WO2019231406A1 - A system and a method for on-demand printing and dispensing publications such as newspapers - Google Patents

A system and a method for on-demand printing and dispensing publications such as newspapers Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2019231406A1
WO2019231406A1 PCT/SI2019/050010 SI2019050010W WO2019231406A1 WO 2019231406 A1 WO2019231406 A1 WO 2019231406A1 SI 2019050010 W SI2019050010 W SI 2019050010W WO 2019231406 A1 WO2019231406 A1 WO 2019231406A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
printing
publications
dispensing
contents
printed
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/SI2019/050010
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Boris Grivic
Original Assignee
Snep D.O.O.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Snep D.O.O. filed Critical Snep D.O.O.
Publication of WO2019231406A1 publication Critical patent/WO2019231406A1/en

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1278—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to adopt a particular infrastructure
    • G06F3/1285—Remote printer device, e.g. being remote from client or server
    • G06F3/1288—Remote printer device, e.g. being remote from client or server in client-server-printer device configuration
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1202—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to achieve a particular effect
    • G06F3/1203—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management
    • G06F3/1204—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management resulting in reduced user or operator actions, e.g. presetting, automatic actions, using hardware token storing data
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1223—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to use a particular technique
    • G06F3/1237—Print job management
    • G06F3/126—Job scheduling, e.g. queuing, determine appropriate device
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1223—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to use a particular technique
    • G06F3/1237—Print job management
    • G06F3/1268—Job submission, e.g. submitting print job order or request not the print data itself
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1278—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to adopt a particular infrastructure
    • G06F3/1292—Mobile client, e.g. wireless printing
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1202—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to achieve a particular effect
    • G06F3/1203—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management
    • G06F3/1206—Improving or facilitating administration, e.g. print management resulting in increased flexibility in input data format or job format or job type
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06F—ELECTRIC DIGITAL DATA PROCESSING
    • G06F3/00—Input arrangements for transferring data to be processed into a form capable of being handled by the computer; Output arrangements for transferring data from processing unit to output unit, e.g. interface arrangements
    • G06F3/12—Digital output to print unit, e.g. line printer, chain printer
    • G06F3/1201—Dedicated interfaces to print systems
    • G06F3/1278—Dedicated interfaces to print systems specifically adapted to adopt a particular infrastructure
    • G06F3/1285—Remote printer device, e.g. being remote from client or server
    • G06F3/1287—Remote printer device, e.g. being remote from client or server via internet

Definitions

  • the present invention belongs to the field of systems for printing publications such as newspapers, magazines, books and similar, more particularly to the field of printing devices for special purposes as well as to the field of devices of combining printing with other functions.
  • the invention relates to a system and a method for on-demand printing and dispensing publications such as newspapers, magazines and books.
  • the technical problem is thus how to design a system that could at different locations enable choice of contents for printing from a pre-prepared selection of printed publications such as newspapers, magazines and books.
  • the system should enable access to aforementioned publications of various publishers, that can control the said access to each publication or its part.
  • the aim of the invention is also to provide a device, which can be installed at different locations and can be easily managed and maintained.
  • Document JP2017117215 discloses a system for printing newspapers having an article selection and confirmation unit, a payment unit, a checking unit and a printing unit.
  • the article selection and confirmation unit enable choice of articles and confirmation of the selected article by the user, based on his preferences. A whole newspaper or its part can be selected for printing. The data are then transferred to the download unit, while the payment unit performs payment of the newspaper printing. After payment the publication is printed and can be taken from the system.
  • the system further comprises a server, where different newspapers are stored. This system does not allow all choices that the present invention includes, while most importantly this solution only allows access to newspapers published by one publisher.
  • Document US5845577 describes a device for dispensing publications such as newspapers.
  • the user can select additions, such as sport news, business news, etc, which can be printed on an empty part of the newspaper that is already stored in the device.
  • the device for additional contents receives signals from a distant source, which are then processed and later printed.
  • the newspaper can be taken from the device after payment.
  • Document JP2016043537 discloses a device and a method for printing newspapers, which can be used also in case when the user does not know the issue date.
  • the said device comprises:
  • control part that uses the information in order to find the newspaper news on a particular day
  • the essence of the system for on-demand printing and dispensing of publications is in that it comprises at least two units, namely at least one server and at least one device for printing and dispensing publications, wherein a part of the system is also a mobile application adapted to communicate with the server and the device or a plurality of devices for printing and dispensing publications.
  • the essence of the mobile application is in that it performs several functions such as active notifications about device locations, processing subscriptions, sending printing orders as well as payment. It also enables sending news and images to the server, which are then forwarded to publishers for deciding if the news or image should be published or not.
  • the data from the application are stored on the server. All units are connected with internet connection.
  • the system enables printing of newspapers of several different publishers and issues on whichever location, where the device for printing and dispensing is present, wherein the user chooses the requested volume and number of publications.
  • the publication may be any type of a printed matter, a newspaper, a magazine, a book or any other similar work.
  • the system is mostly intended for printing newspapers and magazines, but It also allows printing of books or book chapters.
  • Figure 1 A possible embodiment of the system according to the invention
  • Figure 2 A block scheme of the on-demand printing and dispensing method
  • the system comprises at least one server, preferably more, wherein the server comprises the following means:
  • the server may also comprise:
  • connection means for connection with advertising companies or different portals providing additional contents for printing
  • Said components of the server may be installed on one server, on each server used in the system or may be divided between different servers, which have different tasks.
  • the number of servers in the system is arbitrary, depending on the volume of contents and number of publishers and may be increased as well. More servers enable better functioning and a larger capacity.
  • the servers may be equal, in master/slave configuration or any other configuration. Content archiving may be unlimited or the previous issue may be deleted upon uploading the new issue, or only the oldest edition is deleted upon uploading the new issue (so that for example a user may choose between the last 7 issues of a particular publication).
  • the server also enables searching the most read publications.
  • the server or servers are preferably protected by suitable antivirus programs and protections, then may use data encryption or VPN connection, with which the system security may be further increased.
  • the software running on the server performs several functions, namely registration and secure connection with publishers, user registration, uploading contents of publications, payment execution between the owner or the manager and the publishers, payments between users and publishers, interaction between the mobile application and active interaction with the device for printing and dispensing publications.
  • the means for registration of publishers is software that performs registration of publishers as well as uploading contents. After successful registration each publisher receives an individual channel for uploading contents to the server, which is saved in a special, divided memory part belonging to one publisher. In this way mixing of contents coming from various publishers is prevented. Consequently, search engines show results with regards to the publisher.
  • search engines show results with regards to the publisher.
  • each uploading the software checks whether the publisher is still validly registered.
  • This program also enables access to family members or employers, who can add contents for printing. The said access is performed through the mobile application, based on already registered user accounts.
  • Registration of publishers is performed over the internet, wherein the publisher’s identity is preferably checked using digital certificates or similar verification methods.
  • the publisher and the owner or the manager of the system according to the invention negotiate the contract, which also includes the number of publications that will be available in the system, periods of uploading of new issues, costs, authorship fees and similar.
  • a channel for uploading contents is created, preferably the data are sent to the server via email.
  • the contents are preferably uploaded in standard formats such as PDF files.
  • the publisher registration profile is also available to individual bloggers, columnists or journalists.
  • registration of holiday providers, accommodation providers, airline companies and marketing companies is also possible. Such entities access the advertising space in printed publications or stand-alone marketing materials, which may be inserted in the printed publication. Further, accommodation providers such as booking.com may select an option that the user, when making a reservation, also selects particular publications to be delivered into his room or to his breakfast during his stay.
  • accommodation providers such as booking.com may select an option that the user, when making a reservation, also selects particular publications to be delivered into his room or to his breakfast during his stay.
  • the system also enables registration of users, either via the mobile application or via the internet or directly at the device for printing and dispensing publications. User account data are stored in the server.
  • the server or servers collect information from the device or devices for printing and dispensing publications and process them so that the server(s) obtain information about:
  • the server or servers send data to the device or devices for printing and dispensing publications:
  • the system comprises at least one device for printing and dispensing publications.
  • the number of the said devices, which are a part of the system, is arbitrary.
  • Each device comprises:
  • the outer surface of the housing having a user interface, a payment module and a slot for delivering the printed publication.
  • Said paper may be usual newspaper paper or a paper that has similar characteristics to the classic paper. It may also be usual A3 paper used for printing magazines. A3 and classic paper may be used separately or together, when the device prints the newspaper format and the magazine format. In the preferred embodiment of the device enough paper to allow printing of 3000 copies of an average newspaper with 32 pages.
  • the printer for publications should enable printing of an average publication with 32 pages in 15 to 30 seconds. This is achieved with a printer having at least 4 double heads, preferably 8 or 10 double heads, which can then simultaneously print 4, 8 or 10 newspaper papers of size A2. On average the device is able to print 1000 newspapers in 6 hours. Further, the device has to be equipped with means for powering and internet connection to be able to connect with the server.
  • the user interface on the outer surface of the housing allows choice of publications, issue of the selected publication, volume of printing, and optionally additional contents.
  • the user interface is preferably a touch screen.
  • the outer surface of the device also has a payment module and a slot for taking out the printed publication.
  • the slot may also be adapted in such a way that the printed publications are collected and more than one publication can be dispensed.
  • the payment module may enable payment with coins, banknotes, or cards or with the mobile application or cryptocurrency.
  • the device can print even without payment in case printing is initiated by a subscriber or publisher or manager.
  • the device for printing and dispensing publications may also have:
  • Memory for saving contents is especially preferred as it enables faster printing, as the device already has the needed information and there is no need to download them from the server. In this case the printing device does not need internet connection to the server. With the interface for pre-view of printing the user sees how his printed publication will look like.
  • the mobile application as a part of the said system according to the invention is downloaded to a smart phone, computer or a tablet of a user in a standard manner as a computer program performing specific tasks.
  • the application has several functions and actively notifies the user about locations of printing devices nearby, enables subscription handling, sending orders to the device for printing at a specific location (near user’s home, workplace, or hotel).
  • the application also allows payment. Due to enabled printing and payment the application is connected to the device for printing and dispensing publications, wherein the data transfer occurs in both directions.
  • the mobile application also allows sending news and photos or sound and video files to the server, which can then be forwarded to the publishers for decision on publication of new news. This is achieved in the same way as the radio stations receive information about traffic jams and road accidents.
  • the application is directly linked to the server or servers, as all information processed by the application such as user accounts, subscriptions, printings, etc, is also stored in the server’s memory. Additionally, it also allows sending contents for printing that family members or an employer would like to add.
  • the application may be used to establish a global subscription, this is a subscription to all publications that are stored in the system.
  • the system is designed in such a manner that one or more servers may be located at one place, while the device or several devices for printing and dispensing publications are installed at different locations all over the world.
  • the server may trace device operation, thereby enabling notification of maintenance team in case repair or maintenance such as cartridge replacement or provision of paper is needed.
  • the solution is especially convenient for airports, train stations, bus stations, subway stations, hotels, tourist centres, shopping malls, posts, banks and other places, where people are present.
  • the invention also relates to a method for printing and dispensing publications. As shown in figure 2 the said method comprises the following steps, which are written in the rectangles:
  • the contents are first accessed through the user interface on the device for printing and dispensing publications or via the mobile application.
  • the contents may be selected with regards to the location and/or publisher and/or title of the publication and/or issue date and/or title of the article, wherein the menu on the user interface may be constructed in any way.
  • the volume of printing is selected and confirmed, followed by payment with cash, credit card, subscription, crypto currency or mobile application, wherein the printed volume can be charged or a fixed price for the selected publication. Thereafter the selected volume is printed, folded and dispensed.
  • the method may also include further, optional steps, which are in figure 2 written in ellipses:
  • the additional news may also comprise individualized messages of family members, employers or anyone else, who can access to the user name through the server, either by his own account or through the account of the user to whom the message will be directed. This option is only available for registered users. Forwarding contents may also be done with the mobile application.
  • the longest embodiment of the method includes all steps and is carried out so that contents are accessed via the user interface on the device for printing and dispensing publications or via the mobile application.
  • the contents may be selected with regards to the territory and/or publisher and/or publication title and/or publication date, wherein the menu in the user interface may be designed in any way.
  • the volume of printing is selected, which can be adjusted by selecting additional news, weather forecast and/or advertisements.
  • the selected volume for printing is then pre-viewed and thereafter confirmed.
  • the type of print is chosen, wherein the choice is black and white or colour.
  • Payment is then performed with cash, credit card, subscription or mobile application, wherein only the printed volume with regards to the print type is due for payment.
  • additional advertisements can be printed to the additional, A4 paper.
  • the selected contents are finally printed, folded together with the additional advertisement, perfumed and dispensed.
  • the system and the method for on-demand printing and dispensing publication according to the invention successfully solves the technical problem of designing a system able to print on-demand and allowing dispensing of printed publications wherein the system can be used by different publishers, including bloggers or columnists.
  • the device for printing and dispensing publications can be installed in different places and is easy to manage and maintain, as the server follows the number of printed pages, which enables timely notification of maintenance team that the cartridge and/or paper should be replaced.
  • the system may be configured so that the server or servers are all at one central place, while the devices for printing and dispensing publications can be located in different cities all over the world. In this way users can obtain printed versions of publications, which are usually available only in electronic forms, consequently allowing users to read printed contents in their mother language even at locations, where homeland publications are not accessible.
  • the system enables that the device for printing and dispensing publications is similarly installed at home or in a company.
  • the device for home use may have a less efficient printer, such as a printer with two heads, which is nevertheless able to print the newspaper in 5 minutes.
  • the device may also be installed in newspaper delivery offices, where work could be thus simplified.
  • the publication is equipped with the name and address of the subscribed user during printing.
  • An advantage of the system according to the invention is also in that subscriptions to publications can be easily managed, wherein the user may mark in the mobile application the selected publications, period of subscription and desired combination of subscriptions. Thereby the user can receive for example New York Times on Mondays, Delo on Tuesdays, Washington Post on Wednesdays, no publications on Thursdays and Fridays, etc.

Abstract

The present invention belongs to the field of systems for printing publications such as newspapers, magazines, books and similar. The system for on-demand printing and dispensing of publications comprises at least one server and at least one device for printing and dispensing publications, wherein a part of the system is also a mobile application adapted to communicate with the server and the device or a plurality of devices for printing and dispensing publications. The mobile application performs several functions such as active notifications about device locations, processing subscriptions, sending printing orders as well as payment. The system enables printing of publications of different publishers at the location, where the device is present, wherein the user determines the desired volume and number of copies.

Description

A SYSTEM AND A METHOD FOR ON-DEMAND PRINTING AND DISPENSING PUBLICATIONS SUCH AS NEWSPAPERS
Field of the invention
The present invention belongs to the field of systems for printing publications such as newspapers, magazines, books and similar, more particularly to the field of printing devices for special purposes as well as to the field of devices of combining printing with other functions. The invention relates to a system and a method for on-demand printing and dispensing publications such as newspapers, magazines and books.
Background of the invention and the technical problem
In the past few years printed newspapers, magazines, books and other publications have been replaced with e-readers, mobile phones and tablets, therefore many publishers were forced to discontinue printing publications or to limit the amount of printed copies. However, mobile phones and tablets are too small to enable comfortable reading, as such activity results in a huge strain on the reader’s eyes. Even more, due to frequent travelling or living abroad, people are forced to read news in electronic form, mostly because publications from their country are not available at their location due to logistic limitations. Digital versions have satisfied the need of mobility and accessibility, but do not allow holding the paper instead of an electronic device.
Hence, it is desired to print a publication or any part of it whenever and wherever. Even though commercially available computer printers allow printing, they are often not available, particularly when people are travelling or on vacation. In addition, they do not enable printing of newspaper formats, magazines and books.
The technical problem is thus how to design a system that could at different locations enable choice of contents for printing from a pre-prepared selection of printed publications such as newspapers, magazines and books. The system should enable access to aforementioned publications of various publishers, that can control the said access to each publication or its part. Further, the aim of the invention is also to provide a device, which can be installed at different locations and can be easily managed and maintained.
State of the art
Document US2016188265 describes an idea of a local newspaper printer, which would be able to print the newspaper in its traditional shape. However, this document does not disclose any details of the printing procedure, constructional elements of the printer or functioning modes thereof.
Document JP2017117215 discloses a system for printing newspapers having an article selection and confirmation unit, a payment unit, a checking unit and a printing unit. The article selection and confirmation unit enable choice of articles and confirmation of the selected article by the user, based on his preferences. A whole newspaper or its part can be selected for printing. The data are then transferred to the download unit, while the payment unit performs payment of the newspaper printing. After payment the publication is printed and can be taken from the system. The system further comprises a server, where different newspapers are stored. This system does not allow all choices that the present invention includes, while most importantly this solution only allows access to newspapers published by one publisher. Document US5845577 describes a device for dispensing publications such as newspapers. In addition to the newspaper the user can select additions, such as sport news, business news, etc, which can be printed on an empty part of the newspaper that is already stored in the device. The device for additional contents receives signals from a distant source, which are then processed and later printed. The newspaper can be taken from the device after payment.
Document JP2016043537 discloses a device and a method for printing newspapers, which can be used also in case when the user does not know the issue date. The said device comprises:
- a part for saving information about the newspaper together with issue dates and number of pages;
- a part for storing information about events (Date and info about events);
- a control part that uses the information in order to find the newspaper news on a particular day;
- a printing part, which prints the information.
This solution differs from the present invention in its design and purpose.
Description of the solution of the technical problem
The essence of the system for on-demand printing and dispensing of publications is in that it comprises at least two units, namely at least one server and at least one device for printing and dispensing publications, wherein a part of the system is also a mobile application adapted to communicate with the server and the device or a plurality of devices for printing and dispensing publications. The essence of the mobile application is in that it performs several functions such as active notifications about device locations, processing subscriptions, sending printing orders as well as payment. It also enables sending news and images to the server, which are then forwarded to publishers for deciding if the news or image should be published or not. The data from the application are stored on the server. All units are connected with internet connection. The system enables printing of newspapers of several different publishers and issues on whichever location, where the device for printing and dispensing is present, wherein the user chooses the requested volume and number of publications. The publication may be any type of a printed matter, a newspaper, a magazine, a book or any other similar work. The system is mostly intended for printing newspapers and magazines, but It also allows printing of books or book chapters.
The system and the method for on-demand printing and dispensing publications will be described in further detail based on embodiments and figures, which show:
Figure 1 A possible embodiment of the system according to the invention Figure 2 A block scheme of the on-demand printing and dispensing method
As shown in figure 1 , the system comprises at least one server, preferably more, wherein the server comprises the following means:
- means for registration of publishers and users, wherein more than one publisher can be registered;
- a memory module for registrations and digital contracts and licenses;
- a payment module for paying subscriptions and authorship fees based on printed contents;
- means for uploading contents to the server;
- a memory module for storing uploaded contents;
- means for connection with the mobile application;
- a text editor;
- a search engine for searching the archive;
- a search engine for searching publisher’s archive;
- a search engine for searching based on titles or keywords;
- means for sending the contents to the device for printing and dispensing publications;
- means for tracing the number of printed publications, printing time and location in order to gather information for analytics and maintenance of the device for printing and dispensing publications. Further, the server may also comprise:
- means for archiving contents;
- means for censorship of the contents;
- means for tracking searches in order to find new, interesting contents;
- connection means for connection with advertising companies or different portals providing additional contents for printing; and/or
- means for inserting advertising material, samples or other articles (such as CD, USB keys, cosmetics samples or similar) into publications;
- means for accepting news and photos from users of the mobile application;
- means for publication of special contents (for example a company where the user is employed or his family may publish news so that the registered user will receive it in the printed publication).
Said components of the server may be installed on one server, on each server used in the system or may be divided between different servers, which have different tasks. The number of servers in the system is arbitrary, depending on the volume of contents and number of publishers and may be increased as well. More servers enable better functioning and a larger capacity. The servers may be equal, in master/slave configuration or any other configuration. Content archiving may be unlimited or the previous issue may be deleted upon uploading the new issue, or only the oldest edition is deleted upon uploading the new issue (so that for example a user may choose between the last 7 issues of a particular publication). The server also enables searching the most read publications.
The server or servers are preferably protected by suitable antivirus programs and protections, then may use data encryption or VPN connection, with which the system security may be further increased.
The software running on the server performs several functions, namely registration and secure connection with publishers, user registration, uploading contents of publications, payment execution between the owner or the manager and the publishers, payments between users and publishers, interaction between the mobile application and active interaction with the device for printing and dispensing publications. The means for registration of publishers is software that performs registration of publishers as well as uploading contents. After successful registration each publisher receives an individual channel for uploading contents to the server, which is saved in a special, divided memory part belonging to one publisher. In this way mixing of contents coming from various publishers is prevented. Consequently, search engines show results with regards to the publisher. During each uploading the software checks whether the publisher is still validly registered. This program also enables access to family members or employers, who can add contents for printing. The said access is performed through the mobile application, based on already registered user accounts.
Registration of publishers is performed over the internet, wherein the publisher’s identity is preferably checked using digital certificates or similar verification methods. After the registration request is filed, the publisher and the owner or the manager of the system according to the invention negotiate the contract, which also includes the number of publications that will be available in the system, periods of uploading of new issues, costs, authorship fees and similar. After the successful registration a channel for uploading contents is created, preferably the data are sent to the server via email. The contents are preferably uploaded in standard formats such as PDF files. The publisher registration profile is also available to individual bloggers, columnists or journalists.
Additionally, registration of holiday providers, accommodation providers, airline companies and marketing companies is also possible. Such entities access the advertising space in printed publications or stand-alone marketing materials, which may be inserted in the printed publication. Further, accommodation providers such as booking.com may select an option that the user, when making a reservation, also selects particular publications to be delivered into his room or to his breakfast during his stay. The system also enables registration of users, either via the mobile application or via the internet or directly at the device for printing and dispensing publications. User account data are stored in the server.
The server or servers collect information from the device or devices for printing and dispensing publications and process them so that the server(s) obtain information about:
- the number of printed copies of each publication of each publisher, where they have been printed and when. This information is needed for analytics, predominantly for calculation of authorship fees based on the number of printed publications;
- the number of printed copies with regards to the last replacement of cartridge or the last change of paper. This information is needed for maintenance of devices;
- device errors;
- tracking unsuccessful searches performed by the users of the device in order to discover new publications, which are not yet available. This information is intended for expansion of the system’s network so that new publishers can be invited to use the system.
The server or servers send data to the device or devices for printing and dispensing publications:
- advertisements to be shown on the user interface and advertisements for printing on the additional printer;
- programme upgrades;
- publications or news, which have been printed the most, so that search times are reduced as requested contents are found sooner;
- changes of the weather forecast or advertisements with regards to the location of the device;
- price of printing the selected publication. As shown in figure 1 the system comprises at least one device for printing and dispensing publications. The number of the said devices, which are a part of the system, is arbitrary. Each device comprises:
- closed housing having:
o at least one printer for publications,
o a folding mechanism,
o empty newspaper paper and/or any other paper type depending on the type of publication,
o means for interaction with the server(s), and
o suitable equipment for maintenance of the device such as pull-out trays for empty paper and cartridges,
o at least one device for inserting samples,
o batteries for uninterrupted performance,
- the outer surface of the housing having a user interface, a payment module and a slot for delivering the printed publication.
Said paper may be usual newspaper paper or a paper that has similar characteristics to the classic paper. It may also be usual A3 paper used for printing magazines. A3 and classic paper may be used separately or together, when the device prints the newspaper format and the magazine format. In the preferred embodiment of the device enough paper to allow printing of 3000 copies of an average newspaper with 32 pages. The printer for publications should enable printing of an average publication with 32 pages in 15 to 30 seconds. This is achieved with a printer having at least 4 double heads, preferably 8 or 10 double heads, which can then simultaneously print 4, 8 or 10 newspaper papers of size A2. On average the device is able to print 1000 newspapers in 6 hours. Further, the device has to be equipped with means for powering and internet connection to be able to connect with the server. The user interface on the outer surface of the housing allows choice of publications, issue of the selected publication, volume of printing, and optionally additional contents. The user interface is preferably a touch screen. The outer surface of the device also has a payment module and a slot for taking out the printed publication. The slot may also be adapted in such a way that the printed publications are collected and more than one publication can be dispensed. The payment module may enable payment with coins, banknotes, or cards or with the mobile application or cryptocurrency. The device can print even without payment in case printing is initiated by a subscriber or publisher or manager.
Additionally, the device for printing and dispensing publications may also have:
- a regular household printer for printing advertisements;
- empty usual paper size A4 or A5;
- a device for inserting advertising products;
- fire alarm and a fire extinguisher;
- alarm for unauthorized opening of the housing;
- means for editing the printing volume;
- its own memory module for saving contents;
- interface for pre-view of printing; and/or
- means for adding fragrance to the printed publications.
Memory for saving contents is especially preferred as it enables faster printing, as the device already has the needed information and there is no need to download them from the server. In this case the printing device does not need internet connection to the server. With the interface for pre-view of printing the user sees how his printed publication will look like.
The mobile application as a part of the said system according to the invention is downloaded to a smart phone, computer or a tablet of a user in a standard manner as a computer program performing specific tasks. The application has several functions and actively notifies the user about locations of printing devices nearby, enables subscription handling, sending orders to the device for printing at a specific location (near user’s home, workplace, or hotel). The application also allows payment. Due to enabled printing and payment the application is connected to the device for printing and dispensing publications, wherein the data transfer occurs in both directions. The mobile application also allows sending news and photos or sound and video files to the server, which can then be forwarded to the publishers for decision on publication of new news. This is achieved in the same way as the radio stations receive information about traffic jams and road accidents. The application is directly linked to the server or servers, as all information processed by the application such as user accounts, subscriptions, printings, etc, is also stored in the server’s memory. Additionally, it also allows sending contents for printing that family members or an employer would like to add. The application may be used to establish a global subscription, this is a subscription to all publications that are stored in the system.
The system is designed in such a manner that one or more servers may be located at one place, while the device or several devices for printing and dispensing publications are installed at different locations all over the world. The server may trace device operation, thereby enabling notification of maintenance team in case repair or maintenance such as cartridge replacement or provision of paper is needed. The solution is especially convenient for airports, train stations, bus stations, subway stations, hotels, tourist centres, shopping malls, posts, banks and other places, where people are present.
In addition to the system for on-demand printing and dispensing publications the invention also relates to a method for printing and dispensing publications. As shown in figure 2 the said method comprises the following steps, which are written in the rectangles:
a) access to the contents;
b) selection of a publication;
c) selection of printing volume;
d) confirmation of the selected printing volume;
e) payment;
f) printing;
g) folding of the publication;
h) dispensing the publication. Arrows indicate the execution of the method and the order of steps. In the shortest embodiment of the method of on-demand printing and dispensing publications the contents are first accessed through the user interface on the device for printing and dispensing publications or via the mobile application. The contents may be selected with regards to the location and/or publisher and/or title of the publication and/or issue date and/or title of the article, wherein the menu on the user interface may be constructed in any way. Then, the volume of printing is selected and confirmed, followed by payment with cash, credit card, subscription, crypto currency or mobile application, wherein the printed volume can be charged or a fixed price for the selected publication. Thereafter the selected volume is printed, folded and dispensed.
The method may also include further, optional steps, which are in figure 2 written in ellipses:
c2) selection of additional news, local weather forecast and/or advertisements;
c*) preview of the publication intended for printing
e2) selection of the print type (black and white or colour)
f2) printing of stand-alone advertisements to a separate paper;
g*) adding fragrance to the publication
Said additional steps may be performed independently or are carried out in combinations. The additional news may also comprise individualized messages of family members, employers or anyone else, who can access to the user name through the server, either by his own account or through the account of the user to whom the message will be directed. This option is only available for registered users. Forwarding contents may also be done with the mobile application.
The longest embodiment of the method includes all steps and is carried out so that contents are accessed via the user interface on the device for printing and dispensing publications or via the mobile application. The contents may be selected with regards to the territory and/or publisher and/or publication title and/or publication date, wherein the menu in the user interface may be designed in any way. Then the volume of printing is selected, which can be adjusted by selecting additional news, weather forecast and/or advertisements. The selected volume for printing is then pre-viewed and thereafter confirmed. Next, the type of print is chosen, wherein the choice is black and white or colour. Payment is then performed with cash, credit card, subscription or mobile application, wherein only the printed volume with regards to the print type is due for payment. In addition, additional advertisements can be printed to the additional, A4 paper. The selected contents are finally printed, folded together with the additional advertisement, perfumed and dispensed.
The system and the method for on-demand printing and dispensing publication according to the invention successfully solves the technical problem of designing a system able to print on-demand and allowing dispensing of printed publications wherein the system can be used by different publishers, including bloggers or columnists. The device for printing and dispensing publications can be installed in different places and is easy to manage and maintain, as the server follows the number of printed pages, which enables timely notification of maintenance team that the cartridge and/or paper should be replaced. The system may be configured so that the server or servers are all at one central place, while the devices for printing and dispensing publications can be located in different cities all over the world. In this way users can obtain printed versions of publications, which are usually available only in electronic forms, consequently allowing users to read printed contents in their mother language even at locations, where homeland publications are not accessible.
The system enables that the device for printing and dispensing publications is similarly installed at home or in a company. The device for home use may have a less efficient printer, such as a printer with two heads, which is nevertheless able to print the newspaper in 5 minutes. Lastly, the device may also be installed in newspaper delivery offices, where work could be thus simplified. In the latter case the publication is equipped with the name and address of the subscribed user during printing. An advantage of the system according to the invention is also in that subscriptions to publications can be easily managed, wherein the user may mark in the mobile application the selected publications, period of subscription and desired combination of subscriptions. Thereby the user can receive for example New York Times on Mondays, Delo on Tuesdays, Washington Post on Wednesdays, no publications on Thursdays and Fridays, etc.

Claims

Patent claims
1. A system for printing and dispensing publications, the system comprising at least two units, namely a server and at least one device for printing and dispensing publications, wherein a mobile application is also a part of the system, the mobile application being programmed for communication with the server as well as the device or plurality of devices for printing and dispensing publications; and wherein the mobile application is adapted so that it can interact with the said server and/or the said device and performs several different functions such as active notifications about locations of said devices, processing subscriptions, sending printing orders as well as payment of printing; wherein all units of the system are connected to each other with internet connection.
2. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to claim 1 , characterized in that the server comprises the following means:
- means for registration of publishers and users, wherein more than one publisher can be registered;
- a memory module for registrations and digital contracts and licenses;
- a payment module for paying subscriptions and authorship fees based on printed contents;
- means for uploading contents to the server;
- a memory module for storing uploaded contents;
- means for connection with the mobile application;
- a text editor,
- a search engine for searching the archive;
- a search engine for searching publisher’s archive;
- a search engine for searching based on titles or keywords;
- means for sending the contents to the device for printing and dispensing publications; - means for tracing the number of printed publications, printing time and location in order to gather information for analytics and maintenance of the device for printing and dispensing publications.
3. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to claim 2, characterized in that the server further comprises:
- means for archiving contents;
- means for censorship of the contents;
- means for tracking searches in order to find new, interesting contents;
- connection means for connection with advertising companies or different portals providing additional contents for printing; and/or
- means for inserting advertising material, samples or other articles such as CD or USB keys into publications.
4. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the claims from 2 to 3, characterized in that the mentioned components of the server installed on one server or the components are divided between several servers, wherein the number of servers in the system is arbitrary.
5. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the number of devices for printing and dispensing publications is arbitrary, wherein each device comprises:
- a closed housing having:
o at least one printer for publications,
o a folding mechanism,
o empty newspaper paper and/or any other paper type depending on the type of publication,
o means for interaction with the server(s) and
o suitable equipment for maintenance of the device such as pull-out trays for empty paper and cartridges,
o at least one device for inserting samples,
o batteries for uninterrupted performance, - the outer surface of the housing having a user interface, a payment module and a slot for delivering the printed publication.
6. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to claim 5, characterized in that the device for printing and dispensing publications further comprises:
- a regular household printer for printing advertisements;
- empty usual paper size A4 or A5;
- a device for inserting advertising products;
- fire alarm and a fire extinguisher;
- means for editing the printing volume;
- memory for saving contents;
- interface for pre-view of printing; and/or
- means for adding fragrance to the printed publications.
7. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the claims from 5 to 6, characterized in that it enables printing of an average publication with 32 pages in 15 to 30 seconds, wherein this is achieved with the printer for publications having at least 4 double heads, preferably 8 or 10 double heads that can simultaneously print 4, 8 or 10 newspaper sheets with A2 size.
8. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the server or servers collect information from the device or devices for printing and dispensing publications and process them in order to gather information about:
- the number of printed copies of each publication of each publisher, where they have been printed and when;
- the number of printed copies with regards to the last replacement of cartridge or the last change of paper;
- device errors; - tracking searches performed by the users of the device if the search has no results.
9. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the server or servers send information to the device or devices for printing and dispensing publications:
- advertisements to be shown on the user interface and advertisements for printing on the additional printer;
- programme upgrades;
- publications or news, which have been printed the most, so that search times are reduced as requested contents are found sooner;
- changes of the weather forecast or advertisements with regards to the location of the device;
- price of printing the selected publication.
10. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the publication can be any type of printed matter, a newspaper, a magazine, a book or any similar work, preferably a newspaper.
1 1. The system for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the device for printing and dispensing publications can be installed at an airport, train station, bus station, subways station, hotel, tourist centre, shopping mall, post, bank or any other place where people are present.
12. A method for printing and dispensing publications with the system according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that it includes the following steps: the contents are first accessed through the user interface on the device for printing and dispensing publications or via the mobile application, wherein the contents may be selected with regards to the location and/or publisher and/or title of the publication and/or issue date and/or title of the article, wherein the menu on the user interface may be constructed in any way; then, the volume of printing is selected and confirmed, followed by payment with cash, credit card, subscription, crypto currency or mobile application, wherein the printed volume can be charged or a fixed price for the selected publication; thereafter the selected volume is printed, folded and dispensed through the slot of the device.
13. The method for printing and dispensing publications according to claim 12, characterized in that it includes the following steps, which may be performed independently from each other or in any combination:
- selection of additional news, local weather forecast and/or advertisements;
- preview of the publication intended for printing;
- selection of the print type, which can be black and white or colour, before payment;
- printing of stand-alone advertisements to a separate paper after payment or before folding;
- adding fragrance to the publication.
14. The method for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the claims from 12 to 13, characterized in that the contents are accessed via the user interface on the device for printing and dispensing publications or via the mobile application, wherein the contents may be selected with regards to the territory and/or publisher and/or publication title and/or publication date, wherein the menu in the user interface may be designed in any way; then the volume of printing is selected, which can be adjusted by selecting additional news, weather forecast and/or advertisements; the previously selected volume for printing is then pre-viewed and thereafter confirmed; next, the type of print is chosen, wherein the choice is black and white or colour; payment is then performed with cash, credit card, subscription or mobile application, wherein only the printed volume with regards to the print type is due for payment; optionally additional advertisements can be printed to the additional, A4 paper; finally the selected contents are printed, folded together with the additional advertisement, perfumed and dispensed through the slot of the device.
15. The method for printing and dispensing publications according to any of the claims from 12 to 14, characterized in that additional contents for the volume of printing is sent to the user account by a different person, for example family members or employer.
PCT/SI2019/050010 2018-05-28 2019-05-28 A system and a method for on-demand printing and dispensing publications such as newspapers WO2019231406A1 (en)

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Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN112199646A (en) * 2020-09-30 2021-01-08 北京书礼行知文化传媒有限公司 Publication distribution method, publication distribution device, electronic device and readable storage medium

Citations (1)

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Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160012465A1 (en) * 2014-02-08 2016-01-14 Jeffrey A. Sharp System and method for distributing, receiving, and using funds or credits and apparatus thereof

Patent Citations (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20160012465A1 (en) * 2014-02-08 2016-01-14 Jeffrey A. Sharp System and method for distributing, receiving, and using funds or credits and apparatus thereof

Cited By (1)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
CN112199646A (en) * 2020-09-30 2021-01-08 北京书礼行知文化传媒有限公司 Publication distribution method, publication distribution device, electronic device and readable storage medium

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