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AssigneeRedbox Automated Retail, LLC
InventorsFranz Kuehnrich, Jonathan Palmer
Estimating the term…
An article dispensing machine, system and method for authenticating an article returned to the article dispensing machine and an article for use in such a machine and system. The article dispensing machine comprises an infrared light for illuminating the surface of the returned article, an image capture device for capturing the image of an authentication code on the returned article, and a processor for comparing the captured image to a master authentication code. The returned article comprises the authentication code printed in a carbon-containing ink and a substantially carbon free ink portion printed overtop of and at least partially concealing the authentication code, such that the authentication code is not visible in white light, but becomes visible when exposed to infrared light.
An article rental machine for authenticating a returned article that has a machine-readable authentication code comprised of a material visible in a predetermined range of electromagnetic radiation other than visible light, the authentication code forming a first layer on a surface of the returned article, and a second layer substantially opaque in visible light at least partially overlaying the authentication code, the article rental machine comprising:
A method for authenticating a returned article at an article rental machine, the returned article having a machine-readable authentication code comprised of a material visible in a predetermined range of electromagnetic radiation other than visible light, the authentication code forming a first layer on a surface of the returned article, and a second layer substantially opaque in visible light at least partially overlaying the authentication code, the article rental machine comprising a receptacle, an infrared light source, an image capture device, and a processor, the method comprising the steps of:
A method for receiving a returned article at an article rental machine, the returned article having a carbon-containing ink authentication code on a surface of the returned article, a substantially carbon free ink portion at least partially overlaying the carbon-containing ink authentication code, and an article identifier, the article rental machine comprising an opening, an infrared light source, an image capture device, and a processor, the method comprising the steps of:
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.