Everett Schulze - Aurora CO, US Melissa Schulze - Littleton CO, US
International Classification:
G06F017/60
US Classification:
705/014000
Abstract:
A system for processing coupons includes a coupon scanner for reading information from a coupon and a host processor for using the information to determine whether the coupon is valid. The coupon scanner includes a coupon modification unit for use in modifying valid coupons so that the coupons are no longer redeemable. The coupon scanner also includes a coupon sorter for sorting valid coupons between the coupon modification unit and an audit lock box unit that stores unmodified valid coupons for eventual audit. The system further includes a rejected coupon lock box unit for temporarily storing selected coupons that were rejected by the coupon scanner but which were still redeemed by store personnel. The stored rejected coupons are later analyzed by a third party service provider to determine if they were validly redeemed by the store.
An electronic coupon exchange system is disclosed whereby the exchange system both generates and redeems coupons. Upon entering a retail sales store, consumers can exchange conventional coupons for exchange system coupons which are only applicable to the retail sales store entered. The exchange system invalidates a conventional coupon and prints an exchange system coupon for a product promoted by the coupon exchange system. Consumers are enticed to use the exchange system coupons since the coupons can be redeemed for cash via checks printed immediately upon redemption of the coupons or by having an account credited. Consumers are also enticed to use the new coupons by games and bonus prizes associated with the exchange system coupons. The exchange system redeems exchange system coupons without the use of retailer funds. Thus, retailers obtain full price for products purchased with the exchange system coupons.
A one at a time can crusher, specifically for recycling aluminum cans, includes an aligning and separating feed chute for cans leading to an end-to-end crusher, and a contact arrangement for detecting the type of can, actuates a solenoid crusher. The unit includes storage for a large number of crushed cans, and a magnetic metal and glass rejector, with an overweight can rejector when used for aluminum.
A beverage container recycling machine is disclosed. The machine includes a first module for receiving and handling plastic containers, a second module for receiving and handling glass containers and a third module for receiving and handling metal containers. Each of the three modules is contained in the same housing or storage unit. Preferably, the machine includes one or more coupon dispensers for dispensing redeemable coupons and the machine is conveniently located near a store or other outlet at which the coupons can be redeemed. Each of the three modules is separately accessed but their operations are, preferably, under the common control of a single processor unit. The housing also contains a separate coin dispensing unit for each of the three modules and in one embodiment, both coins and a coupon are dispensed upon receipt of an acceptable container in the appropriate module.
Merchandising Using Consumer Information From Surveys
A system is provided for obtaining consumer related information using a number of data gathering networks. The obtained data is stored in a common database network that is accessible for processing and providing information about consumers in an understandable format in connection with targeting such consumers so that they will purchase certain products or services. These networks include a telecommunications survey network for obtaining information about the consumer and for generating interest in the consumer so that the consumer will provide further marketing information. A written survey network is utilized in obtaining additional information from the consumer through written survey questions. An interactive survey apparatus obtains consumer related information at shopping centers or stores and enables the consumer to benefit before the consumer purchases the product or service. A supplemental survey network allows the consumer to initiate the providing of consumer information to the system for subsequent use in targeting this consumer.
Imagination Properties, Inc. - Lakewood CO Carpenter & Associates - Lakewood CO
International Classification:
A63B 518
US Classification:
272 65
Abstract:
A rebound exerciser for use by an individual in performing a variety of exercises having a frame formed of two symmetrical sections, and a fexible, resilient mat secured to the frame by a plurality of coil springs. The two symmetrical sections are pivotally secured together by two diametrically opposed hinge assemblies which permit the sections to be pivoted to a first compact position wherein the sections are spaced-apart and superimposed to facilitate transportation and storage of the exerciser. The hinge assemblies further permit the sections to be pivoted to a second extended position wherein the sections are in substantially the same plane so that an individual can perform exercises utilizing the mat. The frame is supported above the surface onto which the exerciser is positioned by a plurality of leg members which are releasably secured to the frame. The exact location at which the plurality of coil springs which connect one side of the mat to one side of the frame is secured to the frame can be adjusted to adjust spring, and thus, mat tension to compensate for individuals of varying weights.
A switching system for a solenoid reciprocator motor of a type which has a piston arranged to reciprocate into and out of a solenoid. The switch is an SCR rectifier and the trigger lead to close the switch is pulsed by a commutator operating in unison with the movement of the solenoid or a shaft rotated by the solenoid. The energizing cycle when the SCR switch is closed is terminated by a disconnect lead which is pulsed responsive to a subsequent contact of the circuit by the commutator. A preferred mode of pulsing the disconnect circuit is to associate the disconnect circuit with another solenoid of the motor whereby the first solenoid is turned off when the other solenoid is turned on by the commutator.