System and methods for tracking copy count information from a plurality of photocopy machines
US6026380A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 21, 1997 |
| Grant date | Feb 15, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 21, 2017 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG06Q40/12
- WIPO fieldIT methods for management
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A photocopy count system and method which records usage information for accounting and billing purposes. The photocopy tracking system comprises a plurality of remote mini-terminals, a multiport serial board, and a central control computer. Billing identifier information entered at a remote mini-terminal is received at the central control computer where it is processed for verification of validity. If the billing information is valid, the central control computer generates a copier enable signal which is received at the remote mini-terminal to enable the associated photocopier. As each photocopy event occurs, the copy signal is detected by the central control computer. When copying is completed, the copy count and associated billing information is stored at the control computer for later accounting and billing use. The control and processing functions are centralized so as to reduce the cost to install and maintain the system.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.