Vending machine
US6575363B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 28, 2000 |
| Grant date | Jun 10, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 27, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07G1/14
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A vending machine that can dispense an item at multiple price points is described. The vending machine dispenses one or more items, each ordinarily having a predetermined price. The vending machine receives a proof-of-purchase (POP) identifier, and has a processor configured to permit at least one of the items in the machine to be dispensed for less than the predetermined price if the POP identifier was received. A method for enticing a further sale at one or more vending machines is also described in which a random customer is provided with a POP identifier in response to a purchase from a first vending machine. The POP identifier is thereafter received at a second vending machine that ordinarily vends each of its items at respective predetermined prices. A particular item is vended from the second vending machine for less than its predetermined price in response to at least one predetermined criterion such as the receipt of the POP identifier.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.