Methods for using a bar code reader for facilitating transactions and collecting a toll based on use
AssigneeSymbol Technologies, Inc.
InventorsPaul Waxelbaum, Altaf Mulla
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A compact optical code reader is disclosed having multiple functions and a unique shape and configuration of actuators and indicators. A system including the reader also includes a cradle, interface and host terminal, capable of performing various data processing functions involving scanned data. The system includes user and supplier identifiers which are employed to facilitate sales transactions and allocate use-based tolls.
Claims18
A method for determining charges for use of a system including optical code readers comprising:
- providing optical code readers having associated therewith at least one reader identifier;
- using the optical code reader to read an optical code that contains an identifier of a supplier of information, products or services of interest;
- establishing communication between the optical code reader and a terminal linked to the Internet;
- accessing a web site of the supplier using the supplier identifier obtained from the optical code and associating a reader identifier with the access;
- and
- imposing a charge on the supplier based on the access to the supplier's web site that has been associated with the reader identifier.
A method for using a bar code reader to facilitate a transaction between a buyer and at least one of a plurality of sellers of a product or service utilizing a computer network comprising:
- inputting into the bar code reader a product or service identification derived from scanning a bar code symbol associated with a vendor of products or services;
- providing a customer identifier in the bar code reader;
- accessing a web site and registering the customer identifier at the web site;
- establishing a transaction monitor and recording access to information by the customer at the web site;
- and
- establishing a vendor account and performing a computational debit of the account whenever the transaction monitor indicates that a registered customer has accessed the vendor's web site.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.