WO2013177174A2

WO2013177174A2 - Scannable code and method of use

Info

Publication number: WO2013177174A2
Application number: PCT/US2013/042043
Authority: WO
Inventors: Chad C. FISHER
Original assignee: On The Block, L.L.C.
Priority date: 2012-05-22
Filing date: 2013-05-21
Publication date: 2013-11-28
Also published as: WO2013177174A3

Abstract

A system for using a scannable code for use with unique products. A tag is produced having a scannable code thereon. The tag is affixed to a unique product. The scannable code is scanned by a handheld device, such as a smartphone. The handheld device deciphers the scannable code and accesses information about the unique product through a wireless electronic network. This information is presented to the user through a display on the handheld device. This system provides the advantage of instantaneously providing the user with pertinent information about the unique product that was previously unavailable without direction interaction with a sales person. The system also involves providing a receipt with a scannable code and scanning the scannable code using a handheld device thereby eliminating the need for or use of a physical receipt.

Description

TITLE: SCANNABLE CODE AND METHOD OF USE

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/650,195 filed May 22, 2012.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

This invention relates to the sale of unique products. More specifically, and without limitation, this invention relates to the sale of unique products through the use of a scannable code.

Scannable codes are known in the art. Scannable codes have been widely adopted for use to transact purchases. Most well-known of all is the mass adoption of Universal Product Code ("UPC") barcodes on products sold in a supermarket. The use and standardization of UPC barcodes has increased the accuracy of purchases and reduced the amount of time it takes to check-out at a supermarket.

Scannable codes are useful for transacting purchases of uniform products, wherein each-and-every product is identical to one another (e.g. a box of cereal or a pack of gum). In these situations, most of the information a user needs to determine whether to purchase the product is available on the product packaging.

However, problems remain when purchasing products which are non-homogeneous or unique in nature. When purchasing a non-homogenous or unique product, such as a used car, conventionally a purchaser must interact with a salesman to find information unique to that product. Many purchasers find this process unappealing because they are uncomfortable with pressured sales tactics, negotiation and personal interaction with salespeople. As a result many potential purchasers peruse car lots after-hours or on days when they are not open so that they can gather information about unique products without having to interact with sales people. However, because the sales people are unavailable, the potential purchaser is unable to access all of the information regarding the vehicle, which inhibits the purchaser's ability to compare unique products and make a purchase decision.

Further problems remain because the many sellers of non-homogeneous products advertise one price when they are willing to sell the product for much less. Many sellers believe this tactic helps them secure higher prices for their unique products. However, this tactic often prevents a sale from occurring because purchasers may believe the product is overpriced. Alternatively, the purchaser may feel that it is not worth the effort of making a counter offer that is below the listed price.

Further problems remain because the process of personally meeting with a sales person for a non-homogeneous product is a time consuming and inefficient process.

Further problems exist with the conventional use of receipts. In many applications users immediately discard their physical paper receipts which are a harm to the environment. In addition, many receipts are lost when the information thereon is important or valuable because it is difficult and burdensome to organize and maintain a large number of receipts; this is especially true over a long period of over time.

These and other problems remain and have been unaddressed by the prior art.

Thus a primary object of the invention is to provide a system and method of scanning and organizing the information contained in conventional receipts.

Another object of the invention is to provide a system and method that eliminates the need for physical receipts.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a scannable code and method of use that streamlines the process of purchasing non-homogenous goods.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved and efficient method of transacting a purchase of a unique product.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a method and means of obtaining information specific to a unique product without personal interaction.

Another object of the invention is to provide a method and means of selling more unique products.

These and other objects, features, or advantages of the invention will become apparent from the specification and claims.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

The Figure is a plan view of a scannable code and method of use. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERED EMBODIEMENT OF THE INVENTION

Applicant incorporates by reference herein Applicant's related Patent Application Serial Nos. 61/651,673 filed May 25, 2012 entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USING SCANNABLE CODES FOR ELECTRONIC PAYMENT; and Patent Application Serial No. 61/815,309 filed April 24, 2013 entitled "SYSTEM AND METHOD OF ACCESSING AN ONLINE AUCTION THROUGH AN AUCTION WEBSITE AND A DEALER WEBSITE."

With reference to the drawings, a management system 10 for using a scannable code 12 is presented. Reference to the term scannable code 12 herein is non-limiting and refers to any means of information transfer including Barcodes, QR codes, Near Field Communication ("NFC"), Proximity Card Technology, Radio-Frequency Identification ("RFID"), Wireless (or "Wi-Fi) technology, or any other scannable or readable medium or the like.

In one arrangement, scannable code 12 is an optically scannable code such as a barcode or a QR code or the like. A barcode is generally known as an optical machine- readable representation of data which shows data about the object to which it attaches. Bar codes represent data by varying widths and spacing of parallel lines, and for this reason are sometimes referred to as linear or one-dimensional (ID). QR codes are generally known as a matrix barcode or two-dimensional (2D) code. QR codes have gained popularity in recent years due to their fast readability and large storage capacity as compared to ID barcodes. Barcodes and QR codes are generally read through a sensing module such as optical scanner or camera.

Alternatively, scannable code 12 is a signal or information such as RFID or NFR or the like. Radio-Frequency Identification is generally known as a wireless non-contact system that uses radio-frequency electromagnetic fields to transfer data from a chip or magnetic strip attached to an object. Some RFID chips do not require batteries and instead are powered by the electromagnetic fields used to read them. Others use a local power source to emit radio waves. The RFID chips contain electronically stored information which can be read from up to several meters away through a sensing module. Similarly, Near Field Communication is a set of standards for smart-pones and similar devices to establish radio communication with each other or with an unpowered chip or magnetic strip for the purpose of information transfer.

Tag 14 is a sticker, label, packaging or similar item upon which scannable code 12 is printed. Alternatively, tag 14 is a chip or electromagnet strip which is embedded or programed with scannable code 12, such as is used in RFID, NFR or similar technology.

At least one unique product 16, is included as part of the system 10. Unique product 16 is any non-homogenous product, or product with unique features and attributes, such as a used car. While a used car is used as an example, this is not meant to be limiting. Instead, unique product 16 includes any product such as real estate, antiques, collectables, animals, or the like. Unique product 16 has tag 14 containing scannable code 12 attached to it in any manner or position.

At least one handheld device 18 is included as part of the system 10. Handheld device 18 is any electronic device which sends and receives information and is capable of interpreting information contained in scannable code 12. Handheld device 18 includes, but is not limited to, Smartphones, cell phones, tablet computers, portable computers, iPads®, iPhones®, BlackBerries®, Droids, Androids, or the like.

Processing module 19 is connected to handheld device 18. Processing module 19 includes processor 20, memory 22, and instructions or software 24 which is stored in memory 22. Processor 20 is any electronic circuit or chip which processes information and executes computer programs to control handheld device 18. Processor 20 includes a CPU (central processing unit) a microprocessor, a data processor or the like. Memory 22 is any form of memory such as a hard drive, flash memory or the like which stores information, such as software 24, which can be accessed by processor 20. Processor 20 controls the function and operation of handheld device 18 including sensing module 26, display 28, transmitter 30 and receiver 32.

Sensing module 26 is connected to handheld device 18. Sensing module 26 is any device which senses and interprets scannable code 12. Sensing module 26 includes an optical sensor, such as a camera, which optically detects and reads scannable code 12. Sensing module 26 also includes a non-optical sensor which detects and reads scannable code 12 without the use optics, such as is done in RFID and NFR technologies through the use of electromagnetic radiation or radio waves.

Display 28 is connected to handheld device 18. Display 28 is any output device for the presentation of information on handheld device 18. Display 28 includes an LCD (liquid crystal display), LEDs (light emitting diodes), an electroluminescent display (ELD), a plasma display (PDP), a touch screen or the like.

Transmitter 30 and a receiver 32 individually, or combined as a transceiver, are connected to handheld device 18. Transmitter 30 and receiver 32 are used to transmit and receive information over a wireless network 34. Wireless network 34 is any type of a connection to a network of computers that allows for the exchange of data without a direct wired connection. This includes a cellphone signal, wireless network signal, wireless internet, or the like.

Input device 36 is connected to handheld device 18 and processor 20. Input device 36 is any mechanism used to control handheld device 18 and processor 20 so that it operates in the manner desired. Input device 36 includes a touch screen, a touch pad, a keyboard, a mouse, an arrangement of buttons or switches, or the like.

A management console 100 is used to provide specific information about unique product 16 to a buyer 102 through handheld device 18. Management console 100 preferably is a web-based application having an interactive user interface.

Management console 100 is established and maintained by a third party developer 104 through wireless network 34 with information stored on a first database 108. Management console 100 includes a menu of information categories 1 10 pertinent to unique product 16.

One category of information 1 10 includes specific unique product information 1 10A.

In the event that unique product 16 is a vehicle, this information includes, the year, make, model, mileage, exterior color, interior color, features, trim, damage, condition, whether any warranties apply, the price, and any other information regarding the specific vehicle itself that may be pertinent to the potential buyer 102. As this information is inherently specific to the unique 14 product itself, this information is entered by the seller 1 12 through wireless network 34 and saved in first database 108.

Another category of information 1 10 includes manufacturer information HOB. In the event that unique product 16 is a vehicle, this information includes information specific to that particular make or model (such as its specifications, features, etc.) and information specific to that model of vehicle (such as the published miles per gallon, the maintenance requirements, etc.). This information is supplied by third party manufacturer of the unique product 16 and is stored in first database 108. Alternatively, this information is stored on a third party database 114 which is linked to through wireless network 34.

Another category of information 110 includes similar or comparable sales 1 IOC. In the event that unique product 16 is a vehicle, this category 110 includes a list of similar vehicles that were sold within a specified geographic area within a specified time period. This information is compiled by third party developer 104 and is stored in first database 108. Alternatively, this information is stored on a third party database 114 which is linked to through wireless network 34.

Another category of information 110 includes a projected value or sales price 110D of the unique product 16. This information is compiled through an analysis of comparable sales in a third-party database 114 and by comparing the features of the vehicles sold to the specific unique product information 110A. This information is calculated through an algorithm.

Another category of information 110 includes links to industry values 110E for unique product 16. In the event that unique product is a vehicle, this information includes the Blue Book value and/or any other published value of the unique product 16. This information is stored in first database 108. Alternatively, this information is stored on a third party database 114 which is linked to through wireless network 34.

Another category of information 110 includes financing options 110F. In the event that the unique product 16 is a vehicle, this information includes financing options from banks, institutions, the seller 112 or any other third party. This information is stored in first database 108. Alternatively, this information is stored on a third party database 114 which is linked to through wireless network 34.

Another category of information 110 includes reviews 110G of the unique product 16. In the event the unique product 16 is a vehicle, this information includes published articles, blogs, announcements, press releases, recalls, reviews or other information regarding the quality, durability and functionality of the vehicle. As an example this includes Consumer Reports® reviews of the vehicle make and model. This information is compiled by third party developer 104 and is stored in first database 108. Alternatively, this information is stored on a third party database 114 which is linked to through wireless network 34.

Another category of information 1 10 includes links 11 OH to internet sites related to the specific product 14. This includes links to the seller's website 116, a website specific for the unique product itself 1 18 or a third party auction website 120.

Management console 100 also includes a menu of actions 122 a buyer 102 can perform through management console 100.

One action 122 a user can perform includes adding the unique product 16 to a wish list where one or more unique products are saved as potential purchases. This wish list can be saved for later use and review. This list can also be e-mailed to others, including seller 1 12.

Another potential action 122 includes making an offer to purchase unique product 16 through management console 100.

In Operation: A seller 1 12 of a unique product 16, (for the purposes of this example a used vehicle) accesses management console 100 through wireless network 34. Seller 112 requests a unique scannable code 12 be generated for unique product 16. At the time the unique scannable code 12 is generated, a unique page within management console 100 is generated for unique product 16. The seller 1 12 then populates information categories 110 with information regarding the unique product 16. Alternatively, the unique page referenced above is already in existence within management console 100 at the time the unique scannable code 12 is generated and the unique scannable code 12 when scanned merely points, links or directs he handheld device 18 to the unique page.

First, the seller 1 12 clicks on the link to specific unique product information 1 10A. The seller 1 12 enters the year, make, model, mileage, exterior color, interior color, features, trim, damage, condition, whether any warranties apply, the price, and any other information regarding the specific vehicle itself that may be pertinent to the potential buyer 102.

Based on the specific unique product information 110A (i.e. the make, model, year, mileage of the vehicle), management console 100 automatically downloads or links to other information regarding the vehicle.

That is, management console 100 links to, downloads or generates: manufacturer information 1 10B, similar or comparable sales 1 IOC, projected value or sales price 110D, industry values 1 10E, financing options 1 10F, reviews HOG, links 1 10H.

With the unique page for unique product 16 completed within management console 100, the seller prints out or produces scannable code 12 on tag 14. Next, seller 1 12 attaches tag 14 to the vehicle and the vehicle is displayed for sale.

When a buyer 102 sees the vehicle for sale if the buyer is interested in learning more about the vehicle, the buyer 102 scans tag 14 with their handheld device 18. To do so, the buyer 102 activates handheld device 18 through input device 36, activates sensing module 26 and scans code 12. In the event that scannable code 12 is a bar code, QR code or other visual code, buyer 102 scans code 12 using an optical sensor, such as a camera, which optically detects and reads scannable code 12. If however, scannable code 12 is non-optical such as RFID and NFR, buyer 102 scans code 12 using a non-optical sensor which is detected once handheld device 18 comes into operable proximity to scannable code 12.

Once scannable code 12 is detected, processing module 19 automatically opens management console 100. In one arrangement, management console 100 is a website displayed on handheld device 18; in another arrangement, management console 100 is an application or app on handheld device 18; in yet another arrangement, management console 100 is any other software or program that operates on handheld device 18. Next, management console 100 connects, through wireless network 34, to databases 108, 114 and retrieves relevant information to the vehicle. Next display 28 of handheld device 18 displays the unique page for that particular vehicle and buyer 102 is presented with information categories 110.

In the event buyer 102 wants to learn more about the specific characteristics of the vehicle, buyer 102 clicks on the link to specific unique product information 110A. Once this link is clicked, handheld device 18, through wireless network 34, accesses the specific information regarding vehicle which is displayed on display 28. This information is retrieved from first database 108. This information can include photos, descriptions, videos, condition reports, history, background, maintenance records, etc.

In the event buyer 102 wants to learn more about the make and model of the vehicle, the buyer clicks on the link to manufacturer information HOB. Once this link is clicked, handheld device 18, through wireless network 34, accesses information supplied by third party manufacturer which is stored in first database 108. Alternatively, handheld device 18 accesses information stored on a third party database 114 which is linked to through wireless network 34. This information is displayed on display 28.

In the event buyer 102 wants to learn more about similar vehicle sales, the buyer clicks on the link to comparable sales 1 IOC. Once this link is clicked, the buyer is prompted to enter a geographic area and specified time period for sales. Once this information is entered, management console 100 searches first database 108 and/or third party database 114 for sales of vehicles that match the specific unique product information 110A and fall within the geographic area and time period entered by buyer 102. Alternatively, when the comparable sales link 1 IOC is clicked, management console 100 displays the closest and most recent sales that match the specific unique product information 110A. This information is displayed on display 28.

In the event buyer 102 wants to determine what the projected value or sales price of the vehicle is, buyer 102 clicks on the line to projected value HOD. Once this link is clicked, handheld device 18, through wireless network 34, accesses first database 108 and/or third party database 1 14 for sales of vehicles that match the specific unique product information 110A. Based on the specific characteristics of the vehicle, management console 100 calculates a price or range of prices through an algorithm with comparison to similar sales. This information is displayed on display 28.

In the event buyer 102 wants to learn more about industry values for the vehicle, the buyer clicks on the link to industry values 110E. Once this link is clicked, management console 100 searches first database 108 and/or third party database 114 for the Blue Book price and/or other industry valuations for the vehicle. Alternatively, management console 100 links directly to third party purveyors of this information. This information is displayed on display 28.

In the event buyer 102 wants to learn about financing options, the buyer clicks on the link to financing options 110F. Once this link is clicked, management console 100 searches first database 108 and/or third party database 114 for financing options information based on the information regarding the specific vehicle. Alternatively, management console 100 links directly to third party financing institutions, transmits information regarding the specific vehicle to these financing instructions. These financing institutions then calculate potential methods of financing the purchase, and transmit this information back to handheld device 18. This information is displayed on display 28. In the event buyer 102 wants to select any of these financing options, links are presented on display 28 wherein buyer 102 can directly interact, select and make financing arrangements for the vehicle.

In the event buyer 102 wants to learn more regarding reviews of the vehicle, buyer 102 clicks on the link to reviews HOG. Once this link is clicked, management console 110 searches first database and/or third party database 114 for reviews of the vehicle.

Alternatively, management console 100 links directly to third party providers of this information, such as Consumer Reports or the like. A plurality of reviews for the vehicle is displayed on display 28.

In the event buyer 102 seeks further information regarding the vehicle, buyer 102 clicks on the links 110H link. Once this link is clicked, management console 110 presents buyer 102 with a plurality additional links pertinent to the vehicle itself. One link includes a link to the seller's website. In the event that the vehicle is subject to an online auction, a link to the auction is presented to the auction for the vehicle. In the event the buyer 102 desires to submit a bid, the buyer selects the link and submits a bid through wireless network 34.

After reviewing information categories 110, buyer 102 can add the specific vehicle to a wish list, where the vehicle is saved in a list for potential follow-up or purchase. The user can also e-mail or text the seller 112 an offer. Also, using financing options (previously discussed) or through the use of an online payment system such as pay-pal, a credit card or another verified payment system the user can purchase the vehicle, make a down payment, or make a firm and binding offer for the vehicle which is submitted through management console 110 to seller 112.

From the above discussion it will be appreciated that the system presented streamlines the process of purchasing unique products by making information more readily available. In addition the system presented provides an improved and more efficient method of transacting the purchase of a unique product. In addition the system presented provides a method and means for obtaining information about a unique product and transacting the sale of a unique product without personal interaction with a sales person. Accordingly, the system presented offers many advantages over the prior art.

In an alternative arrangement, scannable code 12 is used to reduce the need for physical paper receipts 200. Conventionally, after a purchase a physical paper receipt 200 is generated which memorializes what was purchased, the amount, the time, date and location and other information relevant to the purchase. These receipts 200 are important documents for budgeting, billing, accounting and tax purposes. As such, many people retain these receipts 200 with the intent of filing them and/or manually entering their information into a database. However, due to the sheer number of receipts, as well as their de minimus size, a substantial amount of energy and effort is required to maintain, organize and manually enter these receipts 200 into a database. As a result, many receipts 200 are misplaced, lost, accidently thrown away. This leads to billing errors, lost money, accounting deficiencies and tax issues. Accordingly a need exists in the art to streamline the process of handling receipts 200.

Thus it is a primary object of the present invention to provide a system that streamlines the process of handling receipts.

With reference to the drawings, a system is presented wherein a receipt 200, having purchase information 202 thereon is produced also having a scannable code 12 thereon.

Scannable code 12 includes all the relevant purchase information 202 such as the products purchased, price, tax, location, time, vendor, etc.

Alternatively, when receipt 200 is generated, the purchase information 202 is uploaded to database 108 under a unique identification code which corresponds to the scannable code 12. In this arrangement, scannable code 12 serves as a link to the purchase information 202.

In this arrangement, once a receipt 200 having a scannable code 12 thereon is produced the user can then, with the use of their handheld device 18, scan the scannable code 12. Once scanned, handheld device 18 automatically opens management console 100.

In the event that all the purchase information 202 is encoded within scannable code 12, management console 100 deciphers the scannable code 12 and translates it into user-readable information displayed on display 28. Alternatively, in the arrangement wherein scannable code 12 is a link to database 108 wherein the purchase information 202 is stored, management console 100 deciphers the scannable code 12, and accesses database 108 through wireless network 34 wherein the purchase information 202 is downloaded to handheld device 18 and displayed on display 28.

Once the purchase information 202 has been downloaded or deciphered onto handheld device 18, the user can then manipulate the purchase information 202 in any way that suits their needs. In one arrangement, the purchase information 202 can be saved into the memory 22 of handheld device 18 for later use. Alternatively, the purchase information 202 can be uploaded through wireless network 34 to a third party database 114 or to an online account such as sky drive, the cloud, QuickBooks, Quicken, etc. for further manipulation or accounting or tax purposes. Once the purchase information 202 is uploaded into handheld device 18, the user can use handheld device as proof of receipt. This arrangement allows the user to quickly and easily display proof of receipt to a retailer, such as Sam's Club and Costco, wherein they tend to check your receipt as you exit the store. With handheld device 18 having wireless capabilities, wireless device can communicate with RFID tags placed on the purchased products to cross check and verify the purchase information 202 matches the information from the RFID, that is the RFID tags automatically sync with the purchase information 202. In the event that the RFID tags do not match the purchase information 202 a warning message is displayed on handheld device 18.

Alternative Arrangement: In an alternative arrangement, generation of a physical receipt 200 is avoided by presenting scannable code 12 on a screen 204 at the point of purchase. In this arrangement, once the buyer 102 pays for the purchase, instead of generating a physical receipt 200 (which is discarded once the scannable code 12 is scanned into handheld device 18) scannable code 12 is displayed on a screen 204 within near proximity to the buyer 102. Once the scannable code 12 appears on screen 204 the user scans the scannable code 12 with handheld device 18 and the purchase information appears on display 28. In this way, the production of a physical receipt 200 is avoided which benefits the environment.

It is hereby contemplated that the above-described system and method can be implemented in the following ways, described as examples:

Receipt Example: A scannable code allows a user to quickly and easily upload all information from a receipt into an electronic database. When the scannable code is scanned, all info from receipt is uploaded to electronic database. The system then syncs to accounting software (QuickBooks, Quicken, etc.) through an electronic network. This can be accomplished through the use of paper receipts wherein the scannable code is printed on the receipt. This allows for use wherever paper receipts are currently used. In addition, this allows for an easier and more gradual adoption of the idea. Alternatively, this system can be used with electronic receipts wherein the scannable code displayed on a screen. The screen is scanned directly with a handheld device eliminating the need to print a paper receipt. This is a "green" alternative that saves the retailer the cost of printing the receipt and saves landfill space. The scannable code can be on a screen at the checkout of a grocery store, a screen at gas station, on iPad for restaurants that bring the bill on iPads, on a computer screen for online purchases, etc. Or, alternatively, the scannable code is displayed on a dedicated small, square screen added to the Point of Sale (POS) location, specifically used for displaying a QR code.

Coupons Example: In addition to downloading all receipt information into your database, once the scannable code is scanned, the user can also download any coupons generated by the transaction. Coupons would download to the database, and the next time that customer shops at that store, when the scannable code is scanned any stored coupons are redeemed or refunded in relation to the current purchase. This results in less coupons being lost and more coupons being used. This also eliminates the need to sort through coupons to see what applies to purchase or to see which coupons are expired. This automatic

arrangement redemption is more efficient than the current state of the art.

Gift Example: The system can be used to "gift" or send a scannable code to someone for a set amount, for a specific purpose, for a specific store, etc. This arrangement is useful for parents leaving money for kids when they leave town. Instead of leaving cash or giving them credit cards, can gift them a pre-made QR codes to only the stores the parents want their children to go to (gas, groceries, etc.). Gifted scannable codes could have longer usable time periods (i.e. all weekend, or a week, etc.). Gifted scannable codes can also have limits on the products which can be purchased (i.e. food and gasoline but not cigarettes and booze). This same system can also be used for loaning money or for giving money to a friend.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that other various modifications could be made to the device without parting from the spirit and scope of this invention. All such modifications and changes fall within the scope of the claims and are intended to be covered thereby.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A method of selling a unique product, the steps comprising: making a tag which includes a unique scannable code; placing the tag on a unique product; associating the unique scannable code with the unique product through a management console by a seller; inputting information regarding the unique product into the management console; placing the unique product having the tag on display for potential buyers; scanning the unique scannable code by a potential buyer with a handheld device; processing the unique scannable code by the handheld device; opening the management console by the handheld device; and presenting specific information regarding the unique product on a display of the handheld device.

2. The method of claim 1 wherein when the unique scannable code is processed by the handheld device the management console is automatically presented on the handheld device.

3. The method of claim 1 wherein when the unique scannable code is processed by the handheld device a unique page specifically directed to information about the unique product is automatically presented on the handheld device.

4. The method of claim 1 wherein the specific information includes details about the unique product.

5. The method of claim 1 wherein the specific information includes details photos or videos of the unique product.

6. The method of claim 1 wherein the specific information includes information regarding comparable sales of similar unique products.

7. The method of claim 1 wherein the specific information includes financing options for the purchase of the unique product.

8. The method of claim 1 wherein the specific information includes auction information for the purchase of the unique product.

9. The method of claim 8 wherein when the unique product is on auction, the buyer can submit a bid for the unique product.

10. The method of claim 1 wherein the specific information includes a link to an auction website for an auction of the unique product.

1 1. The method of claim 10, wherein when the buyer actuates the link, the handheld device displays a unique auction website for the auction of the unique product.

12. The method of claim 1 1 , wherein the user can purchase the unique product by submitting a bid.

13. A method of streamlining the process of handling receipts, the steps comprising: purchasing at least one product at a point of sale; issuing a receipt having purchase information and a scannable code; scanning the scannable code with a handheld device; processing the scannable code by the handheld device; and storing the purchase information into a user accessible form.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the receipt is printed with the scannable code thereon and then the scannable code is scanned.

15. The method of claim 13, wherein the receipt is displayed on a point of sale display, and the scannable code is scanned from the point of sale display.

16. The method of claim 13, wherein the purchase information is encoded within the scannable code.

17. The method of claim 13, wherein the scannable code includes a link to a database wherein the purchase information is stored and accessed by the handheld device.

18. The method of claim 13 wherein the user accessible form includes an accounting system.