| United States Patent Application |
20080177624
|
| Kind Code
|
A9
|
|
Dohse; Ryan W.
|
July 24, 2008
|
Receipt Card Systems
Abstract
The receipt card system provides a system and method for accumulating and
storing transaction line-item detail on behalf of consumers. The system
permits consumers to view stored transaction line-item detail in a
variety of ways using a web browser interface. It also includes a means
for consumers to download transaction line-item detail into a personal
financial management system. Transaction line-item detail is captured at
each participating merchant's location at the time of transaction
associated with a consumer and essentially automatically transferred to a
centralized database. The system and method are essentially voluntary for
both merchants and consumers.
| Inventors: |
Dohse; Ryan W.; (Gilbert, AZ)
|
| Correspondence Name and Address:
|
STONEMAN LAW OFFICES, LTD
3770 NORTH 7RD STREET, Suite 100
PHOENIX
AZ
85014
US
|
| Serial No.:
|
468669 |
| Series Code:
|
11
|
| Filed:
|
August 30, 2006 |
| U.S. Current Class: |
705/14 |
| U.S. Class at Publication: |
705/014 |
| Intern'l Class: |
G06Q 30/00 20060101 G06Q030/00 |
Claims
1) A system, relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising the
steps of: a) receiving line-item data relating to at least one plurality
of transactions between at least one consumer of at least one plurality
of consumers and at least one plurality of sellers; b) electronically
accumulating, in at least one transaction database, such line-item data
relating to such at least one plurality of transactions on behalf of such
at least one consumer; and c) permitting such at least one consumer to
view such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions.
2) The system according to claim 1 wherein the step of permitting such at
least one consumer to view such line-item data comprises the step of
using at least one Internet-based-web-site computer system.
3) The system according to claim 2 wherein the step, of receiving
line-item data relating to at least one plurality of transactions between
at least one consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least
one plurality of sellers, comprises the step of electronically receiving
such line-item data from such at least one seller.
4) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the steps of: a)
offering electronic accumulation of such line-item data to such at least
one consumer; b) assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to
such at least one consumer; c) providing at least one consumer
identification card to such at least one consumer; d) wherein such at
least one consumer identification card comprises such at least one unique
consumer identifier; e) permitting use of such at least one unique
consumer identifier to relate such line item data to such at least one
consumer; and f) permitting use of such at least one consumer
identification card to relate such line item data to such at least one
consumer.
5) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the step of
receiving at least one payment from such at least one consumer relating
to such accumulating.
6) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the step of
permitting electronic transfer of such accumulated line-item data to at
least one computer program system controlled by such at least one
consumer.
7) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of: a)
permitting combining such at least one unique consumer identifier with at
least one credit card provided to such at least one consumer by at least
one credit card issuer; b) permitting use of such at least one combined
credit card for relating such line item data to such at least one
consumer; and c) electronically receiving such related line-item data
from such at least one credit card issuer.
8) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of: a)
permitting combining of such at least one unique consumer identifier with
at least one loyalty card provided to such at least one consumer by at
least one loyalty card issuer; b) permitting use of such at least one
combined loyalty card for relating such line item data to such at least
one consumer; and c) electronically receiving such related line-item data
from such at least one loyalty card issuer.
9) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of: a)
electronically receiving at least one coupon-based offer; b) relating
such at least one coupon-based offer to such line-item date; c)
electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at least one
coupon-based offer related to such line-item data; and d) permitting
printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at least one
coupon-based offer.
10) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of: a)
electronically receiving at least one rebate-based offer; b) relating
such at least one rebate-based offer to such line-item date; c) offering
at least one rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; d)
electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at least one
rebate-based offer relating to such line-item data; e) permitting
completion, by such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based
offer form relating to such at least one rebate-based offer; f)
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of at least one
rebate-based offer form; g) permitting electronic submission, by such at
least one consumer, of completed such at least one rebate-based offer
form to at least one rebate-based offer provider; and h) electronically
providing to such at least one consumer at least one first expiration
reminder notice related to such at least one rebate-based offer.
11) The system according to claim 4 further comprising the steps of: a)
electronically receiving at least one warranty-based offer related to
such line-item data; b) electronically notifying such at least one
consumer of such at least one warranty-based offer; and c) electronically
providing to such at least one consumer at least one second expiration
reminder notice related to such at least one warranty-based offer.
12) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the steps of: a)
offering assistance with such electronic line-item data accumulation to
such at least one seller; b) assigning at least one unique seller
identifier to such at least one seller; c) receiving at least one payment
on behalf of such at least one seller; and d) providing at least one
summarized line-item data report to such at least one seller.
13) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the steps of: a)
offering to present advertising to such at least one consumer on behalf
of at least one advertiser; b) assigning at least one unique advertiser
identifier on behalf of such at least one advertiser; c) receiving at
least one payment on behalf of such at least one advertiser; and d)
providing at least one summarized line-item data report on behalf of such
at least one advertiser.
14) The system according to claim 3 wherein such line-item data is
substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one transaction.
15) The system according to claim 14 comprising the step of electronically
transmitting such replicated at least one transaction using electronic
messaging to at least one electronic device, capable of receiving such
electronic messages, controlled by such at least one consumer.
16) The system according to claim 3 further comprises the step of
providing at least one line-item data report to such at least one
consumer.
17) The system according to claim 3 further comprising the step of
permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one seller offering such at least one product least expensively.
18) A computer program system for an Internet computer web site system,
relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising the steps of: a)
electronically receiving line-item data relating to at least one
plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least one
plurality of consumers and at least one seller of at least one plurality
of sellers; b) storing, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions;
and c) permitting viewing by such at least one consumer of such line-item
data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions.
19) The computer program system according to claim 18 further comprising
the steps of: a) permitting input by such at least one consumer of at
least one consumer profile; b) assigning at least one unique consumer
identifier to such at least one consumer; c) storing such at least one
consumer profile in at least one consumer database; d) encoding at least
one consumer identification card with such at least one unique consumer
identifier; and e) associating such line-item data with such at least one
unique consumer identifier.
20) The computer program system according to claim 19 further comprising
the steps of: a) permitting input by such at least one consumer of such
line-item data relating to such at least one transaction; and b) storing,
in such at least one transaction database, such inputted line-item data.
21) The computer program system according to claim 19 further comprising
the step of permitting electronic transfer of such stored line-item data
to at least one computer program system controlled by such at least one
consumer.
22) The computer program system according to claim 18 further comprising
the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one seller profile on
behalf of such at least one seller; b) wherein such at least one seller
profile comprises at least one seller identifier; and c) storing such at
least one seller profile in at least one seller database.
23) The computer program system according to claim 22 further comprising
the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one manufacturer
profile on behalf of at least one manufacturer; b) wherein such at least
one seller profile comprises at least one manufacturer identifier; and c)
storing such at least one manufacturer profile in at least one
manufacturer database.
24) The computer program system according to claim 23 further comprising
a) electronically receiving at least one warranty-based offer related to
such line-item data related to such at least one consumer; b)
electronically notifying such at least one consumer of expiration of at
least one warranty-based offer; and c) electronically providing to such
at least one consumer at least one expiration reminder notice related to
such at least one warranty-based offer.
25) The computer program system according to claim 23 further comprising
the steps of: a) electronically providing such summarized line-item data
on behalf of such at least one seller; and b) electronically providing
such summarized line-item data on behalf of such at least one
manufacturer.
26) The computer program system according to claim 23 further comprising
the step of permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of
such at least one seller offering such at least one product least
expensively.
27) The computer program system according to claim 18 further comprising
the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one advertisement; b)
storing such at least one advertisement in at least one advertisement
database; and c) presenting such stored such at least one advertisement
to such at least one consumer.
28) The computer program system according to claim 27 further comprising
the step of relating such at least one advertisement to such line-item
data related to such at least one consumer.
29) The computer program system according to claim 18 further comprising
the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one coupon-based
offer; b) providing at least one coupon-based offer to such at least one
consumer; c) electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such
at least one coupon-based offer; d) permitting printing, by such at least
one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form relating to
such at least one coupon-based offer; and e) relating such at least one
coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer.
30) The computer program system according to claim 18 further comprising
the steps of: a) electronically receiving at least one rebate-based
offer; b) providing at least one rebate-based offer to such at least one
consumer; c) electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such
at least one rebate-based offer related to such line-item data related to
such at least one consumer; and d) permitting printing, by such at least
one consumer, of such at least one rebate-based offer form relating to
such at least one rebate-based offer.
31) The computer program system according to claim 18 wherein such
line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one
transaction.
32) The system according to claim 31 further comprising the step of
transmitting such replicated transaction using electronic messaging to at
least one electronic device, capable of receiving such electronic
messages, controlled by such at least one consumer.
33) The computer program system according to claim 18 further comprising
the step of electronically providing line-item data reports to such at
least one consumer.
34) A system for an Internet computer web site system, relating to
centralized consumer assistance, comprising: a) at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to receive line-item data relating to
at least one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of
at least one plurality of consumers and at least one seller of at least
one plurality of sellers; b) at least one computer database structured
and arranged to store, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions;
c) wherein such line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate
such at least one transaction; d) at least one computer interface
structured and arranged to permit viewing by such at least one consumer
of such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; e) at least one computer processor structured and arranged
to receive at least one advertisement; f) at least one computer database
structured and arranged to store such at least one advertisement in at
least one advertisement database; g) at least one computer interface
structured and arranged to present such stored such at least one
advertisement to such at least one consumer; h) at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to relate such at least one
advertisement to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer; i) at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
receive at least one coupon-based offer; j) at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to provide at least one coupon-based
offer to such at least one consumer; k) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to notify such at least one consumer of such at
least one coupon-based offer; l) at least one computer interface
structured and arranged to permit printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form relating to such
at least one coupon-based offer; m) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to transmit such at least one transaction using
electronic messaging to at least one electronic device, capable of
receiving such electronic messages, controlled by such at least one
consumer; n) at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
provide at least one line-item data report to such at least one consumer;
o) at least one computer processor structured and arranged to identify,
by such at least one consumer, such at least one seller offering such at
least one product least expensively; p) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to receive at least one rebate-based offer; q) at
least one computer processor structured and arranged to relate such at
least one rebate-based offer to such line-item date; r) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to offer at least one
rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; s) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to notify such at least one
consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer relating to such
line-item data; t) at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to permit completion, by such at least one consumer, of at least
one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one rebate-based
offer; u) at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
permit printing, by such at least one consumer, of at least one
rebate-based offer form; v) at least one computer processor structured
and arranged to permit electronic submission, by such at least one
consumer, of completed such at least one rebate-based offer form to at
least one rebate-based offer provider; w) at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to provide to such at least one consumer at least
one first expiration reminder notice related to such at least one
rebate-based offer; x) at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to receive at least one warranty-based offer related to such
line-item data related to such at least one consumer; y) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to notify such at least one
consumer of at least one warranty-based offer; and z) at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to provide to such at least
one consumer at least one second expiration reminder notice related to
such at least one warranty-based offer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] The present application is related to and claims priority from
prior provisional application Ser. No. 60/713,670, filed Sep. 1, 2005,
entitled "RECEIPT CARD SYSTEMS", the contents of which are incorporated
herein by this reference and are not admitted to be prior art with
respect to the present invention by the mention in this cross-reference
section.
BACKGROUND
[0002] This invention relates to providing a system for improved
accumulation and tracking of transaction data. More particularly this
invention relates to providing an Internet website-based system for
automated accumulation and tracking of line-item purchase data on behalf
of consumers.
[0003] Today, many consumers routinely use Internet-based access to review
and manage their bank and credit card accounts. Typically, consumers
review transactional activity, transfer funds, pay bills and download
copies of the transactions into a personal financial manager such as
Intuit Quicken or Microsoft Money.
[0004] While access to transaction information for bank and credit card
accounts is useful for overall management of the account, the purchase
detail contained on the receipts would be very helpful in better managing
a consumer's budgeting for expenses. For example, a single transaction
may include many line items of details which are very disparate, some
items may be groceries, other items may be for home maintenance, and
other items may be for automobile maintenance or repair. Today, if a
consumer wishes to track those items separately, the consumer must have
the actual receipt in hand and then manually calculate the value of the
various groups of items and finally enter the detail into a personal
financial manager. This effort largely eliminates much of the benefit of
downloading transactions.
[0005] Further, most merchants strongly prefer a physical receipt if a
consumer wishes to return an item. Frequently, receipts, especially
receipts for cash transactions, are lost or misplaced which makes it more
difficult for both the merchant and the consumer to complete the return
of an item. Currently, consumers have no method for re-creating a lost or
misplaced receipt.
[0006] Thus, a great need exists for a system capable of effectively
capturing and storing transaction line-item detail and then making it
available to consumers via the Internet.
OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION
[0007] A primary object and feature of the present invention is to provide
a system for accumulating and storing transaction line-item detail on
behalf of consumers.
[0008] It is a further primary object and feature of the present invention
to provide such a system for permitting consumers to view stored
transaction line-item detail using a web browser.
[0009] It is a further primary object and feature of the present invention
to provide such a system for permitting consumers to download transaction
line-item detail into a personal financial management system.
[0010] A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that permits capturing transaction line-item detail
at each participating merchant's location at the time of transaction and
substantially automatically transferring the transaction line-item
detail, associated with the consumer, to a centralized database.
[0011] A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that permits a participating consumer to manually
input transaction line-item detail into a centralized database via a web
browser interface.
[0012] Another primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that permits a participating consumer to select and
reproduce a transaction receipt, acceptable as return item receipt by a
participating merchant, from the stored transaction line-item detail.
[0013] Yet another primary object and feature of the present invention is
to provide such a system that permits a participating consumer to create
summary analysis reports from the stored transaction line-item detail,
including the least expensive merchant for a selected product.
[0014] A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that permits a participating consumer to view and
print coupons and rebate offers.
[0015] Another primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that permits participating merchants to receive
summary purchase reporting.
[0016] A further primary object and feature of the present invention is to
provide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and handy. Other
objects and features of this invention will become apparent with
reference to the following descriptions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a system, relating to centralized consumer assistance,
comprising the steps of: receiving line-item data relating to at least
one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least
one plurality of consumers and at least one plurality of sellers;
electronically accumulating, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions on
behalf of such at least one consumer; and permitting such at least one
consumer to view such line-item data relating to such at least one
plurality of transactions. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein
the step of permitting such at least one consumer to view such line-item
data comprises the step of using at least one Internet-based web site
computer system. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein the
step, receiving line-item data relating to at least one plurality of
transactions between at least one consumer of at least one plurality of
consumers and at least one plurality of sellers, comprises the step of
electronically receiving such line-item data from such at least one
seller. Also, it provides such a system further comprising the steps of:
assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to such at least one
consumer; and offering electronic accumulation of such line-item data to
such at least one consumer. In addition, it provides such a system
further comprising the steps of: providing at least one consumer
identification card to such at least one consumer; wherein such at least
one consumer identification card comprises such at least one unique
consumer identifier; permitting use of such at least one unique consumer
identifier for relating such line item data to such at least one
consumer; and permitting use of such at least one consumer identification
card for relating such line item data to such at least one consumer. And,
it provides such a system further comprising the step of receiving at
least one payment from such at least one consumer. Further, it provides
such a system further comprising the steps of: receiving line-item data
relating to such at least one transaction from such at least one
consumer; and electronically accumulating, in such at least one
transaction database, such inputted line-item data relating to such at
least one transaction. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising the step of permitting electronic transfer of such accumulated
line-item data to at least one computer program system controlled by such
at least one consumer. Moreover, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: permitting combining such at least one unique
consumer identifier with at least one credit card provided to such at
least one consumer by at least one credit card issuer; and permitting use
of such at least one combined credit card for relating such line item
data to such at least one consumer. Additionally, it provides such a
system further comprising the steps of: permitting combining of such at
least one unique consumer identifier with at least one loyalty card
provided to such at least one consumer by at least one loyalty card
issuer; and permitting use of such at least one combined loyalty card for
relating such line item data to such at least one consumer. Also, it
provides such a system further comprising the steps of: offering
assistance with such electronic line-item data accumulation to such at
least one seller; assigning at least one unique seller identifier to such
at least one seller; receiving at least one payment on behalf of such at
least one seller; and providing summarized line-item data reports to such
at least one seller. In addition, it provides such a system further
comprising the step of offering to present seller advertising to such at
least one consumer on behalf of such at least one seller. And, it
provides such a system wherein in such seller advertising is related to
such line-item data related to such at least one consumer. Further, it
provides such a system further comprising the steps of: offering to
present manufacturer advertising to such at least one consumer on behalf
of at least one manufacturer; assigning at least one unique manufacturer
identifier on behalf of such at least one manufacturer; receiving at
least one payment on behalf of such at least one manufacturer; and
providing summarized line-item data reports on behalf of such at least
one manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein in such
manufacturer advertising is related to such line-item data related to
such at least one consumer. Moreover, it provides such a system further
comprising the step providing at least one coupon-based offer to such at
least one consumer. Additionally, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: electronically notifying such at least one
consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer relating to such at
least one transaction; and permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer. Also, it provides such
a system wherein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided on
behalf of such at least one seller. In addition, it provides such a
system wherein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided by on
behalf of such least one manufacturer. And, it provides such a system
wherein in such coupon-based offer is related to such line-item data
related to such at least one consumer. Further, it provides such a system
further comprising the steps of: offering at least one rebate-based offer
to such at least one consumer; electronically notifying such at least one
consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer relating to such
line-item data related to such at least one consumer; permitting
completion, by such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based
offer form relating to such at least one rebate-based offer; permitting
printing, by such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based
offer form; permitting electronic submission, by such at least one
consumer, of completed such at least one rebate-based offer form to at
least one rebate-based offer provider; and electronically providing to
such at least one consumer at least one expiration reminder notice
related to such at least one rebate-based offer. Even further, it
provides such a system wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is
provided on behalf of such at least one seller. Moreover, it provides
such a system wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on
behalf of at such least one manufacturer. Additionally, it provides such
a system wherein such line-item data is substantially sufficient to
replicate such at least one transaction. Also, it provides such a system
wherein such line-item data comprises at least: at least one transaction
identifier; at least one transaction date; at least one seller
identifier; at least one product identifier of at least one product; and
at least one selling price of such at least one product. In addition, it
provides such a system wherein such line-item data further comprises at
least three of the following: at least one amount tendered; at least one
payment method; at least one sales tax amount; at least one discount
amount; and at least one discount identifier of such at least one
discount amount received. And, it provides such a system further
comprising the step of providing line-item data reports to such at least
one consumer. Further, it provides such a system further comprising the
steps of: permitting electronic summarization of such line-item data; and
permitting at least one graphical presentation of such summarized such
line item data. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
summarization of line-item data is by such at least one product
identifier. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein such
summarization of line-item data is by such at least one seller
identifier. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein summarization
of line-item data is by such at least one manufacturer identifier. Also,
it provides such a system wherein such summarization of line-item data is
by at least one time period. In addition, it provides such a system
further comprising the step of permitting identification, by such at
least one consumer, of such at least one seller offering such at least
one product least expensively.
[0018] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a computer program system for an Internet computer web
site system, relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising the
steps of: electronically receiving line-item data relating to at least
one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least
one plurality of consumers and at least one seller of at least one
plurality of sellers; storing, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions;
and permitting viewing by such at least one consumer of such line-item
data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions. And, it
provides such a computer program system further comprising the steps of:
permitting input by such at least one consumer of at least one consumer
profile; assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to such at
least one consumer; storing such at least one consumer profile in at
least one consumer database; encoding at least one consumer
identification card with such at least one unique consumer identifier;
and associating such line-item data with such at least one unique
consumer identifier. Further, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the steps of: permitting input by such at least one
consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least one
transaction; and storing, in such at least one transaction database, such
inputted line-item data. Even further, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising the step of permitting electronic
transfer of such stored line-item data to at least one computer program
system controlled by such at least one consumer. Moreover, it provides
such a computer program system further comprising the steps of:
electronically receiving at least one seller profile on behalf of such at
least one seller; wherein such at least one seller profile comprises at
least one seller identifier; and storing such at least one seller profile
in at least one seller database. Additionally, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the steps of: electronically
receiving at least one manufacturer profile on behalf of at least one
manufacturer; wherein such at least one seller profile comprises at least
one manufacturer identifier; and storing such at least one manufacturer
profile in at least one manufacturer database. Also, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the steps of: electronically
receiving at least one advertisement; storing such at least one
advertisement in at least one advertisement database; and presenting such
stored such at least one advertisement to such at least one consumer. In
addition, it provides such a computer program system further comprising
the step of relating such at least one advertisement to such line-item
data related to such at least one consumer. And, it provides such a
computer program system wherein such at least one advertisement is
provided on behalf of such at least one seller. Further, it provides such
a computer program system wherein such at least one advertisement is
provided on behalf of at such least one manufacturer. Even further, it
provides such a computer program system further comprising the steps of:
electronically receiving at least one coupon-based offer; providing at
least one coupon-based offer to such at least one consumer;
electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at least one
coupon-based offer; and permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form relating to such
at least one coupon-based offer. Moreover, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising the step of relating such at least one
coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer. Additionally, it provides such a computer program system
wherein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided on behalf of
such at least one seller. Also, it provides such a computer program
system wherein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided on behalf
of at such least one manufacturer. In addition, it provides such a
computer program system further comprising the steps of: electronically
receiving at least one rebate-based offer; providing at least one
rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; electronically
notifying such at least one consumer of such at least one rebate-based
offer related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer; and permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such
at least one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one
rebate-based offer. And, it provides such a computer program system
wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of
such at least one seller. Further, it provides such a computer program
system wherein such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf
of at such least one manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a
computer program system wherein such line-item data is substantially
sufficient to replicate such at least one transaction. Moreover, it
provides such a computer program system wherein such line-item data
comprises at least: at least one transaction identifier; at least one
transaction date; such at least one seller identifier; at least one
product identifier of at least one product; and at least one selling
price of such at least one product. Additionally, it provides such a
computer program system wherein such line-item data further comprises at
least three of the following: at least one amount tendered; at least one
payment method; at least one sales tax amount; at least one discount
amount; and at least one discount identifier of such at least one
discount amount received. Also, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the step of electronically providing line-item
data reports to such at least one consumer. In addition, it provides such
a computer program system further comprising the steps of: electronic
summarization of such line-item data; and permitting viewing at least one
graphical presentation of such summarized such line item data. And, it
provides such a computer program system wherein such summarization of
line-item data is by such at least one product identifier. Further, it
provides such a computer program system wherein such summarization of
line-item data is by such at least one seller identifier. Even further,
it provides such a computer program system wherein such summarization of
line-item data is by such at least one manufacturer identifier. Moreover,
it provides such a computer program system wherein such summarization of
line-item data is by at least one time period. Additionally, it provides
such a computer program system further comprising the step of
electronically providing such summarized line-item data on behalf of such
at least one seller. Also, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the step of electronically providing such summarized
line-item data on behalf of such at least one manufacturer. In addition,
it provides such a computer program system further comprising the step of
permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one seller offering such at least one product least expensively.
[0019] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system for an Internet computer web site system,
relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising: computer
processor means for receiving line-item data relating to at least one
plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least one
plurality of consumers and at least one seller of at least one plurality
of sellers; computer database means for storing, in at least one
transaction database, such line-item data relating to such at least one
plurality of transactions; and computer interface means for permitting
viewing by such at least one consumer of such line-item data relating to
such at least one plurality of transactions. And, it provides such a
system further comprising: computer interface means for permitting input
by such at least one consumer of at least one consumer profile; computer
processor means for assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to
such at least one consumer; computer database means for storing such at
least one consumer profile in at least one consumer database. Further, it
provides such a system further comprising: computer interface means for
permitting input by such at least one consumer of such line-item data
relating to such at least one transaction; and computer database means
for storing, in such at least one transaction database, such inputted
line-item data. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising computer processor means for transfer of such stored line-item
data to at least one computer program system controlled by such at least
one consumer. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising
the steps of: computer processor means for receiving at least one seller
profile on behalf of such at least one seller; wherein such at least one
seller profile comprises at least one seller identifier; and computer
database means for storing such at least one seller profile in at least
one seller database. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising: computer processor means for receiving at least one
manufacturer profile on behalf of at least one manufacturer; wherein such
at least one seller profile comprises at least one manufacturer
identifier; and computer database means for storing such at least one
manufacturer profile in at least one manufacturer database. Even further,
it provides such a system further comprising: computer processor means
for receiving at least one advertisement; computer database means for
storing such at least one advertisement in at least one advertisement
database; and computer interface means for presenting such stored such at
least one advertisement to such at least one consumer. Even further, it
provides such a system further comprising computer processor means for
relating such at least one advertisement to such line-item data related
to such at least one consumer. Even further, it provides such a system
wherein such at least one advertisement is provided on behalf of such at
least one seller. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one advertisement is provided on behalf of at such least one
manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising:
computer processor means for receiving at least one coupon-based offer;
computer processor means for providing at least one coupon-based offer to
such at least one consumer; computer processor means for notifying such
at least one consumer of such at least one coupon-based offer; and
computer interface means for permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form relating to such
at least one coupon-based offer. Even further, it provides such a system
further comprising computer processor means for relating such at least
one coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at least
one consumer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one coupon-based offer is provided on behalf of such at least one
seller. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at least one
coupon-based offer is provided on behalf of at such least one
manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising:
computer processor means for receiving at least one rebate-based offer;
computer processor means for providing at least one rebate-based offer to
such at least one consumer; computer processor means for notifying such
at least one consumer of such at least one rebate-based offer related to
such line-item data related to such at least one consumer; and computer
interface means for permitting printing, by such at least one consumer,
of such at least one rebate-based offer form relating to such at least
one rebate-based offer. Even further, it provides such a system 5 wherein
such at least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of such at
least one seller. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such at
least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of at such least one
manufacturer. Even further, it provides such a system wherein such
line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one
transaction. Even further, it provides such a system further comprising
computer processor means for providing line-item data reports to such at
least one consumer. Even further, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: computer processor means for summarization of
such line-item data; and computer interface means for viewing at least
one graphical presentation of such summarized such line item data. Even
further, it provides such a system further comprising computer processor
means for identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at least
one seller offering such at least one product least expensively.
[0020] In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this invention
provides a system, relating to centralized consumer assistance,
comprising the steps of: receiving line-item data relating to at least
one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least
one plurality of consumers and at least one plurality of sellers;
electronically accumulating, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions on
behalf of such at least one consumer; and permitting such at least one
consumer to view such line-item data relating to such at least one
plurality of transactions. Moreover, it provides such a system wherein
the step of permitting such at least one consumer to view such line-item
data comprises the step of using at least one Internet-based-web-site
computer system. Additionally, it provides such a system wherein the
step, of receiving line-item data relating to at least one plurality of
transactions between at least one consumer of at least one plurality of
consumers and at least one plurality of sellers, comprises the step of
electronically receiving such line-item data from such at least one
seller. Also, it provides such a system further comprising the steps of:
offering electronic accumulation of such line-item data to such at least
one consumer; assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to such
at least one consumer; providing at least one consumer identification
card to such at least one consumer; wherein such at least one consumer
identification card comprises such at least one unique consumer
identifier; permitting use of such at least one unique consumer
identifier to relate such line item data to such at least one consumer;
and permitting use of such at least one consumer identification card to
relate such line item data to such at least one consumer. In addition, it
provides such a system further comprising the step of receiving at least
one payment from such at least one consumer relating to such
accumulating. And, it provides such a system further comprising the step
of permitting electronic transfer of such accumulated line-item data to
at least one computer program system controlled by such at least one
consumer. Further, it provides such a system further comprising the steps
of: permitting combining such at least one unique consumer identifier
with at least one credit card provided to such at least one consumer by
at least one credit card issuer; permitting use of such at least one
combined credit card for relating such line item data to such at least
one consumer; and electronically receiving such related line-item data
from such at least one credit card issuer. Even further, it provides such
a system further comprising the steps of: permitting combining of such at
least one unique consumer identifier with at least one loyalty card
provided to such at least one consumer by at least one loyalty card
issuer; permitting use of such at least one combined loyalty card for
relating such line item data to such at least one consumer; and
electronically receiving such related line-item data from such at least
one loyalty card issuer. Moreover, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
coupon-based offer; relating such at least one coupon-based offer to such
line-item date; electronically notifying such at least one consumer of
such at least one coupon-based offer related to such line-item data; and
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at least one
coupon-based offer. Additionally, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
rebate-based offer; relating such at least one rebate-based offer to such
line-item date; offering at least one rebate-based offer to such at least
one consumer; electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such
at least one rebate-based offer relating to such line-item data;
permitting completion, by such at least one consumer, of at least one
rebate-based offer form relating to such at least one rebate-based offer;
permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of at least one
rebate-based offer form; permitting electronic submission, by such at
least one consumer, of completed such at least one rebate-based offer
form to at least one rebate-based offer provider; and electronically
providing to such at least one consumer at least one first expiration
reminder notice related to such at least one rebate-based offer. Also, it
provides such a system further comprising the steps of: electronically
receiving at least one warranty-based offer related to such line-item
data; electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at
least one warranty-based offer; and electronically providing to such at
least one consumer at least one second expiration reminder notice related
to such at least one warranty-based offer. In addition, it provides such
a system further comprising the steps of: offering assistance with such
electronic line-item data accumulation to such at least one seller;
assigning at least one unique seller identifier to such at least one
seller; receiving at least one payment on behalf of such at least one
seller; and providing at least one summarized line-item data report to
such at least one seller. And, it provides such a system further
comprising the steps of: offering to present advertising to such at least
one consumer on behalf of at least one advertiser; assigning at least one
unique advertiser identifier on behalf of such at least one advertiser;
receiving at least one payment on behalf of such at least one advertiser;
and providing at least one summarized line-item data report on behalf of
such at least one advertiser. Further, it provides such a system wherein
such line-item data is substantially sufficient to replicate such at
least one transaction. Even further, it provides such a system comprising
the step of electronically transmitting such replicated at least one
transaction using electronic messaging to at least one electronic device,
capable of receiving such electronic messages, controlled by such at
least one consumer. Moreover, it provides such a system further comprises
the step of providing at least one line-item data report to such at least
one consumer. Additionally, it provides such a system further comprising
the step of permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of
such at least one seller offering such at least one product least
expensively.
[0021] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a computer program system for an Internet computer web
site system, relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising the
steps of: electronically receiving line-item data relating to at least
one plurality of transactions between at least one consumer of at least
one plurality of consumers and at least one seller of at least one
plurality of sellers; storing, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions;
and permitting viewing by such at least one consumer of such line-item
data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions. Also, it
provides such a computer program system further comprising the steps of:
permitting input by such at least one consumer of at least one consumer
profile; assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to such at
least one consumer; storing such at least one consumer profile in at
least one consumer database; encoding at least one consumer
identification card with such at least one unique consumer identifier;
and associating such line-item data with such at least one unique
consumer identifier. In addition, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the steps of: permitting input by such at least
one consumer of such line-item data relating to such at least one
transaction; and storing, in such at least one transaction database, such
inputted line-item data. And, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the step of permitting electronic transfer of such
stored line-item data to at least one computer program system controlled
by such at least one consumer. Further, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving
at least one seller profile on behalf of such at least one seller;
wherein such at least one seller profile comprises at least one seller
identifier; and storing such at least one seller profile in at least one
seller database. Even further, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
manufacturer profile on behalf of at least one manufacturer; wherein such
at least one seller profile comprises at least one manufacturer
identifier; and storing such at least one manufacturer profile in at
least one manufacturer database. Moreover, it provides such a computer
program system further comprising electronically receiving at least one
warranty-based offer related to such line-item data related to such at
least one consumer; electronically notifying such at least one consumer
of at least one warranty-based offer; and electronically providing to
such at least one consumer at least one second expiration reminder notice
related to such at least one warranty-based offer. Additionally, it
provides such a computer program system further comprising the steps of:
electronically providing such summarized line-item data on behalf of such
at least one seller; and electronically providing such summarized
line-item data on behalf of such at least one manufacturer. Also, it
provides such a computer program system further comprising the step of
permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one seller offering such at least one product least expensively. In
addition, it provides such a computer program system further comprising
the steps of: electronically receiving at least one advertisement;
storing such at least one advertisement in at least one advertisement
database; and presenting such stored such at least one advertisement to
such at least one consumer. And, it provides such a computer program
system further comprising the step of relating such at least one
advertisement to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer. Further, it provides such a computer program system further
comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
coupon-based offer; providing at least one coupon-based offer to such at
least one consumer; electronically notifying such at least one consumer
of such at least one coupon-based offer; permitting printing, by such at
least one consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer form relating
to such at least one coupon-based offer; and relating such at least one
coupon-based offer to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer. Even further, it provides such a computer program system
further comprising the steps of: electronically receiving at least one
rebate-based offer; providing at least one rebate-based offer to such at
least one consumer; electronically notifying such at least one consumer
of such at least one rebate-based offer related to such line-item data
related to such at least one consumer; permitting printing, by such at
least one consumer, of such at least one rebate-based offer form relating
to such at least one rebate-based offer; and electronically providing to
such at least one consumer at least one first expiration reminder notice
related to such at least one rebate-based offer. Even further, it
provides such a computer program system wherein such line-item data is
substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one transaction. Even
further, it provides such a system further comprising the step of
transmitting such replicated transaction using electronic messaging to at
least one electronic device, capable of receiving such electronic
messages, controlled by such at least one consumer. Even further, it
provides such a computer program system further comprising the step of
electronically providing line-item data reports to such at least one
consumer.
[0022] In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this
invention provides a system for an Internet computer web site system,
relating to centralized consumer assistance, comprising: at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to receive line-item data
relating to at least one plurality of transactions between at least one
consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least one seller
of at least one plurality of sellers; at least one computer database
structured and arranged to store, in at least one transaction database,
such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; wherein such line-item data is substantially sufficient to
replicate such at least one transaction; at least one computer interface
structured and arranged to permit viewing by such at least one consumer
of such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
receive at least one advertisement; at least one computer database
structured and arranged to store such at least one advertisement in at
least one advertisement database; at least one computer interface
structured and arranged to present such stored such at least one
advertisement to such at least one consumer; at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to relate such at least one
advertisement to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer; at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
receive at least one coupon-based offer; at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to provide at least one coupon-based offer to
such at least one consumer; at least one computer processor structured
and arranged to notify such at least one consumer of such at least one
coupon-based offer; at least one computer interface structured and
arranged to permit printing, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one coupon-based offer form relating to such at least one
coupon-based offer; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to transmit such at least one transaction using electronic
messaging to at least one electronic device, capable of receiving such
electronic messages, controlled by such at least one consumer; at least
one computer processor structured and arranged to provide at least one
line-item data report to such at least one consumer; at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to identify, by such at least
one consumer, such at least one seller offering such at least one product
least expensively; at least one computer processor structured and
arranged to receive at least one rebate-based offer; at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to relate such at least one
rebate-based offer to such line-item date; at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to offer at least one rebate-based
offer to such at least one consumer; at least one computer processor
structured and arranged to notify such at least one consumer of such at
least one rebate-based offer relating to such line-item data; at least
one computer processor structured and arranged to permit completion, by
such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form
relating to such at least one rebate-based offer; at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to permit printing, by such at least
one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form; at least one
computer processor structured and arranged to permit electronic
submission, by such at least one consumer, of completed such at least one
rebate-based offer form to at least one rebate-based offer provider; at
least one computer processor structured and arranged to provide to such
at least one consumer at least one first expiration reminder notice
related to such at least one rebate-based offer; at least one computer
processor structured and arranged to receive at least one warranty-based
offer related to such line-item data related to such at least one
consumer; at least one computer processor structured and arranged to
notify such at least one consumer of at least one warranty-based offer;
and at least one computer processor structured and arranged to provide to
such at least one consumer at least one second expiration reminder notice
related to such at least one warranty-based offer.
DEFINITIONS, ACRONYMS AND CROSS-REFERENCES
[0023] The following terms and acronyms are explained below as background
and are used throughout the detailed description:
[0024] Client-Server. A model of interaction in a distributed system in
which a program at one site sends a request to a program at another site
and waits for a response. The requesting program is called the "client,"
and the program that responds to the request is called the "server." In
the context of the World Wide Web, the client is typically a "Web
browser" that runs on a user's computer; the program that responds to Web
browser requests at a Web site is commonly referred to as a "Web server."
[0025] Database. One or more large structured sets of persistent data
maintained upon a computer system organized and structured according to a
software system defining rules for organization as well responding to
queries to read, write or modify data as well as provide statistical
information regarding the contained data. As used herein for purposes of
discussion, a database may be either a single unified system or a
distributed system wherein certain database elements are located upon
different systems, acting in harmony to appear as one unified database.
[0026] Domain Name System (DNS). An Internet service that translates
domain names (which are alphabetic identifiers) into IP addresses (which
are numeric identifiers for machines on a TCP/IP network).
[0027] Email. A system for sending and receiving messages electronically
over a computer network, as between personal computers.
[0028] Extensible Markup Language (XML). XML describes a class of data
objects known as XML documents and partially describes the behavior of
computer programs which process these documents. More specifically, XML
is a restricted form of the Standard Generalized Markup Language (also
known as SGML). XML documents are made up of storage units defined as
entities which in turn comprise either parsed or unparsed data in the
form of characters or simply a character. XML is designed and intended to
improve the functionality of the Internet by providing more flexible and
adaptive forms of information. XML can be used to store any kind of
structured information and in such encapsulated form, pass it between
different computer systems which would otherwise be unable to
communicate.
[0029] Hypertext Markup Language (HTML). A standard coding convention and
set of codes for attaching presentation and linking attributes to
informational content within documents. During a document authoring
stage, the HTML codes (referred to as "tags") are embedded within the
informational content of the document. When the Web document (or "HTML
document") is subsequently transferred from a Web server to a Web
browser, the codes are interpreted by the Web browser and used to parse
and display the document. In addition to specifying how the Web browser
is to display the document, HTML tags can be used to create links to
other web sites and other Web documents (commonly referred to as
"hyperlinks"). For more information on HTML, see Ian S. Graham, The HTML
Source Book, John Wiley and Sons, Inc., 1995 (ISBN 0471-11894-4).
[0030] Hypertext Transport Protocol (HTTP). The standard World Wide Web
client-server protocol used for the exchange of information (such as HTML
documents and client requests for such documents) between a Web browser
and a Web server. HTTP includes a number of different types of messages
that can be sent from the client to the server to request different types
of server actions. For example, a "GET" message, which has the format
GET, causes the server to return the document or file located at the
specified Universal Resource Locator (URL).
[0031] HTTPS. HTTP over SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) can be best understood
as a secure form of HTTP communication. Specifically, SSL is a protocol
utilized for the authentication and encryption of HTTP traffic. In
operation, the server and client exchange a set of encryption keys that
are used to create a unique encryption key used to encrypt all data
exchanged during the session.
[0032] Inline FRAME. A floating frame, with content just like an ordinary
frame, included in the HTML 4 standard. Inline Frames are useful for
maintaining a frame of information on the user's display at all time even
when the underlying content is scrolled up or down.
[0033] Instant Messaging. Abbreviated IM, a type of communications service
that enables you to create a kind of private chat room with another
individual in order to communicate in real time over the Internet,
analogous to a telephone conversation but using text-based, not
voice-based, communication. Typically, the instant messaging system
alerts you whenever somebody on your private list is online. You can then
initiate a chat session with that particular individual.
[0034] Internet. A collection of interconnected (public and/or private)
networks that are linked together by a set of standard protocols to form
a distributed network. While this term is intended to refer to what is
now commonly known as the Internet, it is also intended to encompass
variations that may be made in the future, including changes and
additions to existing standard protocols.
[0035] LAN. A Local Area Network of computer systems, typically within a
building or office, permitting networking, the associated sharing of
resources and files, such as application software, printers and client
information, in an inter-office setting.
[0036] PHP. A server-side, cross-platform, HTML-embedded scripting
language used to create dynamic web pages. PHP is Open Source software.
[0037] Short Message Service (SMS). A service available on most digital
mobile phones (and other mobile devices, e.g. a Pocket PC, or
occasionally even desktop computers) that permits the sending of short
messages (also known as text messages, or more colloquially SMSes, texts
or even txts) between mobile phones, other handheld devices and even
landline telephones. Messages are sent via a store-and-forward mechanism
to a Short Message Service Center (SMSC), which will attempt to send the
message to the recipient. If the user is not reachable at a given moment,
the SMSC will save the message. Later when the user is reachable, the
SMSC will retry the delivery process.
[0038] Structured Query Language (SQL). SQL is a standard language used to
communicate with relational database management systems (such as Oracle,
Sybase, Microsoft SQL Server, Access, etc.) for the purpose of performing
tasks such as data insertion, deletion, update, and general query for the
return of data.
[0039] The Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP). SOAP is a lightweight
XML/HTTP-based protocol for the exchange of information in a
decentralized distributed platform-independent environment.
Fundamentally, SOAP consists of three parts. The first is an envelope
that defines a framework for describing what is contained in the message
and how it should be processed. The second is a set of encoding rules for
expressing instances of application-defined data types. The third is a
normalized convention for representing remote procedure calls and
responses.
[0040] Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP). A
standard Internet protocol (or set of protocols) which specifies how two
computers exchange data over the Internet. TCP/IP handles issues such as
packetization, packet addressing, and handshaking and error correction.
For more information on TCP/IP, see Volumes I, II and III of Comer and
Stevens, Internetworking with TCP/IP, Prentice Hall, Inc., ISBNs
0-13-468505-9 (vol. I), 0-13-125527-4 (vol. II), and 0-13-474222-2 (vol.
III).
[0041] Uniform Resource Locator (URL). A unique address which fully
specifies the location of a file or other resource on the Internet. The
general format of a URL is protocol://machine address:port/path/filename.
The port specification is optional, and, if not entered by the user, the
Web browser defaults to the standard port for whatever service is
specified as the protocol. For example, if HTTP is specified as the
protocol, the Web browser will use the HTTP default port. The machine
address in this example is the domain name for the computer or device on
which the file is located.
[0042] WAN. A Wide Area Network, such as the Internet.
[0043] World Wide Web ("Web"). Used herein to refer generally to both (1)
a distributed collection of interlinked, user-viewable hypertext
documents (commonly referred to as "Web documents", "Web pages",
"electronic pages" or "home pages") that are accessible via the Internet,
and (2) the client and server software components that provide user
access to such documents using standardized Internet protocols.
Currently, the primary standard protocol for allowing applications to
locate and acquire Web documents is the Hypertext Transfer Protocol
(HTTP), and the electronic pages are encoded using the Hypertext Markup
Language (HTML). However, the terms "World Wide Web" and "Web" are
intended to encompass future markup languages and transport protocols
that may be used in place of or in addition to the Hypertext Markup
Language (HTML) and the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0044] FIG. 1 shows a schematic overview view illustrating the primary
concepts embodied in the receipt card system according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0045] FIG. 2 shows a simplified functional diagrammatical overview of the
primary processes of the receipt card system according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0046] FIG. 3 shows a simplified functional diagrammatical overview of the
manufacturer processes of the receipt card system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0047] FIG. 4 shows a summary schematic of the primary receipt card system
computer-based functions available to a consumer through the website
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0048] FIG. 5 shows an overall schematic depicting the transaction flows
and relationships between the primary components and entities of the
receipt card system according to the preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0049] FIG. 6 shows a schematic of the data flows and primary databases
utilized by the receipt database system according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention.
[0050] FIG. 7 shows a depiction of alternative consumer identification
cards used by a consumer at the time of a purchase according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
[0051] FIG. 8 shows a depiction of a sample website home page for the
receipt card system according to a preferred embodiment of the present
invention.
[0052] FIG. 9 shows a depiction of a sample member's first website page
for the receipt card system according to a preferred embodiment of the
present invention.
[0053] FIG. 10 shows a depiction of an example report of product purchases
for a consumer generated by the receipt card system according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE
INVENTION
[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, a schematic overview view illustrating the
primary concepts embodied in Receipt Card System 100 according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, Receipt Card System 100
preferably provides a method and system for accumulating line-item detail
for transactions between participating merchants and participating
consumers.
[0055] As shown, Consumer 101 completes different transactions with a
variety of merchants as exemplified by Purchase Transaction 121 completed
with Merchant A 103, Purchase Transaction 125 completed with Merchant B
105, Purchase Transaction 119 completed with Merchant C 107, Purchase
Transaction 127 completed with Merchant D 109, and Purchase Transaction
129 completed with Merchant E 111. Presentation of Receipt Card 531 to
each of the merchants initiates process Transaction Data Transfer 123
which preferably transfers substantially all line-item detail related to
each transaction to Receipts Database 113.
[0056] Receipt Card System 100 preferably permits consolidation of
line-item detail for Purchase Transaction 119, Purchase Transaction 121,
Purchase Transaction 125, Purchase Transaction 127, and Purchase
Transaction 129 into Receipts Database 113 regardless of payment method
used (such as check, cash or credit card). Further, as shown in process
Database Access 135, Receipt Card System 100 preferably permits Consumer
101 to access Receipts Database 113 to view the accumulated line-item
detail in a variety of Reports 131 via the Internet through Consumer
Interface 803 (see FIG. 8, FIG. 9 and FIG. 10) which is web-browser based
(at least herein embodying permitting such at least one consumer to view
such line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of
transactions; and at least herein embodying using at least one
Internet-based web site computer system). Additionally, preferably
Consumer 101 may use Digital Mobile Phone 221 (or similar wireless
device, such as a personal digital assistant) that is capable of
accessing Website 215 via Internet 543 to access the stored line-item
detail. Preferably, Consumer 101 may receive SMS (or similar) electronic
text messages containing transaction line-item detail that are sent to a
wireless device, such as Digital Mobile Phone 221 (at least herein
embodying electronically transmitting such replicated at least one
transaction using electronic messaging to at least one electronic device,
capable of receiving such electronic messages, controlled by such at
least one consumer). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, consumer preferences, user location, etc., other personal
digital assistants capable of wireless connection to the Internet, such
as BlackBerry.RTM. offered by Research in Motion Limited, Treo.TM.
offered by Palm, Inc., etc., may suffice. Additionally, as part of
process Database Access 135, preferably Consumer 101 may print Receipt
133, in sufficient line-item detail to re-create a purchase receipt that
is acceptable for merchandise returns at merchants (represented by
Merchant A 103, Merchant B 105, Merchant C 107, Merchant D 109 and
Merchant E 111) participating in process Transaction Data Transfer 123.
Preferably purchase receipts may also be created as gift receipts, which
do not include item pricing, for use by gift recipients for merchandise
returns at merchants (represented by Merchant A 103, Merchant B 105,
Merchant C 107, Merchant D 109 and Merchant E 111) participating in
process Transaction Data Transfer 123.
[0057] Preferably, Receipt Card System 100 also comprises process Merchant
Access 137 which include preparation of Summary Analyses 139, a summary
of purchase activity for each merchant (represented by Merchant A 103,
Merchant B 105, Merchant C 107, Merchant D 109 and Merchant E 111)
participating in process Transaction Data Transfer 123.
[0058] These and additional functions and capabilities are further
described below.
[0059] Referring to FIG. 2, a simplified functional diagrammatical
overview of the primary processes of the Receipt Card System 100
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in step
Sign License Agreement 201 Manager 200 preferably signs a license
agreement with Merchant A 103 (at least herein embodying offering
assistance with such electronic line-item data accumulation to such at
least one seller). The license agreement preferably obligates Merchant A
103 to transfer line-item detail for each transaction when Consumer 101
presents Receipt Card 531 or provides their unique receipt card
identification number. In turn, Manager 200 preferably commits to assign
a unique identifier to Merchant A 103, permit Merchant A 103 to
optionally offer coupon and rebate information, which may be related to
line-item detail, through Website 215 and to provide Merchant A 103
summary reports related to transaction activity with Merchant A 103 (at
least herein embodying assigning at least one unique seller identifier to
such at least one seller; and at least embodying herein providing
summarized line-item data reports to such at least one seller).
Preferably, Merchant A 103 may also optionally provide advertising to be
displayed on Website 215. Further, Merchant A 103 preferably agrees to
pay required fees associated with services provided by Manager 200 (at
least herein embodying receiving at least one payment on behalf of such
at least one seller). Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, changes in the competitive environment, advertising, coupons
and rebate information may be provided by other merchants, such as those
not licensed to transfer line-item data, etc., may suffice.
[0060] According to a first alternate preferred embodiment receipt card
identification information (including receipt card identification number)
may be combined with one or more credit cards (issued by one or more
credit card issuers) to eliminate the need to carry a separate Receipt
Card 531 for Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying permitting combining
such at least one unique consumer identifier with at least one credit
card provided to such at least one consumer by at least one credit card
issuer). Preferably, this requires completion of an agreement between a
credit card issuer and Manager 200 to permit inclusion of receipt card
identification information (including receipt card identification number)
on the magnetic strip or as a barcode on the back of the credit card or
some similar arrangement. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as
advances in technology, preferences of credit card issuers, user
location, etc., other methods of relating receipt card identification
information to a consumer's credit cards, such as specialized credit card
numbering schemes, specialized credit card types, etc., may suffice. As
used herein, the term credit card comprises credit cards, debit cards,
charge cards, and gift cards or other similar forms of payment accepted
by merchants in lieu of cash.
[0061] Preferably, when Receipt Card 531 is combined with one or more
credit cards (issued by one or more credit card issuers) step Provide
Purchase Data 213 may comprise receiving line-item detail from one or
more credit card issuers (at least herein embodying electronically
receiving such related line-item data from such at least one credit card
issuer).
[0062] According to a second alternate preferred embodiment receipt card
identification information (including receipt card identification number)
may be combined with one or more customer loyalty cards to eliminate the
need to carry a separate Receipt Card 531 for Consumer 101 (at least
herein embodying permitting combining of such at least one unique
consumer identifier with at least one loyalty card provided to such at
least one consumer by at least one loyalty card issuer). Preferably, this
requires completion of an agreement between the customer loyalty card
issuer (which may be Merchant A 103) and Manager 200 to permit inclusion
of receipt card identification information (including receipt card
identification number) on the magnetic strip or as a barcode on the back
of the customer loyalty card or some similar arrangement. Upon reading
the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in the art
will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering
such issues as advances in technology, preferences of loyalty card
issuers, user location, etc., other methods of relating receipt card
identification information to a consumer's loyalty card, such as
specialized loyalty card numbering schemes, etc., may suffice.
[0063] Preferably, when Receipt Card 531 is combined with one or more
customer loyalty cards (issued by one or more customer loyalty card
issuers) step Provide Purchase Data 213 may comprise receiving line-item
detail from one or more customer loyalty card issuers (at least herein
embodying electronically receiving such related line-item data from such
at least one loyalty card issuer).
[0064] Upon completion of a licensing agreement between Manager 200 and
Merchant A 103, as shown in step Implement Receipt Card POS 203, Manager
200 preferably arranges for and assists Merchant A 103 in the
installation of Receipt Card POS 533 (which preferably includes
point-of-sale software and/or hardware for accepting Receipt Card 531 and
necessary software and/or hardware to interface Receipt Card POS 533 with
Merchant POS 525) at the retail locations of Merchant A 103. Preferably,
Receipt Card POS 533 works in combination with the point-of-sale hardware
and software used by Merchant A 103.
[0065] As depicted in step Pay Fees 205, preferably Merchant A 103 pays
required fees associated with participation in Receipt Card System 100.
Optionally, Merchant A 103 may pay additional fees associated with
advertising, coupons and rebate offers presented on Website 215.
[0066] Preferably, in step Sign Up for Receipt Card 208 Manager 200 offers
services of Receipt Card System 100 to Consumer 101 through various
advertising means (at least herein embodying offering electronic
accumulation of such line-item data to such at least one consumer).
Preferably, Consumer 101 may sign up for participation in Receipt Card
System 100 by either completing an online profile through Website 215 or
by using forms available at checkout at Merchant A 103 or by completing
and submitting forms provided in conjunction with a product. If Consumer
101 signs up at Merchant A 103 preferably Consumer 101 will complete
necessary profile information by accessing Website 215 using a temporary
login and password. Preferably, in either case, Consumer 101 receives a
unique identification number and at least one Receipt Card 531 (see FIG.
7 for examples of the various card forms which may be used) (at least
herein embodying assigning at least one unique consumer identifier to
such at least one consumer; at least herein embodying providing at least
one consumer identification card to such at least one consumer; and at
least herein embodying such at least one consumer identification card
comprises such at least one unique consumer identifier). Preferably,
Consumer 101 pays a fee to sign up and participate in Receipt Card System
100 when signing up through Website 215 or at checkout at Merchant A 103
(at least herein embodying receiving at least one payment from such at
least one consumer). If Consumer 101 signs up at checkout, Merchant A 103
optionally collects the fee and sends it, less a set percentage, to
Manager 200. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those with
ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriate
circumstances, considering issues such as competition, changing market
conditions, etc., other fee arrangements, such as, for example, offering
services of the receipt card system at no charge to consumers, etc., may
suffice.
[0067] Preferably, after signing up Consumer 101 may use the Receipt Card
531 when making purchases at Merchant A 103, as shown in step Make
Purchases Using Receipt Card 209 (at least herein embodying permitting
use of such at least one consumer identification card for relating such
line item data to such at least one consumer). Alternatively, if Receipt
Card 531 is not available, Consumer 101 may manually enter an alternate
identification (such as telephone number) as a means for linking the
purchase with Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying permitting use of
such at least one unique consumer identifier for relating such line item
data to such at least one consumer). Use of Receipt Card 531 (or
alternate identification), in conjunction with Receipt Card POS 533, at
Merchant A 103 at the time of purchase preferably results in the
line-item detail of the purchase transaction being transferred
electronically to Receipts Database System 207 as depicted by step
Provide Purchase Data 213 (at least herein embodying receiving line-item
data relating to at least one plurality of transactions between at least
one consumer of at least one plurality of consumers and at least one
plurality of sellers; and at least herein embodying electronically
receiving such line-item data from such at least one seller). Preferably,
once the purchase transaction line-item detail has been transferred to
Receipts Database System 207 Consumer 101 may review the line-item detail
by logging into Website 215, as shown in step Access Website 133.
[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in
step Manage Receipts Database System 202 Manager 200 preferably performs
all necessary system management tasks including, for example, setting up
new merchants, removing merchants who have resigned, removing history
after consumers who are no longer members as well as other routine
database management tasks necessary to ensure smooth operation of the
Receipts Database System 207 and Website 215.
[0069] Preferably, in step Provide Rebate/Coupon Data 216 Merchant A 103
may elect to present rebate and coupon offers to Consumer 101 when logged
onto Website 215. Preferably, the rebate and coupon offers may optionally
be associated products of Merchant A 103 so that when Consumer 101 is
viewing line-item detail rebates and coupons for the product, similar, or
related products are presented to Consumer 101. Preferably, coupons and
rebates presented will be appropriate for a geographic area associated
with Consumer 101.
[0070] Preferably, in step Provide Website Advertising 217 Merchant A 103
may elect to present advertisements to Consumer 101 when logged onto
Website 215 (at least herein embodying offering to present seller
advertising to such at least one consumer on behalf of such at least one
seller). Preferably, the advertisements may optionally be associated
products of Merchant A 103 so that advertisements for the product,
similar, or related products are presented to Consumer 101 when Consumer
101 is viewing line-item detail (at least herein embodying such seller
advertising is related to such line-item data related to such at least
one consumer). Preferably, advertisements presented will be appropriate
for a geographic area associated with Consumer 101.
[0071] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
Manager 200 provides summary purchase data to Merchant A 103 as shown in
step Receive Summary Analyses 219. Preferably, the summary purchase data
will be summary in nature and will not include any personally identifying
information related to Consumer 101. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as privacy
requirements and limitations, etc., other reporting arrangements, such
as, for example, providing card usage activity reports only, etc., may
suffice.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 3, a simplified functional diagrammatical
overview of the Manufacturer Processes 300 of the receipt card system
according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, in step
Sign Advertising Agreement 303, Manager 200 preferably signs an
advertising agreement with Manufacturer 301 (representative of all
manufacturers and distributors wishing to advertise, or offer rebates or
coupons to Consumer 101) (at least herein embodying offering to present
manufacturer advertising to such at least one consumer on behalf of at
least one manufacturer). Manager 200 preferably commits to permit
Manufacturer 301 to assign Manufacturer 301 a unique identifier, to
permit advertising, which may be related to line-item data, to be
displayed on Website 215 and to provide Manufacturer 301 summary reports
related to transaction activity for products offered by Manufacturer 301
(at least herein embodying assigning at least one unique manufacturer
identifier on behalf of such at least one manufacturer; and at least
embodying herein providing summarized line-item data reports on behalf of
such at least one manufacturer). Preferably, Manufacturer 301 may also
provide offer coupon and rebate information, which may be related to
line-item data, and displayed on Website 215. Preferably, Manufacturer
301 may also provide offer warranty information to be related to
line-item detail and displayed on Website 215. Further, Manufacturer 301
preferably agrees to pay required fees associated with services provided
by Manager 200 (at least herein embodying receiving at least one payment
on behalf of such at least one manufacturer).
[0073] Preferably, in step Provide Product Advertising 305 Manufacturer
301 may elect to provide advertisements for presentation to Consumer 101
when Consumer 101 is logged onto Website 215. Preferably, the
advertisements are associated products of Manufacturer 301 so that
advertisements for the product, similar, or related products are
presented to Consumer 101 when Consumer 101 is viewing line-item detail
(at least herein embodying manufacturer advertising is related to such
line-item data related to such at least one consumer). Preferably,
product advertisements presented will be appropriate for merchants in a
geographic area associated with Consumer 101.
[0074] Preferably, in step Provide Rebate/Coupon/Warranties 307
Manufacturer 301 may elect to provide rebate and coupon offers and or
warranty offers for presentation to Consumer 101 when logged onto Website
215. Preferably, the rebate and coupon offers may optionally be
associated products of Manufacturer 301 so that when Consumer 101 is
viewing line-item detail rebates and coupons for the product, or similar
related products, are presented to Consumer 101. Preferably, coupons and
rebates presented will be appropriate for a geographic area associated
with Consumer 101. Preferably warranties presented will be related to
line-item detail related to Consumer 101 (at least herein embodying
electronically receiving at least one warranty-based offer related to
such line-item data).
[0075] As depicted in step Pay Manufacturer Fees 309, preferably
Manufacturer 301 pays required fees associated with advertising on
Website 215 of Receipt Card System 100. Optionally, Manufacturer 301 may
pay additional fees associated with coupons and rebate offers presented
on Website 215.
[0076] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
Manager 200 provides summary data to Manufacturer 301 as shown in step
Receive Summary Analyses 311. Preferably, the data will be summary in
nature and will not include any personally identifying information
related to Consumer 101. Upon reading the teachings of this
specification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand
that, under appropriate circumstances, considering issues such as privacy
requirements and limitations, etc., other reporting arrangements, such
as, for example, providing product purchase activity, etc., may suffice.
[0077] Referring to FIG. 4, a summary schematic of the primary functions
available to a consumer through Website 215 according to a preferred
embodiment of the present invention, function Manual Input 401 preferably
provides a variety of input functions for Consumer 101 including: manual
input, and accumulation in Receipts Database 113, of receipt line-item
detail for a purchase transaction completed at a merchant that is not
participating in Receipt Card System 100; manual input of receipt
line-item detail for Merchant A 103 when Receipt Card 531 or unique
identifier could not be used; modify or delete manually entered receipt
line-item detail or an entire receipt (at least herein embodying
receiving line-item data relating to such at least one transaction from
such at least one consumer; and at least herein embodying electronically
accumulating, in such at least one transaction database, such inputted
line-item data relating to such at least one transaction). Preferably,
automatically downloaded receipts can not be changed by Consumer 101.
[0078] Preferably, Consumer 101 may use function Print Receipt 403 to
print or re-print any receipt contained in the Receipts Database System
207 in its entirety (at least herein embodying such line-item data is
substantially sufficient to replicate such at least one transaction).
Additionally, preferably Consumer 101 may elect a gift receipt format
(all receipt information is included except the item price) to print or
re-print any receipt. Preferably receipts downloaded by Merchant A 103
and reprinted as a full receipt or as a gift receipt would be acceptable
as proof of purchase when Consumer 101 wishes to return a product.
Products returned by Consumer 101 to Merchant A 103 are preferably
recorded in the same manner as the original transaction by Receipt Card
POS 533 and downloaded to Receipt Card System 100 which then preferably
matches the return receipt to the original receipt and notes the returned
item on the original receipt to prevent re-use of a receipt to return the
same product.
[0079] Preferably, function Coupon/Rebate Forms 405 encompasses means for
identifying and printing coupons, rebates and warranty information of
importance to Consumer 101. Particularly, preferably, Consumer 101 may
select a hypertext link to Merchant A 103 to view all coupon and rebate
offers, and any related restrictions or quantity requirements, available
from Merchant A 103 or from Manufacturer 301 whose products are sold by
Merchant A 103 (at least herein embodying such at least one coupon-based
offer is provided on behalf of such at least one seller; at least
embodying herein such at least one coupon-based offer is provided by on
behalf of such least one manufacturer; at least embodying herein such at
least one rebate-based offer is provided on behalf of such at least one
seller; and at least embodying herein such at least one rebate-based
offer is provided on behalf of such at least one seller). Further,
Consumer 101 may select a hypertext link for Manufacturer 301 to view all
coupon and rebate offers and any related restrictions or quantity
requirements. Additionally, preferably, Consumer 101 may select a
hypertext link to Manufacturer 301 to view all warranties (including
terms, requirements and expiration dates) related to purchase history of
Consumer 101. Preferably Consumer 101 may also select a product to
determine if any coupon, rebate offers, or warranties are available.
Receipt Card System 100 may also suggest coupon or rebate offers for the
same or similar products based on purchase history of Consumer 101 (at
least herein embodying providing at least one coupon-based offer to such
at least one consumer; at least embodying herein wherein in such
coupon-based offer is related to such line-item data related to such at
least one consumer; at least embodying herein offering at least one
rebate-based offer to such at least one consumer; at least herein
embodying electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at
least one warranty-based offer). Preferably, Consumer 101 may select a
coupon or rebate offer and print the coupon, rebate offer or warranty
information for presentation to Merchant A 103 or Manufacturer 301 (at
least herein embodying permitting printing, by such at least one
consumer, of such at least one coupon-based offer; and at least embodying
herein permitting printing, by such at least one consumer, of at least
one rebate-based offer form). Preferably, Consumer 101 may also be
notified by email of available rebates, coupons, or warranty expirations
based on their purchase history (at least herein embodying electronically
notifying such at least one consumer of such at least one coupon-based
offer relating to such at least one transaction; and at least embodying
herein electronically notifying such at least one consumer of such at
least one rebate-based offer relating to such line-item data related to
such at least one consumer).
[0080] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention,
function Print Reports 406 preferably permits Consumer 101 to select a
report, set the desired selection criteria, set the desired sort sequence
and print both a tabular or graphical analysis of the selected and sorted
line-item detail (at least herein embodying permitting electronic
summarization of such line-item data; and at least embodying herein
permitting at least one graphical presentation of such summarized such
line item data). Preferably, selection criteria comprise date, date
range, product, merchant, merchant type and product type (at least herein
embodying such summarization of line-item data is by such at least one
seller identifier; at least embodying herein summarization of line-item
data is by such at least one manufacturer identifier; at least embodying
herein summarization of line-item data is by such at least one
manufacturer identifier). Preferably, sort order comprises at least date,
date range, product, merchant, merchant type and product type (at least
herein embodying comprising the step of providing line-item data reports
to such at least one consumer).
[0081] Preferably, function Submit Rebate Online 407 permits Consumer 101
to complete a selected rebate form and electronically submit it, along
with an electronic copy of the receipt to the offeror, Merchant A 103 or
Manufacturer 301 (at least embodying herein permitting completion, by
such at least one consumer, of at least one rebate-based offer form
relating to such at least one rebate-based offer; and at least embodying
herein permitting electronic submission, by such at least one consumer,
of completed such at least one rebate-based offer form to at least one
rebate-based offer provider). Alternatively, Consumer 101 may be provided
a hypertext link to a website of Merchant A 103 or Manufacturer 301 which
permits completion and electronic submission of a rebate form.
[0082] Function Rebate/Warranty Reminder 408 preferably matches line-item
detail to available rebate offers and warranties provided by Merchant A
103 and Manufacturer 301 and generates at least one pop-up message to
Consumer 101 at login, or generates at least one email reminder to
Consumer 101, regarding rebate requirements and expirations or warranty
requirements and expirations (at least herein embodying electronically
providing to such at least one consumer at least one expiration reminder
notice related to such at least one rebate-based offer; and at least
herein embodying electronically providing to such at least one consumer
at least one second expiration reminder notice related to such at least
one warranty-based offer).
[0083] Function Query 409 preferably provides the capability for Consumer
101 to search line-item detail across members of Receipt Card System 100
to identify best prices paid. Preferably, no personal information of
other members associated with the line-item detail is revealed to
Consumer 101. Preferably, Consumer 101 may use function Query 409 to find
the lowest price recently paid for a product and the merchant from which
it was purchased (at least herein embodying comprising the step of
permitting identification, by such at least one consumer, of such at
least one seller offering such at least one product least expensively).
Preferably, Consumer 101 may also query for other savings tips based on
analysis of the line-item detail accumulated across many members.
[0084] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention
function Transfer Data 411 permits Consumer 101 to periodically transfer
line-item detail to a personal computer, or similar computer system where
a selected a personal financial manager, such as Intuit Quicken or
Microsoft Money, or a small business accounting system, such as
QuickBooks from Intuit, Inc. is installed (at least herein embodying
permitting electronic transfer of such accumulated line-item data to at
least one computer program system controlled by such at least one
consumer). Preferably, function Transfer Data 411 also permits Consumer
101 to receive SMS (or similar) electronic text messages containing
transaction line-item detail sent to any digital wireless device, such as
Digital Mobile Phone 221.
[0085] Preferably, function Sign Up/Manage Profile 413 permits Consumer
101 to initially sign up and pay membership fees. Preferably, it also
permits Consumer 101 to revise their profile information such as name and
address, reset their password, provide updated credit card information
and set their preferences regarding accumulation of line-item detail and
default reporting, transmission of text messages (SMS messages) to
Digital Mobile Phone 221, etc.
[0086] Referring to FIG. 5, an overall schematic depicting the transaction
flows and relationships between the primary components and entities of
the receipt card system according to the preferred embodiment of the
present invention, transaction and data flow begins when Consumer 101
makes a purchase at Merchant A 103 and uses Receipt Card 531 as depicted
by Purchase Transaction 121. Preferably, Receipt Card POS 533 (which
preferably includes point-of-sale hardware and software for accepting
Receipt Card 531 and necessary hardware and or software to interface
Receipt Card POS 533 with Merchant POS 525) permits Consumer 101 to
"swipe" Receipt Card 531 on the credit card reader, or to "swipe" a
combination credit card containing consumer's receipt card identification
number, or to key enter their receipt card identification number. Upon
reading the teachings of this specification, those with ordinary skill in
the art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,
considering issues such as technological requirements, capabilities of
various merchant point-of-sale system, etc., other arrangements for
capturing a consumer's receipt card identification number, such as, for
example, use of bar codes, etc., may suffice. Preferably, presentation by
Consumer 101 of consumer's receipt card identification number causes
Receipt Card POS 533, working in concert with Merchant POS 525, to
associate the transaction line-item detail with Consumer 101 and to store
it for later forwarding to Receipt Database System 207. As depicted,
stored line-item detail data is electronically transferred by
communication between Merchant POS 525 and Data Collection Module 509 of
Receipt Card Database System 207 in process Transaction Data Transfer
123. Preferably, Data Collection Module 509 communicates with each
Merchant POS 525 operated by Merchant A 103. Preferably, communication
and transfer of stored line-item detail may be accomplished in any one of
a variety of well-known methods. Preferably, Data Collection Module 509
manages transfer and validation of line-item detail and then adds the
line-item detail to Receipts Database 113 (at least herein embodying
electronically accumulating, in at least one transaction database, such
line-item data relating to such at least one plurality of transactions on
behalf of such at least one consumer). Preferably, Consumer 101 uses
Consumer PC 454 to access Website 215 via Internet 543 to use the
functionality described with reference to FIG. 4 to access the stored
line-item detail. User interface examples are presented in FIG. 8, FIG. 9
and FIG. 10. Additionally, preferably Consumer 101 may use Digital Mobile
Phone 221 (or similar wireless device, such as a personal digital
assistant) that is capable of accessing Website 215 via Internet 543 to
use the functionality described with reference to FIG. 4 to access the
stored line-item detail. Optionally, Consumer 101 may elect to receive
SMS (or similar) text messages containing transaction line-item detail
sent to a wireless device, such as Digital Mobile Phone 221 from Receipt
Database System 207. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,
those with ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under
appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances in
technology, consumer preferences, user location, etc., other personal
digital assistants capable of wireless connection to the Internet, such
as BlackBerry.RTM. offered by Research in Motion Limited, Treo.TM.
offered by Palm, Inc., etc., may suffice. Preferably, Consumer 101 may
request automatic transmission of SMS (or similar) text messages
containing transaction line-item detail sent to a wireless device, such
as Digital Mobile Phone 221 by Receipt Database System 207 for purchases
made at un-attended sales locations of Merchant A 103.
[0087] Preferably, Manager 200 utilizes System Management Module 513 to
perform required management of Receipt Database System 207. Management of
Receipt Database System 207 includes, for example, setting up new
merchants, removing merchants who have resigned, removing history for
consumers who are no longer members as well as other routine database
management tasks necessary to ensure smooth operation of the Receipts
Database System 207 and Website 215
[0088] According to a first alternate preferred embodiment receipt card
identification information (including receipt card identification number)
may be combined with a credit card to eliminate the need for to carry a
separate Receipt Card 531 Consumer 101. Preferably, presentation by
Consumer 101 of a credit card which includes receipt card identification
information causes Receipt Card POS 533, working in concert with Merchant
POS 525, to associate the transaction line-item detail with Consumer 101
and to store it for later forwarding to Receipt Database System 207 (at
least herein embodying permitting use of such at least one combined
credit card for relating such line item data to such at least one
consumer).
[0089] According to a second alternate preferred embodiment receipt card
identification information (including receipt card identification number)
may be combined with a customer loyalty card to eliminate the need to
carry a separate Receipt Card 531 for Consumer 101. Preferably,
presentation by Consumer 101 of a customer loyalty card which includes
receipt card identification information causes Receipt Card POS 533,
working in concert with Merchant POS 525, to associate the transaction
line-item detail with Consumer 101 and to store it for later forwarding
to Receipt Database System 207 (at least herein embodying permitting use
of such at least one combined loyalty card for relating such line item
data to such at least one consumer).
[0090] Referring to FIG. 6, a schematic of the data flows and primary
databases utilized by Receipt Database System 207 according to a
preferred embodiment of the present invention, Receipts Database 113
preferably comprises a variety of specialized databases to store
line-item detail for consumers and to manage and control Receipt Database
System 207. Preferably, Receipts 603 contains line-item detail for all
transactions provided by Merchant POS 525 operated by Merchant A 103 for
Consumer 101. Preferably, line-item detail data comprises:
[0091] transaction identifier;
[0092] transaction date;
[0093] merchant identifier;
[0094] product identifier, such as SKU or UPC;
[0095] selling price for each product;
[0096] amount tendered;
[0097] payment method;
[0098] sales tax amount;
[0099] discount amount; and
[0100] discount identifier.
[0101] Preferably, access by Consumer 101 to Receipts 603 is controlled by
Consumer Profiles 601 which contains profile and access permissions for
Consumer 101 as well as billing and payment information.
[0102] Preferably, Provider Profiles 609 contains company profiles, such
as company name and address, type of company, company identifier, etc.
and access permissions for both Merchant A 103 and Manufacturer 301.
Provider Profiles 609 may also contain billing and payment information as
well related to Merchant A 103 and/or Manufacturer 301.
[0103] Preferably, Merchant A 103 and/or Manufacturer 301 will provide
content for SKU/UPC Codes 611, Coupons 613, Rebates 615 and Warranties
623. Preferably, SKU/UPC Codes 611 contains stock keeping unit codes
(SKU) and/or universal product coding codes (UPC) and related product
information such as name, size, product type, etc. to permit de-coding
line-item detail for viewing by Consumer 101.
[0104] Preferably, Coupons 613 contains coupon information related to
specific products. Typical information included is coupon expiration
date, SKU/UPC of product, discount amount, other requirements or
limitations, and a coupon image or representation suitable for printing
by Consumer 101.
[0105] Preferably, Rebates 615 contains rebate information related to
specific products. Typical information included is rebate expiration
date, SKU/UPC of product, rebate amount, other requirements or
limitations, and a rebate form image or representation suitable for
printing by Consumer 101. Rebate information may also include hypertext
links to rebate submission websites to permit online submission of
completed rebate forms.
[0106] Preferably, Warranties 623 contains warranty information related to
specific products. Typical information included is warranty expiration
date, SKU/UPC of product, warranty limitations, other requirements, and a
warranty form image or representation suitable for printing by Consumer
101. Warranty information may also include hypertext links to warranty
claim submission websites to permit online submission of completed
warranty claim forms.
[0107] Preferably, each of the specialized databases is used to provide
Consumer Receipts and Reports 131 to Consumer 101, Merchant Reports 617
to Merchant A 103, Manufacturer Reports 619 to Manufacturer 301 and
Industry Reports 621 for a variety of uses including marketing by Manager
200.
[0108] Although applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments
of this invention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of this
invention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, and
materials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read in
connection with the above specification.
[0109] Further, many other advantages of applicant's invention will be
apparent to those skilled in the art from the above descriptions and the
below claims.
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