This disclosure is concerned with systems, methods and devices for managing consumption of a resource, such as water, gas or electricity for example, by one or more resource-using devices. In one example of a method for managing usage of a resource by a resource-using device, resource cost information representing a per unit cost of a resource is obtained and stored. Then, the amount of the resource used by the resource-using device over a predetermined period of time is measured. The cost information and the resource consumption is then used to calculate a resource consumption cost associated with the resource-using device. Finally, output is provided to a user, where the output represents the calculated resource consumption cost.
Shawn T. Sharp - Austin TX Edmond E. Routhier - Menlo Park CA
Assignee:
Fogdog, Inc. - Redwood City CA
International Classification:
G06F 1760
US Classification:
705 26
Abstract:
A computer system and method of operation thereof are provided that allow manufacturers and distributors of brand products to participate in the e-commerce marketplace without violating existing distribution channels. This is accomplished by providing a web based system where customers can place orders for brand name products and then allocating orders to manufacturers, distributors and retailers according to distribution channel protocols defined by the manufacturers. This ensures that sales of brand goods and services via the Internet does not violate existing distribution agreements between the manufacturers and their respective distributors and retailers.