Golden, Steven M. (Bloomfield Hills, MI, US)
Levin, Hillel (River Forest, IL, US)
Gentry, Gary D. (Brighton, MI, US)
Barbour, James A. (Dearborn, MI, US)
Schornberg, Albert (Holly, MI, US)
Anderson, Bradley A. (Hazel Park, MI, US)

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09/490362

07/15/2008

01/24/2000

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705/27

705/14, 705/10, 705/1, 705/26

G06Q30/00

705/27, 705/14, 705/10, 705/1, 705/26

3465289	VALIDITY CHECKING SYSTEM	September, 1969	Klein
3505646	AUTOMATIC PARIMUTUEL WAGERING SYSTEM	April, 1970	Affel
3606688		September, 1971	Zawels et al.
3777410	INTERACTIVE DISPLAY AND VIEWER RESPONSE APPARATUS AND METHOD	December, 1973	Robinson
3889062	System and method for coupling remote data terminals via telephone lines	June, 1975	Epstein
3899775	Automatic store transaction system and terminal therefor	August, 1975	Larsen
3959624	Coded merchandising coupon	May, 1976	Kaslow
4004354	Group response analyzing system	January, 1977	Yamauchi
4012132	Broadcast market survey data storage and retrieval system and method	March, 1977	Lazarus
4014004	Automatic report register	March, 1977	Fuller
4044380	Encoder and constructed answer system for television	August, 1977	Justice et al.
4071697	Interactive video/telephone transmission system	January, 1978	Bushnell et al.
4071740	Mobile automated shopping system	January, 1978	Gogulski
4141078	Library circulation control system	February, 1979	Bridges, Jr. et al.
4166540	Document sorter utilizing cascaded sorting steps	September, 1979	Marshall
4186438	Interactive enquiry system	January, 1980	Benson et al.
4208652	Method and apparatus for identifying images	June, 1980	Marshall
4245468	Control device for a gas turbine	January, 1981	Fondacci
4247759	Self-service passenger ticketing system	January, 1981	Yuris et al.
RE30579	Check authorization system	April, 1981	Goldman et al.
RE30580	Check authorization system	April, 1981	Goldman et al.
4264924	Dedicated channel interactive cable television system	April, 1981	Freeman
4268744	Score processing system for use with ID cards	May, 1981	McGeary
4271351	Cash replacement system and components	June, 1981	Bloodworth
4290688	Apparatus for collecting market survey data from universal product type coded items	September, 1981	Call
4331973	Panelist response scanning system	May, 1982	Eskin et al.
4331974	Cable television with controlled signal substitution	May, 1982	Cogswell et al.
4355372	Market survey data collection method	October, 1982	Johnson et al.
4359631	Self-service terminal	November, 1982	Lockwood et al.
4373133	Method for producing a bill, apparatus for collecting items, and a self-service shop	February, 1983	Clyne et al.
4396985	Electronic cash register system for food dispensing business	August, 1983	Ohara
4404589	Cable television with multi-event signal substitution	September, 1983	Wright, Jr.
4412631	Carousel card dispenser	November, 1983	Haker
4449186	Touch panel passenger self-ticketing system	May, 1984	Kelly et al.
4451701	Viewdata system and apparatus	May, 1984	Bendig
4458320	Electronic calculating device	July, 1984	Sutton
4484302	Single screen display system with multiple virtual display having prioritized service programs and dedicated memory stacks	November, 1984	Cason et al.
4484328	Television line multiplexed data communication system	November, 1984	Schlafly
4500880	Real time, computer-driven retail pricing display system	February, 1985	Gomersall et al.
4546382	Television and market research data collection system and method	October, 1985	McKenna et al.
4554446	Supermarket inventory control system and method	November, 1985	Murphy et al.
4567359	Automatic information, goods and services dispensing system	January, 1986	Lockwood
4573072	Method for expanding interactive CATV displayable choices for a given channel capacity	February, 1986	Freeman
RE32115	Self-service terminal	April, 1986	Lockwood et al.
4588881	System for monitoring the movements of goods inwards and/or outwards	May, 1986	Pejas et al.
4592546	Game of skill playable by remote participants in conjunction with a live event	June, 1986	Fascenda et al.
4593904	Player interactive video gaming device	June, 1986	Graves
4597046	Securities brokerage-cash management system obviating float costs by anticipatory liquidation of short term assets	June, 1986	Musmanno et al.
4602279	Method for providing targeted profile interactive CATV displays	July, 1986	Freeman
4603232	Rapid market survey collection and dissemination method	July, 1986	Kurland et al.
4608601	Video response testing apparatus	August, 1986	Schreck et al.
4625275	Apparatus for dispensing money orders	November, 1986	Smith
4626844	Addressable electronic switch	December, 1986	Mann et al.
4630108	Preprogrammed over-the-air marketing research system	December, 1986	Gomersall
4635132	Printer used for a television receiver	January, 1987	Nakamura
4636950	Inventory management system using transponders associated with specific products	January, 1987	Caswell et al.
4642767	Bookkeeping and accounting system	February, 1987	Lerner
4658290	Television and market research data collection system and method	April, 1987	McKenna et al.
4669730	Automated sweepstakes-type game	June, 1987	Small
4670853	Coupon computer and method for handling coupons	June, 1987	Stepien
4672377	Check authorization system	June, 1987	Murphy et al.	340/5.41
4673802	System for making payments for transactions	June, 1987	Ohmae et al.	705/17
4674041	Method and apparatus for controlling the distribution of coupons	June, 1987	Lemon et al.	705/14
4699532	Method and apparatus for dispensing money orders	October, 1987	Smith
4703423	Apparatus and method for generation of brand name specific advertising media	October, 1987	Bado et al.
4713761	System for centralized processing of accounting and payment functions	December, 1987	Sharpe et al.
4733301	Signal matching signal substitution	March, 1988	Wright, Jr.
4734858	Data terminal and system for placing orders	March, 1988	Schlafly
4747050	Transaction security system using time variant parameter	May, 1988	Brachtl et al.	705/708
4748684	Fast tuning control for a television system	May, 1988	Wright, Jr.
4750151	Apparatus for selectively retrieving stored information to a plurality of output units in response to touching display panel areas associated with the information to be retrieved	June, 1988	Baus
4774663	Securities brokerage-cash management system with short term investment proceeds allotted among multiple accounts	September, 1988	Musmanno et al.
4775935	Video merchandising system with variable and adoptive product sequence presentation order	October, 1988	Yourick
4792018	System for security processing of retailed articles	December, 1988	Humble et al.
4794530	Credit settlement and ticketing terminal system	December, 1988	Yukiura et al.
4807031	Interactive video method and apparatus	February, 1989	Broughton et al.
4812986	Apparatus for dispensing money orders	March, 1989	Smith
4815741	Automated marketing and gaming systems	March, 1989	Small
4816904	Television and market research data collection system and method	March, 1989	McKenna et al.
4821101	Video system, method and apparatus	April, 1989	Short
4825045	System and method for checkout counter product promotion	April, 1989	Humble
4833308	Checkout counter product promotion system and method	May, 1989	Humble
4847690	Interleaved video system, method and apparatus	July, 1989	Perkins
4853882	System and method for protecting against redundant mailings	August, 1989	Marshall
4855908	POS system	August, 1989	Shimoda et al.	705/20
4858000	Image recognition audience measurement system and method	August, 1989	Lu
4862350	Architecture for a distributive microprocessing system	August, 1989	Orr et al.	709/213
4870596	Method and apparatus for dispensing money orders	September, 1989	Smith
4882724	Shoppers communication system and processes relating thereto	November, 1989	Vela et al.
4890321	Communications format for a subscription television system permitting transmission of individual text messages to subscribers	December, 1989	Seth-Smith et al.
4894784	Apparatus for dispensing money orders	January, 1990	Smith
4896791	Coupon dispensing system	January, 1990	Smith
4908761	System for identifying heavy product purchasers who regularly use manufacturers' purchase incentives and predicting consumer promotional behavior response patterns	March, 1990	Tai
4922522	Telecommunications access to lottery systems	May, 1990	Scanlon
4926256	Billing data display system for a closed circuit television system	May, 1990	Nanba
4929819	Method and apparatus for customer performed article scanning in self-service shopping	May, 1990	Collins, Jr.
4937742	Automated system for statistically analyzing data characteristics of shipments of coupons to identify instances of coupon shipment parametric abnormalities	June, 1990	Marshall
4937853	Lottery agent data communication/telephone line interface	June, 1990	Brule et al.
4959686	Automated shopping order entry system	September, 1990	Spallone et al.
4959783	System and method for choosing random numbers and delivering such numbers to subscribers for playing games of chance	September, 1990	Scott et al.
4965437	Ticket issuing apparatus	October, 1990	Nagai
4972504	Marketing research system and method for obtaining retail data on a real time basis	November, 1990	Daniel, Jr. et al.
4973952	Shopping cart display system	November, 1990	Malec et al.
4974170	Electronic directory for identifying a selected group of subscribers	November, 1990	Bouve et al.
4975951	IPPV programming distribution control system	December, 1990	Bennett
4982337	System for distributing lottery tickets	January, 1991	Burr et al.
4982346	Mall promotion network apparatus and method	January, 1991	Girouard et al.
4984156	Automatic checkin apparatus	January, 1991	Mekata
4996705	Use of telecommunications systems for lotteries	February, 1991	Entenmann et al.
5003384	Set-top interface transactions in an impulse pay per view television system	March, 1991	Durden et al.
5003472	Apparatus for order entry in a restaurant	March, 1991	Perrill et al.
5010485	Apparatus, system and method for creating credit vouchers usable at point of purchase stations	April, 1991	Bigari
5014125	Television system for the interactive distribution of selectable video presentations	May, 1991	Pocock et al.
5014212	Apparatus for dispensing money orders	May, 1991	Smith
5025139	Redeemable coupon disbursement control and reporting system	June, 1991	Halliburton, Jr.
5025372	System and method for administration of incentive award program through use of credit	June, 1991	Burton et al.	705/14
5039848	Method and machine for dispensing coupons	August, 1991	Stoken
5047614	Method and apparatus for computer-aided shopping	September, 1991	Bianco
5048833	Apparatus for detecting a series of game outcomes	September, 1991	Lamle
5056019	Automated purchase reward accounting system and method	October, 1991	Schultz et al.
5063610	Broadcasting system with supplemental data transmission and storage	November, 1991	Alwadish
5069453	Ticket apparatus with a transmitter	December, 1991	Koza et al.
5070404	Method and apparatus for contemporaneous delivery of data	December, 1991	Bullock et al.
5077607	Cable television transaction terminal	December, 1991	Johnson et al.
RE33808	Cable television with multi-event signal substitution	January, 1992	Wright, Jr.
5083272	Interactive telephone lottery system with a verification code	January, 1992	Walker et al.
5093718	Interactive home information system	March, 1992	Hoarty et al.
5111196	Electronic information display module and connector therefor	May, 1992	Hunt
5111927	Automated recycling machine	May, 1992	Schulze, Jr.
5119295	Centralized lottery system for remote monitoring or operations and status data from lottery terminals including detection of malfunction and counterfeit units	June, 1992	Kapur
5128520	Scanner with coupon validation	July, 1992	Rando et al.
5128752	System and method for generating and redeeming tokens	July, 1992	VonKohorn
5155591	Method and apparatus for providing demographically targeted television commercials	October, 1992	Wachob
5158310	Display system for shopping cart	October, 1992	Tannehill et al.
5159549	Multiple player game data processing system with wager accounting	October, 1992	Hallman, Jr. et al.
5173594	System for printing personalized charge-card service receipts at remote locations	December, 1992	McClure
5176224	Computer-controlled system including a printer-dispenser for merchandise coupons	January, 1993	Spector
5198644	System for display of prices and related method	March, 1993	Pfeiffer
5208742	Data line monitoring system	May, 1993	Warn	700/2
5214792	Broadcasting system with supplemental data transmission and storge	May, 1993	Alwadish
5227874	Method for measuring the effectiveness of stimuli on decisions of shoppers	July, 1993	Von Kohorn	705/10
5231568	Promotional game method and apparatus therefor	July, 1993	Cohen et al.
5235509	Customer self-ordering system using information displayed on a screen	August, 1993	Mueller et al.
5237157	Kiosk apparatus and method for point of preview and for compilation of market data	August, 1993	Kaplan
5237620	Check reader method and system for reading check MICR code	August, 1993	Deaton
5239480	Automatic ticket dispensing system	August, 1993	Huegel
5243174	Method and apparatus for generating gift certificates	September, 1993	Veeneman et al.
5250789	Shopping cart	October, 1993	Johnsen
5253345	Point of sale register system	October, 1993	Fernandes et al.	705/17
5256863	In-store universal control system	October, 1993	Ferguson et al.
5278752	Proceeds processing apparatus requesting a customer to confirm proceeds processing	January, 1994	Narita et al.
5285278	Electronic redeemable coupon system via television	February, 1994	Holman
5287266	Intelligent shopping cart system having cart position determining capability	February, 1994	Malec et al.
5295064	Intelligent shopping cart system having cart position determining and service queue position securing capability	March, 1994	Malec et al.
5297026	System for promoting account activity	March, 1994	Hoffman	705/14
5305196	Check transaction processing, database building and marketing method and system utilizing automatic check reading	April, 1994	Deaton et al.
5310997	Automated order and delivery system	May, 1994	Roach et al.
5319455	System for distributing customized commercials to television viewers	June, 1994	Hoarty et al.
5343239	Transaction based interactive television system	August, 1994	Lappington et al.
5373440	Promotional game method and apparatus therefor	December, 1994	Cohen et al.
5382970	Television viewer monitoring system including portable data meter for each viewer	January, 1995	Kiefl
5388165	Method and system for building a database and performing marketing based upon prior shopping history	February, 1995	Deaton et al.	382/139
5389964	Broadcast channel substitution method and apparatus	February, 1995	Oberle et al.
5401946	Technique for correlating purchasing behavior of a consumer to advertisements	March, 1995	Weinblatt
5404161	Tuned signal detector for use with a radio frequency receiver	April, 1995	Douglass et al.
5412191	Service desk for the registration, booking and/or payment of goods, vouchers and the like	May, 1995	Baitz et al.
5412416	Video media distribution network apparatus and method	May, 1995	Nemirofsky
5430644	Check transaction processing, database building and marketing method and system utilizing automatic check reading	July, 1995	Deaton et al.
5438355	Interactive system for processing viewer responses to television programming	August, 1995	Palmer
5448471	Check transaction processing, database building and marketing method and system utilizing automatic check reading	September, 1995	Deaton et al.
RE35117	Scanner with coupon validation	December, 1995	Rando et al.
5483049	Coupon exchanging and check writing system	January, 1996	Schulze, Jr.
5488423	Home communication method and apparatus	January, 1996	Walkingshaw et al.
5490060	Passive data collection system for market research data	February, 1996	Malec et al.
5491838	Broadcast system with associated data capabilities	February, 1996	Takahisa et al.
5500514	Method and apparatus for generating gift certificates	March, 1996	Veeneman et al.
5504519	Method and apparatus for printing coupons and the like	April, 1996	Remillard
5508731	Generation of enlarged participatory broadcast audience	April, 1996	Kohorn
5510859	Tuned signal detector for use with a radio frequency receiver	April, 1996	Douglass et al.
5513102	Data processing methods of implementing an award to an authorized user of a credit card	April, 1996	Auriemma	705/14
5513109	Air bag system having a control system for determining the exact inflating time of an air bag	April, 1996	Fujishima
5515270	Technique for correlating purchasing behavior of a consumer to advertisements	May, 1996	Weinblatt	705/14
5523794	Method and apparatus for portable storage and use of data transmitted by television signal	June, 1996	Mankovitz et al.
5528490	Electronic catalog system and method	June, 1996	Hill
5535118	Data collection device	July, 1996	Chumbly
5537314	Referral recognition system for an incentive award program	July, 1996	Kanter	705/14
5546523	Electronic fund transfer system	August, 1996	Gatto
5550734	Computerized healthcare accounts receivable purchasing collections securitization and management system	August, 1996	Tarter et al.
5557721	Method and apparatus for display screens and coupons	September, 1996	Fite et al.
4210961	Sorting system	October, 1996	Whitlow et al.
5564073	Broadcast system with associated data capabilities	October, 1996	Takahisa
5570465	Apparatus, method and system for printing of legal currency and negotiable instruments	October, 1996	Tsakanikas
5577266	Broadcast system with associated data capabilities	November, 1996	Takahisa et al.
5579537	Broadcast system with associated data capabilities	November, 1996	Takahisa
5584025	Apparatus and method for interactive communication for tracking and viewing data	December, 1996	Keithley et al.
5592378	Computerized order entry system and method	January, 1997	Cameron et al.
5592560	Method and system for building a database and performing marketing based upon prior shopping history	January, 1997	Deaton et al.
5594493	Television signal activated interactive smart card system	January, 1997	Nemirofsky
5604542	Using the vertical blanking interval for transporting electronic coupons	February, 1997	Dedrick
5612527	Discount offer redemption system and method	March, 1997	Ovadia
5612730	Interactive system for a closed cable network	March, 1997	Lewis
5621812	Method and system for building a database for use with selective incentive marketing in response to customer shopping histories	April, 1997	Deaton et al.
5634101	Method and apparatus for obtaining consumer information	May, 1997	Blau
5638457	Method and system for building a database for use with selective incentive marketing in response to customer shopping histories	June, 1997	Deaton et al.
5642485	Method and system for selective incentive point-of-sale marketing in response to customer shopping histories	June, 1997	Deaton et al.
5647677	Apparatus for dispensing documents having monetary value	July, 1997	Smith
5649114	Method and system for selective incentive point-of-sale marketing in response to customer shopping histories	July, 1997	Deaton et al.
5652421	Method and apparatus for generating gift certificates	July, 1997	Veeneman et al.
5659469	Check transaction processing, database building and marketing method and system utilizing automatic check reading	August, 1997	Deaton et al.
5664110	Remote ordering system	September, 1997	Green et al.
5675662	Method and system for building a database for use with selective incentive marketing in response to customer shopping histories	October, 1997	Deaton et al.
5679938	Methods and systems for interactive check authorizations	October, 1997	Templeton et al.
5687322	Method and system for selective incentive point-of-sale marketing in response to customer shopping histories	November, 1997	Deaton et al.
5697844	System and method for playing games and rewarding successful players	December, 1997	Von Kohorn
5701252	Distribution network system for products and information	December, 1997	Facchin et al.
5710886	Electric couponing method and apparatus	January, 1998	Christensen et al.
5715399	Secure method and system for communicating a list of credit card numbers over a non-secure network	February, 1998	Bezos	705/27
5721908	Computer network for WWW server data access over internet	February, 1998	Lagarde et al.	707/10
5727153	Retail store having a system of receiving electronic coupon information from a portable card and sending the received coupon information to other portable cards	March, 1998	Powell
5734823	Systems and apparatus for electronic communication and storage of information	March, 1998	Saigh et al.
5734838	Database computer architecture for managing an incentive award program and checking float of funds at time of purchase	March, 1998	Robinson et al.
5759101	Central and remote evaluation of responses of participatory broadcast audience with automatic crediting and couponing	June, 1998	Von Kohorn
5761648	Interactive marketing network and process using electronic certificates	June, 1998	Golden et al.	705/14
5774170	System and method for delivering targeted advertisements to consumers	June, 1998	Hite et al.
5774869	Method for providing sponsor paid internet access and simultaneous sponsor promotion	June, 1998	Toader
5774870	Fully integrated, on-line interactive frequency and award redemption program	June, 1998	Storey
5793849	Ticket transmitter	August, 1998	Young et al.
5794210	Attention brokerage	August, 1998	Goldhaber et al.
5806044	System and method for distributing coupons through a system of computer networks	September, 1998	Powell
5806045	Method and system for allocating and redeeming incentive credits between a portable device and a base device	September, 1998	Biorge et al.	705/14
5812668	System, method and article of manufacture for verifying the operation of a remote transaction clearance system utilizing a multichannel, extensible, flexible architecture	September, 1998	Weber
5815657	System, method and article of manufacture for network electronic authorization utilizing an authorization instrument	September, 1998	Williams et al.
5832457	Method and apparatus for selective distribution of discount coupons based on prior customer behavior	November, 1998	O'Brien et al.
5832458	System and method for electronically auditing point-of-sale transactions	November, 1998	Jones
5839117	Computerized event-driven routing system and method for use in an order entry system	November, 1998	Cameron et al.
5845259	Electronic coupon dispensing system	December, 1998	West et al.
5850446	System, method and article of manufacture for virtual point of sale processing utilizing an extensible, flexible architecture	December, 1998	Berger et al.
5855007	Electronic coupon communication system	December, 1998	Jovicic et al.
5855008	Attention brokerage	December, 1998	Goldhaber et al.
5857175	System and method for offering targeted discounts to customers	January, 1999	Day et al.
5859414	Interactive customer information terminal	January, 1999	Grimes et al.	235/383
5864825	Method of displaying purchase data and goods registration system	January, 1999	Kobayashi et al.	705/24
RE36116	Centralized consumer cash value accumulation system for multiple merchants	February, 1999	McCarthy
5870723	Tokenless biometric transaction authorization method and system	February, 1999	Pare, Jr. et al.	705/39
5870724	Targeting advertising in a home retail banking delivery service	February, 1999	Lawlor et al.
5889863	System, method and article of manufacture for remote virtual point of sale processing utilizing a multichannel, extensible, flexible architecture	March, 1999	Weber
5903874	System and method for electronic coupon management	May, 1999	Leonard et al.
5905246	Method and apparatus for coupon management and redemption	May, 1999	Fajkowski
5907831	Computer apparatus and methods supporting different categories of users	May, 1999	Lotvin et al.
5909673	Method and system for creating site specific coupons at a plurality of remote locations which are controlled by a central office	June, 1999	Gregory
5915243	Method and apparatus for delivering consumer promotions	June, 1999	Smolen
5916024	System and method of playing games and rewarding successful players	June, 1999	Von Kohorn
5918014	Automated collaborative filtering in world wide web advertising	June, 1999	Robinson	709/219
5918211	Method and apparatus for promoting products and influencing consumer purchasing decisions at the point-of-purchase	June, 1999	Sloane
5918213	System and method for automated remote previewing and purchasing of music, video, software, and other multimedia products	June, 1999	Bernard et al.
5923552	Systems and methods for facilitating the exchange of information between separate business entities	July, 1999	Brown et al.	700/100
5924080	Computerized discount redemption system	July, 1999	Johnson
5931917	System, method and article of manufacture for a gateway system architecture with system administration information accessible from a browser	August, 1999	Nguyen et al.
5943424	System, method and article of manufacture for processing a plurality of transactions from a single initiation point on a multichannel, extensible, flexible architecture	August, 1999	Berger et al.
5948040	Travel reservation information and planning system	September, 1999	DeLorme et al.
5963924	System, method and article of manufacture for the use of payment instrument holders and payment instruments in network electronic commerce	October, 1999	Williams et al.
5970472	Performing electronic commerce on the internet providing links from product manufacturers to authorized dealers where the authorized dealer provides a custom order interface for the manufacturer's products	October, 1999	Allsop et al.	705/26
5974396	Method and system for gathering and analyzing consumer purchasing information based on product and consumer clustering relationships	October, 1999	Anderson et al.
5978013	Apparatus and method for generating product coupons in response to televised offers	November, 1999	Jones et al.
5978840	System, method and article of manufacture for a payment gateway system architecture for processing encrypted payment transactions utilizing a multichannel, extensible, flexible architecture	November, 1999	Nguyen et al.
5979757	Method and system for presenting item information using a portable data terminal	November, 1999	Tracy et al.
5982891	Systems and methods for secure transaction management and electronic rights protection	November, 1999	Ginter et al.	705/54
5982892	System and method for remote authorization for unlocking electronic data	November, 1999	Hicks et al.	514/300
5983196	Interactive computerized methods and apparatus for conducting an incentive awards program	November, 1999	Wendkos
5983208	System, method and article of manufacture for handling transaction results in a gateway payment architecture utilizing a multichannel, extensible, flexible architecture	November, 1999	Haller et al.
5987132	System, method and article of manufacture for conditionally accepting a payment method utilizing an extensible, flexible architecture	November, 1999	Rowney
5987504	Method and apparatus for delivering data	November, 1999	Toga	709/206
5992888	Advertising device and method for use at point of sale	November, 1999	North et al.	283/56
5995015	Remote electronic information display system for retail facility	November, 1999	DeTemple et al.	340/825.49
5995942	Store-level marketing system	November, 1999	Smith et al.
5996076	System, method and article of manufacture for secure digital certification of electronic commerce	November, 1999	Rowney et al.
5999912	Dynamic advertising scheduling, display, and tracking	December, 1999	Wodarz et al.	705/14
5999914	Electronic promotion system for an electronic merchant system	December, 1999	Blinn et al.
6002394	Systems and methods for linking television viewers with advertisers and broadcasters	December, 1999	Schein et al.
6002767	System, method and article of manufacture for a modular gateway server architecture	December, 1999	Kramer
6002771	Method and system for regulating discounts on merchandise distributed through networked computer systems	December, 1999	Nielsen
6009410	Method and system for presenting customized advertising to a user on the world wide web	December, 1999	LeMole et al.	705/14
6012039	Tokenless biometric electronic rewards system	January, 2000	Hoffman et al.	705/14
6026369	Method for distributing advertising in a distributed web modification system	February, 2000	Capek	705/14
6029142	Electronic catalog system and method	February, 2000	Hill	705/27
6047263	Method of displaying information by an electronic price label	April, 2000	Goodwin, III	705/20
6076068	Coupon delivery system	June, 2000	DeLapa et al.	705/14
6105002	Retail store efficiently configured to distribute electronic coupons at multiple product locations	August, 2000	Powell	705/14
6237145	System for accessing promotion information and for generating redeemable coupons therefrom	May, 2001	Narasimhan et al.	725/23
6321208	Method and system for electronic distribution of product redemption coupons	November, 2001	Barnett et al.	705/14
6336099	Method and system for electronic distribution of product redemption coupons	January, 2002	Barnett et al.	705/14

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Alvarez, Raquel

Thelen Reid Brown Raysman & Steiner LLP

This application is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 09/073,334, now abandoned filed May 6, 1998, which is a continuation of U.S. Ser. No. 08/507,693, filed Jul. 25, 1995, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,761,648.

We claim:

1. A process for distributing and redeeming coupons, comprising the steps of: establishing electrical communication over the internet between a service system and a plurality of remote users having personal computers; receiving at the service system from a plurality of issuer systems instructions for issuing the redeemable coupons; receiving at the service system profile data input by the remote users over the internet; the service system permitting remote user access to offers for redeemable coupons upon the entry of profile data requested of the remote users by the service system; said offers being accessible over the Internet to selective remote users based on analysis of the profile data; storing coupon files in a data base, said coupon files containing information relating to redeemable coupons offered to and selected by the remote users; and automatically redeeming coupons contained in said stored data base when the remote users make transactions using a credit card.

2. The process for distributing and redeeming coupons as set forth in claim 1 wherein said coupon file is transmitted to said data base using the Internet.

3. The process for distributing and redeeming coupons as set forth in claim 1 wherein said coupon file is transmitted to said database via the service system using the Internet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to the use of an interactive marketing network. More specifically, the present invention relates to the interactive use by service providers and consumers of electronic certificates over online networks.

Increasingly, consumers are gaining direct access to data bases for information and entertainment, whether through phone lines and coaxial cable or by wireless connections from cell systems and satellites. With this so-called “online” access, consumers can use data bases for a range of activities at virtually any time. Besides granting freedom to the consumer, online access gives added efficiencies to companies merchandising products and services, whether those products are sold directly to the consumer by mail or in a store.

At the same time, various types of transactions are currently consummated using certificates such as coupons, tickets, etc. These certificates typically contain data (referred to in the claims as “transaction data”) describing the particular transaction (e.g., in the case of a coupon, the transaction data would include a product description, the coupon amount, and the expiration date). These certificates also typically contain data (referred to in the claims as “identification data”) such as various numbers, letters, barcodes or other symbols sufficient to uniquely identify each certificate.

The need arises for creation of an online “electronic certificate” that can be used for promotional or transactional purposes, much as coupons have been used in such traditional marketing vehicles as newspapers and mail packs. Beyond offering a discount as an incentive to buy a feature product, the coupon is also currency, printed in quantities limited by the issuer and often carrying unique serial numbers, expiration dates and “source codes” which indicate the means by which it was distributed (e.g. newspaper, mail list, in-store dispenser, etc.), so issuers can track the effectiveness of each marketing medium.

Known coupon dispensing systems, for example, fail to interactively communicate between a service center and a third party, as pointed out in U.S. Pat. No. 5,303,197 to Axler. While the Axler patent permits an operator to periodically “visit” a dispensing machine, this does not allow “real time” interactivity (e.g., it does not permit the operator to access and analyze demographical data contemporaneous with its input). Nor does Axler (or any other known prior art systems) envision the creation of an online “electronic certificate,” as will be described below.

A data processing system and method according to the present invention successfully emulates the attributes of a coupon over an online network (i.e., an “electronic coupon” is created). Moreover, given the direct access to consumers, the data processing system exceeds the capabilities of traditional coupons by providing issuers a greater degree of control in targeting the offer, restricting its use and tracking both the selection and redemption process. The data processing system's controls also make it possible for service providers, such as restaurants and hotels, to use an online electronic certificate as a promotional means and a way to lower overhead in providing such transactions as dining, travel and ticket reservations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a data processing system and method permitting consumers to access a data base online and use electronic certificates. The data processing system identifies and marks each electronic certificate with a code distinguishing it from all other certificates and with another code identifying the user. In addition, the data processing system permits coupon issuers to go online as well to create the certificate and specify controls that restrict the total number of certificates issued as well as the number to be issued to each individual.

The data processing system also preferably issues reports as soon as the consumers choose a certificate from the data base and have it downloaded to their resident storage systems or “remote computer terminals.” Reports can be generated that show whether the consumer had the certificate printed with the consumer's printer or had it sent, as a computer record, back to the service data base. All of these reports can assist the issuer in research, security, and confirmation of a purchase or reservation.

In a preferred embodiment, the data processing system of the present invention can issue electronic certificates created by an operator, and permits the storing and retrieval of data pertaining to the certificates entered by users of a communicating first set of remote computer terminals. This embodiment includes a service system including a first computer processor for processing data and a first computer storage system for storing data on a storage medium. Also included is an issuer system including a second computer processor for processing data and a second computer storage system for storing data on a storage medium. The issuer system permits the operator to provide the service system with instructions for issuing a predetermined type and number of the electronic certificates. The service system is in selective electrical communication with both the issuer system and each of the remote computer terminals. Preselected identification data stored within either the first or the second computer storage systems and useable by either the first or the second computer processors is used to provide the first computer processor with appropriate instructions for associating each of the issued electronic certificates with one or more identifying symbols. Users of the remote computer terminals are then permitted to controllably access the electronic certificates.

A process for providing an interactive marketing system capable of using electronic certificates that can be accessed online by remote computer terminals linked within a computer network also forms part of the present invention. In this embodiment, an online network is provided including an issuing site having a first computer processor and a first computer storage system, and a service site having a second computer processor and a second computer storage system. The issuing site and the service site are in electrical communication, and the service site and each of the remote computer terminals are also in electrical communication. Instructions for issuing a predetermined number of electronic certificates are transmitted from the issuing site to the service site, each of the certificates including transaction data. The service site, upon receiving these instructions, revises the electronic certificates by providing the issued electronic certificates with unique identification data. The revised electronic certificates can then be accessed by users of the remote computer terminals. Consumer data entered by the remote computer terminal users can be provided to the service site, and then selectively transmitted to the issuing site. Each of these steps can be selectively repeated, as required.

In a second preferred process embodiment of the present invention, a process for selectively storing, retrieving and transmitting reservation data is provided. First, a computer operating system is provided, including an issuing site with an issuing computer having an initial set of reservation instructions, and a service site with a service computer also having the initial set of reservation instructions. The issuing and service computers of the computer operating system are in electrical communication. Next, updated reservation data is transmitted from remote computer terminals electronically linked to the service computer. The updated reservation data is used by the service computer to revise the initial set of reservation instructions, resulting in a revised set of reservation instructions contained within the service computer. Now, data pertaining to the revised set of reservation instructions is transmitted from the service computer to the issuing computer. The data pertaining to the reservation instructions can be contained within the service computer in the form of an electronic reservation coupon, which can be printed by the remote computer terminal users. Again, these steps can be selectively repeated, as required.

In its broadest embodiment, the system of the present invention is used to create an electronic certificate. This system includes a computer system that can process and store data. The computer system is capable of creating a plurality of electronic certificates. Each of the electronic certificates contains transaction data and unique identification data, and can be accessed by remote users linked to the computer system.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features which are characteristic of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the invention's preferred embodiments, together with further objects and attendant advantages, will be best understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 depicts the flow of information in a system delivering online coupons to consumers;

FIG. 2 is a flowchart of a software routine for a coupon issuer according to the present invention;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart of a software routine for the online coupon service provider according to the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart of a software routine for the consumer using the coupon service according to the present invention;

FIG. 5 depicts the flow of information in a system providing for restaurant reservations;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of a software routine for a restaurant according to the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart of a software routine for the reservation service provider according to the present invention; and

FIG. 8 is a flowchart of a software routine for the consumer using the reservation service according to the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRST PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention is directed to a data processing system and method for use in dispensing and using electronic certificates such as coupons over online systems. FIG. 1 is an overview showing how the information and activities flow from creation of the electronic certificate to its selection and printing by the consumer, and its ultimate redemption. The process starts with the coupon issuer 1 who creates the coupon instructions (which will typically include the transaction data) and downloads them to the service data base 2 which receives the instructions and assigns the identification data and issue restrictions. The service data base 2 can then display the active coupon files to the consumer, and make the designated amount available for downloading to the consumer's personal computer (PC) 3 or other input device. The consumer's PC 3 may download no more electronic coupons than the number specified in the coupon issuer 1 instructions.

Anytime before a coupon file's expiration date, the consumer may use one of two methods to redeem it, as shown in FIG. 1. First, the electronic coupon can be printed with a printer attached to the consumer PC 3 or other input device. Since files relating to the electronic coupon remain in the storage device of the consumer's PC even after the consumer signs off with the service data base 2 , the consumer can quickly disconnect from the online system, and print the coupon later, at his/her leisure. Printed on the coupon 6 would be the expiration date, a unique serial number (distinguishing that coupon from all others) and a barcode with the personal identification number (PIN) of the consumer. This identification data is preferably assigned by the service data base 2 ; the PIN number can be pre-assigned to individual consumers when they register for the system. That printed coupon can then be submitted during check-out from a participating retail outlet and the stated credit would be deducted from the consumer's bill.

With the second method of redeeming a coupon, the consumer PC 2 transmits the selected coupon file 5 to a data base 7 designated by the issuer, where it is stored with the same information as the printed coupon, including the transaction and identification data. The check-out system at the retail outlet 8 would then automatically activate the discount if the consumer presented a store credit card or a third-party credit card and purchased the designated product. Preferably, the electronic transfer of the coupon from the consumer PC to data base 7 can only be done on-line. (This permits the service data base 2 to accurately track the coupon's printing or presentation activity, as discussed below.)

Information can also be passed back up through the system, first to the service data base 2 and then on to the coupon issuer 1 . Thus, information about the coupon files or other demographical information, for example (“consumer data”) or “profile data” can be downloaded by the consumer PC 3 and the coupon files can be sent to the consumer's printer 4 or to an issuer data base 7 . Redeemed printed coupons 6 could also have their barcodes scanned by the service to identify, for research purposes, the consumers who used the coupons. (For increased security, at check-out the barcode could be compared to ensure the consumer identity corresponds with the barcode.) Such information could also be transmitted from a coupon file 5 that is redeemed automatically.

FIG. 2 depicts a software routine enabling the coupon issuer to download new coupon instructions, change old instructions, or upload information on coupon use. The routine begins 9 with dialing up the coupon service 10 . To access the system, the issuer first enters a login password 11 (at which time the use of a pre-assigned registration number can be required). A main menu 12 is then displayed. Among the choices is creating new coupon instructions, which starts with a download of coupon templates 13 along with commands to set the number of coupons to be issued (both in total and to each individual consumer) and commands to set expiration dates 14 . Commands can also be issued to limit coupon distribution by area or by a consumer's household profile 15 . These coupon instructions are added to previously issued coupons. The issuer can review these electronic coupons 16 and then modify instructions as to (e.g.) numbers issued 17 or expiration dates 18 . Previously issued coupons could also be deleted from the system should the issuer decide to do so. (They will be automatically deleted from the system following expiration.) These changes are used to update the coupon instructions 19 resident in the service data base.

Issuers can also access the system for usage history 20 to determine the remaining number of previously issued coupons. Further, the issuer can upload reports 21 based on the number of coupons selected 22 , printed 23 , and redeemed 24 . Another function of the software is to analyze use based on the shopping habits and demographic characteristics of the user. This consumer data or profile data can be contained in the household profile, submitted by the consumer to register for the system and periodically updated with additional questions and usage history. An issuer can display information about those who have selected the issuers' coupons, generically referred to here as “correlation data” breaking down use by such factors as region and demographics 25 . In addition, the issuer can upload user reports 26 based on selection 27 , print commands 28 , and redemption 29 .

The service data base, as shown in FIG. 3, is the bridge between the coupon issuer 1 and the consumer 3 , and permits the flow of both incoming and outgoing information. First, over an online network 33 , the service receives the coupon instructions 19 sent by the coupon issuer 1 . The service software takes the instructions and assigns the requisite serial numbers 34 and issue restrictions. These new or changed coupons are then sent to update 35 the active service coupons 36 already in disk storage for that issuer. These active service coupons are part of the outgoing information sent to the consumer over the online network 37 . Consumer usage information goes back the other way through the network 38 . The service system takes usage information 39 on selection and updates the number of active services coupons remaining. Also incoming from the consumer is household profile information 41 . The service takes this information and updates user reports 42 which are sent back through the network 44 to the issuer, completing the information circuit.

FIG. 4 displays the software routine for the consumer. It starts 45 with a display of the main menu 46 . The consumer may display the coupons that have already been downloaded and are resident on the consumer's PC 55 . There are two methods by which the consumer could activate the coupons 48 . The first would be to send the coupon file 49 to the consumer's printer. Along the way, it is barcoded with the consumer's PIN 50 , which is accessed from the household profile data base 64 . The consumer's printer 4 then prints out the coupon 6 . Upon activation 48 , a coupon could also be transmitted as a computer file 51 , back through the network 52 , to a data base chosen by the issuer. When coupons are activated 48 , the consumer's resident software removes the coupon file that has been printed 54 , updating the data base of downloaded electronic coupons 55 and the resident coupon display 47 . The system also automatically removes expired coupon files that have yet to be activated 56 . Another function of the resident software is displaying 62 and updating 63 the household profile 64 with information entered by the consumer in response to questions submitted by the service.

To access a new selection of coupons, the consumer can dial up the service data base 58 , enter the PIN number 59 , and view a display of all active service coupons 60 . These coupons can then be selected and downloaded 61 to the consumer's PC. While online, the consumer's software automatically sends back to the service data base information on the consumer's selection and printing history 57 , as well as information on those downloaded coupon files that have expired 56 . It also sends back updated information on the consumer's household profile 65 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE SECOND PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

A second embodiment of the present invention is directed to a data processing system and method for use in automating reservations over online systems for restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments. FIG. 5 is an overview showing how the information and activities flow from the initial assignment of the reservation by the restaurant, to its selection by the consumer and the ultimate printing of a confirmation slip by the consumer's printer.

The automated reservation process starts with the host computer of the restaurant 66 which sets the number, time, and type of reservations available, and downloads those instructions to the reservation service 67 , which receives the instructions and assigns the requisite confirmation numbers and issue restrictions. The reservation service 67 can then display the service's reservations to the consumer, and make them available for access through the consumer's personal computer (PC) 68 or other input device. Once the consumer chooses the restaurant, time and type of reservation (i.e. for two, for four, etc.), the data processing system immediately notifies the restaurant with a description of the reservation, the name and phone number of the consumer and the confirmation number. This information can be sent through the online computer network and also preferably by a designated fax machine (which may be more convenient for the restaurant's front-office staff than a computer). The consumer can then use a printer 69 attached to the consumer PC 68 , or another input device, to print a confirmation slip 70 . The confirmation slip can have a description of the reservation, the name and phone number of the consumer and the confirmation number. This slip would be presented to reception personnel upon the consumer's arrival at the restaurant and corroborated with the information that had previously been sent to the restaurant through the system and fax machine.

Feeding back up through the system, first to the service data base 67 , and then on to the restaurant 66 , is information about the reservations made by the consumer PC 68 and the profile the consumer has submitted as part of the registration process for the service (“consumer data”). This profile is continually updated by the consumer, in response to additional questions, and is also continually updated by the system, in tracking the reservations the consumer has made.

FIG. 6 depicts a software routine for the restaurant to set aside reservations for the system, change old reservations, and upload information on reservation use. The routine begins 71 with dialing up the reservation service 72 . To access the system, the restaurant first enters a login password 73 . A main menu 74 is then displayed. Among the choices is setting new reservations 75 . The type of reservation and number of reservations is determined by setting available tables 76 (e.g., the number of tables available for seating two 78 , four 77 , and six 79 ). Instructions also include setting the day and time for the reservations 80 . These reservation instructions can be added to previously issued, initial reservation instructions in disk storage 81 .

Still referring to FIG. 6, the software can also be used to change previously issued reservations. The restaurant can review these electronic reservation “coupons” 82 and then modify instructions on (e.g.) the numbers of tables available 83 . In this operation previously issued reservations could be deleted from the system at the restaurant's option. The updated reservation instructions 81 are then sent to the service data base. The system can also be accessed by restaurants for usage history 85 to view the names and phone numbers of those who have made reservations 86 , and to determine the number of remaining reservations for a given hour 87 . The restaurant can also upload information 88 on those who have used the service to book reservations at a particular location. A user profile could be displayed 89 and a list of users could be displayed 93 , or the restaurant could print user reports 90 , and create a hard copy of the user profile 91 or user list 92 .

The reservation service, as shown in FIG. 7, is again the bridge between the restaurant 66 and the consumer 68 , and handles both incoming and outgoing information. First, over an online network 94 , the service receives the reservation instructions 95 sent by the restaurant 66 . The service software takes the instructions and assigns the requisite confirmation numbers to each reservation 96 . These new or changed reservations are then sent to update 97 the active service reservations 98 already in disk storage for the restaurant. These active service reservations are part of the outgoing information sent to the consumer 68 over the online network 99 .

Still referring to FIG. 7, consumer usage information also moves from the consumer's PC back to the restaurant through the network 100 . The service system takes the reservation made by the consumer 102 and updates the number of active service reservations remaining 103 . This information is also used to update the restaurant 104 through a transmission to the restaurant fax machine 105 and through the computer network 106 . Also incoming from the consumer is user profile information 101 which is sent back to the restaurant through the computer network 106 .

FIG. 8 displays the software routine for the consumer. It starts 107 with a display of the main menu 108 . The consumer can dial up the service data base 109 , enter the PIN number 110 , and view a display of all active service reservations 111 . A reservation can then be selected and downloaded 112 to the consumer's PC, where it is sent to the printer 113 . Along the way, the name and phone number of the consumer is taken from the user profile information storage 117 and added 114 to print instructions for the confirmation slip 116 . A printer attached to the consumer PC can be used to print 115 the confirmation slip 116 .

While online, the consumer's software sends back to the service information on the consumer's reservation 119 to update the remaining service reservations. The reservation also updates the consumer's user profile 117 . The updated user profile information is also automatically sent back to the service while the consumer is online 120 . The consumer can display the user profile 121 and update the profile 122 with answers to questions prompted to the consumer both during and after the registration process.

It can be appreciated that the present invention can be designed for use with various online software, including American Online®, Prodigy® and Microsoft®.

As will now be understood, the present invention provides an interactive electronic system employing electronic certificates, such as electronic coupons, in which access may be conditioned upon registration (i.e., the entry of specific consumer data such as household profile information). The registration information may then be provided to the service and issuer systems, and may be used to target further offers to specific classes of consumers meeting certain criteria (e.g., demographics). Further, since the interactive electronic system of the present invention also maintains consumer data on past users (e.g., specific households), the electronic certificates may be tailored based upon the consumer data responses.

As will now be apparent, the service system of the present invention can automatically review, store and provide to the issuer systems preselected consumer data entered by the remote user stations, as well as data pertaining to the use, issuance or revisions to the electronic certificates (“usage data”). The service system can condition the issuance of electronic certificates upon the entry of consumer data requested of the remote users by the service system. This consumer and/or usage data can be provided on a selective basis to issuer systems after it has been organized by the service system.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made to the illustrated embodiments without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, while the preferred embodiments describe particular types of electronic certificates (coupons and reservation slips), various other types of electronic certificates can be used by systems designed according to the present invention, including certificates used as proof of a gift, award or payment, and virtually any other types of certificates or vouchers. As another example, while the service data base 2 will typically assign identification data to the electronic certificate, this data could be transmitted and assigned together with the transaction data by the coupon issuer 1 , or even by a third remote site. Also, rather than utilizing separate issuer and service computers, they could be consolidated into a single computer for particular applications. Further, use could be made of multiple issuer computers, multiple service computers, or combinations of the same, given a particular application. Still further, while the preferred embodiments have described users with “remote computer terminals” that consist of personal computers, users might access the marketing network of the present invention through various other accessing media, such as phone lines, televisions, or individual access stations dedicated for the use and dispensing of various certificates (much like cash machines are used today). These other accessing media would include appropriate software and hardware permitting interactive capabilities with remote computers, similar to that described in the preferred embodiments utilizing the personal computers. These and other modifications and changes within the spirit and scope of the present invention are intended to be covered by the appended claims.