JP6293908B2 - Mobile transactions with kiosk management system - Google Patents

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application is based on US patent application Ser. No. 14 / 038,706, entitled “KIOSK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM” filed on Sep. 26, 2013 (Attorney Docket No. 90204-875078 (0664200 US)), US Patent application No. 14 / 038,714, title of invention filed on September 26, 2013 "MOBILE TRANSACTIONS WITH A KIOSK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM" (Attorney Docket No. 90204-878886 (065400US)), US Patent Application No. 14/038 No. 712, the title of the invention filed on September 26, 2013 "INVENTORY DISTRIBUTION METHOD AND SYSTEM" (Attorney Docket No. 90204-878887 (065300US)), and And US Patent Application No. 14 / 038,710, priority and benefit from the title "KIOSK NETWORK IN A KIOSK MANAGEMENT SYSTEM" (Attorney Docket No. 90204-888888 (0665200US)) filed on Sep. 26, 2013. Insist.

  Due to the increasing accessibility and breadth of the Internet and telecommunications networks, many retail transactions can be conducted remotely, for example, from the consumer's home, without requiring the consumer to visit an actual store location. Consumers can browse retail websites, order items, pay electronically, and receive items delivered to the front door. In addition, with the increasing use of mobile devices, consumers frequently conduct transactions on their mobile devices while away from home and deliver items to locations other than their personal home address, such as offices or hotels. Can be requested. While convenient to consumers, the delivery of many individual items to many individual consumers at different addresses can be prohibitively expensive for both the retail business and the consumer.

  A method and system for conducting a mobile transaction with a kiosk management system that manages a plurality of kiosks for a requested item is provided. The consumer can have a portable device configured to communicate with the kiosk management system so that the kiosk management system can provide the requested items to the kiosk selected from the plurality of kiosks. The portable device can operate a mobile application to display a list of available kiosks that provide the requested item to the consumer, select the kiosk, and reserve the requested item there. The consumer can then use the portable device to interact with the selected kiosk and retrieve the requested items secured at the selected kiosk.

Various embodiments in accordance with the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 3 shows a block diagram illustrating an exemplary distribution system in which items electronically ordered by a consumer from a network retailer are delivered to a kiosk for collection by the consumer. 2 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary kiosk management method implemented in the distribution system of FIG. FIG. 2 shows a block diagram illustrating an exemplary kiosk management system of the distribution system of FIG. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system of FIG. 3 to determine initial items to stock in the kiosk in advance. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system of FIG. 3 for managing inventory between kiosks. FIG. 2 shows a block diagram illustrating an exemplary kiosk of the distribution system of FIG. FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a distributor of the distribution system shown in FIG. 1 to deliver and maintain the kiosk. FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk of FIG. 6 to process an item order from a consumer. 2 illustrates an exemplary external interface of the kiosk of the distribution system shown in FIG. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system of FIG. 3 that specifies a recipient who receives an item as a gift and allows the recipient to retrieve the item from the kiosk. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a consumer to give an item to a recipient. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a consumer to retrieve items via a kiosk. FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device, through which a recipient can initiate gift collection from a kiosk. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram describing an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system of FIG. 3 to handle requests for items that have been excluded from items pre-stocked at the kiosk. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a consumer to retrieve items via a kiosk. Fig. 4 illustrates an exemplary mobile device through which a recipient can initiate the collection of gifts from a kiosk. FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can select a kiosk to secure an item. FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can choose to keep the item without purchasing it at a kiosk for a predetermined period of time . FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can select a purchase option. FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can indicate that he is at a kiosk to retrieve items. FIG. 6 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can search for kiosks. FIG. 4 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application presented to a kiosk through which a consumer can scan or enter a code and initiate collection of items from the kiosk. 1 illustrates an example computing environment for implementing aspects of the disclosure in accordance with various embodiments.

  In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to those skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the described embodiments.

  An improved distribution system for providing items to consumers can use a network of kiosks to deliver items to consumers. Items can be delivered to kiosks by distribution system operators for pickup by consumers. For example, a consumer can order one low-priced (or otherwise eligible) item or a number of such items that are distributed in the distribution system for the consumer to pick up. Can be delivered to the kiosk by the operator. In addition, items that are regularly purchased by consumers can be stocked in kiosks and can be purchased on demand according to availability in the kiosk system. A network of kiosks may include, for example, any number of kiosks strategically located for easy and convenient access for consumers. In one embodiment, the number of kiosks includes 1,000 to 500,000 store kiosks. More specifically, the number of kiosks can include 20,000 kiosks. The kiosk can be installed in a location where consumers will already be frequently using for other tasks such as gas stations or grocery stores. Since shipping and delivery operations can be shared between the seller and the consumer, the shipping costs charged to the consumer to pick up at the designated kiosk can be significantly reduced (or shipping costs are negligible for the seller). If free). In one embodiment, the kiosk network provides an infrastructure that can be expanded to reduce the price of millions of items. Shipment of items to the kiosk of the system can be integrated into individual distributors operating in specific regions to maintain and / or manage a subset of kiosks. The subset can include one or more kiosks.

  In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer can use his mobile device (eg, a smartphone) to see which items are available at a nearby kiosk for convenient pickup or collection. The kiosk management system can designate kiosks to receive pre-stocked items, for example, items often requested by consumers, best selling items, or trending items. Pre-stocked items can vary in different geographic locations. Thus, subsets of kiosks at different geographic locations may be stocked with different amounts of pre-stocked items and / or different pre-stocked items. Items pre-stocked in kiosks or subsets of kiosks and / or inventory of items are related to previous transaction history and / or consumer demographics and purchase patterns at the geographical location of the kiosk subset Can be customized based on analysis data.

  After selection of the particular item (s) for purchase during the checkout process, the consumer can select the designated kiosk to pick up the item (s). The designated kiosk may be in a location where the consumer is going to go anyway, such as a grocery store, a location on the way to the consumer's final destination, or another location convenient to the consumer. For example, the consumer is on a business trip and can select a kiosk at an airport with transit time.

  When the consumer has the requested item and selects a kiosk, the kiosk management system can communicate with the designated kiosk to coordinate delivery. In some cases, the requested item may be an item that is pre-stocked with a subset of the kiosk. The kiosk management system can communicate with designated kiosks to reserve items for consumers and ensure that reserved items are not collected or purchased by other consumers. it can. In other cases, the requested item may not be included in the pre-stocked item, which is usually pre-stocked. To reduce additional shipping costs to the consumer, the consumer can choose to pick up the requested item at the designated kiosk after the requested item has been stocked. The kiosk management system can coordinate the delivery of requested items to designated kiosks. In some embodiments, delivery of items to a network of kiosks may require a distributor to stock the items at the kiosk.

  When the requested item is delivered and / or secured to the designated kiosk, the consumer can receive a notification from the kiosk management system that the requested item is available at the designated kiosk. . Collecting the requested item may require the consumer to go to a designated kiosk so that the requested item is released from the kiosk, and the consumer picks up the requested item and brings it back. To be able to. To release the requested item, the consumer may be prompted by the designated kiosk to log in with his pre-registered account information associated with the kiosk management system. The kiosk includes various mechanical components to maintain, lock, and store all items. Releasing the requested item may include distributing the requested item to the consumer, for example through a door or compartment. In another embodiment, each requested item can be stored and locked in a separate compartment or module, and releasing the requested item unlocks that individual compartment or module for the consumer. I need that.

  In another embodiment, when the consumer is notified that the requested item is available, the notification may include the code that was generated. This notification may be communicated via the Internet or any other telecommunications network in the form of an email, instant message, text message, SMS, social network post, or any other suitable communication or message. The generated code can be generated by a kiosk management system and can be a randomly generated alphanumeric code of a different length. The generated code may be specific to the transaction, consumer, kiosk, and / or item. In other embodiments, the generated code may be associated with a kiosk, consumer, transaction, and / or item for identification purposes. In order to initiate collection of the requested item from the designated kiosk, the consumer may be prompted to enter the generated code. The kiosk can then communicate with the kiosk management system to authenticate the generated code and release the requested item when the code is authenticated. In other embodiments, the kiosk management system can send the generated code to a designated kiosk at the same time in a consumer notification. Thus, the designated kiosk can locally authenticate the generated code when the consumer enters the code to release the requested item (s). When the consumer initiates the collection of the requested item from the kiosk, a payment process that approves payment for the transaction may begin. Thus, the consumer is not charged for items that were not collected.

  Alternatively, the consumer can designate a second consumer, such as a friend or family member, to pick up the particular item (s), and / or the consumer is for the recipient to pick up Items can be selected as gifts. In some embodiments, the consumer can designate a kiosk designated for the recipient. The recipient can receive an email, text, or other message from the kiosk management system that a gift is waiting at the designated kiosk. This message may further include the generated code. In order for the recipient to begin collecting the requested item (s), the recipient may be prompted by the designated kiosk to log in with the generated code that the recipient received in the message. The designated kiosk authenticates the generated code in communication with the kiosk management system and, when authenticated, releases the gift to the recipient. Alternatively, the kiosk can receive communications with the kiosk management system to secure the requested item with the generated code. Thus, when the recipient logs in with the generated code, the kiosk can authenticate the generated code locally and release the requested item to the recipient.

  Some retailers that offer items (eg, goods and / or services) to consumers provide for shipping and delivery of items when ordered remotely by consumers via an electronic marketplace or network site It should be recognized that this is possible. The operator or owner of such an electronic market or site may also provide distribution services (eg inventory management, packaging, shipping, etc.) to individual sellers who prefer not to provide such distribution services themselves. it can. Without a distribution system, in some cases, low-priced items may be too expensive to ship directly to the consumer's home. An improved distribution system for providing consumers with items as described herein uses a network of kiosks to reduce distribution costs, including consumer, retailer, and seller costs. Can be reduced. Herein, retailers and distributors may be referred to interchangeably.

  FIG. 1 illustrates an example block of an example distribution system 100 according to at least one embodiment in which items electronically ordered by a consumer 112 from a retailer 116 are delivered to a kiosk for collection by the consumer. The figure is shown. Distribution system 100 can include a kiosk management system 102 and an inventory management system that can be operated by a retail entity that provides multiple items. In other embodiments, the retailer 116 or other merchant may be a separate entity from the entity that operates the kiosk management system 102. The retailer 116 can operate its own retail website 106 and / or provide its own mobile application 114 to purchase items. The retailer 116 can communicate directly with an inventory entity 104, such as a warehouse, fulfillment center, or distribution center, where the items provided by the retailer 116 via the retail website 106 and / or the mobile application 114 are physical. Stored.

  The kiosk management system 102 can also include an inventory management system and can communicate with the inventory entity 104. The kiosk management system 102 may be associated with a retail website 106 that manages the delivery of items stored by the inventory entity 104 at the kiosk 110 of the distribution system 100. The kiosk management system 102 may be operably coupled to a network of kiosks 110 installed at strategically designated geographical locations, for example, via a communication network. A network of kiosks 110 may be maintained and stocked by multiple distributors 108. The kiosk management system 102 can communicate with the kiosk 110 via a communication network to determine the current inventory of items at the kiosk 110. In addition, kiosk management system 102 and / or kiosk 110 can communicate with distributor 108 and inventory entity 104 to initiate a consolidated shipment of items to a particular distributor 108. Distributor 108 can then deliver the item to individual kiosks 110 that distributor 108 has been assigned to manage and maintain.

  Distributor 108 can be assigned to a subset of kiosks 110 based on geographical location, and inventory entity 104 can consolidate shipments of pre-stocked items to distributor 108. Distributor 108 can then deliver various items to a particular kiosk 110. The inventory and available items provided to each kiosk may not be the same between kiosks. However, because the distribution of distributors 108 to kiosks 110 may be based on geographic location, delivery of items to different kiosks 110 may be efficient and cost effective for kiosk management system 102.

  Distributor 108 may be an automated machine or robot operated by kiosk management system 102, an individual authorized by kiosk management system 102, or an authorized entity (eg, a store, a business, etc.). Distributor 108 may be responsible for maintaining and delivering one or more kiosks 110. The kiosk management system 102 can command the delivery of a consolidated shipment of items from the inventory entity 104 to the distributor 108 on a regular basis, for example, daily. Upon receipt, the distributor 108 goes to each kiosk 110 to which the distributor 108 is assigned, so that the item can be delivered to the kiosk 110 and includes placing the item in an item repository within the kiosk 110 (eg, , See product storage 608 in FIG. 6). Once the item has been delivered to the designated kiosk 110, the kiosk management system 102 sends a notification (eg, email, text message, etc.) to the consumer 112 so that the requested item is ready for pickup. The consumer 112 can be notified that In some embodiments, the consumer 112 is not charged for the requested item until the requested item is collected by the consumer 112 at the designated kiosk 110. When a consumer 112 is at a designated kiosk 110, the consumer browses the kiosk 110 for pre-stocked items that are available (ie, in stock and not reserved for another consumer 112). And additional pre-stocked items can be purchased along with the requested items. The payment process may be initiated to authorize payment of requested items and additional pre-stocked items purchased in a transaction at a designated kiosk 110. The payment process may be initiated by the designated kiosk 110 to the kiosk management system 102, retailer 116, or other entity.

  The kiosk 110 may update its inventory in real time, allowing the kiosk management system 102 to grasp the current status of each of the multiple kiosks 110. By analyzing the data received from kiosk 110, kiosk management system 102 may be able to determine which pre-stocked items are to be placed in the kiosk and track inventory turnover. Distributor 108 can remove unreceived items from kiosk 110 that have not been picked up within a specified time frame. Removal of unreceived items may allow kiosk management system 102 to place items at kiosk 110 as directed by kiosk management system 102. The kiosk management system 102 can also transfer money to the consumer account for removed unreceived items.

  Distributor 108 can operate 365 days a year and can manage any of 1 to 1 million or more kiosks 110 depending on the size and capacity of the kiosk. For example, in a very small town, only one kiosk 110 may be sufficient to serve the town, while in a larger city, hundreds of kiosks 110 may be required.

  A consumer 112 can receive items via a mobile application 114 using a desktop, laptop, mobile device, etc. or using a smartphone, tablet, ebook reader, or other mobile device that can connect to the Internet. Browse and make a request for the item via the retail website 106. A consumer 112 can access the retail website 106 through a communication network such as the Internet. The communication network can be any wired network, wireless network, or a combination thereof. In addition, the network can be a personal area network, a local area network, a wide area network, a cable network, a satellite network, a mobile phone network, or a combination thereof. For example, the communication network can be a publicly accessible or linked network, possibly operated by various separate parties, such as the Internet. In some embodiments, the communication network may be a private or semi-private network such as a corporate or university intranet. The communication network is one such as a global system (GSM) network, a code division multiple access (CDMA) network, a long term evolution (LTE) network, or some other type of wireless network for mobile communications. The above wireless network can be included. Protocols and components for communicating over the Internet or any of the other aforementioned types of communication networks are well known to those skilled in the art of computer communications and are therefore described in more detail herein. There is no need. The consumer computing device can be connected to any such communication network via a wireless (eg, Wi-Fi) or wired network connection. When a consumer 112 is using a mobile application 114 on a mobile device, the mobile device can be connected through a telecommunication network provided by a service provider or a wireless (eg, Wi-Fi) network.

  In some embodiments, retailer 116 may include kiosk management system 102. A consumer 112 may be in direct communication with the kiosk management system 102 if the kiosk management system 102 is also a retailer that provides items. In such cases, the consumer 112 can pre-register account information and payment information with the kiosk management system 102. The account information may include a username, password, login information, delivery address, mobile device number, or other identification number (eg, IP address). Payment information authorizes a credit card identifier, bank account identifier, reward account identifier, billing address, or payment transaction so that the consumer 112 can pay for the requested item, and clearing and settlement of funds Any other suitable information required by the issuer and consumer 112 to perform

  The network of kiosks 110 may be strategically located in or within other businesses where the kiosk management system 102 may have a partnership. Thus, if the consumer 112 goes to a kiosk 110 that may be located at a gas station, a $ 0.03 discount per gallon during the consumer's visit, etc. when the consumer 112 collects the item requested at that kiosk, etc. Promotions can be offered to consumers. In another example, the kiosk may be located in a coffee shop so that the consumer 112 wishes to receive promotions for coffee or other items sold at the coffee shop and / or the consumer 112 If you are going to a coffee shop to buy coffee and can pick up your requested item on the same trip, you may be given an incentive to choose that kiosk.

  The techniques described and proposed herein include methods and systems for distributing items to a large number of consumers using a network of kiosks 110 managed by the kiosk management system 102. FIG. 2 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary kiosk management method 200 implemented in the distribution system of FIG. Part or all of the process shown in FIG. 2 (or any other process described herein, or variations and / or combinations thereof) of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions As code (eg, executable instructions, one or more computer programs, or one or more applications) that can be performed under control and collectively execute on one or more processor devices by hardware or a combination thereof Can be realized. The code may be stored on a computer-readable storage medium, for example, in the form of a computer program that includes a plurality of instructions that can be executed by one or more processor devices. The computer readable storage medium may be non-transitory.

  In one embodiment, the kiosk management system 102 of FIG. Selection of pre-stocked items offered at a particular kiosk may be performed by the kiosk management system 102 based on a particular kiosk's transaction history or, in other embodiments, kiosk management to provide items to a particular kiosk. It can be determined by an external retailer in communication with the system 102. Thus, individual kiosks at different locations may have a different amount of items as well as items than other kiosks.

  At 202, kiosk management system 102 may receive a request for one or more items directly or indirectly from a consumer. For example, a consumer can generate a request through a retail website 106 or a mobile application 114 operated by an external retailer 116. The external retailer can then provide the request to the kiosk management system 102. In some embodiments, the consumer can browse through available prestocked items and request one or more items from the prestocked items in inventory. The kiosk management system 102 can determine which items are prestocked at which kiosks 110. Prestocked items at the local kiosk 110 may be requested and / or secured by the consumer 112 through the use of the retail website 106 and / or the mobile application 114 operated by the retailer 116. Alternatively, the consumer 112 goes directly to a kiosk and browses for prestocked items available for purchase at that kiosk, eg, prestocked items that are not reserved for other consumers. can do.

  In one embodiment, the consumer can request items that are not included in the pre-stocked items that are made available as pre-stocked items. The consumer can make this request from a website operated by kiosk management system 102, retail website 106, or mobile application 114 operated by external retailer 116. Requested items that are not pre-stocked can be distributed to designated kiosks selected by the consumer. Thus, the requested item can be included in the selection of a predetermined pre-stocked item. Alternatively, the consumer can request one or more items that are excluded from the inventory of items available at the kiosk.

  In one embodiment, kiosk management system 102 may use the consumer's location at 204 to assist in distributing items to the consumer. The consumer's location may be determined by the consumer's computer's IP address or GPS location from the consumer's mobile device. The consumer's location can also be determined based on other account information such as work / office address. The consumer can also provide their current location or address in the request. In an alternative embodiment, the consumer can provide a designated location, such as a future destination that he will travel to, so the item (s) requested when arriving at that destination Can be picked up. For example, if it is known that the consumer is in New York on a business trip tomorrow, the item requested to be picked up at kiosk 110 located in New York that is convenient to him can be specified. In another example, the consumer can specify a location that is on his / her commute or return home.

  At 206, kiosk management system 102 can determine a subset of kiosks 110 that are within a specified region near the consumer's location. Next, the kiosk management system 102 communicates with a subset of the kiosks 110 to determine whether at least one of the kiosks 110 within the specified region has the requested item (s) in inventory. Can do. The designated region can be set by the consumer or have an initial value determined by the kiosk management system 102. For example, the kiosk management system 102 searches for kiosks within 5 miles of the consumer's location, and if any of the kiosks within 5 miles of the consumer's location request for the consumer It is possible to determine whether the item (s) that have been added are currently in stock.

  The kiosk management system 102 when it is determined that there is at least one kiosk 110 in the subset of kiosks that have the requested item (s) in stock and is within a predetermined proximity of the consumer location. Can communicate a list identifying such kiosks to be offered to consumers through retail website 106, for example, as shown at 208. The kiosk management system 102 may ensure that more kiosk selection options are provided to the consumer, especially if it is found that the kiosk does not have the requested item (s) in stock. A kiosk 110 outside the predetermined proximity of the location can also be identified.

  The consumer can then select the kiosk 110 and have a selection provided to the kiosk management system 102. Accordingly, at 210, the kiosk management system 102 can receive communications from the consumer along with the selection of the kiosk 110 that the consumer wishes to initiate collection of the requested item. Alternatively, in another embodiment, kiosk management system 102 can communicate with consumers through retail website 106 or mobile application 114 operated by external retailer 116. Accordingly, kiosk management system 102 can receive communications with the selection of kiosk 110 performed by the consumer and communicated from retail website 106 or mobile application 114.

  Once the kiosk management system 102 receives the selection, the kiosk management system can communicate with the designated kiosk 110 by secure communication that secures the requested item at 212. The designated kiosk 110 can reserve the requested item for a limited period of time, eg, 3 days. Once the requested item is secured, this is reserved for the requesting consumer or the recipient designated by the requesting consumer so that another consumer cannot retrieve the requested secured item. The For example, another consumer browsing a pre-stocked item in a local kiosk or another consumer at a designated kiosk cannot select the reserved item for purchase. In one embodiment, the consumer can provide an estimated time at which the requested item is picked up, and when that time elapses, the reservation of the requested item may or may not be cancelled. Can expire. In some embodiments, the payment process is initiated and the consumer is charged only when the requested item is successfully collected by the consumer. In one embodiment, the secure communication from the kiosk management system 102 to the designated kiosk 110 may include a code generated by the kiosk management system 102. The generated code is sent to the consumer in a notification message alerting the consumer that the requested item is now available at the designated kiosk 110 for retrieval, as shown at 214. You can also. This notification may be communicated in the form of an email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message via a communication network such as those described above.

  The generated code may be specific to the transaction, consumer, kiosk, and / or item. In one embodiment, the generated code is a randomly generated alphanumeric code of different length. In another embodiment, the generated code is an optical code such as a one-dimensional barcode, or a two-dimensional barcode such as a quick response code (QR code (registered trademark)). In other embodiments, the generated code may be associated with a kiosk, consumer, transaction, and / or item for identification purposes.

  To initiate retrieval of the requested item from the designated kiosk 110, the consumer may be prompted to enter a code generated at the kiosk 110. The kiosk 110 then communicates with the kiosk management system 102, as shown at 216, to authenticate the generated code, release the requested item when the code is authenticated, and to provide consumer account information. And payment information can be used to initiate the payment process for the item. In some embodiments where the kiosk management system 102 sends a communication to the designated kiosk 110 with the generated code, when the consumer enters the code into the kiosk, the designated kiosk Authenticate locally to release the requested item (s).

  At 216, the transaction is complete when the kiosk management system 102 processes the payment using the consumer's account information and payment information and instructs the designated kiosk 110 to release the requested item. In one embodiment, the consumer pre-registers his account information and payment information with the kiosk management system 102. In another embodiment, the consumer can pre-register account information and / or payment information with a retail website or retailer so that the kiosk management system communicates with the retail website to initiate payment. Can do. The account information may include a username, password, login information, delivery address, mobile device number, or other identification number (eg, IP address). Payment information authorizes credit card identifiers, bank account identifiers, reward account identifiers, billing addresses, or payment transactions so that consumers can pay for the requested item, and clears and settles funds. Any other suitable information required by the issuer and consumer to do can be included.

  Any or all of the operations and functions described above in the example method of FIG. 2 may be performed by example kiosk management system 102 in any order. Kiosk management system 102 may include a group of server processor devices configured to execute computer readable instructions stored on server computer 300 or a non-transitory computer readable medium.

  FIG. 3 shows a block diagram illustrating an exemplary kiosk management system of the distribution system of FIG. As shown in FIG. 3, the example kiosk management server 300 may include a processor device 302 and a memory 320. The processor device 302 is communicatively connected to a number of remote and / or local data stores configured to store data, eg, an account information data store 304, a transaction history data store 306, and / or a payment information data store 322. And can have access. The account information data store 304 can store account information associated with multiple consumers. In some embodiments, account information is pre-registered for each consumer. In other embodiments, temporary account information may be generated and temporarily stored for consumers making a one-time transaction as “guest consumers” as opposed to “registered consumers”. Thus, temporary account information may be specific to a one-time transaction. The account information may include a username, password, login information, delivery address, mobile device number, or other identification number (eg, IP address). Additionally, consumer account information can include gender, age, annual income, annual average spending, preference items, or other relevant demographic or analytical data.

  The transaction history data store 306 relates to previously performed transactions, including, for example, items in the transaction, the amount of the item, the payment type used for the transaction, when and where the transaction was performed, the kiosk used for the transaction, etc. Information can be saved. For example, a transaction history may indicate that on a rainy day in San Francisco, more umbrellas are requested from kiosks 110 in the popular areas of San Francisco. The transaction history can also be correlated with some of the account information. For example, the transaction history may indicate that an increased number of earphones have been requested by consumers aged 18-25 and collected from kiosks 100 located near the university. The transaction history stored in the transaction history data store 306 may be for multiple items involving different items, consumers, locations, and kiosks 110.

  The payment history data store 322 can store payment information associated with multiple consumers. Payment information authorizes credit card identifiers, bank account identifiers, reward account identifiers, billing addresses, or payment transactions so that consumers can pay for the requested item, and clears and settles funds. Any other suitable information required by the issuer and consumer to do can be included. Additionally, consumer payment information may include gift certificate identifiers, coupon codes, or other information regarding transaction payment processing.

  The memory 320 may include a number of software modules of code executable by the processor device 302 to perform the functions of the kiosk management server 300. In an embodiment, the memory 320 can include a selection item engine 308 to determine an initial subset of items to pre-stock in one or more kiosks 110. The initial subset of items selected for pre-stocking at one or more kiosks 110 may be determined from a plurality of total items provided by retail website 106 and / or kiosk management system 102. In some embodiments, pre-stocked items may be determined by a transaction analysis engine 316 that analyzes data stored in the account information data store 304 and / or the transaction history data store 306. There may also be a kiosk locator engine 310 that can determine and locate a subset of kiosks that are within a predetermined proximity of the consumer location or a location specified by the consumer. In addition, kiosk inventory engine 312 can monitor and report inventory of items provided at kiosks 110 installed at various locations. The memory 320 may further include a distributor management module 314 for managing a plurality of distributors and kiosks that each distributor is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and delivering items. Further, the code generation engine 318 can generate a code that is provided to a consumer and / or designated kiosk 110 for retrieval of the requested item.

  Those skilled in the art will appreciate that kiosk management system 102 may be any computing system configured to communicate via a communication network. For example, kiosk management system 102 may include any number of kiosk management servers 300, and / or other server computing devices, desktop computing devices, mainframe computers, and the like. In some embodiments, kiosk management system 102 may include a number of devices that are grouped together physically or logically. The kiosk management system 102 may include various modules and components combined on a single device, multiple instances of a single module or component, and the like. In some embodiments, the features and services provided by kiosk management system 102 may be implemented as web services that can be consumed via a communication network. In a further embodiment, kiosk management system 102 is provided by one or more virtual machines implemented in a hosted computing environment. A hosted computing environment can include one or more rapidly supplied and released computing resources, which can include computing, networking, and / or storage devices. A hosted computing environment may also be referred to as a cloud computing environment.

  As shown in FIG. 3 and described above, kiosk management server 300 determines in memory 302 which kiosks are pre-stocked, the initial items pre-stocked in those kiosks, and the amount of initial items. A selection item engine 318 may be included. FIG. 4 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system of FIG. 1 to determine the initial items to pre-stock in the kiosk. As shown, the selected item engine 318 can collect transaction history for multiple items at 400. Transaction history includes information about previously performed transactions, including, for example, items in the transaction, quantity of items, payment type used for the transaction, when and where the transaction was performed, kiosk 110 used for the transaction, etc. Can be included. For example, the selection item engine 318 may first collect transaction history data and determine that more umbrellas are required on a particular day and sold from the kiosk 110 in a particular geographic region.

  At 402, the selected item engine 318 can analyze the transaction history and correlate the transaction history with a particular kiosk 110. Accordingly, the selection item engine 318 can determine which kiosks 110 are providing umbrellas and which kiosks 110 located in San Francisco are particularly preferred in the consumer umbrella requirements.

  Furthermore, because many consumers commute to San Francisco, it can be determined that the San Francisco kiosk 110 is preferred for consumers to pick up the requested umbrella. Thus, when a consumer forgets to bring his umbrella or when it starts to rain on the way to work, the consumer orders his umbrella using his mobile device and It can be reserved for pick-up at a kiosk located at a public transport station. Accordingly, at 404, the selected item engine 318 can select the item, the amount of the item, and the kiosk 110 that provides the item based on the transaction history and data analysis. Based on further analysis, for example, the item selection engine 318 may select mufflers and gloves to be offered at the San Francisco Kiosk 110 for consumer commuters who realize that they are not prepared for the weather of the day. it can. Selection item engine 318 determines and knows which kiosk location is preferred and most frequently used by consumers, for example, a kiosk located at a public transport station, coffee shop, or common lunch destination You can also

  At 406, kiosk management system 102 communicates with a plurality of kiosks 110 to determine the current inventory of items currently offered, for example, whether the kiosk 110 is generally out of required items, It can be determined whether a particular item has been sold out or whether a particular item has not been sold for some time. In another embodiment, the kiosk management system can remotely monitor the inventory of kiosks 110 and their items without communicating with them. Different kiosks at different locations can provide different item selections in different amounts. For example, kiosks located at airports offer a wider selection of travel-sized sanitary products or electronic accessories such as laptops and phone chargers that can be a commonly forgotten item when consumers travel. Can be provided. In comparison, kiosks located near the university can provide supplies or office supplies such as pens and notebooks that are affiliated with the university, in addition to laptops and telephone chargers.

  Next, at 408, the selected item engine 318 determines which kiosk stocks the prestocked item and whether a particular prestocked item is missing or sold out at a particular kiosk. Sometimes kiosk management system 102 can communicate with a plurality of distributors 108. In some embodiments, the distributor may be a person, an automated robot, or a business approved by the kiosk management system 102, where the kiosk management system 102 provides instructions for consolidated delivery of item shipments and starts can do. For example, the kiosk management system 102 instructs the delivery company to deliver 100 earphones to the coffee shop where the kiosk 100 that sells many earphones is located. The kiosk management system 102 also notifies an inventory entity, such as a warehouse, to include 100 earphones in the next shipment to the shipper. In still other embodiments, the distributor 108 can be an automated machine or robot that can deliver items to the kiosk 110.

  At 410, the distributor 108 can then deliver the received items to individual kiosks 110 assigned by the kiosk management system 102. For example, in a remote town, the distributor 108 can be an authorized person responsible for maintaining five kiosks 110 in the remote town. Thus, instead of the kiosk management system 110 that directs the direct delivery of specific items to each of the five kiosks 110 at the five stores, the items assigned to the kiosks 110 at the five stores in the town are mixed and approved ( That is, it is delivered to the distributor (108). Next, the distributor 108 individually delivers a specific item to each of the kiosks 110 of five individual stores. Distributors can additionally move items between kiosks for inventory management purposes, for example if a store kiosk sells out pre-stocked items often required by consumers, Many pre-stocked items can be moved from another kiosk that has more inventory of pre-stocked items.

  Individuals acting as distributors can receive rewards, for example, salary, hourly wage, shipping basis, or salary as a percentage of transaction costs. Rewards for distributors can also include discounts on items that can be distributed by kiosks assigned to be managed by the distributor. The kiosk may be configured to distribute funds, vouchers, and credits to distributors as rewards.

  At 412, kiosk management system 102 can receive reports from kiosk 110 and / or distributor 108 regarding kiosk inventory, transactions, or status. For example, the distributor can notify of a failure at one of the kiosks 110 or can notify that it may be difficult to find a particular kiosk. This information can be reported back to the kiosk management system 102 for evaluation and processing. Other information reported back may include remediation notifications and / or other suitable feedback that may be communicated automatically and / or directly to kiosk management system 102 by kiosk 110 or distributor 108. Distributors, if functioning, can generate reports through the use of kiosk management interfaces or through the use of other networked devices such as applications on smartphones.

  To determine the initial selection and quantity of items to be prestocked in some of the kiosks 110, the kiosk management system 102 can implement an exemplary method of iterative inventory management as shown in FIG. FIG. 5 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system of FIG. 1 to manage inventory between kiosks. In an exemplary method, at 500, kiosk management system 102 may first collect and analyze stored transaction history associated with multiple items and multiple consumers.

  Based on the transaction history of items purchased by multiple consumers, a subset of the multiple items may be selected at 502. For example, the subset of items may include best selling items, top rated items, and / or most frequently sold items. In some embodiments, the pre-stocked item may be the geographic location of a particular kiosk 110, demographic information regarding the particular kiosk or those locations, or other environment relating to the particular kiosk or those locations. It can also be correlated with information. For example, the number of umbrellas observed by the kiosk management system 102 and requested on a rainy day increases significantly beyond sunny days, or tans in greater amounts in Miami, Florida compared to Seattle, Washington It may be recorded in the transaction history that a stop is required. The kiosk management system can also use data from retailers, such as geographic sales data, in determining prestocked items.

  At 504, once an item to pre-stock is selected, the kiosk management system 102 can determine an initial amount of pre-stocked item to stock in some of the kiosks 110. Different kiosks can provide different items in different quantities. For example, all kiosks 110 in the Los Angeles area may be pre-stocked with sunscreen, but kiosks 110 located in Long Beach and other beach areas have a greater amount of sunscreen than kiosks 110 in downtown Los Angeles. Can be stocked.

  To determine the amount of items to stock in the subset of kiosks 110, the kiosk management system 102 may determine the current inventory of items already stored in the subset of kiosks 110, as shown at 506. it can. Thus, if some kiosks have a large number of specific items that exceed a certain threshold, the kiosk management system 102 cannot be adjusted to cause more of the specific items to be delivered to those kiosks. However, if it is determined that some kiosks have sold out certain items or are below a certain threshold, then kiosk management system 102 may add to the distributor to stock in those kiosks. Delivery of a quantity of a particular item can be initiated.

  Subsequently, at 508, the kiosk management system 102 determines what is pre-stocked and what is pre-stocked based at least on other data from individual kiosks such as transaction history and current stock of pre-stocked items. You can update the quantity of items that are played. The selection of pre-stocked items can be updated, or the amount of pre-stocked items can be changed depending on the sales and movement of the pre-stocked items between kiosks. In some cases, because the amount of certain items at a particular kiosk did not sell as quickly as expected, it can be determined that the inventory of these particular items at a particular kiosk is higher than expected. Accordingly, at 510, kiosk management system 102 communicates with these particular kiosks and / or distributors 108 assigned to these particular kiosks to determine the future of certain items to these particular kiosks. Coordinate delivery, return certain items from these particular kiosks to management system 102 or inventory entity 104, or move certain items from these particular kiosks to other kiosks Can do.

  Next, at 512, kiosk management system 102 can trade with the consumer for items that the consumer can request from retailer 116 or kiosk 110, eg, retail website 106. For example, the consumer can request items that are pre-stocked in at least one of the kiosks 110, or the consumer requests items that are excluded from the items that were pre-stocked in the kiosks 110. can do. In the latter case, the item may need to be delivered by distributor 110 to at least one of the kiosks. After the transaction is completed, the transaction history is updated at 514 and an iterative feedback loop is created returning to step 508 to update the selection and quantity of pre-stocked items provided at a particular kiosk.

  FIG. 6 shows a block diagram illustrating an exemplary kiosk 600 of the distribution system of FIG. The example kiosk 600 may include a processor device 602 and a memory 614. The processor device 602 may have access to at least one data store that is communicatively coupled and stores data, eg, an item inventory information data store 604. Item inventory information data store 604 may store item data associated with a plurality of items stored at kiosk 600, such as item identifiers, item quantities, and associated alternative items.

  The processor device 602 is communicatively coupled to a mechanical component, such as a vending component 606, and can hold, retrieve, and release items stored in the item storage area 608 of the kiosk 600. The kiosk 600 can be a display such as an LCD display with a touch screen or keyboard or other external device for consumers to view prompts and / or enter generated code, login information, and / or account information, etc. An input / output interface 612 may also be included. In addition, there may be a security component 610 of the kiosk 600 to protect items stored in the item repository 608 such as alarms and / or locks that prevent tampering of the kiosk 600 and / or theft of items. Security component 610 can also include a security camera and provide live streaming images or videos to kiosk management system 102 to ensure the security of items stored at kiosk 600. The processor device 602 may further be communicatively coupled to a communication interface 622 to communicate with the kiosk management system 101 and other kiosks 110 via a communication network, as described above.

  Memory 614 may include a number of software modules of code executable by processor device 602 to perform the functions of kiosk management system 102. In an embodiment, memory 614 may include a code authentication module 616. The code authentication module 616 may be configured to determine that the generated code from the kiosk management system 102 has authenticated the received code entered by the consumer through the interface 612 before retrieving and releasing the item. . The code authentication module 616 can compare the input code from the consumer with the generated code from the kiosk management system 102 for authentication. Memory 614 initiates payment processing for transactions with kiosk management system 102 or retailer 116 when the code entered by the consumer is authenticated and collection of the requested item from kiosk 600 is initiated. Can also include a transaction processing module 618 configured. Item inventory management module 620 may be configured to communicate with item inventory data store 604 to monitor and report the status of various items stored in kiosk 600 and their current quantities. The item inventory management module 620 can generate an alert when the amount of a particular item falls below a certain threshold and communicate the alert to the kiosk management system 102. A communication module 624 can also reside in the memory 614 of the kiosk 600 to receive and communicate communications with the kiosk management system 102 via the communication network.

  In some embodiments, the kiosk 600 may be capable of storing up to 1,000 items of different sizes and weights and different prices in the kiosk item storage area 608. The kiosk 600 can communicate with the kiosk management system 102 and / or the consumer via the communication network using the communication network interface 622. In some embodiments, the kiosk 600 can establish a wireless connection to a mobile device utilized by a consumer, for example, via Wi-Fi® or Bluetooth®.

  Item inventory management module 620 can communicate kiosk 600 status and item inventory real-time data to kiosk management system 102. In other embodiments, the consumer may interact with the consumer interface 612 to enter the generated code, enter login information, and / or initiate a payment process. it can. The consumer interface 612 can also provide order and account access. Further, in some embodiments, the consumer interface 612 can include a payment interface (not shown) configured to accept cash and credit cards. Cash or credit card information received by the payment interface may be processed by a payment processing module 626 stored in memory 614. For cash payment transactions, the payment processing module 616 can determine a change that can be returned to the consumer via the payment interface. For credit cards or alternative electronic payments, payment processing module 626 can communicate with other entities that process payments, such as kiosk management systems, retailers, or other entities, in conjunction with communication network interface 622.

  In the item storage area 608 of the kiosk 600, a portion of the item storehouse may include pre-stocked items that have been determined as high turnover items by the kiosk management system. Another portion of item repository 608 can be kept open for requested items that have been excluded from items pre-stocked at kiosk 600, and a portion of item repository 608 can be designated. Be made available for delivery of the requested item to a designated kiosk. The ratio between the area for pre-stocked items and the area for additional items can be adjusted based on the activity and transaction history of the kiosk 600.

  In addition, additional benefits to consumers include leveraged partnerships between the kiosk management system 102 and other preferred item providers (eg, business, stores, gas stations, etc.) where the kiosk may be located and maintained. For example, promotions such as coupons and discounts may be provided to the preferred item provider in which the kiosk is located in order to incentivize consumers to select kiosks that are in the preferred item provider. In addition, the preferred item provider hosts and maintains the kiosk to the kiosk management system 110 because it can increase the consumer's flow to the preferred item provider and potential transactions due to the promotions provided. So that incentives are given.

  In one example, distributor 108 may be assigned to 100 kiosks 110 in a designated geographic area. Distributor 108 may be responsible for delivery of items such as daily vitamin packets to 100 kiosks 110. Providing individual vitamin packets to 100 kiosks 110 in a local area, or delivering hundreds of vitamin packets to multiple individual consumers who may or may not be in the same local area This is very expensive for the operator of the kiosk management system 102 or the vitamin provider. Accordingly, the kiosk management system 108 or vitamin provider can order delivery of a mixed shipment of hundreds of vitamin packets to the distributor 108. Distributor 108 can divide the shipment into an appropriate amount for each of the 100 kiosks 110 to which distributor 108 is assigned. For example, a kiosk 110 located in a congested area (eg, a central city in a business dense area) may stock more vitamin packets than a kiosk 110 in a more remote area (eg, a suburban residential area).

  FIG. 7 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by distributor 108 of the distribution system shown in FIG. 1 to deliver and maintain the kiosk. At 700, the distributor 108 can receive an assignment from the kiosk management system 102 that includes a subset of the kiosk 110 to monitor, manage, maintain, and deliver. A subset of kiosks 110 may be within a predetermined location radius suitable for distributor 108. For example, the distributor 108 can receive an assignment of 100 kiosks 110 at 100 stores within 10 miles of their home.

  At 702, the kiosk management system 102 can cause the inventory entity 104 to send a mixed shipment of items to the distributor 108. Distributor 108 can receive delivery of prestocked items and / or requested items from kiosk management system 102. Delivery of pre-stocked items and / or requested items may also include vouchers that specify which items are delivered to which kiosks 110 and the quantity of each item.

  Subsequently, at 704, the distributor 108 can deliver specific items and quantities to each of the kiosks 110 within its quota. During the merchant's visit to each kiosk 110, the merchant 108 can observe and record the status of the kiosk 110, as shown at 706. For example, the distributor 108 can check that the kiosk 110 is operating in the kiosk management system 102 and record the current inventory of items for confirmation.

  At 708, the distributor 108 can report the operation and / or status of the kiosk 110 to the kiosk management system 102, such as whether repair or repair (eg, cleaning) is necessary. For example, the distributor 108 can report to the kiosk management system 102 if there is a graffiti that needs to be erased at the kiosk. This report may be communicated to the kiosk management system 102 via a communication network in the form of an email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message.

  Further, at 710, if there are items that do not sell well at kiosk 110 and / or if the requested items have not been collected in time by consumer 112, distributor 108 removes these items. To make room for other pre-stocked items or requested items. Additionally, the distributor 108 can move items from one kiosk to another depending on the inventory and storage needs mandated by the kiosk management system 102. Distributor 108 may receive instructions from kiosk management system 102 over the communication network in the form of email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message.

  In one embodiment, the kiosk may be located at a bank, which can operate as a distributor for the kiosk management system. The kiosk management system allows the kiosk to stock items that are shipped to the bank (Monday-Friday) and pre-stocked by the bank clerk for a fee. In some embodiments, a banker or bank as a distributor can receive a portion of the profits earned from items sold at their corresponding kiosk (s). For example, a distributor may receive 1% of profit, for example $ 0.25 for every $ 25 earned by a kiosk assigned to the distributor.

  As such, kiosk management systems can provide benefits to both distributors and consumers, providing convenience to consumers while increasing traffic and potential business in distributors. Businesses that act as distributors hosting kiosks can be compensated for by maintaining kiosks, and thus incentives can be given to keep the kiosks properly for consumers to come to collect items . Consumers may also have additional transactions in businesses that act as distributors. Management of shipping orders and distribution of items is between a kiosk management system that orders mixed shipments of items to distributors, distributors that distribute items to individual kiosks, and consumers who collect the items from the kiosk. It can be divided by. As a result, shipping costs charged to consumers can be negligible and shipping costs for kiosk management systems can be reduced while providing incentives for distributors as well. Thus, in embodiments, benefits can be enjoyed by all parties involved (eg, kiosk management systems, distributors, and consumers).

  FIG. 8 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by kiosk 600 of FIG. 6 to process an item order from a consumer. In some embodiments, kiosk 600 may receive a query from kiosk management system 102 at 800 after kiosk management system 102 receives a request for an item from a consumer. The query may include a request for current inventory information associated with the requested item stored at kiosk 600. In response, at 802, kiosk 600 can communicate current inventory information about the requested item to kiosk management system 102. Alternatively, kiosk 600 may send current inventory information about a plurality of items stored at kiosk 600 to kiosk management system 102.

  Next, as shown at 804, the generated code from kiosk management system 102 may be received by kiosk 600. The generated code may be generated by the kiosk management system 102 as described above. When the consumer initiates the collection of the requested item at 806, the kiosk 600 may prompt the consumer to enter the generated code via the consumer interface 612. The kiosk 600 can then receive the entered code at 808. At 810, kiosk 600 can locally authenticate the entered code with the generated code. When the entered code is authenticated, kiosk 600 may be authorized to release the requested item to the consumer, for example via vending component 606. Next, at 812, kiosk 600 can communicate a communication to kiosk management system 102 having the entered code and an indication that the entered code has been authenticated, and kiosk management system 102 is authenticated. Receive an indication that the requested item has been collected using the code. Thus, the kiosk management system 102 can initiate transaction payment processing.

  At 814, kiosk 600 may receive confirmation from kiosk management system 102 that the code has been authenticated and that payment processing has been initiated for the requested item to complete the transaction. Confirmation from the kiosk management system 102 can also include approval from the kiosk management system, for example, to release the requested item to the consumer via the vending component 606. When payment processing is complete, finally at 816, kiosk 600 can release the requested item to the consumer.

  In an embodiment, when a consumer orders multiple items for retrieval from kiosk 600, kiosk 600 can determine an order number associated with the entered code from the consumer, and the vending component It may be programmed to release items of that order number all at once via 606 or grouped together. For example, the kiosk 600 releases a group of three items, then waits for those three items to be removed before releasing additional items, and the item becomes unavailable from the vending component 606 of the kiosk 600; Or can prevent clogging. If the consumer needs help with a clogged item at the kiosk 600 or another functional problem with the kiosk 600, the consumer can either through the consumer interface 612 of the kiosk 600 or via the mobile application 114 described above. , And can communicate with the kiosk management system 102. Alternatively, kiosk 600 and / or kiosk management system 102 can communicate with assigned distributor 108 via, for example, an electronic message and instruct distributors to respond to consumers at kiosk 600. .

  The requested items can be secured and stored at kiosk 600 for a limited period of time, eg, up to 15 business days and 6 weekends. The designated period for pick-up can be determined by the consumer requesting the item, or can be a default period designated by kiosk management system 102 or kiosk 600. The kiosk management system 102 or kiosk 600 can send a reminder notification to the consumer or recipient to retrieve items from the designated kiosk. If the item is not picked up within a specified time period, the reserved item can be made available for other consumers to request and purchase. In some embodiments, a portion of the storage area 608 of the kiosk 600 is an item when one or more of the requested custom items are excluded from items pre-stocked in some of the kiosks. The requested custom item can be returned to the kiosk management system 102, inventory entity 104, external retailer 116, or merchant.

  FIG. 9 shows an exemplary external interface of the kiosk 900 found in the distribution system shown in FIG. The kiosk 900 may have a screen interface 912 for displaying messages to consumers. The screen interface 912 can be a touch screen that can also receive input from the consumer. In other embodiments, the screen interface 912 can only provide output to the consumer, and a separate keypad (not shown) is provided to the consumer to provide input to the kiosk 900. Can be done. The kiosk 900 may further include an item storage unit 904 that stores a plurality of items. The item storage unit 904 can keep vitamins away from sunlight, for example, because they are displayed on a visible glass display but cannot see them to provide security, protection, and integrity of the items. Or, to prevent theft of small electronic devices, the stored items may be opaque so that they are not visible. Item storage unit 904 may be connected to dispensing mechanism 908 by release mechanism 906. For example, release mechanism 906 can be a mechanical arm, hook, or any other suitable device configured to release a particular item from storage unit 904 and transport it to dispensing mechanism 908. The dispensing mechanism is then configured to provide the requested item to the consumer for collection.

  The kiosk 900 may further include a payment interface to accept cash or credit card 910. As an alternative to making a payment, the consumer can log in with pre-registered account information or provide payment information via a screen interface 912. Additionally, a digital advertisement can be displayed at 902. Digital advertising is remotely and immediately manipulated and customized based on various factors such as environmental factors including geographic location, weather and time, and / or trading factors including transaction history, item inventory, etc. obtain.

  In another embodiment, the consumer may wish to specify a recipient who will receive the requested item as a gift. Accordingly, FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary method implemented by the kiosk management system 102 to specify a recipient who receives the item as a gift and to allow the recipient to retrieve the item from the kiosk 110. A flow diagram is shown. At 1000, the consumer can request to purchase an item (eg, a gift) for the recipient. This consumer request may be received by kiosk management system 102 and may indicate that the requested item is retrieved from kiosk 110 by the recipient. Alternatively, the request can be communicated by the consumer via retail website 106 or mobile application 114 operated by retailer 116. The request may be communicated via a communication network in the form of an email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message.

  At 1002, the kiosk management system 102 can request a desired pickup location. The desired pick-up location can be a desired geographical area. The desired pick-up location can be specified by the consumer that originated the request, or alternatively, kiosk management system 102 can communicate the request for the desired pick-up location to the recipient. Thus, the consumer can specify a desired location for the recipient, for example, at the kiosk 110 near the recipient's office. In other embodiments, the recipient receives a communication from the kiosk management system 102 that the gift has been purchased for him and that he can set a desired location for picking up the gift. be able to. This communication is communicated over a communication network in the form of email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message, for example, through a retail website 106, a link, or a mobile application. obtain.

  Next, based on the location received from either the consumer or the recipient, kiosk management system 102 determines a subset of kiosks 110 that are within a predetermined proximity of the location, as shown at 1004. Can do. The kiosk management system identifies kiosks that are within the geographic region that has the item, and then selects one of the identified kiosks that are within the geographic region to the requester (consumer or recipient). Can be requested. The kiosk management system 102 may also determine whether gifts are in stock at a subset of the kiosks 110 that are within a predetermined proximity of the location.

  At 1006, kiosk management system 102 can communicate a list of subsets of kiosks 110 that have gifts within a predetermined proximity of the location to the consumer or recipient. This communication may be communicated via a communication network in the form of email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message, for example, through a retail website, link, or mobile application. . In an embodiment where a consumer submitting a request for a gift specifies a preferred location, a list of kiosk subsets is provided to the consumer for selection of the specified kiosk 110. In embodiments where the recipient specifies a preferred location, a list of kiosk subsets is provided to the recipient for selection of the designated kiosk 110.

  The gift is then secured at 1008 at the kiosk 110 designated by the kiosk management system at 1008 so that it is not recovered from the kiosk by another consumer. Next, at 1010, kiosk management system 102 generates a message that the gift has been secured and is available at designated kiosk 110 for collection by the recipient and communicates to the recipient. This message may be communicated over a communication network in the form of email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message, for example, through a retail website, link, or mobile application .

  At 1010, when the recipient is notified that the requested item will be available, the notification may also include a generated code. The generated code may be generated by kiosk management system 102 and / or retailer 116. The generated code can be an alphanumeric code or a barcode as described above. The generated code may be specific to the transaction, consumer, kiosk, and / or item. In other embodiments, the generated code may be associated with a kiosk, consumer, transaction, and / or item for identification purposes. In other embodiments, kiosk management system 102 includes code generated for communication to the kiosk to secure the requested item at 1008 at the kiosk. This notification may be communicated via the communication network in the form of an email, instant message, text message, SMS, or any other suitable communication or message that is made available to the mobile application 114.

  To begin collecting gifts from the designated kiosk 110, the recipient may be prompted to enter a generated code when the recipient arrives at the designated kiosk. In an embodiment, a gift may be secured for a limited period so that the recipient is required to collect the gift within a certain period of time. This period may be a default period determined by the kiosk management system 102 or the retailer 116. Alternatively, this period can be determined by the consumer issuing the request. Recipient detected via designated kiosk external interface or via Bluetooth®, near field communication (NFC), radio frequency integrated device (RFID), wireless network, or other suitable contactless communication May be prompted via a user interface presented on the recipient's mobile device via a mobile application when within proximity of a designated designated kiosk. To enter the generated code, the recipient can manually enter the code using an external interface of the kiosk such as a keypad or touch screen. In another embodiment, a mobile application operated on the recipient's mobile device can communicate the code to the kiosk, for example, via a Bluetooth® connection or other wireless communication. Once entered, the designated kiosk 110 can communicate with the kiosk management system 102 as shown at 1012 to authenticate the generated code. Once the code is authenticated, the kiosk management system 102 can initiate a payment process for the originating consumer's account information and payment information.

  Once payment has been initiated (or in some embodiments, after the code has been authenticated), the kiosk management system 102 can release the gift for collection by the recipient. In embodiments where the kiosk management system 102 sends a communication to a designated kiosk with the generated code, the designated kiosk was generated when the recipient entered the code into the kiosk to release the gift. The code can be authenticated locally. The transaction is completed when the kiosk management system 102 processes the payment using the consumer's account information and payment information originated and commands the release of the gift from the designated kiosk 110 to the recipient. Collecting a gift may require the recipient to go to a designated kiosk in order for the gift to be released from the kiosk, allowing the recipient to take the gift home. Releasing the gift may include distributing the gift to the recipient or unlocking individual compartments or modules that protect the gift for the recipient.

  FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a consumer to give an item to a recipient. At 1100, a consumer can browse a retail website or mobile application on their mobile device. Available pre-stored items pre-stored at various kiosks, or eligible items delivered to various kiosks can have icons, are eligible, and / or consumer Many kiosks in the zip code indicate that the selected item is already in stock.

  At 1102, the consumer can select an item. In some embodiments, the consumer may be informed that the dollar amount of the selected item does not support shipping it to the consumer's home delivery address. Consumers can be offered to add more items to meet the minimum threshold for shipping directly to home. Alternatively, the consumer may be informed that the kiosk management system can deliver the requested item to the designated kiosk for the consumer to pick up. Shipping suggested to the consumer for pickup at the kiosk can be free (and virtually insignificant for kiosk management systems) or compared to when the consumer ships the item directly to home. It can be significantly reduced.

  Once the consumer has determined the items requested for purchase and delivery methods, the website or mobile application will provide a drop-down menu or list of all kiosks within a given proximity of the location specified by the consumer Can do. At 1104, the consumer can then choose to have the requested item (s) picked up at the kiosk.

  At 1106, the consumer can then be prompted as to whether to pick up the requested item himself or whether the recipient is a gift to pick up. In some embodiments, the generated code is sent to the consumer and / or recipient for use in authenticating the kiosk transaction.

  FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a consumer to retrieve items via a kiosk. In another embodiment where the requested item is a gift to the recipient, referring to FIG. 12, at 1200, the consumer indicates the preferred location to the recipient or allows the recipient to select his preferred location. Can be either to choose. At 1202, a consumer or recipient can receive a list of kiosks that have the requested item in stock within a predetermined proximity of a preferred location specified by either the consumer or recipient, respectively. . The consumer or recipient can then select a different designated kiosk.

  Subsequently, at 1204, the recipient can receive a notification that the gift is available at the designated kiosk and is reserved for the recipient. This notification may include a generated code for the recipient to access and retrieve the gift.

  The consumer can then receive at 1206 a notification or communication that the recipient has begun collecting gifts with an authenticated code. The consumer can receive a confirmation of payment information at 1208 and the requested item is then released to the recipient at 1210 to complete the transaction.

  FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a recipient can initiate gift collection from a kiosk. Screen 1304 may include a message to the recipient indicating the consumer, item, and location, as shown at 1302. This message may further include a QR code 1304 or any other suitable code that can be used by the recipient to initiate gift collection at the kiosk. The QR code or other code may be scanable by the kiosk via any suitable scanning interface, such as an optical device. In another embodiment, the recipient is detected via an external interface of a designated kiosk or by Bluetooth®, near field communication (NFC), wireless network, or other suitable contactless communication. May be prompted via a user interface presented on the recipient's mobile device via the mobile application when in the proximity of the designated kiosk.

  In another embodiment, a consumer can request items that have been excluded from pre-stored items at the nearby kiosk 110 or can request items that are not currently in stock at the nearby kiosk 110. FIG. 14 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary method implemented by a kiosk management system to handle requests for items that have been excluded from items pre-stored in the kiosk. At 1400, kiosk management system 102 can receive a request for an item from a consumer. The subset of kiosks 110 may then be determined 1402 based on the preferred location specified by the consumer. For example, a subset of kiosks 110 may be within a predetermined proximity of a preferred location. The predetermined proximity can be determined by the consumer or is a default value determined by the kiosk management system 102.

  At 1404, a list can be provided to the consumer that identifies a subset of kiosks 110 for selection of the designated kiosk. This list may be displayed to the consumer via a web page or mobile application operated by a kiosk management system or retailer. Alternatively, the list may be provided via a communication network in an email, instant message, text message, SMS, social networking post, or any other suitable communication or message type communication. When the designated kiosk 110 is selected from the list by the consumer, this selection may be communicated to the kiosk management system 102 as shown at 1406. After the kiosk management system 102 receives the selection of the designated kiosk 110, the kiosk management system 102 identifies and monitors the corresponding distributor 108 of the designated kiosk assigned by the kiosk management system 102 at 1408. Can be maintained and delivered to the designated kiosk 110.

  Subsequently, at 1410, the kiosk management system 102 determines the item requested in the mixed shipment with other items that the corresponding distributor distributes to individual kiosks in the subset of kiosks 110 to which the distributor 108 is assigned. The corresponding distributor 108 can be instructed to deliver. The instructions may be provided to the distributor 108 through electronic communication communicated over any suitable communication network, such as email, text, or SMS communicated via a telecommunications network. Alternatively, the individual kiosk instructions and assignments assigned to distributor 108 may be communicated to distributor 108 via postal service or any suitable postal service. The kiosk management system 102 can also call the distributor 108 and provide the instructions verbally over the phone using an automated message or a representative of the kiosk management system 102. The kiosk management system 102 can then instruct the distributor 108 to consolidate shipment of the item, including the requested item. In some embodiments, delivery to the distributor 108 may involve a kiosk management system 102 that instructs the inventory entity 104 to ship the item.

  At 1412, kiosk management system 102 may generate a code for association with the requested item transaction. As described above, the code may be, for example, a randomly generated code, a barcode, or the like. In some embodiments, the code may be generated using a unique identifier for the transaction, requested item, consumer, and / or designated kiosk.

  After code generation, kiosk management system 102 may send a communication to the consumer and / or designated kiosk 110 at 1414. Communication to the designated kiosk 110 may include the generated code. Communication to the consumer may include the generated code as well as communication to the consumer that the requested item has been delivered and prepared / reserved for the consumer to pick up at a designated kiosk. This communication may be in the form of an email, instant message, text message, SMS, social networking post, or any other suitable communication or message over a communication network.

  At 1416, the designated kiosk was generated to the consumer via an external interface (described below) when the consumer began collecting the requested item for the designated kiosk 110. You can be prompted to enter a code. In one embodiment, the kiosk communicates the generated code to the kiosk management system 102 for authentication. In other embodiments, the designated kiosk 110 authenticates the generated code locally at the designated kiosk. When the generated code is authenticated, the kiosk management system 102 can authorize the designated kiosk 110 to release the requested item to the consumer. In yet another embodiment, when the generated code is authenticated (either by kiosk management system 102 or designated kiosk 110), the designated kiosk 100 may receive further instructions from the kiosk management system or It is automatically approved to release the requested item to the consumer without requiring approval.

  Finally, at 1418, the transaction for the requested item is completed when the kiosk management system 102 initiates the payment process for the transaction using the consumer's account information and payment information. In some embodiments, the next designated kiosk releases the requested item to the consumer.

  In accordance with the embodiments described herein, a recipient or other consumer can be reserved for picking up various items at kiosk 110 to reduce shipping costs to the consumer. Reduced operational, inventory, and delivery costs for kiosk management system 102 and / or retailer 116 may also be significantly reduced. Further, kiosk management system 102 and / or retailer 116 may provide a wider selection of items. For example, consumers may not be limited to items that are pre-stored or pre-selected in a specific kiosk at a specific location. Because of the reduced shipping costs compared to the shipping costs when the consumer requests direct delivery to home, the consumer can distribute any item available from the kiosk management system 102 and / or the retailer 116. A merchant can be used to request delivery to a consumer-selected kiosk.

  FIG. 15 shows a flow diagram illustrating an exemplary process followed by a consumer to retrieve items via a kiosk. In an embodiment where the consumer has requested an item for himself, referring to FIG. 15, at 1500, the consumer can indicate a preferred pickup location. The pickup location can be automatically detected to be the consumer's billing or shipping postal code, or the GPS location of the consumer's mobile device can be detected. Alternatively, the consumer can manually specify another location, such as a future location where the consumer will be located.

  Next, at 1502, the consumer can receive a list of kiosks that have the requested item in stock within a predetermined proximity of the preferred location. The consumer can then select the kiosk designated at 1504.

  Subsequently, at 1506, the consumer can receive a notification that the requested item is available and reserved for the consumer at the designated kiosk. This notification may include a generated code for the consumer to access and retrieve the requested item.

  The consumer can then go to the kiosk designated at 1508 and enter the code generated at 1510. When the entered code is authenticated, at 1512 the consumer may receive another notification or communication that the entered code has been approved and that retrieval of the requested item has begun. it can. The consumer can receive a confirmation of payment information at 1514 and then the requested item is released at 1516 to complete the transaction.

  As described herein, in some embodiments, a mobile application operated on a mobile device can be used by a consumer to conduct a transaction for a requested item. For example, any of the steps described in FIGS. 11, 12, and 15 may be performed using a mobile application.

  FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary mobile device through which the recipient can initiate the collection of gifts from the kiosk. Mobile device 1600 can include a processor device 1612 and a non-transitory computer readable medium 1624. The processor device 1612 may be operatively coupled to a number of hardware components. For example, the processor device 1612 can be coupled to an input / output device 1604 (eg, a keyboard) and a display 1606 (eg, an LCD screen) to provide an interface to the consumer. The processor device 1612 may be further coupled to an antenna 1602 or a radio frequency integration device 1608 (RFID) to communicate with and receive data from a network. Mobile device 1600 may be configured to connect to the Internet, Wi-Fi, or other telecommunication network (s). The mobile device may be further configured to connect via Bluetooth®. A global positioning system (GPS) module 1610 may be present to determine the location of the mobile device.

  The processor device 1612 may further be coupled to a data store 1610 that stores information about mobile devices and / or consumers. For example, a mobile device identification number (eg IMEI) or a mobile device identifier (eg telephone number). Additionally, computer readable media 1624 may include a number of software modules that include code executable by a processor device to perform one or any of the functions described above. For example, computer readable medium 1624 may include an operating system module 1616, a location engine 1618, a mobile application engine 1620, and a communication engine 1622. Location engine 1618 may communicate with GPS module 1610 to determine and communicate the location of the mobile device. The mobile application engine 1620 can operate the mobile application on an operating system maintained by the operating system module 1616 to perform at least the functions described in FIGS. Mobile device 1600 may be configured to communicate and receive messages, communications, and data using communication engine 1622.

  FIG. 17 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can select a kiosk to retrieve items according to at least an embodiment. For example, a consumer can launch a mobile application on his mobile device (eg, mobile phone, tablet) or view a network site operated by a kiosk management system showing screenshot 1700. The consumer can view the website from a laptop computer, mobile device, or any other computing device that can connect to the Internet through a wired or wireless connection. As shown in FIG. 17, the consumer may be prompted with a search box 1702. The consumer can enter keywords, specific items, categories, types, prices, identification numbers, etc. into search box 1702. For example, as shown in FIG. 17, in the search box 1702, the consumer can search for “tablets less than $ 100”. Examples of other search queries include “Organic Dog Food”, “Gift Under 25”, “ISBN 123456789”, “Apparel Brand XYZ in San Francisco”, or Price, Category, Product Information, Identifier, Location, etc. It can be any other suitable search query with any number of restrictions or limitations based on consumer preferences that are not so limited.

  In an embodiment, the consumer's location may be detected automatically. For example, on a mobile device such as a mobile smartphone, the location of a consumer on the street can be determined using GPS. In another example, the IP address or other location specific information may be determined from the computer that the consumer is using to access the network site. When the consumer's location is determined, a list of related items based on the search query and a list of locations closest to the kiosk 1710 may be provided to the consumer at 1704. The list of related items may include item names and prices, or any other related information. In some embodiments, a consumer can click on an item to obtain more item information such as reviews and detailed descriptions. The list of kiosks 1710 closest to the consumer's location can include distances from the consumer 1708, and the list can be organized by distance. For example, as shown in list 1710 organized by distance 1708, the closest kiosk is 0.5 miles away and may be listed first, and further kiosks that are 5 miles away may be listed last. The

  Each kiosk may have an option for the consumer to secure items at a designated kiosk, as shown at 1706. The consumer clicks using the mouse or through a link or button that the user selects using their finger on the touch screen, or to select an option that the consumer reserves at 1706 The item can be selected to be secured through any other suitable method. The reservation option 1706 may further provide the consumer with other details such as, for example, which related items are available at the kiosk, and associated reservation fees. For example, a consumer may want to go to the nearest kiosk, kiosk A, 0.5 miles away from the consumer's location. The consumer can select kiosk A and see which tablet versions shown in results item list 1704 are available at kiosk A. The consumer may have the option of securing a $ 75.99 table model 200 at kiosk A with a $ 5 securing fee. If the consumer wants a lower securement cost, the consumer can select another kiosk, for example kiosk B 1 mile away, to see if the tablet model 200 is available and secure $ 3 Just pay for it. Alternatively, the consumer can select another related item, such as a $ 99.99 Tablet Deluxe, and only pay $ 2 at Kiosk C five miles away. Thus, the consumer is given flexibility in choosing which related items to purchase, where to purchase and pick up, and the total amount (including securing costs). In other embodiments, there may be no securing costs. The securing cost may be determined based on location, transaction information (eg, item price), consumer convenience, location, and / or any other variable. In another embodiment, the same item may have prices that vary at different kiosks and locations.

  FIG. 18 is presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can choose to hold an item without purchasing it at a kiosk for a predetermined period of time, according to at least an embodiment. 2 illustrates an example user interface of a mobile application. After the consumer selects an item, such as a $ 75.99 table model 200, at kiosk B one mile away, the consumer is provided with screenshot 1800 on the mobile application or a similar web page on the network site. obtain. The consumer may be presented with a “log in to secure and purchase” 1802 option, or simply an option to keep the item for a predetermined period of time, eg, a “hold for 4 hours” 1804 option. When the consumer selects “hold for 4 hours” 1804, the item can be held for that consumer for a predetermined period of time, when the time frame has passed, the item is no longer reserved, and another It can be purchased or secured by the consumer. For example, a $ 75.99 tablet model 200 may be reserved until the consumer starts collecting the tablet model 200 within 4 hours without processing any payment information or initiating any payment process. However, if the consumer does not start collecting the tablet model 200 within 4 hours, another consumer can secure and purchase it.

  When the consumer selects “Login to secure and purchase” 1802, the screenshot 1900 of FIG. 19 may be provided to the consumer. FIG. 19 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can select a purchase option. There may be multiple options for the consumer to purchase the requested item and initiate payment. One option may be “Login with Existing Account” 1902. For example, as described above, the consumer may be pre-registered with a kiosk management system and / or retailer that provides the requested item. The consumer can select 1902 and log in with his pre-registered account information, stored information associated with the consumer's registration, eg, stored credit card, billing address Etc. to start the payment process. If the consumer is not pre-registered and does not have an existing account at the kiosk management system and / or retailer, “Create New Account” 1904 can also be selected. When “Create New Account” 1904 is selected, the consumer may be prompted to provide various account and payment information stored at the kiosk management system and / or retailer. Another option may be a purchase with a guest account and “Buy Without Account” 1906. The consumer may be prompted to provide unsaved payment information for future transactions. Another option offered to the consumer may be “pending” 1908, where the consumer is prompted to provide payment information, but the item is secured without processing the payment information until collection is initiated And then the payment process begins when the consumer goes to the kiosk and begins collecting the requested item.

  FIG. 20 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can indicate that he is at a kiosk to retrieve items. As shown in FIG. 11, after the requested item has been purchased or after the item has been put on hold, the consumer can proceed to a designated kiosk. The example screenshot 2000 may be provided to the consumer on his device when he begins collecting the requested item at the kiosk. Screenshot 2000 may show an order number 2002, a location 2004, and an order status 2006 including the requested item and related item information 2008. When the consumer is at the kiosk, the consumer can click “at the kiosk” 2010 and the code may be displayed in a mobile application on a mobile device (not shown). The code may be a quick response (QR) code, or any other matrix or 2D barcode, 1D barcode, alphanumeric code, or any other suitable code. The code can be scanned by the kiosk or manually entered by the consumer into the screen interface or keypad on the kiosk. The order status 2006 may then be replaced by “pending” to “preparation for pickup” or “pickup at 7:30 PM on July 8, 2013”. Order status 2006 may be updated in real time. For example, if the requested item needs to be delivered to a designated kiosk, the status may indicate “Migrating” before changing to “Ready for Pickup”.

  FIG. 21 illustrates an exemplary user interface of a mobile application presented on a mobile device through which a consumer can search for kiosks. In some examples, a consumer may not have a particular item or other search query associated with that item. In an embodiment, a consumer can search for kiosks based on location. Screenshot 2100 shows an exemplary method in which a consumer initially requests an item based on location. As shown in FIG. 21, in screenshot 2102, the consumer may want to find the closest kiosk. For example, a consumer is planning to visit an aunt in another town where the consumer is not so familiar, but wants to purchase a gift for her. The consumer can enter an address, postal code, or city, for example, the address or city of his aunt. Alternatively, if on a mobile device, the consumer can select “use current location” 2106 to automatically detect his GPS location. Next, at 2110, the nearest kiosk may be displayed.

  Subsequently, screenshot 2104 may be displayed when the consumer selects the resulting closest kiosk (123 Main St. in this example). Screenshot 2104 may show kiosk 2112 designated by displaying an address in this example. In another embodiment, a kiosk identifier or location (eg, a Powell St. BART station kiosk) may be displayed. A list of top items sold or requested at the kiosk may be listed at 2116. In list 2116, the consumer can further provide a search query in search box 2114. Item list 2116 includes the top 50 or 100 items ranked by popularity, and may include the amount of each item stored in the kiosk shown at 2112. Other information such as price may be displayed. In addition, the consumer can select an item to view additional details such as reviews, images, and / or item descriptions.

  Next, FIG. 22 illustrates an exemplary user interface presented to the kiosk through which a consumer can scan or enter a code to initiate item retrieval from the kiosk. After the consumer selects an item from list 2116, the consumer can receive a QR code or generated code and approach the kiosk shown at 2112. The kiosk may display “Scan QR Code” 2210 on the screen interface. In another embodiment, for example, if the generated code is a sequence of alphanumeric characters, the consumer may be prompted by the kiosk to “enter code” 2212. The kiosk may be configured to scan other one-dimensional and two-dimensional barcodes, or other suitable barcodes or images. The kiosk can then provide the consumer with the option to “select and buy now” 2214, and subsequently release and distribute the requested item (s) to the consumer. Alternatively, if the consumer selects 2216 to search again, a “search box” 2218 may be provided to provide a search query for items at a designated kiosk or other kiosk with which the consumer interacts. Alternatively, the consumer may be directed to screenshot 2104 in FIG. 21, but displayed on the kiosk screen interface.

  As described herein in this disclosure, a number of advantages and benefits are achieved by having a kiosk deliver an item that a consumer or recipient has requested to pick up. For example, kiosk management systems and / or retailers may charge lower shipping costs to consumers due to consolidated shipping to a kiosk network involving a network of distributors. Thus, the consumer can obtain a lower total selling price for the item because the retailer or kiosk management system does not have to operate or pay for individual shipments to home. Accordingly, the kiosk management system described herein provides an efficient, cost-reducing, convenient, and streamlined distribution of various items to a large number of consumers.

  In current electronic transactions, many network retailers may offer free shipping if a consumer purchases a special item or if the total purchase amount exceeds a minimum threshold. For example, consumers can be offered free shipping only for promotional items (eg, free shipping for all shoe purchases of a particular brand), or consumers have all orders over $ 25 In case you can receive free shipping. However, in this disclosure, the consumer can request a single item and may not exceed the minimum threshold for shipping or automatic shipping, but the item is delivered individually to the consumer's home. Instead of paying the full shipping cost, a reduced shipping cost can be received by choosing to deliver the item requested to be picked up to a designated kiosk.

  In accordance with embodiments described herein, end users (eg, consumers, recipients) are available to pick up various items at customized designated locations to reduce shipping costs to consumers You can get into that. Reduced operational, inventory, and delivery costs for kiosk management systems and / or external retailers can also be significantly reduced. Further, kiosk management systems and / or external retailers can present a wider selection of items. For example, the consumer may not be limited to pre-stored items that are determined for a particular kiosk at a particular location based on transaction data analysis. Because of the reduced shipping costs compared to having the consumer deliver the requested item directly to their home, the consumer can use the distributor to be delivered to the designated kiosk selected by the consumer. Items can be requested.

  Further, additional benefits to consumers include leveraged partnerships between the kiosk management system and other entities where the kiosk can be located and maintained. For example, promotions such as coupons and discounts may be provided to businesses where kiosks are located to incentivize consumers to select kiosks that are in those businesses. In addition, businesses are given incentives to host and maintain kiosks to kiosk management systems because they can increase the consumer flow to the business and the potential trades it offers.

  Kiosk management systems maintain sustainable business with consumer convenience and benefits to make shipping multiple items more beneficial to kiosk management systems and / or retailers while keeping shipping costs to consumers low Provide a model. Thus, a wide range of items can be delivered to consumers, sellers / retailers, and any consumer that is within reasonable parameters of the kiosk management system through the use of distributors.

  In a simplified embodiment, distributors can be assigned to 100 store kiosks in designated geographic locations. Distributors may be responsible for delivery of pre-stored items such as daily vitamin packets to 100 kiosks. Providing individual vitamin packets to 100 kiosks in the local area, or delivering hundreds of vitamin packets to multiple individual consumers who may or may not be in the same local area This is very expensive for kiosk management systems or vitamin providers. Thus, a kiosk management system or vitamin provider can deliver a mixed shipment of hundreds of vitamin packets to a distributor. Distributors can divide shipments into appropriate quantities for each of the 100 store kiosks that the distributor is assigned to maintain. For example, a kiosk located in a congested area (eg, a central city in a business crowded area) may be stocked with more vitamin packets than a kiosk in a more remote area (eg, a suburban residential area).

  Shipping because kiosk management systems or retailers (eg, vitamin suppliers) cannot deliver profitably to individual consumers' entire homes or 100 individual kiosks with variable inventory The whole is linked to the distributor. In that way, the distributor delivers the requested item to the “last mile”.

  In some embodiments, if the requested item is included in a pre-stored item that is typically available at a portion of the kiosks in the plurality of networked kiosks, the kiosk management system may It provides convenient 24-hour simultaneous “on-the-spot” item purchases and can guarantee item pickup of millions of items at a lower price in a customized location convenient to consumers.

  In an alternative embodiment, an external retailer or merchant can provide items that are distributed by the kiosk management system. Merchants and retailers can provide a variety of items, including very low cost items that are delivered to consumers over a wide range of locations without increasing delivery and shipping costs. And retailers also benefit from the use of multiple networked kiosks and distributors.

  The kiosk management system, in conjunction with its merchant, provides a number of items, including low-priced items that are usually too expensive to ship directly to the consumer's home. The consumer can order one low-priced item or a number of eligible pre-stored items and have it sent to a designated kiosk. The kiosk management system can manage multiple networked kiosks, including, for example, 20,000 store kiosks over an extended geographic location. Delivery of the requested item may be free to the consumer when the requested item is picked up at the consumer-specified kiosk. The kiosk management system scales this infrastructure as mixed shipments of items are delivered to individual distributors operating in a specific region and maintaining / managing multiple kiosks managed by the kiosk management system And can reduce the price of millions of items.

  The benefits assessed and achieved by kiosks of a plurality of networked kiosks for consumers are available to consumers, pre-stored, and immediate according to at least one embodiment. Contains at least a variety and many items. A kiosk can be configured to hold hundreds of items of a particular size and weight. In addition, sharing shipping costs between consumers and kiosk management systems and / or retailers through a network of distributor networks that provide daily delivery to individual kiosks and receive delivery in a consolidated manner This saves shipping costs to the consumer and thus lowers the requested item price. The kiosk also provides “on-the-spot” and on-demand high turnover items in the available space within the kiosk storage area.

  In additional embodiments, the kiosk may also provide suggestions and recommendations for these “on-the-spot” items for consumers to purchase additionally while retrieving the original requested items at the kiosk. Can do. The kiosk allows the consumer to have 24-hour access to the requested item and secure access to other items pre-stored in the kiosk. By having the kiosk initiate a kiosk management system and direct payment processing, convenience for the consumer is also achieved, where an existing pre-registered consumer account can be used. Some embodiments may require a mobile device, and a consumer can conduct a transaction requesting an item at a kiosk utilizing a mobile application operated on the mobile device. In other embodiments, the request for the requested item may be made over the Internet on a laptop, desktop computer, or other device that can connect to the Internet. The consumer's existing account may be accessed by the mobile device or on a desktop or laptop computing device, or any suitable device.

  From the consumer's mobile device, the consumer can view and browse the item in a mobile application operated on the mobile device, and search all kiosks to find the requested item. For example, at 2 am when all pharmacies are closed, consumers can request medication for babies, razors at 9 pm when consumers arrive in a new city for business meetings, or mandatory items You can request a new tablet model on Christmas morning. Convenient kiosk locations can be in retail shopping centers, bank parking lots, and gas stations, where consumers are already frequently visited. In addition, since shipping to and from the kiosk has little cost to the kiosk management system and / or retailer / seller, consumers can essentially deliver free delivery of the requested item (s). receive.

  Additional features presented by the kiosk management system include an option that requires the consumer to deliver the item to the recipient as a gift in real time to another kiosk in another location. The recipient or consumer can immediately order and pick up the requested item at the designated kiosk.

  Additionally, consumers who are not registered with the kiosk management system or the retailer they provide can conduct transactions. Thus, the consumer need not be registered in advance. As such, a consumer without a pre-registered account, a consumer from another country, or a consumer without current access to a credit card designated an item via the Internet or a mobile application You can request from the kiosk and pay for the requested item in cash during pickup at the kiosk. The kiosk can be configured to accept cash payment for the requested item and email the receipt to the consumer. In an embodiment, a kiosk may be co-located at a bank and an ATM machine may be installed near the kiosk to make cash payments for requested items convenient for the consumer.

  In another embodiment, the kiosk can co-promote with another business at that location. For example, if the consumer selects a kiosk outside the coffee shop, the kiosk management system can co-promote with the coffee shop and present a promotion at that kiosk, between 2pm and 6pm Can issue an e-mail or print a $ 2.00 discount coupon for a drink ordered at the coffee shop when the consumer picks up the requested item.

  Additionally, in another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, the kiosk can provide digital advertisements (eg, lighting advertisements 902) and can be remotely operated and customized by the kiosk management system. The advertisement may be customized based on the location of the kiosk, the current inventory of the item, and / or the transaction history, and an analysis of the best selling item at the specified kiosk. For example, if a particular item, such as an umbrella, is out of stock, the kiosk can manipulate the advertisement to become a secondary replacement item, such as a poncho. In another example, a kiosk located in a sports stadium may display more advertisements related to sports equipment, local bars / restaurants, and the like. In other embodiments, advertisements can be customized remotely and immediately based on environmental factors such as geographic location, weather, and time. For example, a published new book advertisement may be shown during a holiday, such as Christmas, for a popular gift.

  In another embodiment, wireless (eg, Wi-Fi) service may be provided at the kiosk so that consumers can pay to access the Wi-Fi hotspot at the kiosk. Free or low-cost Wi-Fi services can be provided to consumers making purchases through kiosks. Consumers can pay for Wi-Fi service from a kiosk (monthly or once) and access the internet in their car nearby, for example in a parking lot at the kiosk location.

  The kiosk benefits in a kiosk management system according to at least one embodiment include the ability to distribute and provide various items at low cost and additionally accept cash payments. Low shipping costs can be achieved with a kiosk management system that provides efficient consolidated shipments to distributors who can deliver individual items to individual multiple kiosks.

  Increased sales especially for low-cost items that cannot be profitably sold when shipped directly directly to the consumer's home due to the high shipping and operating costs associated with individual shipments of low-priced items Can do. Thus, low-cost items can be distributed by kiosks and sold in a manner that is safe to consumers. More shipping savings are valued for high cost items. Thus, the embodiments and the benefits achieved by the embodiments can be extended and evaluated for the distribution of both low cost and high cost items.

  Furthermore, individual kiosks can be quickly installed and removed. Unlike kiosks, large land for construction, and real store locations that require human intervention / operation, they can operate autonomously without constant human monitoring, thus providing more remote geography. It can be installed in a typical place. Alternatively, kiosks can be installed in locations that can provide convenient access to consumers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, while store locations (eg, real retail locations) are limited by business hours Is done. Thus, the kiosk infrastructure can be updated and modified quickly and inexpensively to distribute multiple items autonomously to consumers. Kiosk can be conveniently installed with various businesses, for example, creating partnerships with gas stations, coffee shops, convenience stores, and banks to provide consumers with additional services, discounts, and convenience . The kiosk management system can partner with a large gas company to give a few cents discount per gallon of gasoline when consumers use the kiosk. Businesses hosting kiosks can also benefit from increased business and consumer visits to recover items from kiosks. In some embodiments, the merchant (eg, business) and kiosk management system can have a symbiotic relationship, while the merchant can function as a distributor for storage at the kiosk. The kiosk management system provides stores with increased traffic and business.

  Other applications of the kiosk management system are expanded and can be applied to any suitable item such as prescription drugs and health / beauty products. An independent pharmacy shopkeeper can operate as a distributor and / or host a kiosk and use the kiosk as a 24-hour pick-up location for consumers to access products such as Tylenol bottles, hair gels, brushes and the like. Immediate access and pickup at the kiosk is faster than mail order and can be local to the consumer's area. In an embodiment, the consumer can provide his / her prescription to the kiosk management system and / or medication provider, thus providing the consumer's prescription.

  FIG. 23 illustrates aspects of an example environment for implementing aspects in accordance with various embodiments. Of course, a network-based environment is used for illustrative purposes, but different environments may be used to implement various embodiments, if desired. The environment includes an electronic client device 2302 and may include any suitable device operable to send and receive requests, messages, or information over an appropriate network 2304 and return information to the user of the device. Examples of such client devices include personal computers, cell phones, handheld messaging devices, laptop computers, set top boxes, personal data assistants, electronic book readers, and the like. The network may include any suitable network, including an intranet, the Internet, a cellular network, a local area network, or any other such network or combination thereof. The components used in such a system may depend at least in part on the type of network and / or environment selected. Protocols and components for communicating over such networks are well known and will not be discussed in detail herein. Communication over the network may be enabled by wired or wireless connections and combinations thereof. In this example, the environment includes a network server 2306 for receiving requests and providing content in response, so the network includes the Internet, but in the case of other networks, an alternative that serves a similar purpose. The device can be used as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  The illustrative environment includes at least one application server 2308 and a data store 2310. There can be several application servers, tiers, or other elements, processes, or components that can be chained or otherwise configured, and they interact to retrieve data from the appropriate data store. It should be understood that tasks such as obtaining can be performed. As used herein, the term “data store” refers to any device or combination of devices capable of storing, accessing, and retrieving data, and any combination and number of data servers, data stores. , Data storage devices, and data storage media may be included in any standard, distributed, or clustered environment. The application server may include any suitable hardware and software to integrate with the data store required to execute one or more application aspects of the client device, and to provide application data access and business logic. Deal with the majority of. The application server provides access control services in conjunction with the data store and can generate content such as text, graphics, audio, and / or video that is forwarded to the user, in this embodiment hypertext markup It may be provided to the user by the network server in the form of a language (“HTML”), an extensible markup language (“XML”), or another suitable structured language. The handling of all requests and responses and the delivery of content between client device 2302 and application server 2308 may be handled by a network server. The structured code discussed herein can be executed on any suitable device or host machine as discussed elsewhere herein, so no network and application server is required, just an example It should be understood that this is a component.

  Data store 2310 may include a number of separate data tables, data stores, or other data storage mechanisms and media to store data related to a particular aspect. For example, the illustrated data store can include a mechanism for storing product data 2312 and user information 2316, which can be used to provide content to the producer. The data store is also shown to include a mechanism for storing log data 2314 that may be used for reporting, analysis, or other such purposes. There may be many other aspects that may be stored in the data store for page image information, for example, and may need to access the correct information, as needed, in any of the mechanisms described above, or in the data store 2310 It should be understood that additional mechanisms can be stored. Data store 2310 is operable through the logic associated therewith, receiving instructions from application server 2308 and obtaining, updating or processing data in response thereto. In one embodiment, a user may submit a search request for a particular type of item. In this case, the data store can access the user information to authenticate the user's identity and access the catalog details information to obtain information about that type of item. This information can then be returned to the user, for example in the results listed on a network page that the user can view on the user device 2302 via a browser. Information about the specific item of interest can be viewed on a dedicated page or window of the browser.

  Each server typically includes an operating system that provides executable program instructions for the general management and operation of the server and typically allows the server to perform its intended functions when executed by the server's processor device. Computer readable storage media (eg, hard disk, random access memory, read only memory, etc.) that store instructions. Suitable implementations for the server operating system and general functionality are known or commercially available and are readily implemented by those skilled in the art, especially in light of the disclosure herein.

  The environment in one embodiment is a distributed computing environment that utilizes several computer systems and components that are interconnected via communication links using one or more computer networks or direct connections. However, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that such a system may work equally well in a system having fewer or more components than shown in FIG. Accordingly, the depiction of the system 2300 of FIG. 23 is exemplary in nature and should not be viewed as limiting the scope of the present disclosure.

  Various embodiments can also be implemented in various operating environments and, in some cases, one or more user computers, computing devices that can be used to operate any of a number of applications. Or a processing device. Users or client devices can run many general-purpose personal computers, such as desktop or laptop computers running standard operating systems, as well as mobile software, portable, wireless, and handhelds that can support multiple networking and messaging protocols Any of the devices may be included. Such a system may also include a number of workstations running any of a variety of commercially available operating systems and other known applications for purposes such as development and data store management. These devices may also include other electronic devices such as dummy terminals, thin clients, gaming systems, and other devices that can communicate over a network.

  Most embodiments include: Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (“TCP / IP”), Open System Connection (“OSI”), File Transmission Protocol (“FTP”), Universal Plug and Play (“UpnP”), Familiar to those skilled in the art to support communication using any of a variety of commercially available protocols such as Network File System (“NFS”), Internet File Sharing System (“CIFS”), and AppleTalk. Use at least one network. The network can be, for example, a local area network, a wide area network, a virtual private network, the Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a public switched telephone network, an infrared network, a wireless network, and combinations thereof.

  In embodiments utilizing a network server, the network server may be a hypertext transfer protocol (“HTTP”) server, an FTP server, a common gateway interface (“CGI”) server, a data server, a Java® server, and a business application. Any of a variety of servers or mid-tier applications can be executed, including servers. The server (s) can send a response request from the user device such as Java, C, C #, or C ++, or any scripting language such as Perl, Python, or TCL, and combinations thereof. A program or script can also be executed by executing one or more network applications, which can be implemented as one or more scripts or programs written in any programming language. Server (s) may also include data store servers, including without limitation, those commercially available from Oracle®, Microsoft®, Sybase®, and IBM®. it can.

  The environment may include various data stores and other memories and storage media as described above. These may reside in various locations, such as on a storage medium that is local to (and / or within) one or more of the computers or remote from any or all of the computers in the entire network. it can. In a particular set of embodiments, the information can reside in a storage area network (“SAN”) familiar to those skilled in the art. Similarly, any required files for performing functions belonging to a computer, server, or other network device may be stored locally and / or remotely as needed. Where the system includes computerized devices, each such device can include hardware elements that can be electronically coupled via a bus, such as, for example, at least one central processing unit ("" CPU "), at least one input device (eg, mouse, keyboard, controller, touch screen, or keypad), and at least one output device (eg, display device, printer, or speaker). Such systems include one or more storage devices such as disk drives, optical storage devices, and solid state storage devices such as random access memory (“RAM”) or read only memory (“ROM”), and removable media devices, Memory cards, flash cards, etc. can also be included.

  Such devices can also include computer readable storage media readers, communication devices (eg, modems, network cards (wireless or wired), infrared communication devices, etc.), and working memory as described above. Computer-readable storage media readers are typified by remote, local, fixed, and / or removable storage devices and storage media that contain, store, communicate, and retrieve computer-readable information temporarily and / or more permanently. The computer-readable storage medium can be connected to or configured to receive. The system and various devices also typically include a number of software applications, modules, services, or other elements located within at least one working memory device, including operating systems and application programs such as client applications or network browsers. It should be understood that alternative embodiments may have many variations from those described above. For example, customized hardware may be used and / or certain elements may be implemented in hardware, software (including mobile software such as applets), or both. In addition, connections to other computing devices such as network input / output devices may be used.

  Storage media and computer readable media for containing code or portions of code may include any suitable media known or used in the art, including but not limited to computer readable instructions. Storage media and communications such as volatile and non-volatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any manner or technique for storing and / or transmitting information such as data structures, program modules, or other data Including media, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable programmable read only memory ("EEPROM"), flash memory or other memory technology, compact disk read only memory ("CD-ROM"), digital versatile disk (DVD) or Other optical memory, magnetic cassette, magnetic -Loop, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices or it can to be used to store the desired information, or any other medium that can be accessed by system devices. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize other means and / or methods for implementing various embodiments. The computer-implemented method aspects described herein may be implemented by a computer program product that includes instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, perform the method. The computer program product may comprise a non-tangible storage medium that carries instructions.

  Various illustrative logic blocks and modules described in connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be used in machines such as general purpose processor devices, digital signal processors (DSPs), application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), fields, and the like. Programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designed to perform the functions described herein Can be implemented or implemented. A general purpose processor device may be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor device may be a controller, microcontroller, or state machine, combinations thereof, or the like. The processor device may include an electrical circuit configured to process computer-executable instructions. In another embodiment, the processor device includes an FPGA or other programmable device that performs logical operations without processing computer-executable instructions. The processor device may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices, eg, a DSP and microprocessor combination, multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSP core, or any other such configuration. . Although primarily described herein with respect to digital technology, a processor device may also include primarily analog components. For example, some or all of the signal processing algorithms described herein may be implemented in analog circuits or mixed analog and digital circuits. A computing environment is any type of computer, including but not limited to a microprocessor-based computer system, a mainframe computer, a digital signal processor, a mobile computing device, a device controller, or a computing engine in an appliance. A system can be included.

  The specification and drawings are accordingly to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. However, it will be apparent that various modifications and changes can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the broader disclosure as set forth in the following claims and appendices.

  Other variations are within the spirit of the present disclosure. Thus, although the disclosed techniques are susceptible to various modifications and alternative configurations, certain specific exemplary embodiments thereof are illustrated in the drawings and described in detail above. It should be understood, however, that the intention is not to limit the disclosure to the particular form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, as defined in the appended claims, It is intended to cover all modifications, alternative configurations, and equivalents included within the scope.

  The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar directives in the context of describing the disclosed embodiments (particularly in the context of the following claims) is specifically indicated herein. It should be interpreted as covering both the singular and the plural unless otherwise specified by context. The terms “comprising”, “having”, “including” and “containing” are open-ended terms (ie, including “ Meaning “but not limited to”). The term “connected” shall be construed as being contained, attached or joined together, partially or wholly, even if there are any interventions. The recitation of value ranges herein is intended to be merely a simple way to individually reference each distinct value included within that range, unless otherwise indicated herein. The values of are incorporated into the specification as if they were individually listed herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. Use of any and all examples or exemplary language provided herein (eg, “etc.”) is intended only to better elucidate the disclosed embodiments and, unless otherwise claimed, It does not impose limitations on the scope of disclosure. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the disclosure.

  Preferred embodiments of this disclosure are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the disclosure. Variations on those preferred embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors anticipate that skilled artisans will use such variations as necessary, and that the inventors have implemented the present disclosure in ways other than those specifically described herein. Intended to be. Accordingly, this disclosure includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto and listed in the appendices set forth below as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the disclosure unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

  All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents cited herein, are individually and specifically indicated that each reference is incorporated by reference and is hereby incorporated in its entirety. To the same extent as is incorporated herein by reference.

Appendix 1. A computer-implemented method for trading an item stored between a plurality of kiosks pre-stocked with a plurality of items available for purchase using a portable device comprising:
Generating a request and transacting the requested item on the consumer's mobile device;
Communicating the request including the requested item from the portable device to a kiosk management system;
Receiving information identifying a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined proximity of a location at the portable device, wherein the requested item is pre-stocked in the subset of kiosks; Receiving in the plurality of items to be received;
Obtaining from the consumer a selection of kiosks designated from the subset of kiosks at the portable device;
Communicating the selection of the designated kiosk from the portable device to the kiosk management system to secure the requested item at the designated kiosk;
Receiving a code specific to the transaction of the requested item at the portable device, the code indicating that the requested item is secured at the designated kiosk;
Using the portable device and providing the code to the designated kiosk to initiate retrieval of the requested item;
On the portable device, confirmation indicating that the transaction has been completed after the code has been authenticated, that the payment process for the transaction has been completed, and that the requested item has been retrieved from the designated kiosk. Receiving the computer-implemented method.
Appendix 2. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the requested item is secured at the designated kiosk for a predetermined period of time.
Appendix 3. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein at least one of the location or the predetermined proximity is determined by a consumer.
Appendix 4. The computer-implemented method of claim 1, wherein the location is automatically determined by the consumer's portable device.
Appendix 5. A method implemented by the computer, wherein the consumer is a first consumer,
Generating a request to identify the requested item and a second consumer to retrieve the requested item at the portable device of the first consumer;
The computer of claim 1, further comprising: at the portable device of the first consumer, receiving a confirmation that the requested item has been communicated to the second consumer. Method.
Appendix 6.
6. The appendix 5 of claim 5, further comprising receiving a confirmation at the portable device of the first consumer that the requested item has been retrieved from the designated kiosk by the second consumer. A method implemented by the computer.
Appendix 7. A computer-implemented method comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions,
Receiving from the kiosk management system a code specific to an order for an item ordered by a consumer, wherein the code is secured at a kiosk selected from a plurality of kiosks by the consumer The item is reserved from a plurality of items selected for storage at the designated kiosk before the order for the item is placed, and the items are assigned to the kiosk Receiving, being distributed to the kiosk by a distributor
Providing the code to the designated kiosk via wireless communication and initiating collection of the item from the designated kiosk;
When the provided code is authenticated and the item is retrieved from the designated kiosk,
Receiving a confirmation from the at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk that the order for the item has been completed.
Appendix 8. at least,
Communicating at least one of account information or payment information to at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk;
Receiving a confirmation that the payment information is complete from at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk using at least one of the account information or payment information; The computer-implemented method according to claim 7, further comprising:
Appendix 9
If the one or more requested items are included in the plurality of items currently provided by the plurality of kiosks;
Receiving information about a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined proximity of a location, wherein the subset of kiosks is at least one of the one or more requested items Currently receiving, receiving,
Selecting the designated kiosk from the subset;
Communicating the selection of the designated kiosk to the kiosk management system to further secure the at least one of the one or more requested items at the designated kiosk. A method implemented by the computer according to appendix 7.
Appendix 10. If the one or more requested items are excluded from the plurality of items provided by the plurality of kiosks;
Receiving information about a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined proximity of a location;
Communicating the selection of the designated kiosk from the subset to the kiosk management system to secure the at least one of the one or more requested items at the designated kiosk;
Receiving the notification when the one or more requested items are available and secured at the designated kiosk for retrieval by the computer of claim 7. The way that is realized.
Appendix 11. Indicating that the one or more requested items are delivered to the designated kiosk prior to receiving the notification when the one or more requested items become available; The computer-implemented method of claim 10, further comprising receiving a delivery message that includes an estimated delivery time.
Appendix 12. The computer-implemented method of claim 7, wherein the order for the item is placed at a retail network site.
Appendix 13. A portable device used by a consumer,
A processor device;
Display,
An interface configured to communicate with at least the consumer;
A communication unit configured to communicate via a communication network with a kiosk management system that operates at least a plurality of kiosks;
A non-transitory computer readable medium containing code executable by the processor, wherein the processor device is in communication with the display, the communication unit, and the interface, at least,
Generating a request to trade the requested item;
Communicating the request including the requested item to the kiosk management system;
If the requested item is excluded from the plurality of items currently provided by the plurality of kiosks, at least;
Receiving information from the kiosk management system about a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined proximity of a location;
Communicating the selection of the designated kiosk from the subset to the kiosk management system to request the at least one delivery of the one or more requested items at the designated kiosk; ,
Receiving a delivery message from the kiosk management system that includes an estimated delivery time indicating that the one or more requested items are to be delivered to the designated kiosk. A non-transitory computer readable medium.
Appendix 14. The method comprises
Receiving a notification from the kiosk management system when the one or more requested items are now available and secured at the designated kiosk for retrieval;
Receiving a code unique to the transaction from the kiosk management system, wherein the code is secured at least one of the one or more requested items at a designated kiosk; Indicating, receiving,
Receiving the transaction confirmation indicating that the transaction is complete after the code has been authenticated and the one or more requested items have been retrieved from the designated kiosk. The portable device according to claim 13.
Appendix 15. If the method includes the one or more requested items included in the plurality of items currently provided by the plurality of kiosks, at least:
Receiving from the kiosk management system a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined proximity of a location, wherein the subset of kiosks is the one or more of the requested items Receiving, currently providing at least one of
Communicating the selection of the designated kiosk from the subset to the kiosk management system to secure the at least one of the one or more requested items at the designated kiosk; The portable device according to claim 13, further comprising:
Appendix 16. The method is at least
14. The portable device of claim 13, further comprising interacting with the designated kiosk to provide the code, wherein the interaction is a wireless interaction.
Appendix 17. The method is at least
The portable device according to claim 13, further comprising displaying the code on the display.
Appendix 18. The method is at least
Providing at least account information or payment information to at least one of the kiosk management system and the designated kiosk;
The portable device of claim 13, further comprising: receiving a payment confirmation when the account information or payment information is authenticated.
Appendix 19. When executed by a processor device of the portable device, at least on the portable device;
Generating a request to trade the requested item;
Communicating the request including the requested item from the portable device to a kiosk management system;
Receiving, from the kiosk management system, a code specific to the transaction and information for a designated kiosk in a plurality of kiosks that makes the requested item available; One or more non-transitory computer readable media of a consumer portable device collectively having computer-executable instructions.
Appendix 20. The computer readable medium is
Before receiving the code,
Communicating at least one of account information or payment information to at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk;
Receiving a confirmation from the kiosk management system or at least one of the designated kiosks that the payment information has been authenticated using at least one of the account information or payment information; 20. The one or more computer readable media of appendix 19, further configured to:
Appendix 21. The one or more computer readable media of clause 19, wherein the computer readable media is further configured to display at least the code.
Appendix 22. 24. The one or more computer readable media of clause 21, wherein the code is a quick response (QR), a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode, or any code readable by a scanner.
Appendix 23. 24. The one or more computer readable media of clause 21, wherein the code is a sequence of at least one of alphanumeric characters or symbols.
Appendix 24. A computer-implemented method comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions,
Receiving instructions to deliver a plurality of selected items to a distributor for pre-stocking into a kiosk in a plurality of geographically dispersed kiosks, wherein the distributor pre-stocks into the kiosk Assigned to receive and
Ordering delivery of the plurality of items to the distributor for pre-stocking at the kiosk;
Receiving information that an item excluded from the plurality of selected items pre-stocked in the kiosk by the distributor has been requested;
Identifying the source of the requested item to be excluded;
Directing delivery of the requested item from the supplier to the distributor so that the distributor can stock the requested item at the kiosk;
Updating the kiosk inventory information. The computer-implemented method.
Appendix 25.
Receiving a notification that an item of the plurality of selected items pre-stocked in the kiosk has been recovered from the kiosk by a consumer;
25. The computer-implemented method of claim 24, further comprising updating the kiosk inventory information.
Appendix 26. Identifying the source of the requested item being excluded,
Determining that the requested item is not available from an internal supplier;
Identifying an external source of the requested item;
Communicating the request to the external supplier of the requested item;
25. The computer-implemented method of claim 24, comprising instructing the requested item to be delivered to the distributor.
Addendum 27. 25. The computer-implemented method of claim 24, wherein the inventory information is communicated to a kiosk management system.
Appendix 28. 25. The computer-implemented method of claim 24, wherein the plurality of selected items are delivered to the distributor in a plurality of deliveries, each of the plurality of deliveries being performed at a predetermined time.
Appendix 29 A method implemented by the computer,
If the requested item is excluded from the selected items previously stocked in the kiosk by the distributor;
29. The computer-implemented method of claim 28, further comprising instructing the requested item to be included in a subsequent delivery of the plurality of deliveries.
Appendix 30 A computer-implemented method comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions,
Generating an instruction to deliver a plurality of selected items to a distributor in a plurality of distributors, such that the distributor distributes the selected items to a plurality of kiosks; Assigned to generate,
Receiving information that an item excluded from the plurality of selected items distributed to the plurality of kiosks by the distributor has been requested;
Identifying a source of the requested item to be excluded from the plurality of selected items;
Generating instructions to deliver the requested item to the distributor for further distribution of the requested item to a selected kiosk;
Updating inventory information of the selected kiosk. The computer-implemented method.
Addendum 31.
When an item included in the plurality of selected items distributed to the plurality of kiosks by the distributor is requested and recovered from a kiosk of the plurality of kiosks,
The computer-implemented method of claim 30, further comprising updating the inventory information of the kiosk to indicate that the requested item is no longer in the kiosk inventory.
Appendix 32.
An item included in the plurality of selected items distributed to the plurality of kiosks by the distributor is requested, but is recovered from the kiosks of the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined time frame for recovery. When not
The computer-implemented method of claim 30, further comprising updating the inventory information of the kiosk to indicate that the requested item remains in inventory at the kiosk.
Addendum 33.
When the items excluded from the plurality of selected items distributed to the plurality of kiosks by the distributor are not recovered from the selected kiosks within a predetermined time frame for recovery;
Receiving a notification that the item has been removed from the selected kiosk by the distributor;
The computer-implemented method of claim 30, further comprising: updating the inventory information of the kiosk to indicate that the item is no longer in stock at the kiosk.
Appendix 34. The distributor distributes the plurality of selected items to the plurality of kiosks including the selected kiosk based at least in part on a predetermined proximity to the plurality of kiosks and the selected kiosks. 31. The computer-implemented method of claim 30, wherein the method is assigned as follows.
Appendix 35. 31. The computer implemented method of claim 30, wherein the distributor is assigned to periodically distribute the selected item to the plurality of kiosks.
Appendix 36.
A data store configured to store inventory information for multiple items;
A computing device comprising a processor device and a memory, in communication with the data store, and at least
Receiving a selection of items stored in a plurality of kiosks, wherein the items are based at least in part on at least one of the inventory information, transaction history information, and kiosk information; Receiving, selected for storage,
Selecting a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks that store the items;
Identifying distributors assigned to the subset of kiosks;
Communicating a delivery message to the distributor, wherein the delivery message identifies a subset of the kiosks, a selection of items to be distributed to each kiosk in the subset of kiosks, and a respective amount of the items Identifying, communicating,
Instructing the distributor to deliver the quantity of each of the items;
Receiving a message from the distributor confirming distribution of the selection of the item to a kiosk of the subset of kiosks;
A computing device configured to: update the inventory information of the kiosk.
Addendum 37. 37. The system of clause 36, wherein the kiosk is associated with a preferred item provider.
Addendum 38. The computing device is at least
37. The system of clause 36, further configured to receive inventory information for the kiosk from the distributor, wherein the inventory information includes transaction information associated with items stored at the kiosk.
Addendum 39. 38. The system of clause 36, wherein the computing device is further configured to communicate inventory information to a kiosk management system.
APPENDIX 40 When executed by a computer system,
For each of multiple kiosks located within a geographic area,
Maintaining inventory information of a plurality of items stored in the kiosk, wherein the plurality of items are based at least in part on at least one of the inventory information, transaction history information, and kiosk information Selected for storage at the kiosk, the plurality of items being distributed to the kiosk by a distributor assigned to the kiosk based at least in part on the geographic region; and ,
When an item of the plurality of items stored in the kiosk is purchased and retrieved from the kiosk by a consumer, the inventory information of the kiosk is updated so that the item is no longer stored in the kiosk Reflecting that not
A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions that configures the computer system to perform operations including communicating the updated inventory information to a kiosk management system.
Appendix 41. 41. The computer readable medium of clause 40, wherein the operation further comprises instructing creation of a shipment of supplemental items for the kiosk after the item is no longer in the kiosk.
Appendix 42. 41. The computer readable medium of clause 40, wherein the operation further comprises directing restocking of supplemental items to the kiosk after the item is no longer in the kiosk.
Appendix 43. Said operation is
Determining the availability of a subset of items provided by the kiosk;
Updating a subset of inventory records of the subset of items provided by the kiosk;
41. The computer readable medium of clause 40, further comprising communicating the updated inventory record subset of the subset of items provided by a kiosk to the kiosk management system.
Appendix 44. Said operation is
Assigning the distributor to the kiosk;
41. The computer readable medium of clause 40, further comprising: instructing creation of a shipment of the plurality of items for delivery to the distributor.
Appendix 45. Said operation is
When a predetermined period for the collection of items from the kiosk has elapsed,
Receiving a notification that the item has been removed from the selected kiosk by the distributor;
41. The computer readable medium of clause 40, further comprising: updating the inventory information of the kiosk to indicate that the item is no longer in the kiosk inventory.
Appendix 46. A computer-implemented method for a consumer to use a mobile device to trade items stored between kiosks where items available for purchase are pre-stocked, comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions,
Receiving a query from the kiosk management system at the kiosk for an item requested for purchase by the consumer in a transaction;
Communicating the inventory status of the requested item from the kiosk to the kiosk management system via a network;
If the inventory status indicates that the requested item is included in the item pre-stocked in the kiosk;
Receiving at the kiosk a message from the kiosk management system, instructing the kiosk to secure the item and including a generated code for the transaction;
Securing the requested item from the items pre-stocked in the kiosk at the kiosk;
Receiving a code from the portable device at the kiosk when the consumer initiates the collection of the requested item from the kiosk;
Authenticating that the code received from the portable device corresponds to the generated code;
Initiating a payment process for the requested item;
Instructing the release of the requested item from the kiosk to the consumer when the payment process is complete.
Appendix 47.
If the inventory status indicates that the requested item is excluded from the item pre-stocked in the kiosk;
In the kiosk, receiving a delivery message from the kiosk management system, wherein the delivery message includes delivery information of the requested item that was excluded, and includes a code generated for the transaction Receiving,
Receiving the requested item that was excluded at the kiosk;
Following receipt of the requested item that was excluded, communicating a delivery confirmation of the excluded item from the kiosk to the kiosk management system;
Securing at the kiosk the requested items that were excluded from the items pre-stocked in the kiosk;
Receiving a code from the portable device at the kiosk when the consumer begins collecting the requested item that was excluded from the kiosk;
Authenticating that the code received from the portable device corresponds to the generated code;
Initiating a payment process for the requested item that was excluded;
49. The computer-implemented method of clause 46, further comprising instructing the consumer to release the requested item that was excluded from the kiosk when the payment process is complete.
Appendix 48. 47. The computer implemented method of claim 46, wherein the code is received at the kiosk from the portable device via a wireless communication connection.
Appendix 49.
Receiving the consumer's account information from the portable device;
Generating transaction history information about the transaction;
47. The computer implemented method of claim 46, further comprising: transmitting the transaction history information and the account information to the kiosk management system.
Appendix 50.
Detecting a failure in the kiosk;
47. The computer-implemented method of clause 46, further comprising: communicating a repair request to the kiosk management system, wherein the repair request includes information associated with the failure. .
Appendix 51. A computer-implemented method comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions,
An item from a query is included in a plurality of items stored at the kiosk, wherein the plurality of items are at least partially in at least one of inventory information, transaction history information, and kiosk information. Selected for storage at the kiosk, wherein the plurality of items are distributed to the kiosk by a distributor assigned to the kiosk, based at least in part on a geographic region,
Securing the item from the plurality of items stored at the kiosk in the kiosk;
At the kiosk, when a consumer begins collecting items at the kiosk, initiating a payment process for the item;
Instructing the kiosk to release the item to the consumer when the payment process is completed.
Appendix 52. Initiating the payment process;
Receiving at least one of account information or payment information associated with the consumer;
Communicating the account information or the payment information to the kiosk management system;
52. The computer-implemented method of clause 51, further comprising receiving a payment confirmation from the kiosk management system indicating that the payment process can be completed.
Appendix 53.
52. The supplementary claim 51, further comprising receiving a securement request from the kiosk management system that instructs the kiosk to secure the item from the plurality of items stored at the kiosk. A method implemented by the computer.
Appendix 54. Initiating the payment process;
Generating code for the consumer computing device;
Receiving the code from the consumer's computing device at the kiosk and initiating collection of the item;
Communicating the code to the kiosk management system for authentication;
Receiving confirmation from the kiosk management system that the code received at the kiosk has been authenticated;
52. The computer-implemented method of clause 51, further comprising: authorizing the kiosk to release the item to the consumer.
Appendix 55.
Receiving a code from the consumer's computing device at the kiosk and initiating collection of the item;
Authenticating the code at the kiosk;
Communicating confirmation that the code received at the kiosk has been authenticated to the kiosk management system;
52. The computer-implemented method of clause 51, further comprising: authorizing the kiosk to release the item to the consumer.
Appendix 56.
If the item from the query is excluded from the items stored at the kiosk,
In the kiosk, receiving a delivery message from the kiosk management system, including delivery information about the excluded item;
Receiving the excluded item at the kiosk from the distributor assigned to the kiosk;
52. The computer-implemented method of clause 51, further comprising communicating a delivery confirmation to the kiosk management system when the excluded item is received at the kiosk.
Addendum 57.
A storage unit configured to store a plurality of selected items, wherein the plurality of selected items are at least partially in at least one of inventory information, transaction history information, and kiosk information. A storage unit selected for storage at the kiosk, wherein the plurality of items are distributed to the kiosk by a distributor;
A dispensing unit configured to release items requested by the consumer from the storage unit;
A communication interface configured to communicate with the management system and other computing devices;
A memory configured to store inventory information of the plurality of selected items stored in the storage unit;
A processor device in communication with said storage unit, distribution unit, communication interface, at least
Receiving a request for a consumer to trade the requested item;
If the requested item is among the selected items stored in the storage unit of the kiosk;
Receiving the code of the transaction from a separate computing device via the communication interface, wherein the code is unique to the transaction and the consumer;
Initiating authentication of the code;
Releasing the requested item to the dispensing unit for retrieval when the code is authorized;
A kiosk comprising: a processor device configured to transmit updated inventory information of the kiosk to the management system via the communication interface.
Appendix 58.
If the requested item is among the selected items stored in the storage unit of the kiosk;
Receiving a secure request to secure the requested item in the storage unit of the kiosk from the management system via the communication interface;
58. The kiosk of clause 57, further comprising securing the requested item in the storage unit of the kiosk for a predetermined period of time.
Appendix 59. The processor device is at least
If the requested item is excluded from the plurality of selected items stored in the storage unit of the kiosk;
Receiving a delivery message from the management system via the communication interface, wherein the delivery message includes information related to delivery of the requested item to the kiosk and a code of the transaction To do
Receiving the requested item;
Communicating a delivery confirmation to the management system via the communication interface when the requested item is received;
58. The kiosk of clause 57, further configured to secure the requested item in the storage unit of the kiosk.
Appendix 60. 58. The kiosk of clause 57, wherein the kiosk is within proximity of a preferred item provider and the consumer is subject to a promotion provided by the item provider.
Appendix 61. The kiosk is one of a plurality of kiosks located in a geographical area, the distributor is one of a plurality of distributors, and the distributor is at least partially in the geographical area; 57. The kiosk according to appendix 57, wherein the kiosk is assigned to the kiosk from the plurality of distributors on the basis.
Appendix 62. 64. The kiosk of appendix 61, wherein the kiosk is maintained by the distributor assigned by the plurality of distributors.
Appendix 63. The separate computing device from which the consumer is a first consumer, the request identifies a second consumer specified by the first consumer, and the code is received, 58. The appendix 57, wherein when the payment process is completed associated with the second consumer, the requested item is released to the dispensing unit for collection by the second consumer. The kiosk.
Appendix 64. When executed by a computer system,
Maintaining inventory information of a plurality of items stored in a kiosk, wherein the plurality of items are based at least in part on at least one of the inventory information, transaction history information, and kiosk information; Selected for storage at the kiosk and the plurality of items are distributed to the kiosk by a distributor assigned to the kiosk based at least in part on the geographic region in which the kiosk is located To maintain,
Processing an order from a consumer for an item stored in the kiosk among the plurality of items distributed to the kiosk by the distributor;
Distributing the item from the kiosk to the consumer when the consumer presents an authenticable code associated with the order to the kiosk;
After distributing the item from the kiosk to the consumer, updating the inventory information of the kiosk to reflect that the item is no longer stored at the kiosk;
A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions that configures the computer system to perform operations including communicating the updated inventory information to a management system.
Appendix 65. 67. The clause 64 of claim 64, wherein the transaction history includes transaction information associated with one or more items distributed from the kiosk, and the operation further comprises communicating the transaction history to the management system. Non-transitory computer readable medium.
Appendix 66. Said operation is
Collecting account information,
The non-transitory computer-readable medium of clause 64, further comprising: communicating the plurality of transaction histories and the account information to the kiosk management system.
Addendum 67. A computer-implemented method for trading items stored between kiosks where items available for purchase are pre-stocked, comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of specific computer-executable instructions,
Receiving a request from the consumer to trade the item;
Identifying a subset of the kiosk within a predetermined proximity of the consumer location;
Identifying a plurality of kiosks in the subset of the kiosks in which the items are pre-stocked;
Communicating a list of the identified plurality of kiosks to the consumer, including a corresponding location of each of the identified plurality of kiosks;
Receiving from the consumer a selection of a designated kiosk from the list indicating that the item is reserved at the designated kiosk;
Initiating a payment process to complete the transaction when the consumer initiates collection of the item from the designated kiosk, the computer-implemented method.
Appendix 68.
If the item is excluded from items pre-stocked in the kiosk,
Communicating a list of subsets of the kiosks within the predetermined proximity of the consumer's location to the consumer;
Receiving a selection of kiosks designated from the list from the consumer;
Instructing a distributor to deliver a mixed shipment of items including the item that the consumer has requested to conduct;
68. further comprising instructing the designated kiosk to secure the item for collection by the consumer after delivery of the item to the designated kiosk by the distributor. A method implemented by the computer.
Appendix 69.
When the consumer initiates the collection of the item from the designated kiosk,
Communicating with the designated kiosk to authenticate the identity of the consumer;
Obtaining pre-registered payment information associated with the consumer;
68. The computer-implemented method of clause 67, further comprising initiating payment for the item using the payment information.
Addendum 70. The consumer is further received from the portable device utilized by the consumer and receiving the consumer's location from the portable device utilized by the consumer; 68. The computer-implemented method of clause 67, wherein the location of is automatically determined by the portable device.
Appendix 71.
Receiving account information associated with multiple consumers;
Receiving transaction history information associated with one or more transactions made to one or more of the plurality of consumers;
68. The computer-implemented method of claim 67, further comprising analyzing the transaction history information and account information to identify one or more items pre-stored in a kiosk of at least one store.
Addendum 72.
Generating a code used to retrieve the item from the designated kiosk;
68. The computer-implemented method of clause 67, further comprising communicating the code to the consumer.
Appendix 73.
Receiving a code entered at the designated kiosk from the designated kiosk to initiate retrieval from the designated kiosk;
Authenticating the received code with the generated code;
Initiating the payment process to complete the transaction;
The computer-implemented method of clause 72, further comprising: instructing the designated kiosk to release the item to the consumer.
Appendix 74. A computer-implemented method comprising:
Under the control of one or more computer systems comprised of executable instructions,
Receiving a request for the item;
Identifying a plurality of geographically dispersed kiosk subsets containing the requested item;
Communicating a response including the identified kiosk subset and a corresponding location of each kiosk in the kiosk subset to the user;
Receiving from the user a selection of kiosks designated from the subset of kiosks;
Communicating a secure request to the designated kiosk to secure the requested item at the designated kiosk;
Informing the user that the requested item is reserved at the designated kiosk.
Appendix 75.
Receiving a location specified by the user, wherein identifying a subset of the kiosks is which kiosk from the plurality of geographically dispersed kiosks is predetermined for the location specified by the user; 75. The computer-implemented method of appendix 74, further comprising receiving, including determining whether within proximity.
Appendix 76. The method wherein the user is a first user and the request for the item is received from a second user and implemented by the computer,
Appendix 74 further comprising initiating a payment process for the item using the second user's account information when the first user initiates collection of the item from the designated kiosk. A method implemented by the computer according to claim 1.
Appendix 77. 75. The computer implemented in clause 74, wherein the request for the item is received via a communication network from at least one of a device utilized by the user or a retail network site utilized by the user. Method.
Appendix 78. 75. The computer-implemented method of clause 74, wherein the securing request specifies a predetermined period for the collection of the item from the designated kiosk.
Addendum 79.
A data store configured to store transaction history information for one or more items;
A computing device comprising a processor device and a memory, in communication with the data store, and at least
Selecting one or more items stored at each kiosk of a plurality of kiosks based at least in part on the transaction history information;
Ordering a delivery of the one or more items to each kiosk of a plurality of kiosks by a distributor;
Receiving a request for an item from a consumer, wherein the requested item is excluded from the one or more items ordered for delivery;
Communicating a response to the consumer identifying a subset of kiosks from the plurality of kiosks and a corresponding location of each kiosk within the subset of kiosks;
Receiving from the consumer a selection of kiosks designated from the subset of kiosks;
Directing delivery of the requested item to the designated kiosk by the distributor along with other items selected to be stored at the designated kiosk;
Instructing the designated kiosk to secure the requested item for the consumer;
A computing device configured to notify the consumer that the requested item is stored at the designated kiosk.
Appendix 80. 79. The system of clause 79, wherein the designated kiosk is associated with a preferred item provider.
Appendix 81. 81. The system of clause 80, wherein the consumer is provided with a discount on an item presented by the item provider in exchange for selecting the designated kiosk associated with the item provider. .
Appendix 82. The computing device is at least
An additional note further configured to receive a current inventory record of the designated kiosk from the distributor, wherein the current inventory record includes transaction information associated with an item stored at the designated kiosk. 80. The system of 79.
Appendix 83. 85. The system of clause 82, wherein the computing device is further configured to instruct the distributor to deliver at least the requested item to the consumer.
Appendix 84. 83. The system of clause 82, wherein the computing device is further configured to receive at least the designated kiosk remediation notification from the distributor.
Appendix 85. When executed by a computer system,
Receiving at least one of transaction history information or inventory information for a plurality of items;
Selecting from the plurality of items one or more items to be delivered from an inventory entity to each kiosk of the plurality of kiosks, wherein the selecting includes: Selecting, based at least in part on at least one;
A distributor receives the selected one or more items from the inventory entity and generates instructions to deliver the selected one or more items to each kiosk of the plurality of kiosks; Generating each kiosk in the plurality of kiosks located at a geographical location so as to autonomously distribute the selected one or more pre-stocked items to a plurality of consumers. A non-transitory computer-readable medium storing computer-executable instructions for configuring the computer system to perform operations including:
Appendix 86. 86. The non-transitory computer readable medium of clause 85, wherein the transaction history information includes information associated with at least the plurality of items and the plurality of kiosks.
Appendix 87. Said operation is
The selected to be delivered to each kiosk in the plurality of kiosks based at least in part on at least one of the transaction history information or the geographic location of each kiosk in the plurality of kiosks. 87. The non-transitory computer readable medium of clause 86, further comprising determining a quantity of each of the one or more items.
Appendix 88. Said operation is
Receiving a request from the consumer to trade the item;
Identifying one or more kiosks in the plurality of kiosks to which the requested item was delivered;
Generating a list of the identified one or more kiosks for the consumer, wherein the list includes the identified one or more respective corresponding locations of kiosks; When,
Receiving a selection of a kiosk designated from the list;
Communicating a secure request to the designated kiosk to secure the requested item at the designated kiosk;
Generating a message to the consumer indicating that the requested item is reserved for the consumer at the designated kiosk;
The non-transitory of claim 87, further comprising: initiating a payment process to complete the transaction when the consumer initiates collection of the requested item from the designated kiosk. Computer readable medium.
Appendix 89. Said operation is
Updating the transaction history based at least in part on the completed transaction;
89. The non-transitory computer readable medium of clause 88, further comprising: determining an updated amount of the requested item to be delivered to the designated kiosk.
Appendix 90. Said operation is
Receiving a code from the consumer to initiate collection of the requested item from the designated kiosk;
Authenticating the received code;
89. The non-transitory computer readable medium of clause 88, further comprising: instructing the designated kiosk to release the requested item to the consumer.

Claims (15)

A method implemented by a consumer device , comprising:
Under the control of one or more consumer devices comprised of executable instructions,
A plurality of items have been distributed to the kiosk by a distributor assigned to the kiosk and the items were selected for storage at the designated kiosk before the order for the item was placed Of the above items,
From kiosk management system, that the item in the kiosk, which is selected from a plurality of the kiosks by the device and the consumer-specific orders of items were ordered is secured by the consumer account information is registered in advance Receiving a code indicating
Receiving a prompt to begin retrieving the item upon determining that the consumer's device is within proximity of a designated kiosk;
Providing the code to the designated kiosk via wireless communication to initiate retrieval of the item from the designated kiosk upon receipt of a prompt to retrieve the item ;
The provided code is authenticated, when the item was recovered from the designated kiosk, from at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk, the order of the item is completed including, and receiving confirmation that,
A method implemented by a consumer device . Communicating the pre-registered account information to at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk;
Receiving a confirmation from the at least one of the kiosk management system or the designated kiosk that payment information associated with the pre-registered account information has been authenticated;
The method implemented by the consumer device of claim 1 further comprising: If the one or more requested items are included in the plurality of items currently provided by the plurality of kiosks;
Receiving information regarding a subset of the kiosk that provides the item currently among the plurality of kiosks in a certain location within a predetermined proximity,
Selecting the designated kiosk from the subset;
And communicating the selection of the designated kiosk the kiosk management system further includes a letting ensured by the designated kiosk at least one of the one or more requested items, wherein A method realized by the consumer device according to Item 1. If the one or more requested items are excluded from the plurality of items provided by the plurality of kiosks;
Receiving information about a subset of kiosks in the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined proximity of a location;
Communicating the selection of the designated kiosk from the subset to the kiosk management system to secure the item at the designated kiosk ;
When secured by the kiosk where the item is the designated for possible becomes and recovery available, further comprising receiving a notification, and is realized by the consumer device according to claim 1 Method. Further comprising receiving a delivery message including an estimated delivery time indicating that the item is to be delivered to the designated kiosk before receiving the notification when the item becomes available. A method implemented by the consumer device of claim 4. A method implemented by a kiosk computer,
Under the control of one or more kiosk computers composed of executable instructions,
A plurality of items selected for storage at the kiosk based at least in part on at least one of inventory information, transaction history information, and kiosk information are stored in the kiosk with items from the query If included, and further when the plurality of items are distributed to the kiosk by a distributor assigned to the kiosk, based at least in part on a geographic region,
Securing the item from the plurality of items stored at the kiosk upon receipt of a request for the item from a consumer device with account information pre-registered;
When it is determined that there are one or more consumer devices within proximity of the kiosk, a kiosk management system generates and the item is the kiosk to the consumer device to begin retrieving the item. Encouraging you to provide a code indicating that
Initiating the payment process for the item using the pre-registered account information when the collection of the item is initiated at the kiosk in response to receiving the code from the consumer device via wireless communication To do
Determining an item storage location associated with the item, identifying a release mechanism associated with the item storage location, instructing the release mechanism to release the item from the item storage location to a dispensing mechanism, and pre-registering Using the account information provided to prompt payment of the item and releasing the item when the payment process is completed.
Initiating the payment process;
Identifying payment information associated with the consumer with the pre-registered account information ;
Using the payment information to facilitate an approval process;
7. The kiosk computer-implemented method of claim 6, further comprising receiving a payment confirmation from the kiosk management system indicating that the payment process can be completed. The kiosk computer-implemented method of claim 6, further comprising receiving a secure request to secure the item from the plurality of items stored at the kiosk from the kiosk management system. Initiating the payment process;
Communicating the code to the kiosk management system for authentication;
Receiving a confirmation from the kiosk management system that the received code has been authenticated;
The kiosk computer-implemented method of claim 6, further comprising: authorizing the consumer to release the item. Receiving a code from the consumer device and initiating collection of the item;
Authenticating the code;
Communicating a confirmation that the received code has been authenticated to the kiosk management system;
7. The kiosk computer-implemented method of claim 6, further comprising: authorizing the consumer to release the item. If the item from the query is excluded from the items stored at the kiosk,
Receiving a delivery message including delivery information regarding the item that was excluded from the kiosk management system;
Receiving the excluded item from the distributor assigned to the kiosk;
Upon receiving the item that has been excluded, further comprising a communicating the delivery confirmation to the kiosk management system, the method implemented by the kiosk computer according to claim 6. A data store configured to store transaction history information for one or more items;
A kiosk management server comprising a processor device in communication with the data store, the processor device comprising:
Selecting one or more items stored in each kiosk of a plurality of kiosks based on at least a portion of the transaction history information;
Ordering a delivery of the one or more items to each kiosk of a plurality of kiosks by a distributor;
Receiving a request from a consumer device for which account information is pre-registered to display available items, including the geographic location associated with the device;
Identifying a subset of the kiosks from the plurality of kiosks within a predetermined distance from the consumer device;
Communicating to each kiosk in the kiosk subset a query requesting inventory status of individual items of each kiosk;
Receiving, from each kiosk in the kiosk subset, a response to a query requesting inventory status of individual items of each kiosk;
Bringing together the inventory status of the individual items of each kiosk into a list of available items within a predetermined distance from the consumer's device;
Providing the consumer device with a list of the available items;
Receiving a request for the item of the list of available items from the consumer device;
Communicating a response including information identifying at least one kiosk in the subset of kiosks having the requested item and the location of the kiosk to the consumer device;
Asking the consumer's device to designate one of the kiosks based on the identified information;
Instructing the designated kiosk to store the item requested from the consumer device;
Providing a code to the consumer device that is used to retrieve the item from the designated kiosk and indicating that the item requested from the consumer device is stored at the designated kiosk; When,
When it is determined that the consumer device is within proximity of the designated kiosk, wireless communication is made from the consumer device prompted to provide the code to begin retrieving the item from the kiosk. In response to receipt of the code via the designated kiosk, authenticating the code and initiating a payment process for the item;
Providing an instruction to release the item to the designated kiosk;
A kiosk management server configured to run.
The designated kiosk is associated with a preferred item provider;
13. The consumer device is provided with a discount on an item presented by the item provider in exchange for selecting the designated kiosk associated with the item provider. Kiosk management server . The processor device is
Execute to receive an inventory record of the designated kiosk from the distributor ;
The kiosk management server of claim 12, wherein the inventory record includes transaction information associated with items stored at the designated kiosk . The processor device is
13. The kiosk management server of claim 12, further executing to instruct the distributor to deliver the requested item to the consumer.