Bottled water distribution method and bottle return apparatus

US8109378B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Primo Water Corporation · US

Inventors

• Brent C. Boydston · Winston-Salem, US
• Douglas A. Fullerton · Winston-Salem, US
• Michael S. Gunter · Winston-Salem, US
• Billy D. Prim · Winston-Salem, US
• Robert C. Wiles · Winston-Salem, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jul 5, 2006
• Grant date: Feb 7, 2012
• Expiry date: Sep 1, 2026

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G07F7/0609
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Method and apparatus for bottled beverage distribution. Apparatus includes bin, means for receiving bottles, sensor and receipt dispenser. Method of selling includes providing an inventory, assigning identification indicia, assigning first and second purchase prices and positioning apparatus for receiving, storing and dispensing receipt. Method of distributing includes delivering to a first location water bottles, positioning at a second location a receiving, storing and receipt dispensing apparatus, and retrieving empty bottles from the apparatus. Method of distributing includes creating an account, assigning a first amount charged for each bottle sold, assigning a second amount deducted from the first amount for each bottle received, delivering bottles and positioning a receiving, storing and receipt dispensing apparatus. Method of distributing includes delivering inventory of drinking water, transferring ownership of the inventory, invoicing for each bottle delivered and retrieving empty drinking water bottles from bottle return apparatus.