text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|Sep 8, 1998
|Filing date
|Aug 21, 1995
|Priority date
|Aug 21, 1995
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Steve Balderrama, Larry Salmen, Jerry Schneider
|Original Assignee
|Info America, Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (29), Non-Patent Citations (7), Referenced by (104), Classifications (18), Legal Events (10)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
In general, the present invention relates to processes and systems that can offer for sale, items (both wholesale and retail prepared fast-food, packaged foods, dry goods, and other consumer products), in a self-service fashion using a touch-screen display, computer key board, telephone key-pad or receiver, microphone, or other electronic device capable of accepting and transmitting a customer's input. More particularly, this invention relates to a new process and system that can combine a complex multi-media template presentation created at, for example, corporate headquarters of a chain of sales outlets, along with information from a database containing items intended for sale at any sales outlet of the chain, and automatically configure a tailor-made presentation for use on a customer-interactive device at the outlet (such as a store, restaurant, kiosk, cart, or other "point of access").
A multi-national corporation in the business of selling consumer products, especially one that owns many sales outlets, may have millions of interactions each day between customers and company sales clerks. In order to increase sales, yet contain costs, many of these corporations are interested in decreasing their large number of daily in-person customer-clerk interactions by offering goods for sale through electronic devices, such as customer activated terminals (both on- and off-site), home personal computers (connected with the Internet), televisions (connected to cable TV channels via hardwire or satellite dish), and telephones. With the increased use of such electronic devices, a demand for flexible computer systems that can automatically deliver multi-media presentations (and timely update these presentations) and accept customer orders, has been created.
Currently, a corporation owning 100 (for example) sales outlets, each having its unique stock of goods for sale based upon locale and each offering daily "specials", must initially generate 100 outlet-specific multi-media presentations for use on electronic devices at the outlets. If each of these presentations requires daily updates, then at least 36,500 different presentations will have to be created, de-bugged, and downloaded in one year|
The assignee hereof has designed and implemented processes and a computer system now being used for handling the generation (at its company facility), as well as transmission via modem to each restaurant, of outlet-specific multi-media presentations for fast-food customer activated touch-screen terminals. Daily service and software support, especially manual updating and tracking of outlet presentations, is necessary for these processes and system. Typical in-store hardware currently used for transmitting and presenting a store-specific multi-media display of fast-food items for sale to a customer at a terminal (into which the customer can place an order), is shown in FIG. 1--(details of FIG. 1 will be discussed in connection with the other drawings). Generating restaurant-specific presentations, as well as generating and tracking updates to restaurant-specific presentations, quickly becomes an enormously labor-intensive task as the complexity of a presentation increases (to include audio, still- and motion-graphics, and video), the number of food items being offered at an electronic device increases, the number of store-specific presentations increases, and/or the number of updates to the store-specific presentations increases. In fact, the amount of electronic data requiring manual manipulation in such known automatic restaurant-specific presentation systems can make efficient data management nearly impossible. The new process and system discussed herein address these problems.
It is a primary object of this invention to provide a process and system to, using both a template presentation created at one location and a database containing items intended for sale at a sales outlet, configure with a computer, electronic information for presentation at an electronic device with which an item (from the outlet), may be ordered. It is also an object of this invention to provide a process and system that can automatically handle modifications to the database or updates to the template presentation, so that they can be included in the presentation at the interactive electronic device on a timely basis.
The advantages of providing such a process and system as described herein are many: (a) Initial generation of many store-specific presentations is unnecessary--instead, one original template presentation can be created to include a complete package of items (plus associated graphics, audio and video messages) and special instructions; using this template along with several different databases of items intended for sale through electronic devices at several sales outlets (i.e., points of access), specific presentations can be configured for the sales outlets; (b) Versatility--the new process and system can be adapted to all kinds of selling techniques and electronic devices through which customers order items; (c) Manual tracking of changes to specific presentations, as well as manual updating of outlet presentations to reflect such changes, is decreased; (d) Response time for making changes to electronic device presentations, and the risk of making mistakes, can be decreased; (e) Presentations at electronic devices can accommodate more-complex multi-media features; and (f) Modifications to electronic device presentations can be made on-site by a sales outlet clerk or manager (thus giving more control to the outlets), while at the same time, headquarters can maintain control over both the complete list of items available for sale at its electronic devices, and item characteristics--(such as graphics, audio and video messages used to portray the items during a presentation).
Briefly described, the invention includes a process for configuring electronic information for presentation at an interactive electronic device with which an item may be ordered, comprising the steps of: providing an original template presentation created at a first location to include a plurality of template items; providing a database to include a plurality of database items; and configuring, using a computer, the information to include each template item that is also a database item. A template data record can be associated with each template item, and likewise a local data record can be associated with each database item. The template and database are preferably maintained separately.
In another characterization, the invention includes a process for presenting display information at an interactive electronic device with which an item may be ordered, comprising the steps of: providing an original template presentation created at a first location to include a plurality of template items; providing a database to include a plurality of database items; and configuring the display information for presentation, to include the step of tagging as active for display, an item cell associated with each template item that is also a database item. Different cell types can be accommodated and tagged for display.
An additional characterization of the invention includes a system for configuring electronic information for presentation at an interactive electronic device, comprising: an original template presentation created at a first location to include a plurality of template items; a database to include a plurality of database items; and a communications medium for transmitting the original template presentation to a computer. The template presentation for the system also includes a set of instructions for configuring, using the computer, the information for presentation to include each template item that is also a database item.
The invention will be more particularly described by referencing the accompanying drawings of the preferred embodiments, in which like numerals designate like parts.
FIG. 1 is a schematic/block diagram of in-store hardware, connected in a manner designed by the assignee hereof, currently used for transmitting and presenting a store-specific multi-media display of fast-food items for sale to a customer at a terminal (into which the customer can place an order). FIG. 1 also represents a system of hardware capable of carrying out the invention.
FIG. 2 illustrates, in block diagram form, a typical well known electrical signal communication system used to transmit data from a Source to a User of the data. FIG. 2 also represent a preferred communication system for carrying out the invention.
FIG. 3 is a schematic representing data flow for a preferred process and system of the invention.
FIGS. 4 and 5 are flow diagrams illustrating features of preferred methods of the invention.
FIG. 6 is a flow diagram illustrating the flow diagram of FIG. 5 in greater detail.
FIG. 7 is a schematic illustrating one embodiment of "cell" organization on a template presentation display 150. Each cell location (shown organized in "tracks") is represented by a box.
FIG. 8 is a schematic of two template presentation displays (160, 170) of the invention, each display has cells associated with items for sale. The right-hand display is an overflow screen, only seen if certain conditions have been met, that is tied with a special cell location called an overflow branch cell.
FIG. 9, like FIG. 8, illustrates two presentation displays (180, 190) having been configured to present seven items (all of one category) for sale to a customer. Displayed in the left-hand display is a branch cell that will call-up the right-hand display of two more items (numbered 9 & 10), when touched (or otherwise activated by a customer).
FIG. 10 illustrates a configured display of the invention with four cells associated with four items, rather than seven items as is seen in the displays of FIG. 9. No branch cell or overflow screen are needed since all four items (of one category) fit on one display.
FIG. 11 is a schematic of two template presentation menu displays (200, 210) of the invention, each display has cells associated with categories of items for sale. Displayed in the left-hand display is a hidden branch cell. The right-hand display is a hidden overflow screen (never seen in a presentation to a customer) that is tied with a hidden overflow branch cell of the left-hand screen.
FIG. 12 is a flow diagram illustrating details of a preferred configuring process of the invention (see, also, TABLES A, B, and C in connection with FIG. 12).
FIG. 13 is a schematic representing three configured displays of the invention (see, also, TABLES A, B, and C in connection with FIG. 12).
In FIG. 1, Host #1 box 18 represents a computer (such as a personal computer, workstation, or mainframe) located at, for example, management headquarters of a company having many sales outlets. Line 19 connects box 18 to the manager's station 10 (such as a personal computer, workstation, mainframe computer, etc.). This represents the communication medium through which management headquarters and the outlet manager can "talk". Together, Host #2 at 24 and line 23 connecting it (through connection Box 22) to customer terminals 20a, 20b, 20c, represent a computer system 24 (a personal computer, workstation, mainframe computer, etc.) and communication medium 23 through which a multi-media presentation, and its updates, can be transmitted. Known communication systems (similar to that in FIG. 2) can be used for the transmission and receiving of electronic information from Host processors 18, 24 to manager's station 10 and customer terminals 20a, 20b, 20c. Transmission media suitable for use to connect head-quarters with manager's station 10, as well as connect Host #2 with a receiving device (such as an "EZ LAN Box" 22), includes telephone line(s) connected at each end to a modem (or other hardwired system), full-duplex Wide Area Network wiring, or magnetic media onto which electronic information is stored and delivered to the outlet.
As is well known, each customer terminal 20a, 20b, 20c, the manager's station 10 (operated by, or at the direction of, the outlet's management), each Point-of-Sale (POS) terminal 12a, 12b, 12c (suitable POS systems include model 3230 from PAR Microsystems Corp.) used by the clerks who take orders in-person at an outlet front or back counter (or drive-through window), and the video monitor 16 (located where stock is pulled for satisfying an order--such as the restaurant kitchen), are all connected to a known POS Local Area Network (LAN) 14 within the outlet. Suitable LANs include an ethernet (available from PAR Microsystems Corp.), arcnet, RS-485, or RS-232 LAN. It is preferred that the customer terminals 20a, 20b, 20c and clerk-operated POS terminals 12a, 12b, 12c be connected to the stockroom video monitor 16 so that an order can be communicated to the person pulling items from stock for delivery to a customer. The manager's station 10 is, oftentimes, also connected to the customer and clerk POS terminals so that data pertaining to inventory levels, revenue, sales, purchase trends, etc., can be collected and analyzed for use at the outlet and headquarters. Manager's station 10 is shown with a monitor 11a and key board 11b so that information can be entered via touch-screen or key board.
Dashed-line box 20a (representing a customer terminal), encompasses one example of a typical hardware set up (including peripherals) currently being commercially used in the fast-food industry. In-store POS LAN 14 is connected through a POS LAN card 26.
The customer terminal includes a multi-port connection, represented by box 28, which communicates with peripherals such as a printer 29a, credit card reader 29b, and motion/proximity detector 29c. Also included is a serial port connector, represented by box 30, that allows direct communication 31 with another computer (such as the manager's station 10). Connected to the processor 32 (such as Intel Corporation's "386", "486", or "PENTIUM" processors commercially available and used widely in personal computers) is a monitor 33b (such as a VGA-compatible monitor available from Sony, NEC, and Goldstar) having a touch-screen display 33a. Audio card 34 allows for connection with a speaker that can relay sound messages to a customer. Although not shown, a microphone could be also connected to the customer terminal system 20a so that audio messages from the customer could be fed into a transducer for transmission through the in-store POS LAN 14 to the clerk POS terminals 12a, 12b, 12c or inventory video monitor 16.
As it is well known, a digital computer (like those at 10, 18, 24, 20a) typically consists of a central processing unit (CPU), memory (usually with three storage elements: instructional storage, a program storage, and data storage), and several peripherals (examples: magnetic disk, printer, mouse, all attached through I/O ports). Host #1 and #2, although shown by separate boxes, could be the same computer. Optionally, hosts #1 and #2 could be two separate computers at the same physical location (such as management headquarters, on an upper floor of a building within which the customer terminals are located, or at a third party's facility). An EZ LAN Box is shown for receiving information from Host #2. Host #2 could be connected directly to each customer terminal. However, preferably Host #2 is directly connected to in-store LAN 14, or to manager's station 10, for more-direct communication with the station 10. The customer terminals (20a, 20b, 20c), although shown in more detail at 20a to have individual processing units, can be replaced with a single processor connected to several customer presentation devices. Electronic devices suitable for use include: a touch-screen on a Cathode Ray Tube CRT monitor, a flat-panel Liquid Crystal Display LCD screen, or a Light Emitting Diode LED screen; a computer key board; a telephone key-pad or receiver; or a microphone. Likewise, each clerk POS terminal (12a, 12b, 12c) could have its own processor, or a single POS processor could be connected to several devices capable of accepting a clerk's input.
Communication systems, such as the one at 40 in FIG. 2, are currently available for sending and receiving analog (i.e., continuous-wave) or digitally-recorded (i.e., in the form of bits) audio and visual signals, as well as analog or digital computational data. Designs of such communication systems are readily understood in the art. Box 42 represents transducers of source information: a microphone is the transducer for converting energy in the form of sound pressure waves into electrical energy/information/data; and a TV or video camera converts visual images into electrical video signals. Further electronic processing can convert analog signals into a digital format. Digitally-stored DATA (such as that on a compact disk) is typically ready for processing once read. Information which has been properly converted into a chosen electrical signal form, is input at 43 into a central processing unit 44 (such as an IBM-compatible personal computer). The transmitter (a peripheral such as a modem) represented by box 48 can be connected to the processing unit 44 via an Electronics Industry Association (EIA) standard RS-232-C communications interface 46 (i.e., a connector having 25 pins, typically attached to a cable with specified voltage levels and signal parameters, for joining two units).
Dashed line 50 represents suitable transmission medium that allows information from the Source 41 to get to the User 56 for reproduction in a chosen form (such as audio messages, or moving-graphics/animation, video, alphanumeric characters on a screen). Known types of transmission medium 50 include telephone and cable TV transmission wires, coaxial cables, and fiber-optic (glass) cables. Additionally, other dielectric-material media, such as a microwave radio or satellite link (which utilize earth's atmosphere or space) can be used to transmit information from one location to another. Chapter 13, pgs. 545-562, of Electronic Communication Techniques (3rd edition, copyrighted 1994) by Paul H. Young, incorporated herein by reference, has further design details for various electronic data communication systems using different transmission media. Data received by receiver/processor 52 is processed and then input 53 into appropriate transducers, represented by box 54, for communication in the proper form to user 56.
The data flow diagram of FIG. 3 illustrates the types of files and instructions, shown generally at 60, which can be compiled as desired to create an original template presentation 70 that includes a complete package of items (and still- and motion-graphics, audio and video messages, alphanumeric characters, etc., associated with a presentation) and special instructions/subroutines. The dialog files creator, represented by circle 62, is used to create dialog control files that: (a) control general sequencing of the template presentation items, whether arranged by screen display or order of audio message presentation; (b) define default parameters for presentation units, such as screen displays; as well as (c) specify when special functions take place. The graphics editor, represented by circle 64, is preferably a graphics image editor that can create digital graphic files (such as well known PCX, PCC, GIF, or TIF files) for graphic and icon display images included in the presentation. Currently-available graphics and icon creation tools suitable for use include "PUBLISHER'S PAINTBRUSH" supplied by Zsoft, "CORELDRAW" supplied by Corel, and Adobe's "PHOTOSHOP". Audio editor 66, represents an audio editor for producing files compatible with audio cards (34 in FIG. 1) used in the customer terminal (for example, if a "SOUNDBLASTER" audio card supplied by Creative Systems Labs is used, one can use an audio editing tool is called "WaveEdit" also supplied by Creative Systems Labs).
Circle 68 represents the editor capable of creating and updating the expanded/ complete group of data files that contain information about all items available for purchase by all outlets, collectively. This group of new template data files will be explained in greater detail in connection with other figures. Generally speaking, this group of template data files contain: a listing of items for sale, associated icons, graphics, and audio messages; layouts for screens and item cell locations; branch menu cells which point to/call-up associated ordering screens; standard branch cells that call-up a previous or later screen; overflow and hidden branch cells which point to overflow or hidden screens (only seen if certain conditions have been met); instructions for configuring a site-specific customer presentation from the original template presentation 70 (including dialog control files and subroutines--see, also, FIG. 4 step 104, FIGS. 5 and 6 step 136, and FIG. 12); instructions for re-configuring a customer presentation (see, also, step 116 in FIG. 4); and, as needed, instructions for determining which portion of the data needs re-configuring and whether configuration is necessary (see FIG. 4 step 110, and FIGS. 5 and 6 step 130).
TABLE A gives examples of the types of template data records that are preferably incorporated into a template presentation of the invention created for a computer monitor (with, preferably, a touch-screen customer interface). The records shown are itemized by cell on a display screen and organized in tracks with ordinal numbers to define positions within tracks. The organization of data records will be further discussed in connection with FIGS. 7-11. Each screen generally represents a category of items (by way of example, food items)--such as TACOS, TACO OVERFLOW, BURRITOS, DRINKS, and a MAIN MENU. The types of cells on TABLE A associated with data records, include: item cells; menu branch cells; general cells not associated with an item (such as an "EXIT to PAY" cell); and overflow and hidden branch cells. For example, track #1/ordinal #1 of the TACOS screen contains an item cell associated with item (1); it has an itemidentifier string "REGTACO" and a template Price Look-Up (PLU) key, or other item sequence number, of 001. The "order window" cell on the TACOS screen is not associated with any particular item; the location of this cell (track #0) is fixed in the template presentation. During configuration, this cell will be activated but will not move. Associated with the MAIN MENU screen are three menu branch cells and one hidden branch cell (see also FIG. 11). Additional data fields (not shown) can be associated with each cell, such as an icon, animated graphics, audio and video messages, and text. The far right-hand data fields will be explained along with TABLES B, C and FIGS. 12, 13.
TABLE A__________________________________________________________________________TEMPLATE RECORDS (example) track#/ item Inactive/screen ordinal# identifier- template Active "mapped"type (if exists) cell type string PLU tag PLU__________________________________________________________________________TACOS 1/1 item (1) REGTACO 001 A 004 1/2 item (2) CHIKTACO 002 I -- 1/3 item (3) TACO-SUP 003 A 002 1/4 item (4) 7-LAYTAC 004 I -- 1/5 item (5) SOFTACO 005 A 003 1/6 fixed I -- branch O/order fixed A -- window general O/EXIT to fixed A -- pay general O/cancel fixed A -- item general O/repeat fixed A -- item generalTACO 1/1 item (6) BFASTTAC 006 I --OVER- 1/2 item (7) BEANTACO 007 A 001FLOW 1/3 item (8) TACO-SPX 008 I -- 1/4 item (9) TACO-SPY 009 I -- 1/5 item (10) TACO-SPZ 010 I --BURRITOS 2/1 item (1) BURR-SUP 011 A 007 2/2 item (2) BFASTBUR 012 I -- 2/3 item (3) 7-LAYBUR 013 A 008DRINKS 3/1 item (1) PEPSI 014 A 005 3/2 item (2) DR.PEPP 015 A 006MAIN 1/1 menu (1) TACOMENU A --MENU branch 2/1 menu (2) BURRMENU A -- branch 3/1 menu (3) DRINMENU A -- branch 4/1 hidden I -- branch__________________________________________________________________________
Contrasting the original template presentation of the invention, are the outletspecific multi-media presentations (designed and implemented by the assignee hereof) currently in use at fast-food customer activated touch-screen terminals. The following elements can be found in such known restaurant-specific presentations created for transmission to each restaurant: (a) a dialog files creator and editor; (b) a commerciallyavailable graphics editor; (c) a commercially-available audio editor; and (d) restaurantspecific data files, tailored to a particular fast-food restaurant, containing food items for sale, associated icons, graphics, and audio messages, screen and item cell location layouts, branch menu cells which point to/call-up associated ordering screens, and standard branch cells that call-up a previous or later screen (two examples of standard branch cells are as follows: an "EXIT to PAY" cell that, depending upon programmed sequencing, calls-up either a suggestive-sell question screen or the "THANK YOU for Your Order" screen; and a cell location labeled "OTHER FOOD" cell that calls-up a menu screen).
Returning to FIG. 3, arrow 72 represents the flow of the created original template presentation 70 into a corporate headquarters' data management routine 74 (which could be stored on a processor located at corporate headquarters, on-site or upstairs of the sales outlet, or at the facility of a third party handling software service/support). Routine 74 preferably contains the capabilities of gathering and analyzing inventory, revenue, sales, purchase trends, etc., data. Routine 74 can also contain the capability, as shown, of providing notification (via data flow arrow 75) to Detector routine 82 that a new template or an update to a template has been identified by data management routine 74. As arrow 76 indicates, the original template presentation and any updates made to the presentation along the way, form the so-called transmitted copy 80 of the original template. Template presentation copy 80 flows, as represented by arrow 81a, into the Configuring routine 84. In the event the template presentation includes, as suggested above, instructions (or a portion of the full set of instructions) for determining whether configuration is necessary, this information would need to flow along 81b into update/modification Detector routine 82 so that the Detector can perform its functions: (a) provide notification along 83b to Waitor routine 92 (directly connected to the electronic presentation device 94 used by a customer), to interrupt a currently-running presentation so that configuration or re-configuration can take place to update the customer presentation; and (b) notify, along arrow 83a, and trigger the Configuring routine 84 into configuring or re-configuring the presentation (which then flows along arrows 85, 91, and 93 to customer terminal 94).
Database records and files are represented in FIG. 3 by circle 86 labeled as "instore computer". These records and files 86 (referred to throughout as database records or files) contain data records/information about items intended for sale at a particular sales outlet (such as a store, restaurant, kiosk, cart, or other "point of access"). As will be described in more detail below, TABLE B itemizes the type of information preferably included in the database records for a particular outlet (in this case, a restaurant). Although shown to be located on an in-store computer, it is not necessary that database records and files be created and/or stored on a computer (such as the manager station 10, one or each of the clerk POS terminals 12a, 12b, 12c, or one or each of the customer terminals 20a, 20b, 20c--all shown in FIG. 1) located within the sales outlet. Instead, these database records and files 86 can be created on a separate computer from, but at the same location as, the computer used to create the original template presentation 70. The database records and files 86 might also be created with the same computer (but created at a different time) as that used to create the template presentation 70. It is, nevertheless, preferred that the original template presentation 70 and the database 86 be created to form separately stored and maintained files and data. This is so that sales outlet personnel (most-likely store managers) can control, if desired, the creation and modifying of their own database of items they intend to sell over the course of a day, for example.
Arrow 87a illustrates the flow of database files/records, and any modifications thereto, into the Configuring routine 84 so that a presentation can be configured or reconfigured (shown at 90) for the sales outlet customer terminal 94. In the event a database is modified by, for example, adding or deleting a data record associated with an item, modifying a field containing item price or tax rate, or time-delaying the presentation of a store daily "special", it may be preferred to notify (along data flow arrow 87b) the update/modification Detector 82 so that the Detector 82 can take appropriate action. And finally, the routine labeled "Waitor" at 92 in FIG. 3, merely performs the task of giving a configured presentation to a customer using an electronic device (like that shown at 94).
Turning to TABLE B, store/outlet personnel typically prefer using the commonname of items for quick recognition of items being included in a database list they are creating for their store. Therefore, item common-names are included in TABLE B. Note that database Price Look-Up (PLU) numbers for items vary from outlet to outlet--and database item PLU numbers seldom match item PLU numbers in a template presentation.
TABLE B__________________________________________________________________________DATABASE ITEMS/RECORDS (example) item Point-of- item price/ exists onitem identifier- Sale system tax rate templatecommon-name string PLU (or code) list?__________________________________________________________________________bean taco (w/cheese) BEANTACO 001 $0.78/A(3%) yestaco supreme TACO-SUP 002 $1.00/A(3%) yessoft-shell taco SOFTACO 003 $0.66/A(3%) yeshard-shell taco REGTACO 004 $0.66/A(3%) yespepsi cola PEPSI 005 $0.99/B(4%) yesDr. Pepper DR.PEPP 006 $0.99/B(4%) yesBurrito Supreme BURR-SUP 007 $1.00/A(3%) yes7-Layer Burrito 7-LAYBUR 008 $1.44/A(3%) yeschicken sandwich CHIKSAND 009 $2.22/A(3%) NOfrench fries F.FRIES 010 $0.55/A(3%) NO__________________________________________________________________________
TABLE C__________________________________________________________________________CONFIGURED item-LIST(includes all database items that are also template items) item Inactive/screen track#/ identifier- "mapped" Activetype ordinal# cell type string PLU tag__________________________________________________________________________TACOS 1/1 item (1) REGTACO 004 A 1/3 item (3) TACO-SUP 002 A 1/5 item (5) SOFTACO 003 A 1/2 item (7) BEANTACO 001 ABURRITOS 2/1 item (1) BURR-SUP 007 A 2/3 item (3) 7-LAYBUR 008 ADRINKS 3/1 item (1) PEPSI 005 A 3/2 item (2) DR.PEPP 006 A__________________________________________________________________________
Therefore, it is important to associate each item in the database with some type of standard or "key", such as an item identifier-string (alphanumeric sequence, integer, or real numbers) that can be matched to item identifier-strings contained in the template. An item price/tax rate (or code) field has been included so that store personnel can timely react to local price and tax rate changes. Other data fields could be included in the database item listing. As more information is included in the database, more parameters become modifiable by store personnel--thus increasing the amount of local/store control over the list of items (and their associated characteristics) offered for sale at the store.
Although more control has been given to sales outlets by the new process and system described herein, as designed, the configuration/re-configuration of an original template presentation (such as that shown in TABLE A) with a database (such as that shown in TABLE B), allows headquarters (or any other location having direct responsibility over a local outlet) overall control over the items and their characteristics as presented to a customer. For example, TABLE B includes two items (chicken sandwich and french fries) not included in the template presentation. As will be described in more detail in connection with FIGS. 12 and 13, the example configured item-list TABLE C, which contains those items that will be presented to a customer, does not include the chicken sandwich and french fries. By comparing the three TABLES A, B, C, it can be clearly seen that TABLE C only includes those database items (TABLE B) that have been matched with a similar template item (from TABLE A). Due to differences in PLU numbers between the database list and the template list (as well as likely differences in the common-names used locally, local prices of items, local tax rates, etc.), item matching is preferably done by comparing item identifier-strings (or another item-matching "key" that has been standardized) in the database and the template presentation.
The flow diagram in FIG. 4 represents one preferred process 100 of the invention. After an original template presentation has been created 102b and a database of local records provided 102a, configuration 104 of electronic information for presentation at an interactive electronic device takes place utilizing a configuring routine (as represented in FIG. 3 at 84). Configuration preferably takes place, to increase efficiency and outlet flexibility, on a computer processor located at the sales outlet (such as the manager's station 10, one or all of the clerk POS terminals 12a, 12b, 12c, or one or all of the customer terminals 20a, 20b, 20c--all shown in FIG. 1). However, this is not necessary. Original template presentations may be created and configured with local databases at the same location, or a template and database could be configured at a third party software service/support facility, and then transmitted to the store (with a communication system as shown in FIG. 2) for downloading to a customer terminal. It is important that the new process and system allow for database modifications 106 (described above in connection with FIG. 3), as well as original template presentation updates 108 (such as: providing a new template presentation; modifying instructions or dialog control files within the original template; making the presentation of an item time-dependent over some period of time (such as certain hours in a day, or days in a week); adding or deleting a data record associated with an item; and modifying a field containing an icon, motiongraphics/animation message, a video or audio message, etc.). If database modifications or template updates are made (110, 114), re-configuration 116 is necessary to change the presentation to a customer. If no modifications or updates have been made (110, 112), no subsequent configuration, or re-configuration, would be necessary 118. A loop 119 has been formed to represent that, as time passes, the database may need to be modified and/or the original template may need updating.
The flow diagram in FIG. 5 represents another preferred process 120 of the invention. As shown, after an original template presentation has been created 122b and a database of local records provided 122a, modifications to the database 124 and updates to the template 126 might occur before configuration (utilizing FIG. 3 routine 84) takes place 136. As shown in FIG. 5, before configuration takes place 136, one might want to determine whether configuration is necessary 130. If so (134), and if a presentation has already been downloaded to an electronic presentation device, interruption of the current presentation (135) may be required. Additionally, as discussed in connection with FIG. 3, it may be helpful to provide notification that configuration is necessary (here, configuration step 136 also encompasses "re-configuration", or subsequent configuration, in the case where configuration has already been done at least once). Also shown, configuration step 136 is bypassed in the event configuration is not necessary (132, 138).
The FIG. 5 embodiment clearly illustrates the flexibility of the process and system of the invention. The loop 139 formed in FIG. 5 represents that, as time passes, either database modifications 124 and/or original template updates 126 may take place necessitating a subsequent configuration, or re-configuration, to change the customer presentation in-whole or in-part (as already mentioned, this concept of re-configuration has been incorporated into the configuration step 136 of process 120).
FIG. 6 provides details for step 130 of the FIG. 5 preferred process 120. As shown 140, 142, if either the database provided 122a is modified 124 or the original template presentation provided 122b is updated 126, then (following arrows 146 and 134) configuration of the electronic information (in-whole or only the affected in-part) is necessary 136 for presentation at a customer electronic device. In the event only a part of the database is modified 124 or only a part of the template updated 126, the system preferably detects which portions of the customer presentation is affected by the modifications or updates, to configure (or re-configure) only the part of the presentation affected. As FIG. 6 shows (along arrow 145b), it is possible that no database modifications are made 140 and no template updates are made 142 before the first time configuration of the template and database takes place; in this case (following arrows 146 and 134) configuration of the electronic information (in-whole) would be necessary 136.
As mentioned above in connection with FIG. 5, FIG. 6 illustrates a point (box 135) at which a current presentation could be interrupted and notification given that configuration (or "re-configuration" in the case where configuration has already been done at least once) is necessary. This is especially important if a single-user operating system has been employed to both perform configuration and run a presentation at an electronic device. And finally, if it is determined that (a) no database modifications have been made 140, (b) no template updates have been made 142, and (c) the template presentation and database have already been configured 145a (following arrow 132 to bypass configuration step 136), one can see that configuration is not necessary 138.
The original template display at 150 in FIG. 7 illustrates how cells are preferably grouped in tracks along, for example, columns 152a, 152b, 152c. Ordinal numbers 1 through 7 are shown associated with each track to locate where cells fit within a track. In this example, Track 1 groups cells containing icons for seven items of one category, Track 2 groups cells containing icons for seven items of a second category, etc. Cells labeled "fixed" (154a through 154f, with track #0) will not be reorganized/relocated in a customer presentation. These fixed cells will typically be general cells not associated with any particular item for sale, and are activated during the configuration process to appear on a presentation display in the same place regardless of the number of item cells on that display. For example, cell 154e is preferably an "order window" listing items and a running total of the prices of items ordered by a customer. It is desirable to include an order window cell for every display containing item cells representing items being offered for sale. Cell 154f could enclose an "OTHER FOOD" icon that calls-up a previous menu display. Cell 154d might have an "EXIT to PAY" icon to end a customer's order.
FIG. 8 illustrates two original template displays 160, 170 having cells of one category of items for sale (all given a track number 1). Display 170 is, therefore, an "overflow" display tied to an overflow cell 162f (this association is represented by arrow 168). Template displays 160, 170 show that a total of ten items of the track 1 category are possible for inclusion in a final customer presentation. Item cells include 162a through 162e and 172a through 172e. Fixed cells 164a through 164d of display 160 are not associated with any particular item, as are fixed cells 174a through 174d of display 170. They are of the same character as cells 154a through 154f as explained in connection with FIG. 7. Preferably, fixed general cells 164d, 174d are fixed "order windows". Cells 164c, 174c could enclose "EXIT to PAY" icons which, when interacted-with by a customer, allow the customer to discontinue ordering.
Note that overflow cell 162f is fixed on display 160 and is only configured as active for presentation to a customer if certain conditions have been met. If six track 1 items are included in a database created for configuration with template displays (160, 170), overflow cell 162f will be activated during configuration (and will display the icon for the sixth item). If seven or more items are included in a database configured for presentation to a customer, overflow cell 162f will enclose a "MORE ITEMS" icon (which when interacted-with, by touching for example, will call-up display 170 to present the seventh, and so on, items). Cell activation will be described in detail in connection with FIGS. 9, 10, 12, 13 (in conjunction with TABLES A, B, C).
FIG. 9 shows two displays 180, 190 configured (using FIG. 8 template displays 160, 170) for presentation to a customer via an electronic device. Configured displays 180, 190 include item (1) in cell 182a, item (2) in cell 182b, item (3) in cell 182c, item (7) in cell 182d, item (8) in cell 182e, item (9) in cell 192a, and item (10) in cell 192b. In order to be included as part of configured displays 180, 190, all seven of these items must have been included in the database provided for this customer presentation. As was discussed in connection with FIG. 8, since more than six items of track 1 category were chosen for inclusion in the database used during configuration, the fixed overflow cell 182f will have the "MORE ITEMS" icon so that overflow display 190 can be called-up. Note that fixed general cell locations 164a through 164d of template display 160 in FIG. 8, become fixed cells 184a through 184d of configured display 180. Similarly, fixed general cell locations 174a through 174d of template display 170 in FIG. 8, become fixed cells 194a through 194d of configured display 190.
FIG. 10 shows configured display 180' with item (1) at cell 182a, item (3) at cell 182c, item (5) at cell 182g, and item (7) at cell 182d. Thus, as can be seen, only four items of the ten possibilities in FIG. 8 template displays 160, 170, were chosen for inclusion in the database used during configuration to produce display 180'. Again, note that fixed general cell locations 164a through 164d of template display 160 in FIG. 8, are all activated during configuration to become fixed cells 184a through 184d of configured display 180'. To further explain the configuration process, turn to the TACOS and TACO OVERFLOW screen data records in TABLES A, B, C. In TABLE A, these two screens itemize ten possible taco-related items (just as the template displays in FIG. 8 have ten possibilities). By matching item identifier-strings in TABLES A and B, it is clear that only item (1) REGTACO, item (3) TACO-SUP, item (5) SOFTTACO, and item (7) BEANTACO of the TACO and TACO OVERFLOW screens are found in both the TABLE A TEMPLATE and the TABLE B DATABASE. TABLE C also illustrates this. Therefore, in this example, only the graphic or text icons (as well as any animation, video, or audio messages) associated with these four common items will be presented in the four item cells 182a, 182c, 182g, 182d of configured display 180'.
FIG. 11 illustrates how menu branch cells of a template presentation can be organized on a template menu display 200 and its hidden overflow display 210. Each menu cell is considered a "branch" cell because it can call-up/point to another display--in the case of a menu branch cell, it typically calls-up a display containing a category of items (e.g., a TACO menu branch cell will be associated with TACOS screen(s), or a DRINKS menu branch will call-up DRINKS screen(s) as illustrated in TABLES A, B, C). The three menu branch cell locations 202a through 202c are each associated with their own track of items. A "hidden" overflow branch cell 202d has been associated (as represented by an arrow 208) with a hidden overflow menu display 210 that contains two alternate menus for each display 200 menu: track #1 has alternates at cells 212a, 212b; track #2 has alternates at cells 212c, 212d; and track #3 alternates are at cells 212e, 212f. This allows for great flexibility in choosing different menus when creating or modifying the database. Hidden overflow branch cell 202d will not be seen in a customer presentation, it merely provides a way to store and use for presentation, alternate menu cells.
The flow diagram in FIG. 12 provides (at 220) preferred configuration details. As explained with FIG. 3, a template presentation can be created on a computer (using well known tools and techniques) with available components 62, 64, 66 and new template records and instructions (shown at 68). The template can be created at many different locations (such as at the facility with managing responsibility of the sales outlet, on a different floor or office of the building in which the sales outlet is located, at a third party service/support provider's facility, etc.,) to include a complete listing of available items and their associated characteristics, dialog control file default parameters, instructions, etc. A site-specific database (as represented at 86 in FIG. 3) can be generated (using well known tools and techniques) to include items intended for sale at a sales outlet. FIG. 12 illustrates a preferred method of configuring the template and database for presentation to a customer. Writing code (using a computer language of choice) to implement the configuration process of the invention, can be readily done by those skilled in the art using the information contained herein. Configuring can begin, at 222, with the matching of template and database item identifier-strings (or other "key")--see TABLES A, B, and C. Items for which no common identifier-string can be found in the template (following arrow 225a), are treated as non-existent 226 (see, also, the far right-hand column in TABLE B). If an item identifier-string match can be made 224, 225b, the database PLU number of that matched item is then mapped 228 for use during configuring (and for subsequent use in ordering items from the sales outlet inventory/stock area).
Shown next in FIG. 12 at 230, is a preferred point at which the following can be addressed: (a) discrepancies between data records (or other information) of the database and original template, (b) any modifications made to the database, and (c) any updating done to the template presentation. Several possibilities exist in connection with handling (a) discrepancies between information in the database and original template. To the extent the database records contain the most-current information (especially local prices and local tax rates), then discrepancies need to be resolve by writing over template data fields. To the extent the template presentation contains the most-current information (or, perhaps, the template contains the only information--for example, certain instructions/dialog control files will, preferably, be absent from the database), discrepancy resolution results in writing over database records (and where instructions/dialog control files, etc., are a part of the template and missing from the database, template files will be used during configuration). Turning next to (b) database modifications, as was mentioned earlier, it is preferable to detect which portion of the customer presentation will be affected by any modification made, and then change the affected portion. Similarly, in the case of (c) template updates, although slightly more complex to accomplish, the process of detecting which portion of the customer presentation will be affected by the updates is also preferred. Computer code can be readily written for this step 230 that addresses and handles (a) database-template discrepancies, (b) database modifications, and (c) template updates, to produce an up-to-date set of records and instructions during configuration.
Next, it may be desirable to write the matched items to a CONFIGURED item-LIST (following steps 232, 234, 236 along arrow 235a) that includes the mapped PLU numbers (TABLE C is an example of the CONFIGURED-item LIST). This type of LIST might be useful to optimize the configuration process by allowing for comparison between LISTs generated during previous configurations, and to aid in diagnosing configuration problems/bugs. If no CONFIGURED item-LIST is desired (following arrow 235b), the template records are used. PLU numbers should then be mapped to the template presentation. As mentioned earlier, a sales outlet typically has attached its own numeric string (for example, a three-digit PLU number) to each of the items for sale at the outlet. It is preferred to allow each sales outlet to continue to use its own internal item-ordering computer hardware and algorithms for ordering from inventory and data analysis. The new process and system of the invention make this possible by proper mapping of PLU numbers. Remember that if no CONFIGURED item-LIST (such as TABLE C) is written and, instead, the template presentation is used, the template must be adjusted to contain the most-current information. Arrow 237 leads into the method of "tagging" cells or other data records to tailor the presentation to outlet customers.
The "tagging" of data records during configuration will be explained in connection with both displays 180, 190 in FIG. 9, left-hand display 200 of FIG. 11, the flow chart in FIG. 12, and displays 260, 280, 290 in FIG. 13. By way of example and for simplicity, these figures represent cell locations that can be displayed on computer monitor, video, and television screens. Nevertheless, in the event a presentation is made to a customer via an sound-presentation-only electronic device (telephone, speaker, etc.), sequenced audio messages can likewise be organized into groups and tagged for presentation. Additionally, an icon (including graphics and/or alphanumeric characters) enclosed within a cell location can be replaced with an animated (motion-graphics) or video message. Furthermore, a cell location can be associated with an animated, video, or audio message presented after interaction with the cell by a customer (e.g., after a cell on a screen is touched by the customer, or an associated message is seen or heard).
Turn, first, to the middle of FIG. 12 at box 238. If the electronic device has a screen and the template item information has been organized by screens, tagging of data records for presentation is preferably done screen-by-screen. If no such screen is available for presentation, tagging of data records is done in a sequenced fashion--preferably in a manner consistent with the way records have been organized in the template presentation. Since every matched item is intended for sale, these should be tagged active 240 (represented by an "A" in the right-hand columns of TABLES A and C). Display 280 in FIG. 13 illustrates that the tagging "A" for presentation of matched item records can be done in a first pass ("pass 1") of all screens in the template presentation. During pass 1, any general template record (such as fixed general cells 284a through 284d of display 280 and 294a through 294d of overflow display 290) can also be tagged active for display (see 242, 243a, 244 in FIG. 12). Note that, during pass 1, branch cells (e.g., FIG. 13 menu branch cells 262a through 262c and overflow branch cell 282f) are not determinable ("pass 1--ND" as shown at 266a for cell 262a). This is due to the organization by-screen of different cell types and because a screen-by-screen tagging method is being used here. In FIG. 13, until all items associated with track 1 on displays 280, 290 are determined active or inactive, overflow branch cell 282f cannot be determined active (for displaying either a "MORE ITEMS" or a sixth-item icon). Likewise, menu branch cell 262a cannot be determined active until all items on its branch displays 280, 290 (this association is represented by arrow 264) have been determined active or inactive. Note that dashed-line overflow branch cell 262d will not be included in a customer presentation.
The following pseudocode describes, generally, one embodiment of the configuration operation for use with an a monitor and customer-interactive screen:
______________________________________1. Retrieve current POS structures.2. Create store buffer file(s), if desired, that include template buffer files, database records/modifications (including default parameter settings and dialog control files).3. Build a CAT item listfor each item in the item template{Use the designated POS key (such as item abbreviations) tomatch the items in the POS item-identifier string todatabase PLU's and convert the POS string to real PLUvalues.If the match is invalidthenmark the item as non-existent.otherwise{Adjust the item price to the price specified in the POS database. If the POS string refers to more than one PLU, then the price will be the addition of the prices of the individual components.Adjust the tax codes to what the POS specifies.}Write the configured item to the CAT item list.}}4. Configure Screen Cells to determine if active{Pass 1{for each cell on every screen in the template item files{ if configuration instructions specify that the cell depends on a tag counter then { if this cell has a counter tag associated with it then Increment a Pending Counter for this counter variable. The Pending Counter keeps track of how many cells affecting a given counter have not been configured yet. no other processing of this cell during this pass. } otherwise, if the cell is a hidden overflow branch cell { Mark the cell as inactive. } otherwise { Perform the configuration instructions for the cell. Mark the cell active or inactive depending upon instruction results. If cell is active, increment appropriate tag counter. }}}Pass 2 - N: while all cells are not configured and as long as atleast one cell is configured during each loop{for all cells not configured yet on every screen in thetemplate{ if the cell instructions depend on a counter that has a Pending Count not, yet, equal to 0 then skip this cell for this pass. otherwise { Compute the configuration instructions Mark the cell as active or inactive depending upon results. If the cell affects a counter then { if the cell is active, increment counter. if the counter has a Pending Count, then decrement the count. } }}}If configuring stops because no changes were made in the lastloop, but there are still unconfigured cells,then{for all cells on all screens that are still not configured{ write an error message to a configuration report. mark cell as inactive.}}}Add counter data to store buffer files, if created and a variablereferencing the counters have been defined, for reference bydialog control file programs.}5. Create the CAT presentation {for every screen in the template that is not an overflow screen{for each fixed cell on the screen{ if the cell is inactive, then make it blank.}for each cell group on this screen and itsoverflow{ Move active cells to fill in locations vacated by inactive cells. Special Conditions: 1. Cells maintain their relative ordering. 2. The overflow branch pointer cell on a main screen or its overflows can be replaced with an item cell if the overflow branch screen will not be needed, or if the overflow branch cell is inactive. 3. Active tracked cells that are fixed in position should not be relocated. Other tracked cells should flow around them.}If changes have been made that effect the screen layoutthen Compile the graphic for the main screen and any overflow screens that were required.}}______________________________________
The tagging of branch cells, as described above, has been represented in FIG. 12 at 246, 248 along arrow 247a. Return, again, to the tagging of FIG. 13 overflow branch cell 282f: it will be tagged active if a counter value (which has been "counting" all the activated track 1 item cells as tagging takes place) reaches six. If the counter value equals six, activated cell 282f will display the sixth item. If the counter value reaches seven or more, cell 282f will display a "MORE ITEMS" icon as previously discussed. When this screen-by-screen tagging method is employed, in general, a branch cell can be determined active or inactive only after all cells have been determined on a dependent branching display (such as display 280). Thus, overflow branch cell 282f can only be determined active during a later pass ("pass2") through the screens. In the case of menu branch cell 262a, it will be tagged active in this example during a subsequent pass of the screens (represented by "pass3-A" at 266c). This is because it will take at least a second pass (here, represented "pass2") of the screens to finally determine whether all branching display cells located on displays 280, 290 are active or inactive. Likewise, in the event an additional level of branching is desired to call-up menu display 260, the additional-level branch cell cannot be determined active or inactive until all menu cells on 260 have been determined. Thus, a subsequent "pass4" (not shown) of the screens could be done.
In the flow diagram of FIG. 12, arrows 243b and 247b represent it is possible that no general template records and/or branch cells are included in a template undergoing configuration. To complete the process, 250 illustrates that data records tagged as "active" for presentation, will become part of the presentation made to a customer. Computer routines (such as that shown at 92 as Waitor) and tools for downloading and presenting, via an electronic device, the configured presentation, are readily coded.
While certain representative embodiments and details have been shown for the purpose of illustrating the invention, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that various modifications may be made to the invention without departing from the novel teachings or scope of this invention. Accordingly, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention as defined in the following claims. In the claims, any means-plus-function clauses used are intended to cover the structures described herein as performing the recited function and not only structural equivalents but also equivalent structures (an example of the latter being a nail and screw in the environment of fastening parts).
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|Point of sale computer system delivering composited two- and three-dimensional images
|Mar 14, 2016
|Apr 4, 2017
|Redbox Automated Retail, Llc
|System and method for applying parental control limits from content providers to media content
|Mar 2, 2015
|Apr 25, 2017
|Steven M. Hoffberg
|Agent training sensitive call routing system
|Sep 9, 2014
|Aug 15, 2017
|Wai Wu
|Intelligent communication routing
|Jun 5, 2012
|Aug 29, 2017
|Redbox Automated Retail, Llc
|System and method for simultaneous article retrieval and transaction validation
|Mar 7, 2016
|Oct 10, 2017
|Redbox Automated Retail, Llc
|System and method for substituting a media article with alternative media
|May 25, 2016
|Oct 17, 2017
|Sprint Communications Company L.P.
|Network access tiered based on application launcher installation
|Dec 14, 2015
|Oct 31, 2017
|Wai Wu
|Intelligent communication routing system and method
|Jan 9, 2017
|Nov 28, 2017
|Redbox Automated Retail, Llc
|Article vending machine and method for exchanging an inoperable article for an operable article
|Dec 1, 2000
|Oct 18, 2001
|Davor Runje
|System and method for secure electronic digital rights management, secure transaction management and content distribution
|Oct 31, 2001
|Sep 26, 2002
|Goldman, Sachs & Company
|Apparatus, methods and articles of manufacture for construction and maintaining a calendaring interface
|May 10, 2002
|Jan 9, 2003
|Charles Grant
|System and method for performing diagnostics using a portable device
|Sep 28, 2001
|Apr 3, 2003
|Vonder Haar Thomas A.
|Bar and restaurant services virtual private network
|Sep 27, 2002
|Apr 3, 2003
|Geoff Payne
|XML document frameworks
|Dec 6, 2001
|Jun 12, 2003
|Benson Christopher M.
|Clustering of retail terminals
|Dec 9, 2002
|Jul 17, 2003
|Andrew Collins
|Apparatus and method for providing data for a carousel
|Feb 21, 2001
|Aug 7, 2003
|Oday Abbosh
|Ordering items of playable content or other works
|Jun 13, 2002
|Dec 18, 2003
|Jeffrey A. Turak
|Interactive training software
|May 9, 2003
|Dec 25, 2003
|Shachar Oren
|Systems and methods for the production, management, syndication and distribution of digital assets through a network
|Apr 3, 2003
|Feb 5, 2004
|David Pollock
|Systems and methods for distributing multimedia presentations over a network with integration of local data
|Apr 3, 2003
|Feb 26, 2004
|In Lee
|Systems and methods for distributing multimedia presentations over a network
|Feb 5, 2002
|Mar 18, 2004
|Shy Baratz
|Sales enhancement system and method for retail businesses
|Nov 17, 2003
|Jul 15, 2004
|Corporate Visions, Inc.
|System and method for communicating sales messages
|Jul 17, 2003
|Dec 2, 2004
|Salmen Larry J.
|Process and system for authoring electronic information by filling in template pattern with local presentation information
|Dec 1, 2003
|Dec 23, 2004
|Nec Infrontia Corporation
|Display system, display method, and display program
|Aug 4, 2004
|Apr 7, 2005
|Paul Knight
|Nutritional assistant for kiosk
|Sep 27, 2004
|Aug 11, 2005
|America's Drive-In Corp.
|Drive-in restaurant credit-card transaction system
|Jul 11, 2005
|Nov 3, 2005
|Sony Corporation
|Apparatus and method for computation of a pricing index
|Dec 15, 2004
|Apr 27, 2006
|Nokia Corporation
|Service provision in a communication system
|Nov 23, 2005
|Aug 10, 2006
|Emn8, Inc.
|Point of sale computer system delivering composited two- and three-dimensional images
|Feb 13, 2006
|Aug 31, 2006
|Scuka Rodney W
|Adverse condition detector with diagnostics
|May 26, 2005
|Nov 30, 2006
|Steve Alcorn
|Interactive display table top
|Jun 29, 2005
|Dec 14, 2006
|Horrocks Adam S
|Rules-based data evaluation and process trigger system and method
|Oct 31, 2007
|Mar 13, 2008
|Interactive Documents, Llc
|Method and system for replacing data in a structured design template
|Aug 29, 2008
|Feb 4, 2010
|Sodaro Donald E
|Multi-unit dwelling system and building
|Aug 29, 2008
|Feb 4, 2010
|Sodaro Donald E
|Centralized multi-property management system
|Jan 14, 2009
|Jul 15, 2010
|Klick Kitchen Llc
|Purchasing system and method for food service network
|Aug 23, 2010
|May 26, 2011
|Brittingham Brian S
|Computerized Interface For Monitoring Financial Information And Executing Financial Transactions
|Dec 31, 2009
|Jun 30, 2011
|Nokia Corporation
|Method and apparatus for fluid graphical user interface
|Mar 19, 2010
|Sep 22, 2011
|Nokia Corporation
|Method and apparatus for displaying relative motion of objects on graphical user interface
|Dec 10, 2002
|Jan 2, 2004
|Sony United Kingdom Limited
|Apparatus and method for providing data for a carousel
|Oct 2, 1998
|Apr 15, 1999
|Stiegemeier Mark R
|Single-document active user interface, method and system for implementing same
|Oct 2, 1998
|Jun 24, 1999
|Mark R Stiegemeier
|Single-document active user interface, method and system for implementing same
|Nov 9, 2000
|May 17, 2001
|Lebrato Arne A
|Method of doing business remotely and system for remote electronic marketing
|May 9, 2003
|Nov 20, 2003
|Shachar Oren
|Systems and methods for the production, management and syndication of the distribution of digital assets through a network
|U.S. Classification
|1/1, 709/217, 707/999.104, 707/999.107
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|Aug 21, 1995
Owner name: INFOAMERICA, INC., COLORADO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:BALDERRAMA, STEVE;SALMEN, LARRY;SCHNEIDER, JERRY;REEL/FRAME:007667/0207;SIGNING DATES FROM 19950819 TO 19950821
|Sep 22, 1999
Owner name: INFOAMERICA/USA, INC., COLORADO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:INFORAMERICA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:010247/0772
Effective date: 19990524
|Feb 25, 2002
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|Mar 29, 2006
|Maintenance fee reminder mailed
|May 11, 2006
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|May 11, 2006
|Surcharge for late payment
Year of fee payment: 7
|Sep 13, 2006
Owner name: INFOAMERICA/USA, INC., COLORADO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:INFOAMERICA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:018239/0487
Effective date: 19990529
|Sep 15, 2006
Owner name: NCR CORPORATION, OHIO
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:INFOAMERICA/USA, INC.;REEL/FRAME:018247/0679
Effective date: 20050719
|Dec 31, 2009
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 12
|Jan 15, 2014
Owner name: JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., AS ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT
Free format text: SECURITY AGREEMENT;ASSIGNORS:NCR CORPORATION;NCR INTERNATIONAL, INC.;REEL/FRAME:032034/0010
Effective date: 20140106


text:
Poundland to hit £1bn sales mark as bargain fever continues
By Elizabeth Anderson, Daily Telegraph
The UK's largest pound shop is still luring shoppers
The high street discount chain is expected to post annual revenue of £1.1bn this week, up from £998m the year before. Pre-tax profits are forecast to be £44m, up 20pc from £36.8m the previous year.
Poundland has added 60 stores over the last 12 months to bring its total estate in Britain to 590. It is also in talks with competition regulators to take over rival 99p Stores, which could add another 250 outlets.
The company is also targeting international growth, and opened its first store in Spain last year.
However, analysts warned that Poundland's profit will have been hit by volatile currency movements and a strong pound.
Lower high street footfall has also put pressure on sales, as well as stronger competition from supermarkets, which have brought in aggressive price cuts over the past year to win back customers.
Poundland, which serves around five million customers a week, was launched in 1990 and is the largest of the fixed-price discounters in Britain.
The company floated on the stock market last year and the business is currently valued at £746m. Its shares have fallen by 28pc since February this year after investors took fright over forecasts of slowing profits.
Its most popular products are Toblerone, packets of Kodak batteries, and cut-price DVDs.
Poundland chairman Jim McCarthy says "Brits love a bargain."

subset: commoncrawl


text:
I received this book for free from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Some Kind of Hero by Suzanne Brockmann
Series: Troubleshooters #17
Published by Ballantine on July 11, 2017
Genres: Romantic Suspense
Pages: 448
Format: eARC
Source: NetGalley
Amazon | B&N | Kobo | Goodreads
Navy men don't come tougher than Lieutenant Peter Greene. Every day he whips hotshot SEAL wannabes into elite fighters. So why can't he handle one fifteen-year-old girl? His ex's death left him a single dad overnight, and very unprepared. Though he can't relate to an angsty teen, he can at least keep Maddie safe—until the day she disappears. Though Pete's lacking in fatherly intuition, his instinct for detecting danger is razor sharp. Maddie's in trouble. Now he needs the Troubleshooters team at his back, along with an unconventional ally.
Romance writer Shayla Whitman never expected to be drawn into a real-world thriller—or to meet a hero who makes her pulse pound. Action on the page is one thing. Actually living it is another story. Shay's not as bold as her heroines, but she's a mother. She sees the panic in her new neighbor's usually fearless blue eyes—and knows there's no greater terror for a parent than having a child at risk. It's an ordeal Shay won't let Pete face alone. She's no highly trained operative, but she's smart, resourceful, and knows what makes teenagers tick.
Still, working alongside Pete has its own perils—like letting the heat between them rise out of control. Intimate emotions could mean dangerous, even deadly, consequences for their mission. No matter what, they must be on top of their game, and playing for keeps . . . or else Pete's daughter may be gone for good.
Navy SEAL Lieutenant Peter (Grunge) Greene is a formidable BUD/S instructor, tough and is up to any assignment he's handed. However, becoming a father to his 15-year old daughter for the first time after her mother's sudden death might be the challenge that brings him to his knees. She's now missing and his instincts are screaming at him that she's in serious trouble (she is). Romance author and divorced mother of two Shayla Whitman was in the right place at the right time when he needed help. She just happens to be his neighbor and together they begin putting together clues and actions to find Maddie.
There's a different vibe to this story but at the same time, a lot that's familiar. Told from Peter, Maddie and Shayla's points of view, it transitions from the varying voices rather seamlessly. I liked that Peter and Shayla are older (he's close to 40; she's there already) so it's a more mature relationship that develops without the protracted angst you typically find between two people thrown together in these circumstances. On the surface, they don't seem all that compatible but when they're together, everything about them works. I loved these two together and how she helped him forge a relationship with Maddie. It was brilliantly orchestrated while at the same time providing us with his crucial backstory.
Shayla writes romantic suspense and her main fictional character is an FBI agent named Harry who is a major part of her own inner dialogue. It was disconcerting at first but as the story moved along, I found myself wanting Harry's opinion! It ultimately works as he's really her own alter ego that pushes her into romantic action with Peter.
I loved this story and how the members of Boat Squad John and SEAL Team Sixteen were woven into the action. And through Shayla, we get an important plug for the romance genre, presenting a smart, talented writer who really shatters a few myths. She was classic Suzanne Brockmann and I adored her:) Well done on every level.


text:
All Android applications categories
Arizona Patient Education and Resource Center is a medical dispensary that provides medical patients safe and professional access to medical cannabis.
This app will allow you to take advantage of the special events,offers,and education based at our location.
Tags: arizona patient education and resource center , aperc meds
Download APERC
Free - 1.300 - 3M
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text:
Hello sweeties,
With some errands to run this morning, I "missed" out in this morning ootd share. But not to worry, I'm back home now and boy, do I have a great look instored for you!
My lovely two-piece from New Dress is the star of the day. Little tip - pick your normal size cause I went for an M size and up there, well, let's just say I had to fold the top so it would stay up ! Besides, that, this is a very original piece to have in your closet, especially if you are the two-piece type :D
I don't know why, but I adore this sunnies from Wholesale Buying. It's the second time I wear them one day after another which is super rare in my case ! Kinda felt they go so well with the whole outfit. Also, because of my silver sandals and transparent bag from CNDirect, the look has a futuristic influence.
Well, I'll let you enjoy the rest of the article :D
What I wore:
- New Dress two-piece set ( find it here)
- CNDirect handbag ( find it here)
- Wholesale Buying sunglasses ( find them here)
- Zara sandals
So, how do you find the look?
Can't wait to read all your comments tonight <3


text:
Hold yourself accountable (or be accountable to someone else), establish expectations (in writing) and guidelines. Be true to you! Your accountability will help you know the truth of your actions and efforts. If you fail to meet your established expectations or check points, you must accept that you have failed yourself, don't blame anyone else. Other people may be a factor in the failure, but they are not the entire cause. For example, your child is sick, you can't go to the gym. You must take care of your child first then, while they nap or rest, you do a 10 minute workout. Not an optimum workout, but enough to keep you on track mentally and physically. Accountability is key. It defines how you relate to your goals. Accountability helps give you consistent focus to reach your goals. It dictates whether or not you will complete each "stepping stone" to get to you goal.
If you have only 5-10 lbs to lose, the best and most simple dietary change you can make is to avoid all grains. That one simple change makes most people lose body fat and pounds in just 4 to 8 weeks. For a few weeks, eliminate grains such as brown bread, whole wheat, whole grain, multi-grain and so on. Two things will happen:first, you'll lower your total carbohydrate intake as well as eliminate gluten. Then, this will guarantee you'll see results quickly. All grains aren't bad, nor should they all be eliminated. The exceptions to are rice, amaranth, and quinoa.
Part 2: Advanced tempo training. You may see some workout protocols with a four-digit formula for tempo. What exactly does this mean? The numbers represent the time in seconds (tempo) of each part of the repetition. For example, in a barbell chest press, 4212 means you would lower the barbell in four seconds, pause for two seconds at the chest, raise the bar in one second, and then pause for two seconds with the bar at extended arms before beginning the next rep.
Breaking each number down:
- First number: the eccentric part of the exercise. An eccentric contraction occurs when a muscle lengthens, such as when you lower the resistance during the lowering of a barbell in a biceps curl.
- Second number: the isometric pause in the stretched position. This pause usually occurs between the eccentric (lowering) phase and the concentric (lifting) phase of a repetition, such as when the barbell makes contact with the chest during the bench press. This position is usually called a "disadvantageous" position (i.e., poor leverage) of a lift. This pause can increase intramuscular tension, which can further boost strength.
- Third number: the concentric contraction. The concentric contraction occurs when a muscle shortens, such as when you curl your legs to your butt on the lying leg curl.
- Fourth number: the isometric pause in the shortened position. This is the ending phase of most lifts. There is a contraction that occurs at the end of the concentric phase, such as when a bench press is locked out. Muscles should be tense, not putting pressure on the joints (which some people do). This pause is in the "advantageous" position (i.e., good leverage) and can increase the involvement of fast-twitch fibers, the ones that increase strength and power.
Example: Bench Press
A 4213 tempo protocol for the bench press would mean you would:
- lower the barbell to your chest in four seconds
- pause for two seconds when the bar makes contact with your chest
- press the weight to extended arms in one second
- pause three seconds when the barbell is locked out
- begin your next repetition
Get all the most recent episodes on iTunes or download this episode here: Fit 173: Accountability, Diet Trick, Tempo Training Part 2


text:
MANROSE 110MMx54MM DUCTING ELBOW BEND W/ 100MM FIXED SPIGOT
Part No. 40400 - Manrose 110mm x 54mm Low Profile Ducting 90º Elbow Bend/Adaptor With Ø100mm (4'') Fixed Spigot.
Low profile ducting enables it to be concealed when installed along the top of wall units. It can also be fitted in ceiling voids and cavity walls, providing versatility whilst remaining unobtrusive. All Manrose system parts and channels are made from flame-retardant material.
110mm x 54mm low profile ducting system suitable for applications requiring low extraction rates, such as low powered cooker hoods, tumble dryers and extractor fans/ventilation of domestic bathrooms and toilets. With a 5,940mm2 cross-section it provides efficient ducting for short, straight runs connecting to a Ø100mm round spigot.
- 90º Elbow Bend/Adaptor connects Low Profile flat channel to Ø100mm Round Pipe/Flexi Hose at 90 degree angle:
- 110mm x 54mm Rectangular end - female (internal dimensions 110mm x 54mm) - fits over 110mm x 54mm Low Profile flat channel ducting.
- Ø100mm (4'') Round end - male (Ø100mm outer diameter) -  fits into Ø100mm (4'') Round pipe ducting/flexi-hose.
- For use with the Low Profile/Round Pipe Ducting Systems.
- Dimensions: 110mm x 54mm : Ø100mm (4'').
- Quick and easy fit.
- Maximum working temperature: of 60° C.
- Lightweight.
- Material: uPVC.
- Flame retardant.
- Colour: Whte.
Equivalent of Polypipe Ventilation/Domus Product No. DD040 (Prepack 40040)


text:
New Member
- Joined
- Nov 7, 2004
- Messages
- 5,422 (1.12/day)
- Likes
- 954
- Location
- Bulgaria
|Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 G0 VID: 1.2125
|GIGABYTE GA-P35-DS3P rev.2.0
|Thermalright Ultra-120 eXtreme + Noctua NF-S12 Fan
|4x1 GB PQI DDR2 PC2-6400
|Video Card(s)
|Colorful iGame Radeon HD 4890 1 GB GDDR5
|2x 500 GB Seagate Barracuda 7200.11 32 MB RAID0
|BenQ G2400W 24-inch WideScreen LCD
|Cooler Master COSMOS RC-1000 (sold), Cooler Master HAF-932 (delivered)
|Audio Device(s)
|Creative X-Fi XtremeMusic + Logitech Z-5500 Digital THX
|Power Supply
|Chieftec CFT-1000G-DF 1kW
|Laptop: Lenovo 3000 N200 C2DT2310/3GB/120GB/GF7300/15.4"/Razer
It all starts with NVIDIA CEO's Jen Hsun-Huang statement "We're going to open a can of whoop-ass" on Intel, which quickly became a synonym for the announcement of NVIDIA and VIA jointly developed low-cost processing platform. During NVIDIA's financial analyst meeting today, the company revealed plans for what it calls "The World's Most Affordable Vista Premium PC". The platform will use a VIA Isaiah C7-M processor coupled with an integrated NVIDIA IGP chipset. NVIDIA reckons that this combo will be good for a total of 36 GFLOPS in comparison to a mere 6.4 GFLOPS for a comparable Celeron-based system with an Intel 945 IGP/ICH4 chipset. NVIDIA also claims that its platform will be Windows Vista Premium capable, support Blu-ray HD and DirectX10, and cost less than $45.
Source: DailyTech
Source: DailyTech


text:
Be honest and what would you improve?
From 1-10 I guess
Most Helpful Girl
i think its good!00|00|0
Be honest and what would you improve?
i think its good!
Have an opinion?
You have NOTHING to improve on. You have nice, many hands and forearms, round shoulders, a V. Good for you for working so hard to achieve that body.
Looks good to me. You don't want your arms too big, because it would look weird if you have big arms & small legs. Stay just like that, you look fine.
its ideal... hairless, toned and not too muscular. dont change
more will be too much.
but that's my opinion and to each his taste
Perfect. That's just perfect.
can we make babies?
Lol maybe
You cannot undo this action. The opinion owner is going to be notified and earn 7 XPER points.


text: Have you pulled the fuse to the ECU (for 10 sec) This ree-sets fault codes so you can try again. Claus ----- Original Message ----- From: "Tony Hoffman" <auditony at gmail.com> To: <200q20v at audifans.com> Sent: Tuesday, September 11, 2007 1:41 PM Subject: 200 20V Running issues/ Code > Ok guys, I've run across a stumper. > > I'm working on a friends 200 20V Avant. He bought it with a running > problem, namely whenever on boost it would start to miss/buck. He had > a friend of his pull the line off the wastegate, and it was "good" for > about a month. Now, it runs pretty poorly all the time, to the point > of dying on occasion. > > So, I checked the cam timing, spot on. Checked for boost leaks, can't > find any. The code that comes up is 2224. Here is the description, > courtesy of SJM autotechnic: "Maximum Charge Pressure Exceeded, > Intake air leak after turbocharger, ECU Vacuum/pressure line has leak > between intake manifold > Waste gate or pressure hose, Waste Gate Solenoid/hose problem, ECU > pressure sensor malfunction > Symptom: Misfire during wide open throttle, boost pressure too high" > > The symptom is exactly what I'm experiencing. I pulled the line going > to the ECU, and I have good vacuum and boost present there. What are > the chances of the internal boost sensor in the ECU going bad? Anybody > have any other ideas? > > Stumped in Oklahoma, > Tony Hoffman > _______________________________________________ > 200q20v mailing list http://www.audifans.com/mailman/listinfo/200q20v


text:
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Heavy metal act Five Finger Death Punch has been hammering out hard-hitting nu-metal riffs for over a decade, and a key element to their sound is the low-end rumblings of bassist Chris Kael. Playing along with guitars drop-tuned as low as B standard, Chris relies on Spector basses for tight low end and mid-range presence to stay heard in the mix.
Enter zZounds giveaway for your chance to win a Spector Legend 4 bass signed by the bearded bass behemoth himself!
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text:
Meet Finn and his family. This 5-year-old little boy is brave, courageous, outgoing, and full of life. Finn is always happy and cares so much about others. He loves superheroes and cars.
No matter what challenge is put before Finn, he always embraces it and puts a smile on his face. He works so hard on overcoming hurdles and never gives up!
At 2-years-old, he was diagnosed with apraxia of speech, which affects his ability motor plan and speaking.
At age 3 he was diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis, a chronic immune system disease. It has been identified only in the past two decades, but is now considered a major cause of digestive system (gastrointestinal) illness. After many failed food trials, he ended up with no safe foods and a G tube as his sole source of nutrition. He is currently trialing food again with the hopes of finding something safe he can eat orally.
Finn's has 3 beautiful siblings. Finn's brother Campbell also has the same two conditions. Together they are strong and mighty and cute as pie.
A very special thank you to Deb Kepiro of Annie Sharp Photography for donating her time and talent.


text:
Imagine you're a young boy of thirteen, you've just become a teenager but bigger pressures arrive in your life when you find out that you're part-elf, and that part belongs to another world, a world where elves are maligned and marginalized and a sinister grasp has taken hold of the populace in their place. You've been given the tools to save this world; told the truth of the elves and tasked to restore their good name. Great; how on earth are you going to do that? Not on Earth at all.
Bookwire is a mobile app for your iPhone that gives you the ability to scan a barcode
or enter ISBN, access book records and add titles to wish lists.


text:
With each new wave of seasons and spin-offs, Warner Bros.' DC TV Universe has just continued to grow over the years, after the introduction of Oliver Queen/Arrow, The Flash, Supergirl, Legends of Tomorrow, and that's not even counting the special appearance characters who haven't gotten their own standalone series. Though, some shows haven't always succeeded, and some characters have been nixed, so they can be used only in the DC live-action films.
However, it looks like in addition to a number of new heroes and villains in Legends of Tomorrow's second season, as well as the transition Supergirl experienced from CBS to the CW this season as well, it looks like fans can expect to see even more characters popping up throughout all of the shows this time around.
Bleeding Cool is reporting that Matt Ryan's John Constantine, Kate Kane/Batwoman, and Barbara Gordon/Oracle will all be making appearances in the DC TV shows throughout their respective 2015-16 seasons. Batwoman will apparently be introduced in Supergirl season 2 as the ex-gf of Maggie Sawyer, who's adventures bring her occasionally to National City. Barbara will apparently also be introduced with Batwoman, and will develop a strong bond with Kara/Supergirl. If this rumor turns out to be true, at least.
This wouldn't be shocking news either, considering some huge announcements are expected to be made at San Diego Comic-Con this week, and after both Wentworth Miller and John Barrowman have signed contracts to be series regulars for all of the CW DC shows, which the report says John Wesley Shipp could also be doing soon.
This would also explain why after already making his brief appearance in Arrow season four, the CW recently added all 13 episodes of Constantine to the CW seed, which many believed could be a new test on the network's part to decide whether they wanted to resurrect the show or not. Though this report states he could instead be on the receiving end of a deal similar to Miller and Barrowman's.
Make sure to take all of this with a grain of salt for the time being, though the introduction of all of these characters could make sense in the context of each show. After all, Supergirl will finally, actually be introducing Superman this season, and with him, could come even bigger and more iconic names from the DC comics than what fans have seen from the series so far. Here's to hoping, at least.
Alex Welch
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