Automated fee collection and parking ticket dispensing machine

A method for dispensing items within an automated fee collection and ticket dispensing device, comprising the steps of:

• displaying at least first information on a visual display means, said first information comprising instructions for using said dispensing device for said item;
• providing a user input means that allows the user to provide input information;
• detecting said input information from said user input means;
• providing a means to accept payment;
• providing a plurality of output means that prints predetermined information on at least one of said item;
• providing a chute with a plurality of apertures that receives at least one of said item after it has been altered by at least one of said plurality of output means;
• providing a blower which is in operable communication with said chute and which provides a flow of air through said chute, wherein said at least one of said item is expelled from said chute;
• and
• dispensing said item through said chute.

An automated fee collection and dispensing device, comprising:

• an isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection and ticket and/or decal dispensing device adapted for operating in a plurality of operational modes, comprising:
• a durable protective enclosure having locking means for securing an access door;
• a computer positioned within said protective enclosure and operatively interconnected to monitor and control at least one of a plurality of operating conditions associated with said isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection device;
• computer programming stored in said computer, wherein said programming provides at least two operational modes;
• a visual display in operable communication with said computer and operably positioned on said durable protective enclosure;
• a fee collection means for collecting a payment from a user and providing change as necessary;
• a first output device adapted to modify a ticket and/or decal stored in said dispensing device;
• a second output device adapted to modify the ticket and/or decal stored in said device;
• a dispensing chute with a first aperture to receive the first ticket and/or decal outputted from said first output device, and a second aperture to receive the second ticket and/or decal outputted from said second output device, said dispensing chute further comprising a dispensing tray extending outside of said protective enclosure which allows the first ticket and/or decal and the second ticket and/or decal to be discharged from the dispensing chute;
• and
• means for supplying power to said ticket and/or decal dispensing device.