HK1149105A - Method for controlling a plurality of dispensers - Google Patents

Description

Method for controlling a plurality of dispensers

Trade mark

COCA-Is a registered trademark of Coca-Cola corporation, Atlanta, Georgia, USA. Other names, symbols, patterns or logos used herein may be registered trademarks, trademarks or product names of the Coca-Cola company or other companies.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to product dispensers, and more particularly to systems and methods for facilitating consumer-dispenser interaction.

Background

Conventional beverage dispensers may fill the beverage by combining syrup, sweetener, and/or water. To create a limited variety of beverage options, different types of syrups may be provided. This typically results in only a limited number of branded and non-branded beverage choices being offered. By way of example, a single prior art dispenser using several syrups may offer limited options: COCA-COLA^TM、DIETCOCA-COLA^TM、SPRITE^TMAnd several other brands or non-brands of beverage selection。

One problem with these types of conventional beverage dispensers is that only a limited number of beverages can be provided. Thus, conventional beverage dispensers may be limited in their ability to provide consumers with the beverage they desire. In this regard, consumers desire a broader menu of beverage selections and the ability to customize their beverages. Studies have shown that they desire even more beverage variation from traditional brands of beverages. For example, COCA-COLA is provided^TMCOCA-COLA containing lime^TM、CHERRYCOCA-COLA^TM、VANILLA COCA-COLA^TMAnd many other types of COCA-COLA^TMThe beverage changes. For a single beverage brand such as COCA-COLA^TMIt is impractical to provide all of the possible variations in conventional beverage dispensers, in part because of the limited capacity and selection capabilities of conventional beverage dispensers. They are unable to offer the consumer a full range of options that they want, i.e., offer all types of branded and non-branded beverages.

Disclosure of Invention

Some or all of the above needs and/or problems are addressed by embodiments of the present invention. Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems and methods for facilitating consumer-dispenser interactions. In one embodiment, a system may be provided that includes a product dispenser and a processor. The processor is operable to execute a set of instructions operable to receive consumer preferences to receive notifications associated with products. The set of instructions is further operable to determine whether the product is offered and inform the consumer regarding availability of the product from the product dispenser based in part on the consumer preference.

In another embodiment, a method of interacting with a consumer regarding product availability may be provided. The method may include receiving a consumer preference for receiving a notification associated with a product. Additionally, the method may include determining whether a product is provided. Further, the method can include informing the consumer regarding availability of the product based at least in part on the consumer preference.

In another embodiment, a method of interacting with a user regarding a product associated with a product dispenser may be provided. The method may include receiving selection data from a consumer. Based at least in part on the selection data, the method may determine at least one notification to deliver to the consumer. Additionally, the method may include transmitting a notification to the consumer.

In another embodiment, a method for selling a product to a consumer may be provided. The method may include receiving a respective plurality of consumer preferences from a plurality of consumers, wherein at least some of the consumer preferences are associated with preferences associated with products. Additionally, the method may include informing at least a portion of the consumers that the product is available at a predefined time. Further, the method may include instructing a plurality of product dispensers to dispense products at predefined times.

Additional systems, methods, distributors, features and aspects may be realized through the techniques of different embodiments of the present invention. Other embodiments and aspects of the invention are described in detail herein and are considered a part of the claimed invention. Other aspects and features may be understood with reference to the detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of Drawings

The subject matter which is regarded as the invention is particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the claims at the conclusion of the specification. The above and other objects, features and aspects of the present invention are apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary system including a product dispenser and associated network according to one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 2 shows an example of a consumer diet network (consistency network) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an enhanced view graphical user interface according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows an example of a classic view graphical user interface according to an embodiment of the invention.

Figure 5 illustrates one example of a method of transitioning between an enhanced product dispenser consumer interface and a classic product dispenser consumer interface according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 6 illustrates one example of a method of notifying a consumer of a product or beverage option when a first selection is not available to the consumer, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 illustrates one example of a method of determining a promotion and allowing a consumer to output or print a coupon at a product dispenser, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 illustrates one example of a method of providing product information and content on a product dispenser consumer interface according to one embodiment of this disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates one example of a method of providing a game code and/or ring tone in connection with dispensing a product or beverage according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Fig. 10 illustrates one example of a method according to one embodiment of the invention in which a consumer registers that will be informed when a new product or beverage type is available.

FIG. 11 illustrates one example of a method for a consumer to determine the location of a product or beverage type according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 illustrates one example of a method of implementing a "first-to-first-drink" promotion, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates one example of a method for allowing a consumer to select, configure a product dispenser from a promotional list and output or print a coupon in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 illustrates one example of a method of selecting a product beverage from a list of products or beverages, where each product or beverage on the promotional list has a promotional group, according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 illustrates one example of a method of providing benefits to a consumer by enabling the consumer to receive loyalty rewards when dispensing a product or beverage from a product dispenser, according to one embodiment of the invention.

Fig. 16 illustrates one example of a method of providing benefits to a consumer by enabling the consumer to redeem loyalty rewards for use as a payment for a product or beverage dispensed from a product dispenser, in accordance with one embodiment of the invention.

The detailed description explains examples of various embodiments of the invention, together with aspects and features, with reference to the drawings.

Detailed description of embodiments of the invention

As used herein, the terms "beverage dispenser," "product dispenser," "beverage product dispenser," "dispenser device," and "dispenser" refer to an apparatus, can, bottle, or container that dispenses a product, such as a beverage.

As used herein, the terms "product" and "beverage," and their plural forms, are used synonymously, and embodiments of the invention should not be limited in scope to the use of any one of the terms.

Turning now to more detailed portions of the drawings, an exemplary system 100 of a product dispenser according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 1. The present exemplary system, such as 100, may operate in a networked computer environment including at least one network in communication with a product dispenser. For example, in fig. 1, a product dispenser such as 102A is shown in communication with a communication network such as 104. In this embodiment, at least one product dispenser, such as 102A, may be connected to a consumer, customer, or other user. Other exemplary environments or systems of product dispensers according to one embodiment of the invention may include non-network configurations.

The exemplary product dispenser 102A, shown in FIG. 1, may be a client-type device. Each product dispenser, such as 102A-102N, may be a computer or processor-based device capable of communicating with a communication network, such as 104, via a signal, such as a wireless frequency signal or a direct wired communication signal.

Each product dispenser, such as 102A, may include a processor or controller 106, an identification reader/scanner device 106A, a composition matrix 108, a computer readable medium, such as Random Access Memory (RAM)110, coupled to the processor or controller 106, and an input/output device, such as a display device 112. A processor or controller, such as 106, may execute computer-executable program instructions stored in a memory, such as 110. The computer-executable program instructions stored in the memory, such as 110, may include any number of modular applications, such as a consumer interaction engine or modules, such as 114. The consumer interaction engine or module 114 may be adapted to implement various methods for consumer-dispenser interaction. Additionally, a consumer interaction engine or module, such as 114, may be adapted to receive one or more signals from one or more consumers, remote and/or local servers or data processing resources, and client type devices or wireless communication devices. For example, a consumer interaction module implemented at a product dispenser such as 102A may interact with another consumer interaction module implemented at a server such as 126 to implement or otherwise facilitate any set of instructions in accordance with embodiments of the present invention. Other examples of the functionality and aspects of embodiments of the consumer interaction engine or module, such as 114, are described below.

The identification reader/scanner device 106A shown in fig. 1 may be in communication with the controller 106 and may receive or otherwise obtain identification information from any number of devices or apparatuses associated with a consumer. For example, the identification reader/scanner device such as 106A may include machine-readable code technology such as bar codes, or may include any wireless communication technology such as RFID, reflected light frequency, optical, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 1, a processor or controller, such as 106, may communicate with a component matrix, such as 108, to control, monitor and track the addition, flow and removal of some or all of the components to or from the matrix 108. For example, the ingredient matrix may be a series of containers or mounts capable of receiving or mounting to respective product ingredient packages or other product ingredient supplies. For example, product component packages such as 116A may be made as sachets of liquid held in plastic ridged containers (plastic ridge containers) to allow insertion into a matrix of components such as 108. When inserted into the ingredient matrix such as 108, the bag such as 116A or pouch may be pierced by at least one associated fitment that allows the liquid or pouch in the bag such as 116A to be pumped or otherwise metered by the controller such as 106 or the matrix such as 108 and associated equipment in precise proportions to form a desired product such as a beverage. In one embodiment, one or more product component packages, such as 116A-116Q, may be inserted into a component matrix, such as 108. The component matrix 108 in this embodiment may hold some or all of the product component packages, such as 116A-116Q. In one embodiment, one or more product packages, such as 116O, 116P, 116Q, may be supplied directly rather than in the form of a package. For example, a product package such as 116O may be a continuous supply of soda provided from a soda water source; product packages, such as 116P, may be sweeteners provided from sweetener sources, such as non-nutritive sweeteners (NNS) or High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS); and product packs such as 116Q, may be a continuous supply of water from a faucet, purified or distilled water source. In any embodiment, the ingredients, components, or product additives may be in the form of pouches, or may be in other configurations suitable for access to the matrix of ingredients, such as 108.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a product dispenser such as 102A having a product matrix such as 108 may include one or more machine code readers such as 118A-118Q that utilize machine code technology such as bar codes, RFID, reflected light frequencies, optics, and the like. In one embodiment, at least one machine readable code reader, such as 118A-118Q, may be associated with a location associated with an ingredient matrix, such as 108, wherein some or all of the product ingredient packages, such as 116A-116Q, may be scanned, read, or otherwise identified prior to insertion into or connection with the ingredient matrix, such as 108. In this regard, a processor or controller, such as 106, may receive or obtain information regarding some or all of the product component packages, such as 116A-116Q, and use this information to identify an optimal or other desired location within a component matrix, such as 108, within the component matrix, such as 108, to position the product component package, such as 116A. For example, data from a product component package, such as 116A, may be read, scanned, or identified from a serial number or identification code associated with the product component package, such as 116A. This data may be used alone or in association with information previously stored in at least one database described below, such as 128A-128C, or in association with data otherwise available or stored by a data processing resource or server, referred to below as 126, which may identify one or more components associated with a product component package, such as 116A. In another example, data from a product component package, such as 116A, may be a component code or identification code, and may be used alone or associated with information previously stored in a database, such as 128A-128C, or with data otherwise available or stored by a data processing resource or server, such as 126, that may identify one or more components associated with the product component package, such as 116A.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, a product dispenser such as 102A having a product matrix such as 108 may include one or more pumps and/or valves such as 120 and 122, respectively, and a nozzle such as 124. In this example, each of the pumps, such as 120, and valves, such as 122, may be controlled by a product dispenser, such as 102A. For example, a processor or controller such as 106 may be in communication with some or all of the pump 120 and the valve 122. In this regard, some or all of the pumps, such as 120, and/or valves, such as 122, may be selectively operated by a processor or controller, such as 106, to pump, meter, or otherwise obtain respective products or ingredients from certain product ingredient packages, such as 116A-116Q, to dispense a consumable beverage.

In one embodiment, an ingredient matrix such as 108 may have a plurality of product ingredient packages such as 116A-116Q inserted into the ingredient matrix such as 108, where each package may contain different or unique ingredients. The varying proportions of ingredients from some or all of the product ingredient packages, such as 116A-116Q, may be selectively combined to form various types of products, such as beverages, by one or more commands or instructions from a processor or controller, such as 106, to one or more pumps, such as 120, and/or valves, such as 122, associated with the ingredient matrix, such as 108. Exemplary ingredients may include, but are not limited to: flavorings, concentrates, syrups, sweeteners, water, soda, lime, vanilla, CHERRY flavorings, and any component part of a branded or non-branded beverage, such as CHERRY COCA-COLA^TM、VANILLA COCA-COLA^TM、COCA-COLA^TM、DIET COCA-COLA^TMAnd FANTA^TM。

In one embodiment, one or more product component packs such as 116A-116Q may contain a component called "pungency" that will restrict its position within a matrix of components such as 108. The spicy type of ingredient may be relatively strong such that once the spicy ingredient is pumped or otherwise drawn through a particular portion of the product dispenser, such as 102A, any associated pathway through the dispenser 102A, such as a conduit in the product dispenser 102A, may be permanently flavored, and any subsequent ingredient or liquid pumped or drawn through that pathway or conduit may be tainted with the flavor of the spicy type of ingredient. Thus, once a spicy type ingredient is used in the ingredient matrix such as 108, the associated processor or controller such as 106 may track or otherwise store information to control or limit the replacement and/or addition of other spicy ingredients to certain locations of the ingredient matrix such as 108 to avoid mixing spicy type ingredients or cross-flavoring non-spicy ingredients to maintain product or beverage quality.

In another embodiment, one or more product component packages, such as 116A-116Q, may require agitation to keep the relevant components sufficiently mixed. In this case, the location of the constituent in the constituent matrix such as 108 may be limited to locations within the constituent matrix such as 108 that may be agitated as may be needed and/or desired in particular embodiments.

In another embodiment, ingredients from one or more product ingredient packages, such as 116A-116Q, may be dispensed through an antimicrobial tubing and/or dispenser piece. These ingredients may include, but are not limited to: milk, dairy, soy, and/or other types and kinds of product components. In such cases, the location of the ingredients in the ingredient matrix such as 108 may be limited to locations within the ingredient matrix 108 that utilize appropriate antimicrobial tubing and/or dispenser components as may be needed and/or desired in particular embodiments.

In another embodiment, a one-to-one relationship may be established between a particular product ingredient package, such as 116A, and at least one pump and/or valve, such as 120 and/or 122, respectively. In some cases, utilizing more than one pump and/or valve for a single product component package, such as 116A, a relatively high volume of the component may be drawn from the package, such as 116A, in a relatively short period of time. For example, a product component package containing a sweetener, such as sweetener 116P, may utilize more than one pump and/or valve to draw a relatively high volume of the component from the package, such as 116P, in a relatively short period of time.

Returning to FIG. 1, any number of other product dispensers, such as 102A-102N, may also be in communication with a network, such as 104. In one embodiment, a communication network such as 104 shown in FIG. 1 may be a Local Area Network (LAN). In another embodiment, the communication network may be a wireless communication network capable of transmitting voice and data signals, including image data signals or multimedia signals. Other networks may include, but are not limited to: the internet, a local area network, a Wide Area Network (WAN), a LON WORKS network, a wired network, a wireless network, or any combination thereof.

A network, such as 104 shown in fig. 1, is also shown in communication with at least one data processing resource, such as a server (e.g., 126), and at least one database, such as 128A. In this embodiment, a server such as 126 may be a processor-based device capable of communicating with some or all of the product dispensers such as 102A-102N in signals such as radio frequency signals or direct wired communication signals via a communication network such as 104. In addition, data processing resources or servers such as 126 may be used to assist or assist in the formulation, method of preparing a product or beverage, provide processing of operational data, perform data processing related to consumer interaction, and/or perform other data processing as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. The operational data processing may include, for example and without limitation, device status, maintenance, service reminders, pre-restore, and/or other types and kinds of data processing that may be operational or as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. Such consumer interaction support may include, for example and without limitation, consumer preferences, consumer product or beverage preferences, loyalty, countermeasures, rewards, media content, customization, and/or other types and kinds of consumer interaction and/or data processing support as may be required and/or desired by a particular implementation.

The server, such as 126 in fig. 1, may include a processor, such as 130, and a computer-readable medium, such as Random Access Memory (RAM)132, coupled to the processor 130. The processor such as 130 may execute computer-executable program instructions stored in the memory such as 130. The computer-executable program instructions stored in the memory, such as 132, may include any number of modular applications, such as a consumer interaction engine or module similar to 114. A consumer interaction engine or module similar to 114 may be adapted to perform different methods for consumer interaction. Additionally, a consumer interaction engine or module similar to 114 may be adapted to interact with one or more consumers and one or more servers or data processing resources. Other examples of functions and aspects of embodiments of a consumer interaction engine or module similar to 114 are described below.

Through a network such as 104 in fig. 1, some or all of the product dispensers such as 102A-102N may retrieve, receive, or otherwise access information stored in some or all of the databases, such as recipes, and methods of making beverage databases such as 128A, operational databases such as 128B, and consumer databases such as 128C. In any case, the one or more databases can include product or beverage formation information, such as one or more of product or beverage formulations, recipes, and methods of product or beverage preparation. Such product or beverage formulations, methods of preparation, and preparation of products or beverages can include a list of ingredients, a ratio of each ingredient, a list of how a consumer can customize a product or beverage, and/or other types or kinds of product or beverage formulations, methods of preparation, and preparation of products or beverages as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

The exemplary environment or system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may facilitate customer, consumer, and user interaction with product dispensers and networks. For example, and not by way of limitation, a user, such as a consumer, may make a beverage type selection at a product dispenser, such as 102, via an input/output device, such as display device 112. An associated processor or controller, such as 106, may assist a user in selecting a particular recipe via a display device, such as 112, to form a selected product, such as a beverage. The processor or controller such as 106 may display one or more products or beverages for selection via a display device such as 112. The user may use the display device such as 112 to select at least one of the products or beverages, for example, pressing a button set by the display device such as 112 or a button associated with the display device such as 112. A processor or controller, such as 106, may obtain the respective ingredients and/or proportions of ingredients for forming the selected product or beverage from a local memory, such as 110, or may communicate with at least one database via a network, such as 104, or may communicate with at least one data processing resource, such as server 126, to obtain the respective ingredients and/or proportions of ingredients for forming the selected product or beverage. The processor or controller, such as 106, may utilize the information to operate one or more pumps, such as 120, and/or valves, such as 122, to form and dispense a product or beverage through a nozzle, such as 124, into a cup or other container, such as 136.

In another example, a user, such as a customer or package installer, may easily scan or read one or more product component packages, such as 116A-116Q, when the product component packages 116A-116Q are inserted into a component matrix, such as 108, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A. A processor or controller such as 106 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may identify an optimal or selected location within the composition matrix such as 108. A user, customer, or package installer can be notified via an input/output device, such as a display device, such as 112, where a particular product component package, such as 116A, is located in a component matrix, such as 108. Examples of display devices may include, but are not limited to: light Emitting Diode (LED) display indicators, LCD screens, input/output (I/O) interfaces, audio interfaces, or other types and kinds of displays or indicators as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

In one embodiment, insertion of a particular product component package, such as 116A, into a product matrix, such as 108, may be checked or otherwise verified by scanning the machine readable code on the corresponding package, such as 116A, and scanning the machine readable code located on the component matrix, such as 108, at the insertion point (shown as 118A). In this regard, an associated processor or controller, such as 106, may check or verify that a product component package, such as 116A, is properly located within a component matrix, such as 108.

In another embodiment, a cup such as 136 or other container may include identifying information such as an RFID or other machine readable tag such as 138 mounted to the cup shown in FIG. 1. In certain embodiments, the identifying information may be associated with the consumer by, for example, an RFID or other machine readable tag like 138, which is incorporated into or otherwise mounted to the icon or other object. A reader, such as an RFID reader or other machine readable code reader, such as 140, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may receive or otherwise obtain identification information from an RFID or other machine readable tag, such as 138. As shown in fig. 1, a processor or controller such as 106 associated with a product dispenser such as 102A may be in communication with an RFID or other machine readable code reader such as 140, and some or all of the identification information obtained from the RFID or other machine readable tag such as 138 may be stored or otherwise processed by the processor or controller such as 106. In this embodiment, the identification information may be incorporated into machine-readable codes, bar codes, RFID, radio frequency, infrared, or other forms of wireless communication methods or devices, or other types and kinds of encoding and/or storage techniques as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. The RFID reader or machine-readable code reader, such as 140, may be a corresponding device that reads or receives identification information from an RFID or other machine-readable tag, such as 138, and may include an RFID read/write device, an infrared device, a magnetic card reader, a bar code reader, or other suitable reader or receiver technology as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

In another embodiment, a server or transaction processing resource such as 126 may facilitate payment or payment processing when a consumer selects and attempts to purchase a product such as a beverage at a product dispenser such as 102A. An associated processor or controller such as 106 may receive payment information or related information (data transmission or other input) from the consumer, for example, via a display device such as 112, before, during or after selection of a particular product or beverage. In any example, a processor or controller, such as 106, may transmit payment or related information to a server or transaction processing resource, such as 126, via a network, such as 104. The server or transaction processing resource, such as 126, may access at least one database, such as 128A-128C, or may be in communication with at least one other data processing resource, to approve or otherwise confirm payment or related information prior to accepting payment by the consumer or prior to otherwise dispensing the selected product or beverage to the consumer.

Referring to fig. 2, an example of a consumer dietary environment or system 200 is shown. In one embodiment, one or more networked product dispensers, such as 210, may be mounted at a plurality of respective locations, such as location 202, and may be capable of communicating with one or more servers or data processing resources, such as 206, and one or more data storage devices, such as database 208, via a network 204, such as the internet or a global network. For example, the product dispenser 210 may be similar to the product dispenser or dispenser device 102A described in fig. 1. In one example, a product dispenser such as 210 may include some or all of the following components described in FIG. 1: a component matrix such as 108 having locations operable to receive one or more product component packages such as 116A-116Q, a controller such as 106, one or more package insertion detection devices or RFID readers/writers such as 118A-118Q, a pump such as 120, a valve such as 122, and a nozzle such as 124. For example, the server or data processing resource 206 may be similar to the server or data processing resource 126 described in fig. 1.

In one embodiment, one or more consumers, such as 212, may access a network, such as 104, or a consumer's dietary network, such as 204. Through network 204, consumer 212 may register configuration consumer preferences, access corresponding accounts, receive promotions, manage legitimate accounts, and/or register for other types and kinds of opportunities and services as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. In at least one embodiment, a consumer, such as 212, may choose to access the consumer's dietary network system, such as 200, and/or a product dispenser, such as 210, through any number of client-type devices, including but not limited to: personal Computers (PCs) such as 214A, data processing devices such as 214B, wireless communication devices such as 214C, and/or by way of other types and kinds of data processing, processor or client type devices. Of the wireless communication device 214CExamples may include, but are not limited to: wireless data processing device, wireless telephone, IPHONE^TM、IPOD^TMPersonal data assistant and/or POCKET PC^TM。

Referring to FIG. 3, an example of an enhanced view graphical user interface 300 is shown. In one embodiment, a product dispenser, such as 210 in FIG. 2, may include at least one user interface, such as an enhanced view graphical user interface, such as 300, or a consumer interface. A user interface such as 300 may be used, for example, by a consumer such as 212 to select any number of different product or beverage types, categories, and formulations. In use, a product dispenser such as 210 having an enhanced view graphical user interface such as 300 may provide a consumer with a series of dynamically generated menus of selectable product or beverage options, wherein the consumer may locate and select a particular brand, category, type and/or party of the respective product or beverage desired. Once a particular product or beverage option is selected, the consumer may cause the product dispenser to prepare and dispense the corresponding product or beverage as formulated.

Referring to FIG. 4, an example of another user interface is shown. In one embodiment, a product dispenser, such as 210 in FIG. 2, may include a classic graphical user interface, such as 400. A user interface, such as 400, may be used by a consumer, such as 212, to select from a limited number of different product or beverage types, categories, and/or formulations. In use, a consumer such as 212 may more easily select a product or beverage from a limited number of product or beverage choices. Once a particular product or beverage option is selected, the consumer may cause the product dispenser to prepare and dispense the corresponding product or beverage as formulated. In some embodiments, a classic type of graphical user interface may also be referred to as a traditional view because it is generally similar to a traditional sprinkler dispensing valve design. Thus, a classic type graphical user interface may be referred to as a traditional view graphical user interface.

In one embodiment, the consumer may desire fewer product or beverage selections than are displayed by a product dispenser that allows, for example, selection of a plurality of different types of products or beverages. In such an example, a classic-view graphical user interface may be displayed with relatively fewer, more traditional product or beverage selections and including one or more traditional types of product or beverage selections to facilitate faster interaction (at certain times) by the consumer with the product dispenser.

In another embodiment, the consumer may choose to create consumer preferences that may modify the type and/or kind of brand and/or product or beverage party displayed in a user interface, such as a classic view graphical user interface, in effect creating a consumer customized classic view graphical user interface. In this particular embodiment, the consumer may create a classic view graphical user interface that is customized by the consumer. For example, when a consumer identifies himself or herself to a product dispenser such as 210, one or more consumer preferences may be retrieved by the dispenser 210. Based at least in part on one or more consumer preferences, product dispenser 210 may display a default user interface to the consumer, which may be an enhanced view graphical user interface, a classic view graphical user interface, or a classic view graphical user interface customized by the consumer.

Fig. 5-16 are exemplary flow diagrams of various methods according to embodiments of the invention. Some or all of the illustrated methods may be implemented by a system, network, product dispenser, or any combination associated with those illustrated in fig. 1-4.

Referring to FIG. 5, one example of a method 500 of transitioning between product dispenser interfaces is shown. For example, through an enhanced graphical user interface view, the product dispenser may be operable to dispense hundreds of different formulations of beverages. In some instances, such a large number of beverage options may be difficult for all consumers who wish to quickly and easily navigate to the beverage. The product dispenser may provide the consumer with the ability to switch between an enhanced graphical user interface view and a representative view showing a major beverage brand, such as COCA-COLA^TM、DIET COCA-COLA^TM、SPRITE^TM、FANTA^TMAnd the like. In this regard, the consumer may select a beverage from between the enhanced graphical user interface view or the classic graphical user interface, depending on the user's selection of a particular graphical user interface.

The method 500 begins at block 502. In block 502, a default graphical user interface (enhanced or classic) is output or displayed for viewing by the user. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, a product dispenser, such as 102A in FIG. 1, may initially display a default graphical user interface to a user (such as 212 in FIG. 2) via a user interface, such as 112. The default graphical user interface may be an enhanced graphical user interface such as 300 in fig. 3, or a classic graphical user interface such as 400 in fig. 4. In any case, the user interface and the default graphical user interface are viewable by the consumer.

Block 502 is followed by decision block 504, wherein a determination is made as to whether the consumer wishes to use the graphical user interface of the classic view. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer wishes to use the graphical user interface of the classic view, method 500 continues to block 506. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer does not wish to use the graphical user interface of the classic view, the method 500 continues to decision block 508. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, a processor or controller such as 106 or 206 associated with a product dispenser such as 102A may determine whether a consumer wishes to use a classic graphical user interface such as 400. For example, a processor or controller, such as 106 or 206, may receive consumer input or may otherwise utilize previously entered or collected consumer data or data associated with a consumer. In another example, previously entered or collected consumer data or data associated with the consumer may be used by a processor or controller, such as 106 or 206, to determine a preferred user interface. In any case, a processor or controller such as 106 or 206 may make the determination based at least in part on consumer input, previously entered or collected consumer data, or data associated with the consumer.

In block 506, the user interface is changed to output or display the graphical user interface of the classic view. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, the processor or controller such as 106 or 206 may modify the user interface such as 112 to display a classic-view graphical user interface such as 400. In this manner, the graphical user interface of the classic view is viewable by the consumer. The method 500 continues to decision block 508.

In decision block 508, a determination is made as to whether the consumer wishes to use the graphical user interface of the enhanced view. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer desires to use the graphical user interface of the enhanced view, the method 500 continues to block 810. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer does not wish to use the graphical user interface of the enhanced view, the method 500 ends. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, a processor or controller such as 106 or 206 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may determine whether the consumer wishes to use the enhanced view graphical user interface such as 300. For example, a processor or controller, such as 106 or 206, may receive consumer input or may otherwise utilize previously entered or collected consumer data or data associated with a consumer. In another example, previously entered or collected consumer data or data associated with the consumer may be used by a processor or controller, such as 106 or 206, to determine a preferred user interface. In any case, a processor or controller such as 106 or 206 may make the determination based at least in part on consumer input, previously entered or collected consumer data, or data associated with the consumer.

In block 510, the user interface is changed to output or display the graphical user interface of the enhanced view. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, a processor or controller such as 106 or 206 may modify the user interface such as 112 to display an enhanced view graphical user interface such as 300. In this manner, the graphical user interface of the enhanced view may be viewed by the consumer. Following block 510, the method 500 ends.

In one embodiment, the consumer may select a limited number of products or beverages he or she likes. The consumer selections and associated data may be stored by the product dispenser as consumer preferences. Whenever the product dispenser identifies a particular consumer, the consumer preferences may be stored and retrieved locally and/or remotely by a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206. Upon request by the consumer, or based at least in part on some or all of the consumer's preferences, a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, may assist the consumer in viewing the enhanced view graphical user interface display, the classic view graphical user interface display, or other customized view user interface display via a user interface, such as 112, associated with the product dispenser.

In one embodiment, the consumer transferable data or the data may be otherwise retrieved by a user from the product dispenser. Based at least in part on these data, one or more consumer preferences may be determined by a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206. Based at least in part on consumer preferences, a server or data processing resource such as 126 or 206 may assist the consumer in viewing the enhanced view graphical user interface display, the classic view graphical user interface display, or other customized view user interface display via a user interface such as 112 associated with the product dispenser.

Referring to FIG. 6, one example of a method 600 of notifying a consumer of a product or beverage option when a first selection is not available to the consumer is shown.

The method 600 begins at block 602. In block 602, an input from a consumer selecting a product, such as a beverage, is received. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, a consumer may enter data via a data user interface, such as 112 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A, for example, with DIET CHERRY COKE^TMSelection of the associated indicator. In other embodiments, other products or beverages may be selected by the consumer, or other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections may be entered by the consumer at the product dispenser.

Block 602 is followed by decision block 604, wherein a determination is made as to whether the selected product or beverage is sold out or otherwise unavailable. If the determination is positive, i.e., the selected product or beverage has sold out or is otherwise unavailable, the method 600 proceeds to decision block 606. If the determination is negative, i.e., the selected product or beverage is not sold or available, the method 600 continues to decision block 612. In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser (such as 102A in fig. 1 or 210 in fig. 2) may determine whether the product or products selected by the consumer are sold out or otherwise unavailable. For example, a processor or controller, such as 106, may receive consumer input or selections via a consumer interface, such as 112, and compare the input or selection to previously stored information associated with product or beverage availability or inventory.

In block 606, a determination is made as to whether the consumer is to be notified of an alternative location of the product dispenser. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer is to be notified of an alternative location of the product dispenser, the method 600 proceeds to decision block 608. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer will not be notified of an alternative location of the product dispenser, the method 600 continues to decision block 612. In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether the consumer is to be notified of an alternate location of the product dispenser. For example, a processor or controller, such as 106, may make the determination based at least in part on one or more rules for notifying the consumer. In one embodiment, a set of rules associated with a particular consumer may be executed, such as a set of consumer preferences for informing the consumer of one or more predefined events. In another embodiment, a general set of rules may be executed, such as a general set of rules for notifying any consumer of one or more predefined events. In another embodiment, if a consumer attempts to dispense a product or beverage from a product dispenser and the desired product or beverage is determined to have sold, the product dispenser may inform the consumer where other product dispensers supplying the same and/or similar products or beverages are located.

In block 608, the product dispenser determines at least one alternative position of the product dispenser to deliver the same and/or similar product or beverage. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser 102A may communicate or otherwise transfer data to a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126. Based at least in part on the communication or data received from a local and/or remote server or data processing resource such as 126, a processor or controller such as 106 may determine at least one alternative location of a product dispenser supplying the same and/or similar product or beverage.

Block 608 is followed by block 610 in which the consumer is notified of one or more alternative locations of a product dispenser serving the same and/or similar product or beverage. In this embodiment, the location information may be sent to the consumer by a processor or controller associated with the production device, such as processor 106 in FIG. 1. The location information may be displayed on a user interface associated with the product dispenser, such as interface 112 associated with dispenser 102A.

Block 610 is followed by decision block 612, wherein a determination is made as to whether the consumer will be informed of one or more next best product or beverage options. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer will be informed of one or more next best product or beverage options, the method 600 continues to block 614. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer will not be informed of one or more of the next best product or beverage options, the method 600 ends. In the embodiment shown in fig. 6, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether the consumer will be informed of one or more next best product or beverage options. For example, a processor or controller such as 106 may make the determination based at least in part on one or more rules for notifying the consumer. In another embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may communicate with a server or data processing resource such as 126 to make the determination based at least in part on one or more rules for notifying the consumer. In one embodiment, a set of rules associated with a particular consumer may be executed. In another embodiment, a general set of rules may be executed.

Decision block 612 is followed by block 614 in which the product dispenser communicates with a local and/or remote data processing device to determine one or more next best or alternative product or beverage options. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller (such as 106 in FIG. 1) associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A, communicates data with a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126. Based at least in part on data received from a local and/or remote server or data processing resource such as 126, a processor or controller such as 106 can determine one or more next best product or beverage options, such as alternative products.

Block 614 is followed by block 616, wherein the consumer is notified of one or more next best or alternative product or beverage options. In one embodiment, information associated with one or more next best product or beverage options may be sent to the consumer by a processor or controller associated with the product device, such as controller 106 in FIG. 1. Information associated with one or more next best product or beverage options may be displayed on a user interface associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A.

In one embodiment, the next best product or beverage options may include, but are not limited to: similar taste, similar functional nutritional (nutraceutical) properties, and/or other types and/or categories of next best or alternative product or beverage options, as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

The method 600 ends after block 616.

In one embodiment, if the consumer attempts to use the product dispenser and determines that their first selection is not available, the product dispenser may notify the consumer of one or more next best or alternative options. The following best or alternative options may include, for example: notifying the consumer of the location of another product dispenser supplying the same product or beverage, notifying the consumer of at least one functional nutritional value or other comparable property of another product or beverage selection having a similar or suitable taste, and/or notifying the consumer of other options as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 7, one example of a method 700 of determining a promotion and allowing a consumer to output or print a coupon at a product dispenser is shown.

The method 700 begins in block 702. In block 702, input is received from a consumer to select a product or beverage. In the illustrated embodiment, a consumer may enter data, for example, regarding a product or beverage such as DIET CHERRY COKE via a user interface such as 112 in FIG. 1 associated with a product dispenser such as 102A^TMSelection of the indicator of (2). In other embodiments, other products or beverages may be selected by the consumer, or other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections may be entered by the consumer. In one embodiment, the product or beverage selection may be implemented through a graphical user interface associated with the product dispenser, such as user interface 112.

Block 702 is followed by block 704, wherein the product dispenser communicates locally and/or remotely to determine whether a promotion associated with the selected product or beverage is present. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, may communicate with an associated memory or data storage device, such as 110, to determine whether a promotion is associated with a selected product or beverage. In one embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106, may communicate with a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, to determine whether a promotion is associated with a selected product or beverage. In any case, the product dispenser communicates locally and/or remotely to determine whether there is a promotion associated with the selected product or beverage.

Block 704 is followed by block 706, wherein a determination is made as to whether the selected product or beverage is part of a promotional offer. If the determination is positive, i.e., the selected product or beverage is part of a promotional offer, the method 700 continues to block 708. If the determination is negative, i.e., the selected product or beverage is not part of a promotional offer, the method 700 continues to block 714. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, may determine whether the selected product or beverage is part of a promotional offer. For example, the controller, such as 106, may determine whether the selected product or beverage is part of a promotional offer by obtaining information associated with the selected product or beverage and determine whether predefined criteria are met, such as whether at least one promotional offer covers or otherwise relates to the selected product or beverage. In one embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106 may communicate with a local and/or remote server or data processing resource such as 126, which may determine whether the selected product or beverage is part of a promotional offer. In any event, a determination is made as to whether the selected product or beverage is part of a promotional offer.

At block 708, the consumer is prompted for information associated with the promotion. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may prompt or otherwise notify the consumer of the information or other details related to the promotion, such as the product or service offering. For example, after a consumer selects a product or beverage that is part of a promotion, the controller, such as 106, may provide a communication, such as a message, with a message or other details related to the promotion, such as a product or service offering, via a user interface, such as user interface 112, associated with the product dispenser.

Block 708 is followed by block 710, wherein a determination is made as to whether the consumer desires a coupon. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer desires a coupon, the method 700 continues to block 712. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer does not want the coupon, the method 700 continues to block 714. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether a consumer desires a coupon. For example, a controller or processor such as 106 may receive a consumer input or selection via a user interface such as 112 and determine whether the input or selection corresponds to whether the consumer desires a coupon.

In block 712, the coupon is output to the consumer at the product dispenser. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A, may facilitate the output or printing of coupons to consumers at the product dispenser. For example, after a consumer indicates a desire for a coupon, a controller such as 106 can facilitate outputting or printing the coupon via a printer associated with the product dispenser, such as printer 134.

In one embodiment, the coupons may be output by a processor or controller to a client type or wireless communication device such as 214A-214C in FIG. 2 associated with a consumer such as 212.

Block 712 is followed by block 714 in which the selected product or beverage is allowed to be dispensed to the consumer. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may allow for dispensing of a product or beverage desired by the consumer.

The method 700 ends after block 714.

In one embodiment, the promotion may be generally associated with the product dispenser and/or with a particular product or beverage. In this regard, a consumer may select a product or beverage, a promotional opportunity may be determined by the product dispenser, and a coupon may be printed for the consumer by an associated printer.

Referring to FIG. 8, one example of a method 800 of providing a user interface for a product dispenser is shown. In this embodiment, the consumer may desire that the product-related information data be displayed on a user interface associated with a particular product dispenser. In this regard, information such as product benefits, ingredients, health and wellness data, and/or other types and/or kinds of information data may be displayed on the product dispenser proximate the user.

In one embodiment, the product dispenser may initiate a display via a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, which may optionally retrieve and display informational data on the product dispenser proximate the consumer. This informational data may be selected based at least in part on a consumer's interaction with a user interface associated with the product dispenser.

Method 800 begins at block 802, where input from a consumer input is received at a user interface associated with a product dispenser. In this embodiment, the consumer may manipulate, enter, or otherwise interact with a user interface, such as 112 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A. In one embodiment, the user interface may also be referred to as a consumer interface. Examples of suitable user interfaces may include, but are not limited to: an enhanced view graphical user interface such as 300, and a typical graphical user interface such as 400.

Block 802 is followed by decision block 804, where a determination is made whether the consumer has selected any product, such as a beverage. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer has selected a product, the method 800 continues to decision block 806. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer has not selected any products, the method 800 continues to decision block 810. In this embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether the consumer has selected any product, such as a beverage, from the product dispenser 102A.

In block 806, a determination is made whether the consumer wants product information. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer desires product information, the method 800 continues to block 808. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer does not want product information, the method 800 continues to decision block 810. In this embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may determine whether the consumer wants product information by detecting or receiving input via a user interface such as 112 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A.

In block 808, the product dispenser communicates with a data processing resource, such as locally and/or remotely, to obtain and output product information. In this embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may transmit a request for product information and receive the product information from a server or data processing resource, such as 126. The processor or controller, such as 126, may display the received product information via a user interface, such as 112, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A.

Block 808 is followed by decision block 810, wherein a determination is made whether there is content to display. If the determination is positive, i.e., there is content to display, the method 800 continues to block 812. If the determination is negative, i.e., there is no content to display, the method 800 ends. In this embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether content for display is received from a server or data processing resource, such as 126. The processor or controller such as 106 may display the received content via a user interface (e.g., 112) associated with the product dispenser such as 102A.

In block 812, the product dispenser communicates with a data processing resource, such as locally and/or remotely, to obtain and output content. In this embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may receive content such as digital content for output from a server or data processing resource such as 126. A processor or controller, such as 106, may output or display the received content via a user interface, such as 112, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A.

The method 800 ends after block 812.

Referring to fig. 9, one example of a method 900 of providing a game code and/or ring tone in conjunction with dispensing a product or beverage is shown.

The method 900 begins at block 902, where a consumer is allowed to select a product or beverage to be dispensed from a product dispenser. In the illustrated embodiment, a consumer may enter data, e.g., regarding DIETCHERRY COKE, via a user interface, such as 112 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A^TMSelection of the indicator of (2). In other embodiments, other products or beverages may be selected by the consumer, or other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections may be entered by the consumer.

Block 902 is followed by block 904, wherein the consumer attempts to add a ring tone and/or game code to the transaction. In the illustrated embodiment, via a user interface such as 112 in FIG. 1, a consumer may enter data such as a selection of an indicator to add a ring tone and/or game code to a transaction. In other embodiments, other media options may be selected by the consumer, or other data related to one or more media selections may be entered by the consumer.

Block 904 is followed by decision block 906 in which a determination is made as to whether the consumer has selected to add a ring tone for the transaction. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer has selected or otherwise elected to add a ring tone for the transaction, method 900 proceeds to block 908. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer has not selected or otherwise elected to add a ringtone for the transaction, the method 900 proceeds to decision block 914. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether the consumer has selected or otherwise selected to add a ring tone for the transaction.

Referring to block 908, an input is received from the consumer to select a ring tone that he or she wants to obtain. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may provide the consumer, via a user interface, such as 112, with one or more options to select the ring tone he or she wants to obtain. A user interface such as 112 may allow a consumer to review, listen to, and select one or more ring tones.

Block 908 is followed by block 910 in which a ring tone is optionally added for the transaction. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may increase the cost of the consumer selected ring tone to the cost of the transaction. In one embodiment, the transaction may also be referred to as a purchase.

Block 910 is followed by block 912 wherein the selected ring tone is communicated to the consumer. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may facilitate the delivery of one or more selected ring tones to the consumer. For example, a processor or controller, such as 106, may communicate with a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, to facilitate delivery of one or more selected ring tones to a consumer. In one embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, may communicate one or more selected ring tones to the consumer via a network, such as 104. In another embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, may communicate one or more selected ring tones to the consumer via a product distributor, such as 102A, and product distributor, such as 102A, may communicate the ring tone to the consumer via a network, such as 104. In any case, the selected ring tone is communicated to the consumer.

In one embodiment, obtaining the ring tone may include data transmission of the ring tone to the consumer, data processing resources, e-mail sending of the ring tone, and/or otherwise allowing the consumer to obtain the ring tone as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

Block 912 is followed by decision block 914, wherein a determination is made as to whether the consumer has selected to obtain the game code. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer has selected or otherwise decided to play the code, the method 900 continues to block 916. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer has not selected or otherwise decided not to want the game code, the method 900 ends. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether the consumer has selected or otherwise decided to obtain one or more game codes.

Referring to block 916, input is received from the consumer to select a game code. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, provides the consumer, via a user interface, such as 112, with one or more options to select the game code he or she wants to obtain. A user interface such as 112 may allow a consumer to review, view, and select one or more game codes.

Block 916 is followed by block 918, wherein a cost of game code is optionally added for the transaction. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may add the cost of any consumer-selected game code to the cost of the transaction. In one embodiment, the transaction may also be referred to as a purchase.

Block 918 is followed by block 920, wherein the selected game code is output to or otherwise communicated to the consumer. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may facilitate the communication of one or more selected game codes to the consumer. For example, a processor or controller, such as 106, may communicate with a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, to facilitate communication of one or more selected game codes to a consumer. In one embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, may transmit one or more selected game codes to the consumer via a network, such as 104. In another embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, may communicate one or more selected game codes to the consumer via a product dispenser, such as 102A, and the product dispenser, such as 102A, may communicate the game codes to the consumer via a network, such as 104. In any case, the selected game code is communicated to the consumer.

In one embodiment, obtaining one or more game codes may be by displaying the game codes on a product dispenser graphical user interface, printing, e-mailing, and/or by other methods as may be needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

The method 900 ends after block 920.

In one embodiment, the consumer may attempt to add one or more game codes or ringtones when dispensing a product or beverage. In this regard, the consumer may choose to receive a game code that may be used on the video game to facilitate the person playing the game and/or to obtain a ring tone that may be used on the wireless communication device.

Referring to fig. 10, one example of a method 1000 for informing a consumer regarding beverage availability is shown. In the embodiment shown in fig. 10, the consumer may register to receive notifications and may be notified about beverage availability when a beverage becomes available. One or more of the product dispensers may be reconfigured from time to dispense different types and kinds of beverages as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. Such beverage availability data and information may be transmitted via a network, such as 204 in fig. 2, and/or otherwise aggregated, stored, and accessed on a server or data processing resource, such as 206 in fig. 2. The data processing resources may be, for example and by way of limitation, data processing resources such as 206 or 126 in fig. 1, servers, web-based servers, or data processing resources, and/or other types and kinds of servers or data processing resources as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

The method 1000 begins at block 1002. In block 1002, input is received from a consumer to receive a notification when a product or beverage is available. Consumer enrollment may include collecting or otherwise receiving consumer data such as consumer selections, preferences, and/or other types and kinds of data, as needed and/or desired in a particular implementation. In this embodiment, client type devices, such as 214A-214C in FIG. 2, may transmit consumer data to a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, via a network, such as 204. In other embodiments, the consumer may conveniently check-in online via telephone, email, wired or wireless communication devices, and/or through other types and kinds of check-in as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

Block 1002 is followed by block 1004, wherein a query is generated for a plurality of data of one or more product dispenser composition matrices. In this embodiment, a server or data processing resource such as 126 or 206 may generate a query to obtain data from one or more product dispenser component matrices. Data from one or more product dispenser composition matrices may include, but is not limited to: the location of some or all of the associated product dispensers, the beverages served by some or all of the product dispensers, and the desired time or life at some or all of the associated product dispensers for serving a particular beverage. The query of the plurality of data may be communicated, for example, by a server or data processing resource, such as data processing resource 126 or 206, to one or more controllers associated with respective product dispenser component matrices, such as 108 in fig. 1, as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

Block 1004 is followed by decision block 1006 wherein a determination is made as to whether the product or beverage selected by the consumer is available. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer selected product or beverage is available, the method 1000 continues to block 1008. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer selected product or beverage is not available, the method 1000 returns to block 1004. In the illustrated embodiment, a server or data processing resource, such as data processing resource 126 or 206, may compare the query to some or all of the consumer data obtained or received at the time the consumer enrolls, and the server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, may determine whether the product or beverage selected by the consumer is available. Consumer data may include, but is not limited to: consumer selection, preferences, and/or other data types and categories as needed and/or desired in a particular implementation. The comparison may determine whether there is a notification that at least one consumer requires his or her selection and/or preferences to be available.

In one embodiment, the query may be compared to promotional data, market preferences, criteria, and/or other types and kinds of promotional or market-type data. For example, when a query of one or more ingredient matrices is performed from one or more product dispensers, the query data may be compared to a registered consumer database, and one or more consumers may be notified regarding promotions based on product or beverage availability, marketing strategies, consumer preferences, and/or based on other data.

Returning to block 1008, the consumer may be informed of the availability of the product or beverage selected by the consumer. In this embodiment, a server or data processing resource, such as data processing resource 126 or 206, may inform at least one consumer of the availability of a product or beverage selected by the consumer. Based at least in part on the determination in decision block 1006, the data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, can generate and transmit a notification to at least one consumer requesting or selecting a particular product or beverage. Alternatively, in one embodiment, communication of the location and/or promotion of one or more product dispensers may be communicated to one or more consumers via a notification.

In one embodiment, one or more consumers may define one or more consumer preferences, or register to receive notifications when the availability of one or more products or beverages at one or more product dispensers changes, when one or more products or beverages otherwise become available, or when specified notification conditions occur or are about to occur. The server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, may compare the data to determine when a selected product or beverage becomes available, and generate and transmit a notification to the consumer when appropriate. The consumer may specify one or more notification conditions including, but not limited to: the delivery of new or previously unavailable flavors, the anticipated delivery of new or previously unavailable flavors, or the availability of new or previously unavailable types and varieties of products or beverages that may occur when the composition matrix is changed or otherwise altered. The notification may be, for example, by email, text message, voicemail, wired or wireless communication, and/or by other types and/or kinds of notifications as needed and/or desired in a particular implementation.

In one embodiment, one or more consumers may define one or more consumer preferences, or register to be informed when a new or previously unavailable product or beverage is available, either locally or otherwise proximate to the product dispenser. A server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, may compare the data to determine when new or previously unavailable products or beverages become available, and generate and transmit notifications to the consumer when appropriate. The consumer may be notified and/or otherwise notified at a particular product dispenser before or when a new or previously unavailable product or beverage becomes available. The notification may include, for example, a promotion such as a free product or beverage coupon, a buy-send-offer, and/or other types and kinds of promotions as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

Following block 1008, method 1000 ends.

Referring to FIG. 11, one example of a method 1100 for informing a consumer of the location of a particular type of product or beverage is shown. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the consumer may enter one or more consumer preferences, such as the type of product or beverage he or she is interested in. In response to a consumer's preference or input, one or more locations of these products or beverages may be determined. The consumer may be notified of the location where these products or beverages may be obtained. These consumer inputs may be facilitated via online, email, voicemail, wired or wireless communication, or wireless communication devices such as wireless devices, and/or by other methods as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

The method 1100 begins at block 1102. In block 1102, input is received from a consumer for a particular type of product or beverage. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 11, data entry by the consumer may be facilitated by being online and/or by other methods as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. For example, consumers may enter data via a client type device, such as 214A in FIG. 2, and enter or otherwise enter data with them in a particular beverage, such as DIET CHERRYCOKE^TMThe interest-related data of (1). In other embodiments, the consumer may select other products or beverages, or the consumer may enter other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections.

In one embodiment, the consumer may join or enter data online, such as a website available via the internet, and facilitated by a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206. The consumer may be prompted by the website to add data related to interests in health and wellness, a list of products or beverages related to health and wellness, product or beverage attributes, and a location at which the product dispenser dispenses such products or beverages.

Block 1102 is followed by block 1104 in which at least one position of a product dispenser is determined where a particular product or beverage is dispensed or served. In the embodiment shown in fig. 11, a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, may receive or otherwise obtain data associated with consumer input and, based at least in part on such data, may determine or otherwise generate a list of one or more locations at which a respective product dispenser dispensing or serving a particular product or beverage may be located. In one embodiment, a server or data processing resource, such as 126 or 206, may perform a query of the associated data storage device and, based at least in part on previously stored data, may determine or otherwise generate a list of one or more locations at which a corresponding product dispenser for a particular product or beverage dispensed or served may be located.

Block 1104 is followed by block 1106 in which one or more locations where a particular product or beverage is dispensed or otherwise served may be transmitted to a consumer. In the embodiment shown in fig. 11, a server or data processing resource such as 126 or 206 may transmit a notification to a consumer via a network such as 104 or 206, and the notification may be received by the consumer via a client type device such as 214A. This notification may be facilitated through wired or wireless communication, data transmitted to a wireless communication device, and/or through other means of communication as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

The method 1100 ends at block 1106.

Referring to FIG. 12, one example of a method 1200 for providing a promotion of "first drink" is shown.

The method 1200 begins at block 1202. At block 1202, input is received from a consumer to be informed of a "first drink" promotion. In this embodiment, a product dispenser, such as 102A in FIG. 1, may receive or otherwise obtain consumer preferences, and/or registration information associated with a consumer. Based at least in part on this information, a processor or controller, such as 106, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may store consumer preferences and/or registration information associated with the consumer. For example, a consumer may define one or more consumer preferences or enrolments to be notified when a new product or beverage is available. The consumer may choose to be notified in a particular way when a new product or beverage is released. Registration information may include, but is not limited to: com, or other type and/or kind of enrollment device or method as needed and/or desired in a particular implementation.

Block 1202 is followed by block 1204, wherein the plurality of product dispensers can be configured with new product ingredients that enable dispensing of new products or beverage formulations. In this embodiment, one or more product dispensers, such as 102A in fig. 1, may be configured to receive one or more new product ingredients. For example, product ingredient packages may be installed in an ingredient matrix within a product dispenser such as 102A. A processor or controller such as 106 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may limit or otherwise prevent a consumer from obtaining one or more products or beverages utilizing one or more new product ingredients. For example, a product dispenser such as 102A may limit or prevent a consumer's selection of a new product or beverage that utilizes one or more new product ingredients, even though the ingredients are already installed or configured in the particular product dispenser.

Block 1204 is followed by block 1206, wherein each registered user may be notified that a new product or beverage will be obtained at a particular date, time, and/or location. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A, may generate or otherwise communicate communications to one or more selected users that at least one new product or beverage formulation will be available at a particular date, time, and/or location. The processor or controller such as 106 may provide a message to the consumer via an output device such as a user interface, e.g., 112. In another embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource such as 126 may generate a communication or other output such as a message and transmit the message to a product dispenser such as 102A for transmission to a consumer. A processor or controller such as 106 associated with the product dispenser such as 102A may receive the message for transmission to the consumer. In another embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource, such as 126, may generate communications or other output, such as messages, and transmit the messages to client type devices, such as 214A-214C in FIG. 2, for receipt by a consumer via a network, such as 104. In any event, each registered consumer may be informed that a new product or beverage will be available at a particular date, time, and/or location.

In one embodiment, at least some of the registered users may be provided with a code, such as a VIP (VIP) code, to access one or more product dispensers having at least one new beverage. In this embodiment, the communication to the selected consumer may include a code, such as a VIP code, to enable the consumer to enter or otherwise provide to the product dispenser prior to obtaining at least one new product or beverage formulation. The code or VIP code may be a predefined or unique code that a local and/or remote server or data processing resource such as 126 may provide to a selected customer via a product dispenser such as 102A or a client type device such as 214A-214C in figure 2.

Block 1206 is followed by block 1208, wherein at a predetermined date, time, and/or location, local and/or remote communication with the data processing resource may communicate with some or all of the product dispensers having a new product or beverage formulation to facilitate access to the new product or beverage by notifying a consumer and/or VIP code recipient. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may provide or otherwise grant access to at least one new product or beverage at a predetermined date, time, and/or location to at least one notified consumer and/or VIP code recipient. In this regard, the product dispenser may allow at least some consumers to access at least one new product or beverage using a code, such as a VIP code.

In one embodiment, some or a portion of the notified registered consumer may be granted access to at least one product dispenser and dispense at least one new product or beverage. The informed consumer may be provided access to at least one new product or beverage for an unlimited or limited period of time. In some instances, after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, one or more new products or beverages provided by the product dispenser may become available to all consumers regardless of any notifications or registrations. For example, in this embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may provide or otherwise grant access to at least one new product or beverage to at least one informed user and/or VIP code recipient for an unlimited or limited amount of time. After a predetermined period of time, such as 30 days, has elapsed, the controller, such as 106, may provide all consumers with access to one or more new products or beverages offered by the product dispenser, regardless of any notifications or registrations.

The method 1200 ends after block 1208.

Referring to FIG. 13, one example of a method 1300 of allowing a consumer to select from a promotional list, configure a product dispenser for a promotional beverage, and output a promotional coupon is shown.

Method 1300 begins at block 1302. In block 1302, promotions available to the consumer are displayed. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A, may provide a promotional list to a consumer. For example, the controller, such as 106, may provide a list of promotions, such as one or more promotions associated with a selected product or beverage, via a user interface, such as user interface 112, associated with the product dispenser.

Block 1302 is followed by decision block 1304 wherein a determination is made as to whether the consumer selects a promotion from the list. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer selects a promotion from the list, the method 1300 continues to block 1306. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer has not selected a promotion from the list, the method 1300 continues to block 1310. In this embodiment, a processor or controller associated with the product dispenser, such as 106 in FIG. 1, may determine whether the consumer has selected a promotion from the list. Based at least in part on the input or selection from the user interface, such as 112, the processor or controller, such as 106, can determine whether the consumer has selected a promotion from the list.

In block 1306, the product dispenser is configured to dispense a promoted beverage based at least in part on the promotional information. In this embodiment, a processor or controller associated with the product dispenser, such as 106 in FIG. 1, may configure the dispenser to dispense the promoted product or beverage based at least in part on the promoted information. In one embodiment, a controller such as 106 may set different parameters or factors based at least in part on the promotion or associated promotional information or details. In another embodiment, if the promotional offer is an attempt to a particular product or beverage, the product dispenser may be configured to dispense a formulation of the particular product or beverage. In any case, the product dispenser is configured to dispense the promoted product or beverage based at least in part on the promoted information or details.

Block 1306 is followed by block 1308, where the coupon is output for the consumer. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with a product dispenser, such as 102A in FIG. 1, may facilitate the output or printing of coupons for consumers at the product dispenser. For example, after a consumer indicates a need for a coupon, a controller, such as 106, may facilitate outputting or printing the coupon via a printer, such as printer 134, associated with the product dispenser. In one embodiment, the coupon may be associated with a consumer that accepts promotional offers.

Block 1308 is followed by block 1312, which is described in more detail below.

Referring to block 1310, the consumer is allowed to select a product or beverage. In the illustrated embodiment, the consumer may enter data via a user interface, such as 112 in FIG. 1, such as regarding a product or beverage, such as DIET CHERRY COKE^TMSelection of the indicator of (2). In other embodiments, the consumer may select other beverages, or the consumer may enter other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections. In one embodiment, product or beverage selection may be implemented through a graphical user interface associated with the product dispenser, such as a userAn interface 112.

Block 1310 is followed by block 1312, wherein the selected product or beverage is allowed to be dispensed to the consumer. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may allow the consumer to be dispensed the desired product or beverage.

The method 1300 ends after block 1312.

In one embodiment, a list of offers for promotion may be displayed to the consumer. The consumer may then select a promotion and the product dispenser may be automatically configured to dispense a beverage associated with the promotional offer. The consumer may also receive promotional coupons. For example, a consumer may be provided with a "try DIETCOKE PLUS^TMAnd obtaining 12 DIET COKE PLUS^TMDiscount coupons "promotional offers. The consumer may receive the promotional offer and the product dispenser may be configured to dispense DIET COKEPLUS^TMAnd can print 12-pack DIET COKE PLUS^TMThere are coupons that promote discounts.

Referring to fig. 14, one example of a method 1400 of issuing (credit) promotional rewards to a promotional party is shown.

The method 1400 begins at block 1402 where the consumer is prompted with a list of products or beverages that are promoted along with their respective promotional groups. In this embodiment, the consumer may be prompted via a user interface associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, with a list of promoted beverages and their respective promotional party. In one embodiment, the consumer may be prompted via a client-type device, such as 214A-214C in FIG. 2, with a list of products or beverages promoted and their promotional party. In another embodiment, the consumer may be prompted via a mobile phone, wireless communication device, or other communication device or method for a list of products or beverages promoted and their promotional party. In any case, the consumer may be prompted with a list of products or beverages that are promoted, along with their respective promotional party. In one example, the promotional group may include, but is not limited to: a school, organization, charity, division, individual, organization, business, group, or organization.

Block 1402 is followed by decision block 1404 wherein a determination is made as to whether the consumer has selected a product or beverage from the promotional list. If the determination is positive, i.e., the consumer has selected a product or beverage from the promotional list, the method 1400 continues to block 1406. If the determination is negative, i.e., the consumer has not selected a product or beverage from the list of promoted products or beverages, the method 1400 ends. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may determine whether the consumer has selected a product or beverage from the promotional list. In another embodiment, a local and/or remote server or data processing resource such as 126 may determine whether the consumer has selected a product or beverage from the promotional list. In either instance, the processor, controller, local and/or remote server or data processing device, such as 126, can determine whether the consumer has selected a product or beverage from the promotional list.

In block 1406, a product or beverage is dispensed. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in fig. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may detect or otherwise determine when a product or beverage is dispensed from the product dispenser, such as 102A.

Block 1406 is followed by block 1408 wherein at least one promotional award is issued to a promotional party associated with the dispensed beverage. In the illustrated embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106 in FIG. 1, associated with the product dispenser, such as 102A, may transmit the indication to a local and/or remote server or data processing device, such as 126. In response to receiving an indication from a product dispenser, such as 102A, a local and/or remote server or data processing device, such as 126, may store data associated with the promotional reward or other reward data in an account associated with the promotional party associated with the dispensed product or beverage. In one embodiment, accounts may be generated for the promotional party and stored in memory associated with a local and/or remote server or data processing device, such as 126, or other data storage device, such as 110. The consumer or promotional party may select or otherwise designate an account to receive the reward before the reward is posted to the account. For example, a processor or controller such as 106 associated with a product dispenser such as 102A may provide a consumer or promotional party with an option via a user interface such as 112 to select or otherwise designate an account to receive an award. In another example, a local and/or remote server or data processing device, such as 126, may provide the consumer or promotional party with an option to select or otherwise designate an account to receive the reward via a client type device, such as 214A-214C in fig. 2. In any case, the rewards may be accumulated in the account and/or may be redeemed as needed and/or desired in a particular implementation.

The method 1400 ends after block 1408.

In one embodiment, a promotional list of products or beverages may be provided to the consumer. Each promoted product or beverage may have a promotional party. In this regard, for example and without limitation, the beverage may be associated with a school, organization, charity, and/or other type and/or kind of promotional group. When a consumer selects a product or beverage for promotion, the associated promotional party may receive an incentive. This award may be monetary and/or other types and/or kinds of awards as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment. This may allow the promotional party to receive rewards each time a consumer chooses to dispense their associated beverage from the product dispenser.

In one embodiment, for example and not by way of limitation, a school may have a promotional group of specific beverage makers. Each time a consumer visits the dispenser, the consumer may be provided with an opportunity to dispense a promotional beverage associated with the school. When the consumer selects a promotion for the school, the school receives a reward. The reward may be points, loyalty, monetary, and/or other reward types and/or categories as needed and/or desired in a particular embodiment.

Referring to fig. 15, one example of a method 1500 of providing benefits to a consumer when dispensing a product or beverage from a product dispenser is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, consumers may receive loyalty rewards when they use the product dispenser. In this regard, MYCOKEREWARDS is used by a user when using a product dispenser^TMAccounts and/or other types and/or kinds of loyalty accounts may be used to accumulate and/or redeem loyalty awards.

The method 1500 begins at block 1502 where input is received from a consumer via a product dispenser. In this embodiment, the consumer may be permitted or otherwise provided access to and use of the product dispenser, such as 102A in fig. 1. The consumer may enter data, e.g., regarding DIET CHERRY COKE, via a user interface such as 112 associated with the product dispenser^TMSelection of the indicator of (2). In other embodiments, the consumer may select other products or beverages, or the consumer may enter other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections.

Block 1502 is followed by block 1504 wherein loyalty award points are assigned to the assigned product or beverage. In this embodiment, a processor or controller associated with the product dispenser, such as 106 in FIG. 1, or a server or data processing resource, such as 126, may allocate or otherwise determine one or more loyalty reward points for the dispensing of a product or beverage.

Block 1504 is followed by block 1506, wherein the customer may be allowed to identify a loyalty account. In this embodiment, the customer may identify at least one loyalty account via a client-type or wireless communication device, such as 214A-214C. The account may be, for example, MYCOKEREWARDS^TMAn account. For example, using an input device associated with a client type or wireless communication device, such as a keypad, a consumer may enter account information, such as an account number, information associated with an account, or an indication of other selections of an account associated with the consumer. Client type or wireless communicationThe device may transmit the account or other associated information to a product dispenser such as 102A, a server, or a data processing device such as 126 via a network such as 104.

Block 1506 is followed by block 1508, wherein the assigned loyalty award points may be deposited into a loyalty account that identifies the consumer. In this embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106, or a server or data processing resource such as 126 associated with the product dispenser may store or otherwise issue loyalty reward points to a loyalty account that identifies the consumer.

Method 1500 ends after block 1508.

Referring to fig. 16, one example of a method 1600 of allowing a consumer to redeem a reward as payment for dispensing a product or beverage from a product dispenser is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the customer may determine a loyalty account and loyalty reward points may be deducted from the account to pay for the product or beverage dispensed from the product dispenser.

The method 1600 begins at block 1602, where a customer is allowed to determine a loyalty account. In this embodiment, the customer may determine the loyalty account via a client-type or wireless communication device, such as 214A-214C in FIG. 2. For example, the customer may provide an indication to select a particular loyalty account, such as entering or selecting a loyalty account name or account number. The indication may be communicated via an input device associated with the client type or wireless communication device, such as a keypad associated with the client type or wireless communication device, such as 214A-214C. In another example, the wireless communication device may provide a prompt to the consumer, and the consumer may provide an indication, such as an audible indication, to provide the loyalty account name or account number. The indication may be communicated via an input device, such as a microphone, associated with the client type or wireless communication device 214A-214C. In any case, a controller or processor associated with a client-type or wireless communication device may receive an indication from a consumer and communicate the indication to a product dispenser, such as 102A in FIG. 1, or to a server or dataProcessing resources such as 126. The loyalty account may be, for example, MYCOKEREWARDS^TMAn account.

Block 1602 is followed by block 1604 where a loyalty account total is determined. In this embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106, or a server or data processing resource such as 126 associated with the product dispenser may determine the total amount of loyalty reward points in a particular loyalty account determined by the consumer.

Block 1604 is followed by block 1606, where input is received from the consumer to select a beverage. In this embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106, or a server or data processing resource such as 126 associated with the product dispenser may provide the consumer with access to one or more beverage selections based at least in part on the total number of loyalty reward points in a particular loyalty account. The consumer may enter data, e.g., regarding DIETCHERRY COKE, via a user interface such as 112 associated with the product dispenser^TMSelection of the indicator of (2). In other embodiments, the consumer may select other products or beverages, or the consumer may enter other data associated with one or more product or beverage selections.

Block 1606 is followed by block 1608, wherein a predetermined amount is deducted from the loyalty award total for the selected product or beverage. In this embodiment, a processor or controller such as 106, or a server or data processing resource such as 126 associated with the product dispenser may deduct a predetermined amount of loyalty reward points from the total amount of loyalty reward points in a particular account. In any case, the total amount of loyalty reward points in a particular loyalty account may be updated to reflect the predetermined amount of deduction.

Block 1608 is followed by block 1610 wherein the consumer selected product or beverage is dispensed from the product dispenser. In this embodiment, a processor or controller, such as 106, associated with the product dispenser may assist in dispensing a consumer selected product or beverage to the consumer.

The method 1600 ends after block 1610.

The capabilities of various embodiments of the present invention can be implemented in software, firmware, hardware or some combination thereof.

As one example, one or more aspects of the present invention can be included in an article of manufacture (such as one or more computer program products) having, for instance, computer usable media. The media has embodied therein, for instance, computer readable program code means for providing and facilitating the capabilities of embodiments of the present invention. The article of manufacture can be included as a part of a computer system or sold separately. An example of a suitable article of manufacture is a consumer interaction engine or module such as 114 depicted in FIG. 1.

Additionally, at least one program storage device readable by a machine, tangibly embodying at least one program or set of instructions executable by the machine to perform the capabilities of embodiments of the present invention can be provided. One example of a suitable program storage device readable by a machine is a memory or data storage device such as 110 depicted in FIG. 1.

The flow diagrams depicted herein are just examples. There may be many variations to these diagrams or the elements (or operations) described therein without departing from the scope of the invention as claimed. For example, elements may be performed in a differing order, or elements may be added, deleted or modified. All of these variations are intended to be part of the claimed invention.

While embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be understood that those skilled in the art, both now and in the future, may make various improvements and enhancements which fall within the scope of the claims which follow. These claims should be construed to maintain the proper protection for the invention first described.

Claims (22)

1. A system (100) comprising:

a product dispenser (102);

a processor (106) operable to execute a set of instructions operable to:

receiving a consumer preference for receiving a notification associated with a product;

determining whether the product is offered; and

informing the consumer regarding availability of the product from the product dispenser based at least in part on the consumer preference.

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the processor (106) is further operable to execute a set of instructions operable to:

informing the consumer as to a location associated with where the product is provided.

3. The system (100) of claim 1, further comprising:

a data storage device (128) comprising data from at least one ingredient matrix (108) associated with a beverage dispenser (102), wherein the processor (106) communicates with the data storage device (128) to determine whether the product is provided.

4. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the processor (106) is operable to facilitate communication of any one of: e-mail, messaging, online distribution over a network, voice mail, wireless communication, or wired communication.

5. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the processor (106) is further operable to execute a set of instructions operable to:

determining whether an alternative product is provided; and

informing the consumer regarding availability of the alternative product based at least in part on the availability of the alternative product.

6. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the product comprises a new product, and the consumer preference is to be notified when the new product becomes available.

7. A system (100) comprising:

a product dispenser (102);

a processor (106) operable to execute a set of instructions operable to:

receiving selection data from a consumer;

determining at least one notification to transmit to the consumer based at least in part on the selection data; and

a notification to the consumer regarding the product dispenser.

8. The system (100) of claim 7, wherein the notification to the consumer comprises a transmission of at least one of: an email, a message, an online publication via a network, an output via a user interface associated with a beverage dispenser, an output via a user interface associated with a product dispenser, a communication via a client-type device, a communication via a wireless communication device, a voicemail, a wireless communication, or a wired communication.

9. The system (100) of claim 7, wherein the processor (106) is further operable to execute a set of instructions operable to:

a transaction fee is added to some or all of the content provided to the consumer.

10. A method of interacting with a consumer regarding availability of a product, the method comprising:

receiving a consumer preference for receiving a notification associated with a product;

determining whether the product is offered; and

informing the consumer regarding availability of the product based at least in part on the consumer preference.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising:

informing the consumer about a location associated with where to provide the product.

12. The system (100) of claim 1 or the method of claim 10, wherein the consumer preferences include at least one of: consumer data, at least one consumer selection, at least one product preference, at least one beverage preference, a preference for receiving a notification of when the product is available, or at least one location preference.

13. The method of claim 10, wherein determining whether the product is provided comprises querying a data storage device comprising data from at least one ingredient matrix associated with a beverage dispenser.

14. The method of claim 10, wherein the step of informing the consumer about the availability of the product comprises communicating at least one of: e-mail, messaging, online distribution over a network, voice mail, wireless communication, or wired communication.

15. The method of claim 10, further comprising:

determining whether an alternative product is provided; and

informing the consumer regarding availability of the alternative product based at least in part on the availability of the alternative product.

16. The method of claim 10, wherein the product comprises a new product and the consumer preference is to be notified when the new product becomes available.

17. A method of interacting with a consumer regarding a product associated with a product dispenser (102), the method comprising:

receiving selection data from a consumer;

determining at least one notification to transmit to the consumer based at least in part on the selection data; and

transmitting a notification to the consumer.

18. The system (100) according to claim 8 or the method according to claim 17, wherein selecting data comprises at least one of: a brand name of the product or beverage, a type of product or beverage, a promotion, a type of user interface associated with the dispenser, a health interest, a location of interest, or an attribute of the product or beverage.

19. The method of claim 17, wherein transmitting a notification to the consumer comprises transmitting at least one of: an email, a message, an online publication via a network, an output via a user interface associated with a beverage dispenser, an output via a user interface associated with a product dispenser, a communication via a client-type device, a communication via a wireless communication device, a voicemail, a wireless communication, or a wired communication.

20. The system (100) according to claim 7 or the method according to claim 17, wherein the notification comprises at least one of: a product, a product location, a beverage location, an alternative product, an alternative beverage, an alternative location, availability of a selected product, a time or date of availability of a selected product, an enhanced user interface, a typical user interface, a promotion, a promotional message, a coupon, product information, beverage information, a ring tone, a game code, health information, or information of interest to a consumer.

21. The method of claim 17, further comprising:

a transaction fee is added to some or all of the content provided to the consumer.

22. A method of selling a product to a consumer, the method comprising:

receiving a plurality of consumer preferences from a plurality of consumers, respectively, wherein at least some of the consumer preferences are associated with a preference to receive notifications associated with products;

informing at least a portion of the consumers that the product will be available at a predefined time; and

permitting a plurality of product dispensers (102) to dispense the product at the predefined time.