Patent ID: 6542873
Filing Date: 2003-04-01
Classification: G06Q

Abstract:
A computerized method for using an enhanced external data interface to display data in an electronic price label (EPL) system, comprising the steps of:(a) receiving a message to store first information in, or to read first information already stored in, an EPL data file; (b) if the message is to store information, storing said first information in the EPL data file; (c) reading the first information stored in the EPL data file, said first information including a message presently displayed by an EPL or a group of EPLs displaying a same message; (d) determining whether it is time to update the message displayed by the EPL or the group of EPLs for a particular merchandise item by comparing timer information with information from a message management file; (e) if it is time to update the message, comparing the first information read from the EPL data file with second information about the same merchandise item stored in the message management file, said second information including a new message to be displayed by the EPL; and (f) if the second information is different from the first information, transmitting a message to the electronic price label, containing the second information and a command to display the second information.