System and method of distributing and returning products
US7058581B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jun 6, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 20, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG07F17/0042
- WIPO fieldIT methods for management
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
The present invention comprises a product distribution and return system which includes a return mailer dispensed with a product from a vending machine. The product is returnable in the return mailer to a return center in another location. In another embodiment, a method of doing business is provided. In another embodiment, a method of renting products is disclosed. The method comprises consumer activity, wherein the consumer activity includes a vending machine transaction and a product return step. The method further comprises provider activity, wherein the provider activity includes return center activity and service agent activity. In another embodiment, an apparatus for dispensing products is disclosed comprising means for selecting a particular product, means for depositing the particular product together with a return mailer to a customer, and means for identifying the particular product and a rental date in a database.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.