Automated fee collection and parking ticket dispensing machine
First Claim
1. An isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection and ticket dispensing device adapted for operating in a plurality of operational modes, comprising:
- a power supply;
a durable protective enclosure having locking means for securing an access door;
a fee collection means for collecting a payment from a user and providing change as necessary;
a first output device adapted to modify a first ticket stored in said dispensing device;
a second output device adapted to modify a second ticket stored in said dispensing device;
a dispensing chute with a first aperture to receive the first ticket outputted from said first output device, and a second aperture to receive the second ticket outputted from said second output device, said dispensing chute further comprising a dispensing tray extending outside of said protective enclosure which allows the first ticket and the second ticket to be discharged from the dispensing chute;
an air flow dispensing means in operable communication with said dispensing chute and a power supply, wherein upon receiving a signal, said air flow dispensing means provides air flow within said dispensing chute, wherein the first ticket and the second ticket are dispensed from said dispensing chute; and
a computer positioned within said durable protective enclosure and operably interconnected to at least said fee collection means, said power supply and said first output device and said second output 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. 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. 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
21 Claims
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1. An isolated, stand alone, automated fee collection and ticket dispensing device adapted for operating in a plurality of operational modes, comprising:
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a power supply;
a durable protective enclosure having locking means for securing an access door;
a fee collection means for collecting a payment from a user and providing change as necessary;
a first output device adapted to modify a first ticket stored in said dispensing device;
a second output device adapted to modify a second ticket stored in said dispensing device;
a dispensing chute with a first aperture to receive the first ticket outputted from said first output device, and a second aperture to receive the second ticket outputted from said second output device, said dispensing chute further comprising a dispensing tray extending outside of said protective enclosure which allows the first ticket and the second ticket to be discharged from the dispensing chute;
an air flow dispensing means in operable communication with said dispensing chute and a power supply, wherein upon receiving a signal, said air flow dispensing means provides air flow within said dispensing chute, wherein the first ticket and the second ticket are dispensed from said dispensing chute; and
a computer positioned within said durable protective enclosure and operably interconnected to at least said fee collection means, said power supply and said first output device and said second output device. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10. A method for dispensing items within an automated fee collection and ticket dispensing device, comprising the steps of:
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displaying at least first information on a visual display means, said first information comprising instructions for using said dispensing device for said item;
providing a user input means that allows the user to provide input information;
detecting said input information from said user input means;
providing a means to accept payment;
providing a plurality of output means that prints predetermined information on at least one of said item;
providing a chute with a plurality of apertures that receives at least one of said item after it has been altered by at least one of said plurality of output means;
providing a blower which is in operable communication with said chute and which provides a flow of air through said chute, wherein said at least one of said item is expelled from said chute; and
dispensing said item through said chute. - View Dependent Claims (11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19)
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20. An automated fee collection and dispensing device, comprising:
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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 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;
a fee collection means for collecting a payment from a user and providing change as necessary;
a first output device adapted to modify a ticket and/or decal stored in said dispensing device;
a second output device adapted to modify the ticket and/or decal stored in said device;
a dispensing chute with a first aperture to receive the first ticket and/or decal outputted from said first output device, and a second aperture to receive the second ticket and/or decal outputted from said second output device, said dispensing chute further comprising a dispensing tray extending outside of said protective enclosure which allows the first ticket and/or decal and the second ticket and/or decal to be discharged from the dispensing chute; and
means for supplying power to said ticket and/or decal dispensing device. - View Dependent Claims (21)
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Specification