WO2021167975A1 - Système et procédé de cartes-cadeaux de kiosque - Google Patents

Système et procédé de cartes-cadeaux de kiosque Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2021167975A1
WO2021167975A1 PCT/US2021/018369 US2021018369W WO2021167975A1 WO 2021167975 A1 WO2021167975 A1 WO 2021167975A1 US 2021018369 W US2021018369 W US 2021018369W WO 2021167975 A1 WO2021167975 A1 WO 2021167975A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
gift card
kiosk
gift
user
cards
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US2021/018369
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
James Curtis
Original Assignee
James Curtis
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
Priority claimed from US16/792,735 external-priority patent/US11379810B2/en
Application filed by James Curtis filed Critical James Curtis
Publication of WO2021167975A1 publication Critical patent/WO2021167975A1/fr

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07F—COIN-FREED OR LIKE APPARATUS
    • G07F17/00—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services
    • G07F17/42—Coin-freed apparatus for hiring articles; Coin-freed facilities or services for ticket printing or like apparatus, e.g. apparatus for dispensing of printed paper tickets or payment cards
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
    • G06Q20/30—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks
    • G06Q20/34—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols characterised by the use of specific devices or networks using cards, e.g. integrated circuit [IC] cards or magnetic cards
    • G06Q20/342—Cards defining paid or billed services or quantities

Definitions

  • the pre s ent invention relate s generally to gift cards and more particularly to purchasing vendor specific gift cards and exchanging unused gift cards at a kiosk.
  • Gift cards can be perceived as a quintessential cop-out gift, pegging the gift-giver as lazy or impersonal. While that may be true of the preloaded value cards that big chain store s put out and that can be found in virtually every drugstore now, small businesses have the advantage of developing gift card offerings that are good for more than just cash on a card. However, current gift card offerings do not provide a convenient method to purchase the gift card except to physically visit the store . A fixed-money amount for a gift card limits the gift giver in what they are able to spend. Typically people have long holiday gifts lists and a budget for how much they want to spend on each person, but they will be more likely to spend $150 if they know, for example, that they are buying someone a deluxe spa package. However, most gift cards available in store s have a logo or print with the face value of the card. Therefore, there is a need for a customizable gift card available to customers at a convenient location.
  • Prior art systems do not provide for redeeming unused gift cards for a promotional code that could be used for online purchases. • Prior art systems do not provide for redeeming unused gift cards for a promotional code that could be used at a different location for printing customizable gift cards.
  • the objectives of the present invention are (among others) to circumvent the deficiencies in the prior art and affect the following objectives:
  • the present invention in various embodiments addresses one or more of the above objectives in the following manner.
  • the present invention provides a kiosk gift card system for purchasing gift cards at a kiosk.
  • the system includes a gift card distribution kiosk located at a retail establishment that provides a user with access to a multitude of different forms of gift cards that may be purchased and printed onto a customizable card with a personalized message.
  • the kiosk includes a kiosk processor interface, a gift card dispenser, a card reader, and gift card management server connected to a network.
  • the gift card management server through the kiosk processor interface, provides vendor options to users to select and pay via the card reader.
  • the kiosk is used to redeem unused user gift cards for a reduced value user selected gift card, reduced cash value, full value store card, rewards points, bank debit, and/or electronic code user towards online purchases .
  • the present invention system may be utilized in the context of an overall kiosk gift card purchase method, wherein the kiosk gift card system as described previously is controlled by a method having the following steps:
  • FIG. 1 illustrate s an overall kiosk gift card system according to a preferred embodiment of the pre s ent invention.
  • FIG. 2 illustrate s a detailed kiosk gift card system according to a preferred embodiment of the pre s ent invention.
  • FIG. 3 illustrate s a detailed kiosk proce s sor interface system according to a preferred embodiment of the pre s ent invention.
  • FIG. 4 illustrates a detailed kiosk proce s sor interface display according to a preferred embodiment of the pre s ent invention.
  • FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card purchase according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card exchange/redeeming according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card to gift card exchange option according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card to cash exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card to bank debit exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card to store credit exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card to rewards points exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart describing an exemplary kiosk gift card to eCode exchange method option according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 13 illustrates a gift card value check system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 14 illustrates a flowchart describing a gift card value check method according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary remote kiosk gift card presentation system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
  • FIG. 16 illustrates a flowchart describing a remote kiosk gift card presentation method according to a preferred exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
  • a kiosk gift card system comprises a kiosk (0104) with a gift card dispenser (0111 ) , a live interface portal (LIP) (0106) , a kiosk processor interface (0105) that communicates with a gift card management server (0102) .
  • the kiosk processor interface (0105) may be a touch user interface that is based upon the sense of touch or a graphical user interface (GUI) that may be navigated with a pointing device such as a mouse.
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • a user (0101) may use the touch interface to interact and navigate the kiosk (0104) .
  • a user may purchase a gift card at kiosk with the kiosk processor interface.
  • the gift card may be customized to add a fixed value and also personalized to add a personal message or image on the card.
  • a user may request a gift card for a specific vendor, for example Starbucks, and add a fixed amount, for example $90.
  • the gift card may be configured with a variable amount, and can thus be reloaded, as needed, with any particular amount.
  • the vendor may not necessarily by limited to a particular merchant/retailer, but is instead one that provides gift cards that may be used at multiple retail locations, such as a VISA® or MasterCard® gift card.
  • the user may include a personalized message such as "Happy Holidays" or any other customized private message, as discussed herein, on the card. Additionally, the user may personalize the font, design, color, size, and position of the personalized message.
  • the personalized message may be audio and/or video messages recorded by the purchaser at the kiosk used to purchase the gift card. Such embodiments would allow a purchaser to record an audio/video message that would then accompany the gift card (or gift card eCode, etc.) such that when the receiver of the gift card obtains it, they would see/hear the personalized message recorded by the purchaser. Such playback could be played from the kiosk at, and during the time, which the receiver obtains the gift card, providing for a very personalized and special experience while receiving a gift card.
  • the personalized recorded message could accompany the receipt of the eCode, etc ., either at the kiosk visited by the receiver or even via the message by which the receiver re ce ive s the eCode or other form of payment vehicle, such as an email or a mobile message (away from a kiosk), an NFC transfer to the receiver' s device or any other means by which the receiver receive s the gift card code, etc. either physically or via a device of the receiver.
  • the kiosk proce s sor interface (KPI) (0105) receive s a purchas e request from the user (0101) and forwards the request to a gift card management server (GMS) (0102) .
  • the GMS (0102) may then connect with the vendor of intere st and receive a confirmation to print or reload the gift card.
  • the GMS (0102) may then instruct a printer to print the gift card and dispens e the gift card via the gift card dispens er (0111) after an amount has be en paid with a card reader and a payment module.
  • the user may request real time support through a live interface portal (0106) such as a camera or an online chat on the KPI (0105) .
  • the user may also s e ek live support during the gift card trans action with the live interface portal (0106) .
  • the LIP (0106) may further communicate with a customer support center through (0103) a network and gift card management server (0102).
  • the pre s ent invention may be s e en in more detail as generally illustrated in FIG. 2 (0200) , wherein a user/consumer
  • the kiosk may be located in retail e stablishments such as Walmart, Home Depot, in a Mall, in a public event place such a sports stadium, in an office building etc.
  • the location of the kiosk may also impact the gift card amounts . More specifically, us ers may be offered additional "bonus" amounts on a gift card if the vendor they s elect is the vendor at which the kiosk is located.
  • the "bonus" funds may be provided if the vendor at the location of the s econd kiosk is s elected by the us er/purchas er at the first kiosk. Such embodiments provide an incentive for the receiver of the gift card at the s econd location to patronize the retailer at that s econd location.
  • the system comprising e s a kiosk (0210) with a kiosk proce s sor interface (KPI) (0211) that communicate s with a gift card management s erver (0230).
  • the GMS (0230) may be physically connected directly to the kiosk (0210).
  • the GMS (0230) may be remotely located that may be acce s sible via the network (0240).
  • An administrator may remotely monitor GMS (0230) via the network (0240).
  • the network may be wired and may us e protocols such as
  • the network may be wirele s s and may us e protocols such a s 4G, LTE, and/or Bluetooth.
  • the KPI (0211) is configured for enabling us ers to interact with GMS (0230).
  • the GMS (0230) may further compris e a microproce s sor executing instructions read from a computer- re adable medium (0231) and a graphical us er interface (GUI) with a pointing device.
  • GUI graphical us er interface
  • An administrator may open a GUI and s elect vendor databas e (0232) for updating records.
  • a more detailed view of GUI may be s e en in FIG. 4 (0400).
  • the kiosk further comprising e s a Kiosk Card Stacker (0213) that maintains an inventory of blank cards equipped with or without a NFC device.
  • the NFC device in a card may be enabled to communicate wirelessly with a NFC reader installed in a mobile computing device such as a smart phone or other NFC reader equipped devices.
  • the blank cards may be configured to be in different sizes so as to enable users to choose a size.
  • a Kiosk card printer (0214) may be connected physically to the Kiosk Card Stacker (0213).
  • the Kiosk Card Stacker (0213) may automatically fe ed a blank card to the printer when it receive s a print request.
  • the print request may include information pertaining to the card size, personalized message, color, logo, value, and/or NFC chip.
  • the kiosk processor interface (KPI) (0211) may receive a purchas e/exchange request from a user (0201) which subsequently forwards the request to a gift card management server (GMS) (0230).
  • the GMS (230) may then search the vendor database (0232) to check if the vendor exists on the database. If so, the GMS (0230) may connect with the vendor of interest via vendor management server (VMS) (0250) via network (0240) and receive a confirmation to print the gift card.
  • the user may pay with a credit card or debit card for the requested amount with a card reader (0217). The user may also choose to pay in cash.
  • the card reader may communicate via network (0240) with a payment server (0260) that authenticates the payment and sends a confirmation for the payment.
  • the GMS (0230) may then instruct a printer (0214) to print the gift card and dispense the gift card via the gift card dispenser (0215).
  • a printer (0214) may then instruct a printer (0214) to print the gift card and dispense the gift card via the gift card dispenser (0215).
  • gift card manufacturing on demand (MOD) with a gift card kiosk enables a consumer to print a gift card on as needed basis .
  • the kiosk may also comprise a Near Field Communication (NFC) device (0212).
  • the communication (NFC) is a standards- bas e d short-range wireless connectivity technology that make s life easier and more convenient for consumers by making it simpler to make transactions, exchange digital content, and connect electronic device s with a touch.
  • the user may use a mobile computing device (0202) equipped with a NFC reader to e stablish a NFC connection with the kiosk (0210).
  • the user (0201) may use the NFC device (0202) to pay for a gift card.
  • the user may also receive a confirmation to the device (0202).
  • the kiosk (0210) may also be communicating via network (0240) with an advertisement server ADS (0270) that is configured to display advertisements on the kiosk proce s sor interface (0211).
  • the kiosk is enabled to target advertisements to the user through the advertising server (0270), and such advertisements may even be demographically bas ed.
  • the kiosk (0210) may also use a card collector (0216) to gather unused gift cards that may be rede emed or exchanged for like kind gift cards or cash as described below in one of several methods.
  • the unused cards may be recycled or reused for customized gift cards.
  • the kiosk in the retail e stablishment may be integrated into the retail network server (0280) to provide retailer specific value offers and discounts.
  • the kiosk is located in Walmart, advertisements and offers related to Walmart may be displayed on the KPI (0211).
  • Value Offers may also be pre s ented to the user on a mobile computing device (MCD) (0202). The consumer may use the Value offers at check out with the MCD (0202) or print a paper copy at the kiosk.
  • the vendor database (VBD) (0232) may further comprise vendor related information such as "Vendor Name”, “Vendor ID”, “Credit Limit”, “Address” and "Gift Card Serial Number”.
  • the VDB (0232) may communicate with GMS (0230) or through a wired or wireless network.
  • the KPI (0211) may process and forward the request to the GMS (0230) .
  • the GMS (0230) may determine the vendor from request and issue a gift card with a serial number from the VDB (0232) . If the requested gift card amount exceeds the Credit Limit for the vendor, the GMS (0230) may forward the request to a vendor management server (0250) .
  • the VMS (0250) may further communicate with the user requested vendor with the Address, for authorization upon which a customized gift card may be printed and dispensed to the requesting consumer.
  • the consumer database (CBD) (0233) may further comprise consumer related information such as "Consumer Name”, “Consumer ID”, “Credit Check”, “Consumer Contact information”, and "Consumer History”.
  • a single entry for example may contain information about a consumer 1 with a consumer ID 123-56-789 who has been credit checked.
  • the CDB (0233) may also maintain consumer history and past purchas e s.
  • Consumer 1 may have purchas ed a Vendor 1 and Vendor 3 gift card.
  • the consumer history, as well as demographics bas ed on any collected consumer demographic information, may be analyzed further for pre s enting specific advertis ements to consumers with an advertising s erver ADS (0270).
  • the databas e may be maintained and stored in standard SQL or any industry DBMS standard. Table 2.0
  • consumer personalization may be us ed to provide specific customer history with real time evaluation and supported purchas e s.
  • consumer 2 may be evaluated in real time bas ed on past purchas e history such a s Vendor 3 and Vendor 4.
  • the consumer 3 may be pre s ented with an advertis ement for Vendor 3 or Vendor 4 after identifying the consumer with the CDB (0233) and consumer ID.
  • the CDB (0233) may also provide Macro reports for total customer specific history in a particular category.
  • a consumer's past history from the CDB (0233) may indicate purchas e s in a drug store and the specific information may be used to pre s ent drug store related advertis ements or drug store related gift cards.
  • the CDB (0233) may also provide Micro reports for specific customer history with a genre or historical favorite s. For example, a consumer's past history or historical favorite s may be analyzed and determined that a consumer is intere sted in sports. A history of all transactions on a particular card may also be analyzed and Consumer Card Balances
  • a consumer may use the KPI (0211) and obtain real time balance on a gift card directly or with a NFC device (0202).
  • a consumer (0201) may insert a gift card into card reader (0217) in the kiosk (0200).
  • the card reader (0202) may then determine the vendor ID bas ed on the gift card information.
  • the GMS (0230) may then query the vendor database (0232) with the Vendor ID and receive a vendor address which may be used to login into a vendor management server (VMS) (0250).
  • the VMS (0250) may then re spond to the GMS (0230) with a gift card balance that may be presented to the consumer (0201) on the interface (0211).
  • the gift card balance may also be wirelessly transmitted to the consumer's mobile device (0202) with the NFC reader (0212).
  • the retailer system/kiosk interface provide s customer specific advertising micro marketing material with the Advertising s erver (ADS) (0270).
  • ADS Advertising s erver
  • the consumer may be identified with a consumer ID and the CDB (0233).
  • the GMS (0230) may us e the consumer information and forward it to an advertis ement s erver ADS (0270) that is configured to s erve advertis ements.
  • the ADS (0270) may s erve advertis ements directly to the consumer bas ed on the consumers past purchas e history, as well as collected or determined consumer demographics, while the customer is waiting for a transaction.
  • Proximity marketing applications may be employed to target user mobile phone s using beaconing connectivity technology as part of the hardware component matrix. In such embodiments, users may have a mobile application affiliated with the kiosk, or even with retailers/merchants available through the kiosk, for provide such targeted advertis ements.
  • push advertis ements may be transmitted directly to the consumer for promotions, coupons and product information.
  • Retailer/merchant- and application-friendly integration may be provided at disclos ed kiosks.
  • micro marketed promotions and discounts bas ed on historical purchas e s or viewing may also be provided to a consumer.
  • the system/kiosk may provide "push" communication in the event of any is sue s with account usage or unauthorized access.
  • a user interface s with KPI (0211) the consumer may be identified and if there is a history of misusage in the consumer' s history, an alert may be communicated to the retail establishment. The alert may be transmitted with the network (0240) or an alarm may be sounded to notify concerned officials.
  • the kiosk may provide connectivity with a "live " communication for post purchase, post is sue follow up with a live interface portal (LIP) (0218).
  • LIP live interface portal
  • the LIP (0218) may be an audio device such as a microphone or a video device such as a camera.
  • the LIP (0218) may enable a consumer (0201) to communicate with a live customer support (0290) via GMS (0230) and network (0240). Alternately, a consumer may perform an online chat on the KPI (0211) with a touch screen or typing with a keyboard. The consumer may also request support before a transaction, during a transaction, or after a transaction.
  • FIG. 3 (0300) and FIG. 4
  • an exemplary kiosk proce s sor interface (0301) comprises a gift card menu (0310) for purchasing/exchanging, a gift card exchange/rede eming menu (0320), a payment option menu (0330), an administrator menu (0340), and a chat menu (0350).
  • a user may interface with a kiosk via the KPI (0301) and navigate through the menus with a touch interface or a graphical interface.
  • the user may s elect an exchange menu (0320) to exchange unused gift cards that may or may not have a balance on them.
  • the user may exchange for another gift card from a different vendor, cash, bank debit, store credit, and/or an eCode for us e with online purchases (0321).
  • the gift card may be administered via more than simply a physical payment card.
  • the gift card may be administered via such an eCode, either entered manually or provided via another payment vehicle such as a mobile phone payment application.
  • An administrator may login to the KPI (0301) via the admin menu (0340) and perform administrator actions such as s et up, update, reboot, and/or install new feature s (0341).
  • the user may be provided with payment options such as credit card, debit card, and/or cash (0331).
  • the user may s elect a gift card menu (0310) to access options such as gift card purchase, gift card reload, gift card exchange, gift card redeem or gift card balance check (0311).
  • the user may also request support from customer support (0290) through a live interface portal.
  • the user may choose one of the chat options (0351) from online chat, video chat and voice chat.
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card Purchase method may be generally described in terms of the following steps:
  • a user may click through or touch the KPI to navigate the different options of the interface as aforementioned in FIG. 3 (0300) and FIG. 4 (0400).
  • the user may browse through a list of vendors that are stored and maintained in a vendor database that is accessible by a gift card management server via a network.
  • An administrator may add/delete/update vendors in the vendor database.
  • the user may ins ert, or scan with a card reader, a prior- purchased used gift card for reloading with funds .
  • the kiosk's processor can simply identify the vendor of the gift card from among the available list of vendors available through the kiosk.
  • the user may select a vendor from the list of vendors. In embodiments with a previously purchased gift card, the user may simply confirm the vendor identified by the kiosk. Alternatively, if the kiosk is not able to identify the vendor of an inserted previously purchased gift card, the user may then be given the option to select the appropriate vendor the user would like to use for the prior gift card.
  • the user may request an amount to be applied to the gift card.
  • the request may then be forwarded to GMS for processing.
  • the GMS may connect with the vendor of interest to vendor management server (VMS) via network and receive a confirmation to print the gift card.
  • VMS vendor management server
  • the user may pay with a credit card or debit card for the requested amount with a card reader.
  • the user may also choose to pay in cash.
  • the card reader may communicate via network with a payment server that authenticates the payment and sends a confirmation for the payment.
  • the GMS may then instruct a gift card printer to print the gift card with a personalized message and dispense the gift card via a gift card dispenser.
  • the user may then collect the gift card from the gift card dispenser.
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps:
  • a user may click through or touch the KPI to navigate the different options of the interface as aforementioned in FIG. 3 (0300) and FIG. 4 (0400).
  • the user may insert or use a card reader to scan user gift cards that are unused or have a balance remaining on them.
  • a unique identification number (UID) associated with each gift card may be saved in a local database maintained by the GMS.
  • the Kiosk card collector may collect the cards and unused cards may be recycled or reused for future customized gift cards .
  • the GMS may communicate with plural vendors via the vendor management server with the UID' s to determine remaining balance on each cards .
  • gift card 1 may have an unused value of $34
  • gift card 1 may have an unused value of $46
  • gift card 1 may have an unused value of $100.
  • the GMS will determine a consolidated value of $180 for the unused gift cards.
  • the KPI may provide various exchange options for the consolidated value such as another gift card from a different vendor, cash, bank debit, store credit, and/or an eCode for use with online purchases.
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Gift Card Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps:
  • the GMS may provide the user with a list of available vendors to choos e from along with a discounted offer value in exchange for the consolidated value. For example, the GMS may offer a $100 worth Home Depot Card for a consolidated value of $180.
  • the user may s elect a vendor from the list of vendors. (4) requesting a monetary amount to apply to the vendor gift card (0704);
  • the user may request a monetary value to apply to the s elected vendor gift card. For example, the user may request to apply $110 to the gift card.
  • the user may pay the $10 difference from the step above to apply to the gift card.
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Cash Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps:
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Bank Debit Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps :
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card to Store Credit Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps :
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card to rewards points Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps:
  • a preferred exemplary Kiosk Gift Card to rewards points Exchange method may be generally described in terms of the following steps:
  • the pre s ent invention may be seen in more detail as generally illustrated in FIG. 13 (1300), wherein a user/consumer (1301) with a NFC re ader equipped mobile computing device (1303) checks value of a gift card (1305).
  • the gift card (1305) may also be embedded with a NFC compatible chip (1306) that communicate s wirelessly with device (1303).
  • the consumer (1301) may query the balance of a gift card (1305) with an application on the device (1303).
  • the mobile device (1303) may then query a vendor management server (VMS) (1350) via a network (1304).
  • the VMS (1350) may be remotely located that may be acce s sible via the network (1304). An administrator may remotely monitor VMS (1350) via the network (1304).
  • the network may be wired and may use protocols such as Ethernet.
  • the network may be wireless and may use protocols such as 4G, LTE, and/or Bluetooth.
  • the VMS (1350) may respond with a balance on the gift card.
  • the mobile device (1303) may then display the gift card balance to the consumer (1301).
  • the pre s ent invention system may be utilized in the context of an overall gift card balance/value check method, wherein the gift card value check system as described previously in FIG. 13 (1300) is controlled by a method having the following steps:
  • a kiosk gift card system comprises a kiosk (1504 ) with a gift card dispenser, a live interface portal (LIP), and a kiosk processor interface that communicates with a gift card management server (1502 ) .
  • the kiosk processor interface may be a touch user interface that is based upon the sense of touch or a graphical user interface (GUI) that may be navigated with a pointing device such as a mouse .
  • GUI graphical user interface
  • a user (1501) may use the touch interface to interact and navigate the kiosk (1504) .
  • the kiosk (1504) may communicate with another remote kiosk (1514) located at a different retail establishment.
  • the retail establishment may be located in the same place or in a different location or place .
  • a user may purchase a gift card at a kiosk with the kiosk processor interface and print the gift card at a remote kiosk that could be collected at the remote retail establishment.
  • the user may purchase funds for a gift card at the first location, and then thos e purchased funds may be loaded onto a previously purchased gift card at the second location.
  • the kiosk (1504) may communicate with kiosk (1514) via a network (1503) through gift card management system (1502) and gift card management system (1512).
  • a user may rede em unused gift cards at a kiosk with the kiosk proce s sor interface, accept an offered monetary value from the kiosk, and print the gift card at a remote kiosk that could be collected at the remote retail establishment.
  • a user may purchase a gift card at a kiosk (1504) with the kiosk proce s sor interface, receive an electronic code (eCode) from the kiosk (1504), and transmit the eCode to another user (1511) located at another location.
  • the user may then print a customized gift card at a remote kiosk (1514).
  • the eCode may be scrambled, encrypted, and/or encoded for security purposes.
  • the present invention system may be utilized in the context of an overall remote kiosk gift card pre s entation method, wherein the remote kiosk gift card pre s entation system as described previously in FIG. 15 (1500) is controlled by a method having the following steps:
  • Another embodiment of the disclos ed systems and methods may be the creating or reloading of a gift card that may be used at any of a number of retailers.
  • Such "anywhere" gift cards may be created for use anywhere the user de sire s, making them gift “wildcards” so to speak.
  • gift “wildcards” may be bas ed on the VISA® or MasterCard® network, and thus useable anywhere VISA or MasterCard is accepted.
  • the gift "wildcard” may be created for use at multiple distinct vendors, rather than simply a single vendor.
  • Another embodiment of the disclosed systems and methods may be the creating or reloading of a restricted or limited use gift card.
  • restricted or limited use gift cards could be similar to the anywhere use gift cards discussed above in that they may be used at any of a number of vendors; however, that may be created with limits that prevent their use at certain vendors or for certain types of products or services.
  • a gift card could be created for use at any vendor except for liquor stores, adult-themed stores, tobacco shops, drug dispensaries or other types of vendors of goods or services where the purchaser of the limited use gift card does not want the receiver to use the card.
  • Such an embodiment is particularly suited for families, where parents provide such a limited use gift card to their children, but having limits on where they may be used.
  • the limited use gift card may be created such that it may only be used at certain type of vendors, such as bookstores, gas stations, and office supply stores . Such limited use gift cards would be desirable if the receiver is a student and the purchaser would like to limit the student's use of the gift card to school-related purchases.
  • the gift card could be limited so that it excludes the purchase of certain types of products. Most if not all products today are packaged with a skew or other type of identifying number, which assists retailers in tracking inventory as well as other uses, Limited use gift cards as disclosed herein could be created such that may be used at any retailer, but could not be used to purchase certain items, For example, the gift card could be cre ated such that the receiver of such a limited use gift card could purchase almost any item at a grocery store, except for alcohol and/or tobacco products .
  • the purchase amounts may be limited such that only purchases below a certain maximum amount may be made with the gift card in an effort to curtail overspending.
  • Such limitations on the retailers, spending limits, and/or products that may be purchased with the limited use gift card allows the disclos ed gift card to be ideal for use as a "family gift card, " where parents can provide their children any amount of funds via the gift card for use at a variety of retailers, but still place limits on its use at certain retailers and/or for purchasing certain goods or services, and only up a maximum amount per transaction.
  • Such embodiments are a more desirable alternative to simply providing their children cash or even a credit card for their exclusive use in that protection against certain types of spending are still in place.
  • Limiting the use of a gift card as disclosed herein at particular merchants, or preventing use at particular merchants, may be done by interacting with the data collected and transmitted by the payment terminal at a merchant when purchases using cards or other payment vehicle s are made.
  • the payment terminals capture payment information from the purchaser from the card or other payment vehicle used with the payment terminal. That information, along with merchant identification information, is then transmitted to a payment processor from the terminal via a communications network.
  • the merchant identification information could be used to identify at what merchant the disclosed gift card is being used, and then permit or prevent the payment processing to be completed.
  • payment terminals may be configured to capture skew or other product identifying data, along with the purcha sing information, during a financial transaction.
  • That product identification data may be used to allow or prevent certain goods from being purchased with the disclos ed gift card right at the payment terminal and in real-time with the transaction by the user of the gift card,
  • Other types of technologies may also be implemented with the disclos ed limited use gift card to accomplish the same goals.
  • a limited use gift card could be coded so that it may only be used at a retailer within a certain Zip code or other geographical boundary.
  • the gift card could be created with NFC technology, such as an embedded NFC chip, so that it may only be used when in proximity to the user's mobile telephone.
  • the locations services on the phone could then be employed to ensure the limited use gift card is only being used with a particular geographic location, which can even include limitation to a particular retailer, etc. bas ed on their geographic location.
  • the merchant identification information provided by the payment terminal discussed above may be used to identify not only the merchant, but the merchant's location, especially in embodiments where a particular merchant has numerous locations. As before, the intercepting of that information from the payment terminal allows for placing real-time geographic restrictions on the purchases made using a limited use gift card as disclos ed herein.
  • limitations and re strictions that may be placed on a limited use gift card as disclos ed herein may also be changeable by the purchaser or the user, perhaps with a predetermined acce s s code, via a kiosk, if de sired.
  • the receiver of the limited use gift card if given the capability, could simply visit their local kiosk with the gift card in order to modify the limitations place on their family gift card by the purchaser.
  • access and modifications may be made via website as sociated with the vendor of the gift card, if such capabilitiesitie s have be en e stablished.
  • Another embodiment of the disclos ed systems and methods may be the creating or reloading of "limited edition” or "collector edition” gift cards.
  • Such embodiments may provide for the creation of a limited number or run of such collector/limited edition gift cards.
  • a limited run of gift cards would be only a predetermined number of gift cards being created with a given image and/or text.
  • the purchaser would be purchasing, for example, 1 of only 500 cards available with such a certain theme.
  • Exemplary limited edition gift cards could include gift cards having image s of or otherwise related to movie s, TV shows, and musical bands .
  • the limited edition gift cards could include image s or other items related to specific per sons/celebritie s or items related to specific movies, TV shows or musical acts.
  • Greeting Cards are also envisioned, and no limitation to just TV, movies or bands is intended.
  • Another embodiment of the disclosed systems and methods may be the creating of greeting cards being purchased or created at the kiosk by the purchaser.
  • Such greeting cards could be premade greeting cards and selected via the kiosk, or may be customized by the purchaser using the kiosk as disclosed herein.
  • Such greeting cards may be selected/designed alone by the purchaser via the kiosk and sent to a receiver via a second (or the same) kiosk, or may be transmitted to the receiver using any type of technique, such as email, messaging, and even the printing and mailing of a physical card (for example, using an affiliate associated with the kiosk) if that option is selected by the purchaser via the kiosk.
  • such optional greeting cards may be purchased and provided to a receiver along with a gift card that is purchased and provided as disclosed herein.
  • tickets for certain events via the kiosk may be for the purchaser employing the kiosk, or may be provided to an intended receiver as disclosed herein.
  • purchased tickets may be provided via a gift card, or may be provided via a traditional printed ticket.
  • Tickets may also be provided by eCode or "eTicket", where the ticket is provided digitally. These may be provided in any of a number of ways, such as an emailed eCode or other type of code (e .g., barcode, QR code, etc.), a messaged code, or even NFC transfer to a mobile device (or either the purchaser or the receiver of the ticket).
  • Tickets purchased via a disclosed kiosk may include encoded tickets for events such concerts, plays, and sporting events . Streaming Cards
  • Another embodiment of the disclosed systems and methods may be the purchasing gifts in the form of gift cards or eCodes (or any other type of code) for downloading or streaming movies, shows, video games, or music.
  • movies and video games may be selected by title, while music may be selected by musical artist/group name, album name or even track names.
  • Such streaming cards or codes may be selected by the purchaser via the kiosk and sent to a receiver via a second (or the same) kiosk, or as before may be transmitted to the receiver using any type of technique, such as email, messaging, and even the printing and mailing of a physical card.
  • Physical gift cards could include a code (e .g., bar code, QR code, etc.) for direct streaming of media content to the receiver's mobile phone or other device, computer, tablet, media streaming box, DVR, etc.
  • a code e .g., bar code, QR code, etc.
  • for physical streaming cards may also be purchased as a limited edition cards, as discussed above, where the purchased item (s) may correspond to the imagery on the limited edition card.
  • the present invention system anticipates a wide variety of variations in the basic theme of kiosk gift card system, but can be generalized as a kiosk gift card system in a retail establishment comprising:
  • (d) gift card dispenser wherein the kiosk processor interface is configured to enable users to interact with the gift card management server; the gift card management server is configured to connect to a network; the gift card management server is configured to provide the users with options to purchase user-selected gift cards ; and the gift card dispenser is configured to print the user- selected gift cards upon receiving payment through the card reader.
  • the present invention method anticipates a wide variety of variations in the basic theme of implementation, but can be generalized as a kiosk gift card system purchase method wherein the method is performed on a kiosk gift card system comprising:
  • (d) gift card dispenser wherein the kiosk processor interface is configured to enable users to interact with the gift card management server; the gift card management server is configured to connect to a network; the gift card management server is configured to provide the users with options to purchase user-selected gift cards or to add funds to used gift cards; and the gift card dispenser is configured to print the user- selected gift cards, or returning a reloaded gift card, upon receiving payment through the card reader; wherein the method comprises the steps of:
  • the present invention anticipates a wide variety of variations in the basic theme of kiosk gift card system.
  • the examples presented previously do not represent the entire scope of possible usages. They are meant to cite a few of the almost limitless possibilities .
  • This basic system and method may be augmented with a variety of ancillary embodiments, including but not limited to:
  • gift card management server is further configured to communicate via the network with:
  • advertising server wherein the vendor management server is configured to communicate with plural vendors to submit user requests for gift cards; the plural vendors are configured to respond to the user requests with the network; the vendor database is configured to store and maintain data related to the plural vendors; the payment server is configured to accept payments for the gift cards; and the advertising server is configured to display advertisements on the kiosk processor interface.
  • kiosk processor interface is a touch interface
  • kiosk processor interface is a graphical interface.
  • a kiosk gift card system and method for purchasing gift cards at a kiosk has been disclosed.
  • the system/method includes a gift card distribution kiosk located at a retail establishment that provides a user with access to a multitude of different forms of gift cards that may be purchased and printed onto a customizable card with a personalized message.
  • the kiosk includes a kiosk processor interface, a gift card dispenser, a card reader and gift card management server connected to a network.
  • the gift card management server through the kiosk processor interface, provides vendor options to users to select and pay via the card reader.
  • the kiosk is used to redeem unused user gift cards for a reduced value user selected gift card, reduced cash value, full value store card, rewards points, bank debit, and/or electronic code user towards online purchases.

Abstract

L'invention concerne un système de cartes-cadeaux et un procédé d'achat de cartes-cadeaux au niveau d'un kiosque. Le système/procédé comprend un kiosque de distribution de cartes-cadeaux situé dans un établissement de vente au détail qui fournit à un utilisateur un accès à une multitude de différentes formes de cartes-cadeaux qui peuvent être achetées et imprimées sur une carte personnalisable avec un message personnalisé, le kiosque comprenant une interface de processeur de kiosque, un distributeur de cartes-cadeaux, un lecteur de carte et un serveur de gestion de cartes-cadeaux connectés à un réseau. Le serveur de gestion de cartes-cadeaux fournit, par le biais de l'interface de processeur de kiosque, des options de vente aux utilisateurs afin de réaliser une sélection et un paiement par le biais du lecteur de carte. Dans un autre mode de réalisation, le kiosque est utilisé pour rembourser des cartes-cadeaux d'utilisateur non utilisées pour une carte-cadeau sélectionnée par un utilisateur à valeur réduite, une valeur d'argent réduite, une carte de magasin de valeur complète, des points de récompense, un débit bancaire et/ou un utilisateur de code électronique pour des achats en ligne.
PCT/US2021/018369 2020-02-17 2021-02-17 Système et procédé de cartes-cadeaux de kiosque WO2021167975A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US16/792,735 US11379810B2 (en) 2009-07-17 2020-02-17 Kiosk gift card system and method
US16/792,735 2020-02-17

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2021167975A1 true WO2021167975A1 (fr) 2021-08-26

Family

ID=77391656

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
PCT/US2021/018369 WO2021167975A1 (fr) 2020-02-17 2021-02-17 Système et procédé de cartes-cadeaux de kiosque

Country Status (1)

Country Link
WO (1) WO2021167975A1 (fr)

Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20020103711A1 (en) * 2000-12-15 2002-08-01 Karas Peter Michael Online method and system for ordering and having delivered a paper greeting message and payment instrument
US20070181674A1 (en) * 2006-02-08 2007-08-09 Jpmorgan Chase Bank, N.A. System and method for granting promotional rewards to both customers and non-customers
US20080116259A1 (en) * 2006-10-26 2008-05-22 Stephen Lloyd Oberan Non-cash media card and the process for dispensing from automated teller
US20080235095A1 (en) * 2007-03-19 2008-09-25 Dnp Photo Imaging America Corporation Gift card kiosk
US20110013501A1 (en) * 2009-07-17 2011-01-20 James Curtis Universal multimedia distribution, storage, and playback systems and methods
US20120109787A1 (en) * 2010-11-01 2012-05-03 Larrick Elizabeth J Gift card exchange kiosks and associated methods of use

Patent Citations (6)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20020103711A1 (en) * 2000-12-15 2002-08-01 Karas Peter Michael Online method and system for ordering and having delivered a paper greeting message and payment instrument
US20070181674A1 (en) * 2006-02-08 2007-08-09 Jpmorgan Chase Bank, N.A. System and method for granting promotional rewards to both customers and non-customers
US20080116259A1 (en) * 2006-10-26 2008-05-22 Stephen Lloyd Oberan Non-cash media card and the process for dispensing from automated teller
US20080235095A1 (en) * 2007-03-19 2008-09-25 Dnp Photo Imaging America Corporation Gift card kiosk
US20110013501A1 (en) * 2009-07-17 2011-01-20 James Curtis Universal multimedia distribution, storage, and playback systems and methods
US20120109787A1 (en) * 2010-11-01 2012-05-03 Larrick Elizabeth J Gift card exchange kiosks and associated methods of use

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US9679287B2 (en) Kiosk gift card system and method
US10846684B2 (en) Kiosk gift card system and method
US10460311B2 (en) Kiosk gift card system and method
US7306143B2 (en) Dynamic smart card/media imaging
US20080011825A1 (en) Transactions using handheld electronic devices based on unobtrusive provisioning of the devices
US20130185148A1 (en) Systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer program products for providing services on an automated teller machine
US20180300754A1 (en) Methods and systems for performing an advertisement based electronic transaction using a mobile device
KR20110086615A (ko) 모바일 지갑 시스템을 이용하여 거래를 행하는 시스템 및 방법
JP2010525462A (ja) Ｅクーポンの配布および個別化のための方法および装置
JP2006501537A (ja) 対話型マルチメディア・コンテンツによりクーポンを受け付ける顧客操作型受発注システム及び方法
WO2011163546A2 (fr) Système permettant d'acheter des biens et des services commerciaux à un emplacement distant de ce dernier
US10540687B2 (en) Systems and methods for automated mass media commerce
US20020120499A1 (en) System and method for membership vending
US11967215B2 (en) Kiosk gift card system and method
EP2847721A1 (fr) Procédé permettant de fournir des informations à un client au niveau d'un point de vente
US20040024642A1 (en) Customer-operated ordering system and method that accepts coupons with interactive multimedia content
US20240047382A1 (en) Kiosk Gift Card System and Method
WO2021167975A1 (fr) Système et procédé de cartes-cadeaux de kiosque
WO2022011113A1 (fr) Système et procédé de cartes-cadeaux de kiosque
CN104205145A (zh) 用于促销项目分发和兑现跟踪的系统和方法
WO2011103664A1 (fr) Système, procédé et programme d'ordinateur pour la salutation en ligne et le don en ligne à l'aide d'un dispositif mobile
WO2001043032A1 (fr) Procede publicitaire utilisant une carte a puce
WO2006007640A1 (fr) Fourniture de services

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
121 Ep: the epo has been informed by wipo that ep was designated in this application

Ref document number: 21756656

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1

NENP Non-entry into the national phase

Ref country code: DE

122 Ep: pct application non-entry in european phase

Ref document number: 21756656

Country of ref document: EP

Kind code of ref document: A1