Automated fee collection and parking ticket dispensing machine
First Claim
1. An isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection and ticket and/or decal dispensing device adapted for operating in a plurality of operational modes, comprising:
- a durable protective enclosure having locking means for securing an access door;
a computer positioned within said protective enclosure and operatively interconnected to monitor and control at least one of a plurality of internal environmental operating conditions associated with said isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection device;
computer programming stored in said computer, wherein said programming provides at least two operational modes;
a visual display in operable communication with said computer and operably positioned on said durable protective enclosure, said visual display comprising a durable polycarbonate screen, and a touch screen matrix;
a fee collection means for collecting a payment from a user and providing change as necessary;
an output device;
means for supplying power to said ticket and/or decal dispensing device.
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Accused Products
Abstract
An automated fee collection and ticket dispensing machine is disclosed that is capable of operating under a variety of operating modes. The machine permits users to purchase a variety of passes. The disclosed machine includes printers to produce receipts or passes for services or activities. These receipts and passes may be printed for each specific user, and may feature a machine-readable bar code. The disclosed machine also includes a bar code reader, allowing users to return printed receipts or passes at the machine, and to receive credit for any unused portion. Payment may be made using credit cards, debit cards or cash. The device is provided with networking means, to allow central control and monitoring of the device. Power for the machine may be provided by hard-wiring the device to conventional AC power lines, by solar panels, by batteries, or a combination of any of these. Power consumption is held to a minimum by providing a “sleep” mode. The user interface includes a video output screen with “touch screen” capability to receive user input, audio output means, and a proximity sensor to activate the machine when a user approaches. Additionally, security means are provided to deter potential thieves or vandals.
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Citations
25 Claims
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1. An isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection and ticket and/or decal dispensing device adapted for operating in a plurality of operational modes, comprising:
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a durable protective enclosure having locking means for securing an access door;
a computer positioned within said protective enclosure and operatively interconnected to monitor and control at least one of a plurality of internal environmental operating conditions associated with said isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection device;
computer programming stored in said computer, wherein said programming provides at least two operational modes;
a visual display in operable communication with said computer and operably positioned on said durable protective enclosure, said visual display comprising a durable polycarbonate screen, and a touch screen matrix;
a fee collection means for collecting a payment from a user and providing change as necessary;
an output device;
means for supplying power to said ticket and/or decal dispensing device. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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11. A touch sensitive interactive screen adapted for use with an automated fee collection and ticket dispensing machine, comprising:
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a durable polycarbonate screen which is substantially shatter proof and having an exterior surface and an interior surface;
a high resolution liquid crystal display positioned adjacent to said interior surface of said polycarbonate screen;
a touch screen matrix positioned adjacent said polycarbonate screen which is in operable communication with a computer positioned within said ticket dispensing machine, wherein information may be communicated to said computer; and
at least one environmental control means, wherein the internal temperature of the automated fee collection and ticket dispensing machine may be controlled. - View Dependent Claims (12, 13, 15, 16, 17)
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14. The interactive screen of claim 111, wherein said substantially waterproof gasket is beveled.
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18. A theft and vandalization resistant device for displaying and receiving information in an outdoor environment, comprising:
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means for visually outputting information;
substantially transparent means for protecting said means for visually outputting information display means, wherein said means for visually outputting information is positioned adjacent an interior surface of said means for protecting;
means for receiving input information from a user, wherein said means for receiving is located immediately adjacent a surface of said means for protecting;
means for controlling at least one of a temperature and a humidity of an interior of said device;
protective enclosure means; and
means for sealing an interface between said means for protecting and said protective enclosure means. - View Dependent Claims (19, 20, 21, 22)
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23. A method for displaying and receiving information in an automated fee collection and ticket dispensing device, comprising:
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displaying through a substantially transparent and shatter proof protective layer at least first information, wherein said at least first information comprises at least a first input area;
detecting a user selection from said at least a first input area;
dispensing at least one of a ticket, a receipt and a pass and requesting payment of a fee based on said user selection;
sensing an environmental condition; and
in response to said sensing an environmental condition, altering an operating parameter of said device. - View Dependent Claims (24, 25)
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Specification