-media public-phone system and method for managing thereof | |
JPH10171888A (en) | Communication system | |
KR100365887B1 (en) | Method and System for Web Payment by Using the Communication Unit | |
EP1404056A2 (en) | Systems and apparatus for automatic internet access account generation | |
AU7924300A (en) | Utility billing infrastructure | |
KR100640078B1 (en) | System and method for recharging cyber-money by using public telephone | |
JP2023171071A (en) | charging system | |
KR20020092140A (en) | System and Method for Instant Electronic Lottery on Wireless Internet. | |
JP2002259582A (en) | System for supporting transmission of information | |
IL76993A (en) | Prepayment telephone system | |
JP2003333219A (en) | System and apparatus for mobile telephone communication charge prepayment registration | |
WO2003098910A1 (en) | Telephone call fee payment certificate number sales system and device |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: POWEROASIS, INC., NEW HAMPSHIRE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:SCHELBERG, JR., CHARLES C.;DUFF, JR., THOMAS M.;REEL/FRAME:017069/0043 Effective date: 20040810 Owner name: POWEROASIS NETWORKS, LLC, NEW HAMPSHIRE Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:POWEROASIS, INC.;REEL/FRAME:017069/0175 Effective date: 20040910 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |