Coin counter/sorter and coupon/voucher dispensing machine and method
AssigneeCoinstar, Inc.
InventorJens H. Molbak
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A coin sorting and counting machine and a method for operating it to automatically dispense cash vouchers based on the value of the counted coins, manufacturers' coupons and store coupons. Coins are placed in a hopper tray angled downward from the horizontal. When the hinged tray is lifted, the coins travel over a peak structure, through a waste management system and into the coin sorting and counting apparatus. The value of the coins and the number of coins within each denomination are displayed as the coins are counted. The coins fall into a storage area and the user is issued a cash voucher and a series of manufacturer coupons.
Claims11
A method for use in connection with retail shopping comprising:
- providing at least a first computer in a coin counting device in a retail location;
- coupling the first computer, through a communications link, to a second computer;
- transfering information from the second computer, over the communications link, to the first computer, wherein the information includes information indicative of locations of products in the retail location;
- outputting, from the first computer, information regarding the location, in the retail location of items for sale.
Apparatus for use in connection with retail shopping comprising:
- at least a first computer in a coin counting device in a first retail location;
- means for coupling the first computer, through a communications link, to a second computer;
- means for transferring information from the second computer, over the communications link, to the first computer, wherein the information includes information indicative of locations of products in the retail location;
- means for outputting, from the first computer, information regarding the location, in the retail location, of items for sale.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.