Electronic information vending machine and method
US6816752B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 14, 2003 |
| Grant date | Nov 9, 2004 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 14, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F17/16
- WIPO fieldControl
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatus for providing information that generally includes retrieving or receiving a block of electronic information from a remote information source at a predetermined time. The block of electronic information retrieved from the remote source is stored on a data storage unit. A user interface is provided that is configured to produce a selection signal based upon an input from a user regarding the information intended for purchase by the user. A step of receiving and verifying a payment is performed based upon the selection signal input by the user. Once payment is verified, the electronic information corresponding to the materials being purchased is retrieved from the data storage unit based upon the selection signal. The portion of the block of electronic information selected by the user for purchase is then printed on a medium and dispensed to the user.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.