Abstract:
A method of creating customized beverage products includes providing a multiple stream filing system suited for producing an array of beverage products. The method also includes receiving an order for a customized beverage product from the array of beverage products. The order indicates at least one characteristic of the customized beverage product. The at least one characteristic comprises one or more of the following: a beverage formulation, a beverage additive, a package size, a package shape, or label content. The method further includes instructing the multiple stream filling system to produce the customized beverage product. The multiple stream filing system produces the customized beverage product without performing an operation to reduce contamination of the customized beverage product with ingredients from a previously produced beverage product.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
       [0001]    This application claims priority to co-pending U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61/025,897 entitled “Method of Fundraising Using Mass Customized Products,” filed Feb. 4, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
     
    
     TECHNICAL FIELD 
       [0002]    The present disclosure generally relates to methods of creating customized beverage products, and more particularly relates to methods of creating beverages products that are manufactured using a multiple stream filing system. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    A consumer&#39;s choice of products has been limited to what was on the shelf in a store, or limited choices in a vending machine. As such, often a consumer must settle for a second or third choice rather then being able to enjoy the product they desire most. This can result in consumers being less than satisfied and disappointed that they cannot get the product they want. 
         [0004]    As the number and different kinds of products being marketed rapidly increases, as example the number of different kinds of beverages, consumer preferences for variety and easy accessibility also continue to grow. This growth in variety and accessibility results in more and more frustrated consumers as it becomes harder and more difficult to stock every type and kind of product. Regarding beverages, for example, a store or vending machine may not stock every line extension and derivative of a particular beverage brand. For example, a cola beverage brand may have line extensions and derivatives that include a corresponding vanilla cola beverage, a cherry cola beverage, a lime cola beverage, a diet cola beverage, and a zero-calorie, sweetened cola beverage. Often due to shelf space limitations and vending machine capacities, a consumer may have to go without their favorite drink and instead have to settle for something else or not make a purchase at all. 
         [0005]    From a manufacturing perspective, trying to manufacture the increasing number of products, line extensions, and derivative product has its own challenges. Changing over a production line to produce one product run at a time is time consuming. The manufacturer may focus on the highest volume products to reduce the number of times a production line needs to be reconfigured for a different product. The consequence to the consumer is that they have fewer choices in the stores and at vending machines as the manufacturer may not produce the smaller volume products in sufficient quantities. 
         [0006]    The inability of the consumer to be connected to the manufacturer, coupled with the inability of the manufacturer to produce and deliver to the consumer what the consumer really wants can results in lost sales and consumer dissatisfaction. 
         [0007]    While consumers (the people that consume the products) want more choices, customers (the people that sell the products) also want to be able to differentiate their stores and offer customized products. In this regard, a customer who owns a fitness store knows what their consumers want in the way of product but have limited if any capacity to manufacture such products. For example, an owner of a fitness center knows that a customized sports beverage is something that his consumers would like and buy, but the owner has no ability to formulate such a beverage. 
         [0008]    With respect to schools, parties, events, activities, fundraisers, organizations and other groups and activities, these customers and consumers could all benefit from the ability to differentiate themselves in the from of customized products. Such differentiation might be custom product formulations, product colors, and custom packaging to name a few. Such differentiation could enable these consumers and customers to effectuate new business models, use or sell new trendy products, and collaborate in business opportunities in new ways. However, currently the inability of these consumers and customers to control the mass customization of products and be able to influence remote manufacturing processes prevents these new business model opportunities from occurring. For these and other reasons, there is a need for methods of creating customized beverage products. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0009]    A method of creating customized beverage products includes providing a multiple stream filing system suited for producing an array of beverage products. The method also includes receiving an order for a customized beverage product from the array of beverage products. The order indicates at least one characteristic of the customized beverage product. The at least one characteristic comprises one or more of the following: a beverage formulation, a beverage additive, a package size, a package shape, or label content. The method further includes instructing the multiple stream filling system to produce the customized beverage product. The multiple stream filing system produces the customized beverage product without performing an operation to reduce contamination of the customized beverage product with ingredients from a previously produced beverage product. 
         [0010]    Other systems, devices, methods, features, and advantages of the disclosed systems and methods will be apparent to one with skill in the art upon examination of the following figures and detailed description. All such additional systems, devices, methods, features, and advantages are intended to be included within the description and are intended to be protected by the accompanying claims. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES  
         [0011]    The present disclosure may be better understood with reference to the following figures. Matching reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the figures, and components in the figures are not necessarily to scale. 
           [0012]      FIG. 1A  illustrates one example of an online consumer initiated mass product customization manufacturing with home delivery model. 
           [0013]      FIG. 1B  illustrates one example of an online consumer initiated mass product customization manufacturing with home delivery depot distribution model. 
           [0014]      FIG. 1C  illustrates one example of an in-store consumer initiated mass product customization manufacturing with home delivery model. 
           [0015]      FIG. 1D  illustrates one example of a cross promotional mass product customization manufacturing model. 
           [0016]      FIG. 1E  illustrates one example of a just in time mass product customization manufacturing model. 
           [0017]      FIG. 1F  illustrates one example of a consumer health and/or wellness initiated mass product customization ordering model. 
           [0018]      FIG. 1G  illustrates one example of a new product launch using mass product customization manufacturing. 
           [0019]      FIG. 1H  illustrates one example of a consumer initiated mass product customization vending machine. 
           [0020]      FIG. 1I  illustrates one example of an organization initiated fundraiser wherein the organization determines the mass customizable products and a number of consumer initiated mass product customization orders. 
           [0021]      FIG. 1J  illustrates one example of utilizing event outcome during mass product customization. 
           [0022]      FIG. 1K  illustrates one example of controlling product color during consumer initiated mass product customization. 
           [0023]      FIG. 2A  illustrates one example of a multiple stream filling system. 
           [0024]      FIG. 2B  illustrates one example of using unique product identification to determine formulation of a mass customized product during manufacture. 
           [0025]      FIG. 2C  illustrates one example of using consumer/customer supplied text and/or graphic indicia to mass customize product packaging during mass product customization manufacture. 
           [0026]      FIG. 3  illustrates one example of a method of customizing a branded beverage for different consumer/customer need states. 
           [0027]      FIG. 4  illustrates one example of a method of allowing a consumer to select the type and/or kind of packaging material to use during mass product customization manufacture. 
           [0028]      FIG. 5  illustrates one example of a method of preparing a mass customized order upon the detection of a truck approaching a manufacturing facility. 
           [0029]      FIG. 6  illustrates one example of a method of using consumer supplied text and/or graphic indicia during the preparation of a mass customized order. 
           [0030]      FIG. 7  illustrates one example of a method of a consumer/customer placing a mass customizable order online with order pickup, shipping, or delivery options. 
           [0031]      FIG. 8  illustrates one example of a method of a consumer placing a mass customizable order related to a team, school, organization, and/or other event, wherein the order is produced, and delivered to the consumer. 
           [0032]      FIG. 9  illustrates one example of a method of dynamically rendering and applying a unique label to a mass customized product at the time of manufacture. 
           [0033]      FIG. 10  illustrates one example of a method of obtaining symptoms, illness, health, wellness, and/or other medical information from a consumer and then formulating and mass customizing products for the consumer based in part on the obtained consumer information. 
           [0034]      FIG. 11  illustrates one example of a method of allowing a consumer to select a product and then mass customizing a number of line extensions and/or derivative products based in part on the consumer selected product. 
           [0035]      FIG. 12  illustrates one example of a method of marketing products by automatically identifying consumers, mass customizing new product launches, and delivering products to the consumers. 
           [0036]      FIG. 13  illustrates one example of a method of allowing a consumer to select a product from a vending machine, mass customizing the product by way of micro-dosing and/or macro-dosing then dispensing the product to the consumer. 
           [0037]      FIG. 14  illustrates one example of a method of receiving and filling a mass customizable promotional order. 
           [0038]      FIG. 15  illustrates one example of a method of effectuating a fundraising campaign between an organization and a number of consumers/customers utilizing mass customizable product manufacturing. 
           [0039]      FIG. 16  illustrates one example of a method of printing shipping information directly on the mass customized product packaging in preparation to shipping the product. 
           [0040]      FIG. 17  illustrates one example of a method of collecting marketing data and/or conducting market research by allowing consumers/customers to mass customize products. 
           [0041]      FIG. 18  illustrates one example of a method of customizing product packaging with event outcomes. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
       [0042]    This application is related to U.S. Nonprovisional Application Ser. No. 11/686,387 entitled “Multiple Stream Filing System,” filed Mar. 15, 2007, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
         [0043]    Turning now to the drawings in greater detail, it will be seen that referring to  FIG. 1A  there is illustrated one example of an online consumer initiated mass product customization manufacturing with home delivery model. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer or customer  132  can place an order for mass customizable products via a network  104  by way of computing device  102 A, personal computer (PC)  102 B, data processing device  102 C, and/or by way of other types and kinds of devices and methods as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. In this regard, consumer/customer  132  can select a product that combines micro-dosed ingredients with macro-dosed ingredients to form the mass customizable product. The consumer/customer  132  order is then used to configure at a manufacturer/bottler  106  a multiple stream filling system  200  such that the consumer/customer  132  order is produced on the filling line. The completed order can then be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  or other desired location  108 . For purposes of disclosure, a manufacturer/bottler  106  can be referred to as a manufacturer  106 , bottler  106 , or a manufacturing facility. 
         [0044]    Manufacturer/bottler  106  manufacturing rates typically range in the tens to thousand of products produced a minute. The ability to mass customize in this type of manufacturing environment enables consumers/customers  132  to order small or large quantities as the multiple stream filling system  200  can easily be configured, production line change over is eliminated, cleaning before product change is eliminated, and product packaging can be customized. 
         [0045]    For purposes of disclosure, a consumer can be defined as the buyer of the product and a customer can be defined as a retail partner that is responsible for the sale of the product. A retail store is an example of a customer. As such for purposes of disclosure, a consumer/customer  132  can be either a consumer or a customer. A consumer/customer  132  can also be referred to as a consumer  132  or a customer  132 . In addition, for purposes of disclosure a computing device  102 A, a personal computer  102 B, and a data processing device  102 C can be referred to as a data processing device  102 . In addition, a data processing device  102 C can be a personal data assistant, a wireless phone, a pocket PC, and/or other types and kinds of data processing devices. In addition, a network  104  can be a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a wired network connection, a wireless network connection, the Internet, and/or other types and kinds of networks as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. Furthermore, a network  104  can be referred to as a global network. 
         [0046]    In embodiments, orders can be accepted, used to configure a multiple stream filling system  200 , product can be mass customized manufactured to consumer/customer  132  specifications, and the products delivered to a destination  108  of choice. 
         [0047]    For example, a consumer  132  that likes a particular brand of diet cola can order different variations of the product tailored for different times in the day. For example, the consumer  132  may desire a diet cola with vitamins and certain nutraceuticals in the morning, a diet cola with energy supplement in the afternoon, and a diet cola with no caffeine in the evening. In this regard, the consumer  132  can place an order that is received at a multiple stream filling system  200  wherein the consumer&#39;s  132  mass customized order is processed to produce a week, month, or other time period supply of the different variations of the product. The product is then delivered to the consumer  132 . 
         [0048]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer may have a favorite team or maybe hosting a sports party such as a football championship party and desire to have color coordinated beverage products matching the team colors. In this regard, the consumer  132  can order cases of the mass customized beverage products, for example and not a limitation, selecting the final color of the beverage products. The order can be received at a multiple stream filling system  200  where the mass customized beverage products are produced and subsequently delivered to the consumer  132 . For purposes of disclosure, products can be referred to as beverages and/or beverage products. 
         [0049]    In another exemplary embodiment, a customer  132  may desire to stock a mass customized beverage in his or her retail store. In this regard, perhaps the storeowner has a specific formulation that is associated with the store. The customer can place a mass customized order for cases of the specially formulated beverage product. The order is received at a multiple stream filling system  200 . The beverage product is manufactured and subsequently delivered to the customer  132 , wherein the beverage product can be sold in the owner&#39;s retail store. 
         [0050]    In another exemplary embodiment a consumer/customer  132  can order online products in which health and wellness factors dictate which products are most appropriate, or consumers/customers  132  can sign up for promotions or receive from time to time specials offers. In addition, consumers/customers  132  can sign up to automatically receive new products as they become available, or setup accounts to receive products automatically at special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, and/or other types and kinds of occasions. Furthermore, consumers/customers  132  can order mass customized products that are formulated special for favorite teams, tailgate parties, beach parties, and/or other types and kinds of themed occasions. Such special formulation can include color, flavor, and/or other types and kinds of special formulations. 
         [0051]    If the product is not available in stores as a standard stocked item, and/or is needed for a special event or activity the consumer/customer  132  can order it, have it manufactured to consumer/customer  132  specifications and delivered to a destination  108  of choice or picked-up by the consumer/customer  132 . 
         [0052]    Referring to  FIG. 1B  there is illustrated one example of an online consumer initiated mass product customization manufacturing with home delivery depot distribution model. In an exemplary embodiment, efficiencies in the delivery to consumer/customer  132  models can be realized by transferring the produced mass customized product from many consumer/customer  132  orders from the manufacturer/bottler  106  to a warehouse/shipper/depot  110 . In this regard, the manufacturer/bottler  106  may elect to transport many manufactured orders to a warehouse/shipper/depot  106  such as a parcel delivery service or other shipper facility  110 . This shipper facility  110  can then be responsible for delivery to the consumer/customer  132  as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. Such data processing as necessary can in part be effectuated by way of a network  104 . 
         [0053]    Referring to  FIG. 1C  there is illustrated one example of an in-store consumer initiated mass product customization manufacturing with home delivery model. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, when a consumer  132  is in a store and does not find the specific type of product that is desired, an order can be placed to have the product mass customized and delivered to the consumer  132  destination  108  of choice. In this regard, an in-store data processing device  102  can enable a consumer  132  to place an order by way of network  104  with the manufacturer/bottler  106 . Once the order is received, the manufacturer/bottler  106  can use a multiple stream filling system  200  to mass customize manufacture the consumer  132  order. The order can then be delivered to a consumer  132  destination  108  of choice. 
         [0054]    Referring to  FIG. 1D  there is illustrated one example of a cross-promotional mass product customization manufacturing model. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer/customer  132  may elect to place an order for a product from a business/ecommerce business  114 . In this regard, the consumer/customer  132  can place such orders with the business  114  directly and/or by way of ecommerce. As example and not a limitation, network  104  and data processing equipment  112  and/or database  116  can be utilized to effectuate initial order placement. Then in accordance with a cross promotion the ordering of a product from the business/ecommerce business  114  can trigger an order for a mass customized product from the manufacturer/bottler  106 . A multiple stream filling system  200  can be utilized at the manufacturer/bottler to manufacture the mass customized order. Orders from both the business/ecommerce business  114  and the mass customized order from the manufacturer/bottler  106  can then be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  destination  108  of choice. 
         [0055]    In an exemplary embodiment, such a promotional order originating from the business/ecommerce business  110  to the manufacturer/bottler  106  can be by way of an electronic order utilizing data processing devices  102 , data processing resource  112 , database  116 , and/or by other methods as may be required and or desired in the particular embodiment. For purposes of disclosure business/ecommerce business  114  can be referred to as business  114  or ecommerce business  114 . In addition, data processing resource  112  and database  116  can be a website, online business, and/or other types and kinds of businesses that accept and process electronic orders and/or transact ecommerce. 
         [0056]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a business  114  could sell exercise shoes. A cross promotional relationship could exist between the business  114  and the manufacturer/bottler  106  such that for every order of exercise shoes a supply of invigorating sports drink, by way of a multiple stream filling system  200 , is supplied to the consumer. In operation, a consumer  132  could order shoes in person or online from the business  114 . The order would generate a second order in accordance with the cross promotion agreement between the business  114  and the manufacturer/bottler  106 . Optionally, the consumer  132  could intervene in the mass customized product specifications. The order for the shoes is processed by the business  114 , and the mass customization by way of a multiple stream filling system  200  is manufactured by the manufacturer/bottler  106  and subsequently delivered to a customer  132  destination  108  of choice. 
         [0057]    In an exemplary embodiment, a first order can originate from a consumer/customer  132  by way of computing device  102 A, personal computer (PC)  102 B, and/or data processing device  102 C. The first order can be received at a data processing resource  112 . A second order can then be generated by way of the data processing resource  112  and received at a manufacturer/bottler  106 . The first order can be processed by the business  114  and delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . The second order can be processed by the manufacturer/bottler  106  who uses a multiple stream filling system  200  to produce the mass customized product referenced in the second order. The mass customized product is then delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . 
         [0058]    Referring to  FIG. 1E  there is illustrated one example of a just in time mass product customization manufacturing model. In an exemplary embodiment, a delivery truck  136  on approach to the manufacturer/bottler  106  can data communicate, by way of a network  104 , estimated time of arrival, truck  136  data, and/or other types and kinds of data as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. This data can be received, data processed, used to obtain other data, and or otherwise utilized at the manufacturer/bottler  106 . In this regard, a multiple stream filling system  200  can be configured and a mass customized order manufactured, being tailored to the load that is to be placed on the approaching truck  136 . Upon the truck  136  arrival to the manufacturer/bottler  106  the just in time manufactured mass customized order can be loaded onto the truck  136  and the truck can be quickly dispatched to its destination. Such data processing as necessary can in part be effectuated by way of a network  104 . 
         [0059]    In embodiments, a truck  136  load can be mass customized as the truck  136  is on approach to the manufacturer/bottler  106  and immediately loaded upon arrival. This can eliminate the need to pre-manufacture products, stock product, pull shipments together from a vast warehouse of inventory, and then in an inefficient manner load the truck. In operation, this can allow custom formulated products to be prepared based on the trucks destination in a just in time manufacturing method. 
         [0060]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, certain retail stores might want to sell their own brand of custom formulated beverage products. In this case the retail store delivery truck  136  can data communicate its estimated time of arrival status to the manufacturer/bottler  106 , the custom formulated beverage products can be produced by way of a multiple stream filling system  200 , and the custom formulated beverage products can be loaded onto the retail store delivery truck upon the trucks arrival at the manufacturer/bottler  106 . 
         [0061]    Referring to  FIG. 1F  there is illustrated one example of a consumer health and/or wellness initiated mass product customization ordering model. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer/customer  132  can enter data related to medical conditions, exercise conditions, and/or other types and kinds of medical and/or exercise data. The consumer/customer  132  provided data can be data processed and products can be determined that best address the consumer/customer  132  need states with respect to health and wellness conditions. In this regard, for example and not limitation, exercise equipment, health and wellness beverage products, and other types and kinds of products as may be required in a particular embodiment can be determined from the consumer/customer  132  data input. Such data process can be effectuated by way of data processing devices  102 , data processing resources  112  and/or database  116 . These product orders can be placed with business/ecommerce business  114  wherein subsequent mass customized orders can be received at the manufacturer/bottler  106 . A multiple filling line system  200  can manufacture the mass customized order and the products can be shipped from the business/ecommerce business  114  and manufacturer/bottler  106 . The product can be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  destination  108  of choice. Such data processing as necessary can in part be effectuated by way of a network  104 . 
         [0062]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer  132  might not know what kind of beverage product would be best for them. In this regard, the consumer  132  can provide personal health and wellness information and the optimum beverage products to maximize the health and wellness benefits the consumer  132  desires can be determined, a multiple filling line system  200  can mass customize the beverage products, and the beverage products can be delivered to a consumer&#39;s  132  desired destination  108 . 
         [0063]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a customer  132  may operate a fitness center. In this regard, the customer  132  would like to offer to their consumers a beverage product that is optimized to maximize the health and wellness benefits based on the types and kinds of fitness activities available at the fitness center. The customer  132  can provide information related to the fitness center and the various fitness activities. Information supplied by customer  132  can be data processed and optimum beverage products designed to maximize the health and wellness benefits of the consumer can be determined, a multiple filling line system  200  can mass customize the beverage products, and the beverage products can be delivered to a customer&#39;s  132  desired destination  108 . 
         [0064]    Referring to  FIG. 1G  there is illustrated one example of a new product launch using mass product customization manufacturing. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, consumers/customers  132  can be identified to receive product based on product criteria and/or marketing data  118 . In this regard, product criteria and/or marketing data  118  can be utilized to query a consumer/customer  132  list by way of a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116 . The consumer/customer  132  list can then be data communicated to the manufacturer/bottler  106 , wherein a multiple stream filling system  200  can be utilized to mass customize orders for each of the consumers/customers  132  on the list. The completed orders can then be delivered to consumers/customers  132  destinations  108 A-B. 
         [0065]    Alternatively, in an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer  132  can be identified as being part of the consumers/customers  132  list generated by the product criteria and/or marketing data  118  while at a vending machine  300 . As such, the new product can be dispensed from the vending machine  300  to the consumer  132 . 
         [0066]    Referring to  FIG. 1H  there is illustrated one example of a consumer initiated mass product customization vending machine. In an exemplary embodiment, a multiple stream filling system can be incorporated into a vending machine  300 . In this regard, a consumer  132  can interact with the vending machine  300  in an unattended manner to determine, order, and have dispensed customized products. Illustrated in  FIG. 1H  is a multiple stream filling system  200  incorporated into a vending machine body  302 . Also shown is a consumer/customer  132  interface  304 , a fill zone  312 , a dispense area  306 , and a payment center  308  and  310 , wherein a consumer can pay by loyalty, cashless, bills, coins, and/or other payment methods for mass customized products. 
         [0067]    In embodiments, a vending machine  300  can be located at events, activities, and other locations. In addition, vending machine  300  can be operated in an unattended mode, responsive to orders placed by consumers/customers  132  or data processing resource  112 . Furthermore, consumers/customers  132  can use interface  304  to place orders and payment center  308  and  310  to pay for customized products. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, vending machine  300  can be configured to customize food, beverage, cosmetics, and/or other types and kinds of products as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. 
         [0068]    Referring to  FIG. 1I  there is illustrated one example of an organization initiated fundraiser wherein the organization determines the mass customizable products and a number of consumer initiate mass product customization orders. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, an organization  120  such as a school, team, event and/or other types and kinds of organizations can determine their own mass customizable products. In this regard, once the organization  120  determines their mass customizable products then consumers/customers  132  can place orders for the products. A data processing resource  112  and/or a database  116  can receive the organizations  120  mass customized product determinations and consumer/customer  132  orders. 
         [0069]    In an exemplary embodiment, consumers/customers  132  can be local consumers and customer businesses and can be contacted by way of a marketing effort implemented by the organization  120 . The data processing resource  112  can place orders with the manufacturer/bottler  106 , wherein a multiple stream filling system  200  can produce the mass customized product determined by the organization  120 . The product can then be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  destination  108  of choice. Portions of the proceeds can benefit the organization  120  as a fundraiser or other revenue producing activity. Such data processing as necessary can in part be effectuated by way of a network  104 . 
         [0070]    Referring to  FIG. 1J  there is illustrated one example of utilizing event outcome during mass product customization. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, outcomes from events such as sporting events, news events, and/or other events can be utilized during the mass customization process. In this regard, the current or final outcome of the event such as a race  122 A, a football game  122 B, and/or other types and kinds of events can be utilized during the mass customization process. 
         [0071]    In an exemplary embodiment, data regarding an event  122  can be data communicated to a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116  by way of a network  104 . A consumer/customer  132  utilizing vending machine  300  having the capability of mass customizing products can formulate the consumer/customer  132  product  126  of choice and during the product  126  manufacturing, customize the label with information related to the event  122 . 
         [0072]    As an example and not a limitation, if a certain team is leading at halftime during a championship football game, such data can be communicated to data processing resource  112 . When a consumer then requests a customized beverage from vending machine  300 , the label can be printed indicating that the certain team was leading at halftime. Later at the conclusion of the game, where the opposing team has won the football game, consumers obtaining product  126  from the vending machine  300  will be treated to commemorative product packaging depicting the outcome of the football game. 
         [0073]    In another exemplary embodiment, consumers  132  can order customized products associated with a selected star or celebrity. Such favorite star or celebrity can be a sports figure, movie, and/or other types and kinds of favorite star or celebrity. The product  126  can then be manufactured and the product  126  packaging can be customized with information associated with the favorite star or celebrity. 
         [0074]    As an example and not a limitation, at vending machine  300  a consumer  132  could select a cola beverage with vanilla flavoring and vitamins, and at the same time the consumer  132  could indicate that a certain basketball player is his favorite star or celebrity. The vending machine by way of a multiple stream filling system  200  that can manufacture the beverage to the consumer&#39;s specifications and include on the product packaging information related to the basketball player. 
         [0075]    In a number of events  122 , commemorative products packaging depicting the event (during the event and/or final outcome) can be including at the time the product is being manufactured by a vending machine  300 . In addition, such commemorative product  126  packaging depicting the event can optionally be ordered later by way of a manufacturer/bottler  106  and delivered to a destination  108  of the consumer/customer  132  choice. For purposes of disclosure event  122 A, or event  122 B can be referred to as event  122 . In addition, organizational events, school activities, sporting events, and other types and kinds of activities can be referred to as events  122 . 
         [0076]    Referring to  FIG. 1K  there is illustrated one example of controlling product  126  color during consumer initiated mass product customization. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer  132  may desire to have a product that matches the color of an article of clothing. In this regard, the consumer  132  can utilize a mass customizable vending machine  300  to first identify the color of the article of clothing to match and then alter the color of the beverage product  126  and/or a cosmetic product  134  to the article of clothing. Such identification of the color of an article of clothing can be done by optical detection and/or selection by way of a consumer interface. 
         [0077]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer  132  can have the vending machine determine the color of a sweater or other article of clothing consumer  132  is wearing. Once determined, the vending machine  300  can customize lipstick or a beverage that matches in color the article of clothing. 
         [0078]    Referring to  FIG. 2A  there is illustrated one example of a multiple stream filing system. Embodiments of a multiple stream filing system are disclosed in U.S. Ser. No. 11/686,387, which is incorporated by reference above. In an exemplary embodiment, a multiple stream filling system  200  can have a number of product packaging  126 A-D moving down a conveyer  208 . The controller  206  can be in data communication with a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116  to receive orders and/or other types and kinds of data as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The controller  206  can be in data communication with a number of pumps/valves  214 A-E by way of interconnections  212 A-E. Responsive to controller  206  each of the pumps/valves  214 A-E are individually controllable allowing a precise amount of micro-ingredient from any of the number of micro-ingredients  202 A-C or any of the number of macro-ingredients  204 A-B to be dispensed through nozzle manifold  216 A-E. 
         [0079]    For purposes of disclosure packaging  126 A-D can be referred to as packaging  126 . A number of micro-ingredients  202 A-C can be referred to as micro-ingredients  202 . A number of macro-ingredients  204 A-B can be referred to as macro-ingredients  204 . Nozzle manifold  216 A-E includes a number of nozzles wherein each nozzle  216  is interconnected with a pump/valve  214  and at least one micro-ingredient  202  or macro-ingredient  204 . Each pump/valve  214 A-E is interconnected with a micro-ingredient  202 A-C, or macro-ingredient  204 A-C by way of tubing  218 A-E. The pumps/valves  214 A-E each pump the micro-ingredients  202 , and macro-ingredients  204  through a multiple stream manifold  216 A-E also referred to as nozzles  216 A-E or nozzle  216 . 
         [0080]    It is important to note that the micro-ingredients  202  and macro ingredients  204  meet and mix in the package  126 . In this regard, the ingredients do not contaminate each other on the manufacturing line and as such do not require cleaning or change over between the manufacture of different types and kinds of products. In other words, the system can produce a number of beverage products sequentially without performing an operation between products to reduce contamination of the beverage product with ingredients from a previously produced beverage product. This is true even if the beverage products have differing characteristics, such as differing contents, ingredients, additives or formulation. 
         [0081]    As example, micro-ingredient  202 A is drawn through tubing  218 A by way of pump/valve  214 A. The micro-ingredient  202 A is then dispensed through nozzle  216 A into product packaging  126  as the packaging  126  passes in proximity to the nozzle  216 A as needed, in precise proportions, as dictated by a recipe managed by controller  206 . In the manufacture of a product, a number of nozzles  216  may be required to formulate a single package  126 . In this regard, flavoring from one nozzle might be dispensed first, then syrup, then carbonated water each from a different nozzle  216  to formulate correctly the desired beverage product. The recipe can be determined by a consumer/customer  132  or be resident in a database of standard formulations. 
         [0082]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a micro-ingredient  202  can be a coloring, flavoring, nutraceutical, vitamin, health and wellness product, and/or other types of micro-ingredients  204  as may be required and or desired in an embodiment. A macro-ingredient  204  can be water, carbonated water, orange juice, sweetener, a base ingredient, milk, and/or other types and kinds of macro-ingredients  204  as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. 
         [0083]    Referring to  FIG. 2B  there is illustrated one example of using unique product identification to determine formulation of a mass customized product during manufacture. Unique product identification can include radio frequency identification (RFID), machine readable codes or barcodes, and/or other types and kinds of unique product identification technology and/or indicia as may be required an or desired in a particular embodiment. 
         [0084]    In an exemplary embodiment, a multiple stream filling system  200  can have a number of product packaging  126 A-D moving down a conveyer  208 . Each of the product packaging  126  can be scanned or read by a reader  210 . A reader  210  can be a RFID reader, machine readable reader, and/or other types and kinds of readers as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. Information from the reader  210  can be data communicated to a controller  206 . The controller  206  can be in data communication with a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116  to receive orders and/or other types and kinds of data as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The controller  206  can be in data communication with a number of pumps/valves  214 A-E by way of interconnections  212 A-E. Responsive to controller  206  each of the pumps/valves  214 A-E are individually controllable allowing a precise amount of micro-ingredient from any of the number of micro-ingredient  202 A-C or any of the number of macro-ingredients  204 A-B to be dispensed through nozzle manifold  216 A-E. 
         [0085]    In operation, as package  126  moves down the conveyer  208  a reader  210  reads information from the packaging. This information is data communicated to controller  206  wherein a determination is made as to what to dispense into the packaging. Controller  206  operates the appropriate pump/valve  214  such that certain micro-ingredients  202  and macro-ingredients  204  are pumped in precise proportions into the packaging  126  as to mass customize a product. Such products can include beverage products, cosmetic products, health and wellness products, and/or other types and kinds of products as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. 
         [0086]    Referring to  FIG. 2C  there is illustrated one example of using consumer/customer  132  supplied text and/or graphic indicia to mass customize product packaging during mass product customization manufacture. In an exemplary embodiment, consumer/customer  132  supplied text and graphic indicia  136  can be added to the product packaging  126  by way of a printer/labeler  220 . In this regard, data processing device  112  can supply controller  206  with the appropriate data such that as a consumer&#39;s/customer&#39;s  132  order is being mass customized text and graphic indicia can be added to the packaging. 
         [0087]    In embodiments, organizations, custom ingredient formulation information, fundraiser, shipping, event, activity, and/or other types and kinds of information can be customized and added to the product packaging effectuating the ability of the multiple stream filling system  200  to both customize the product and the product packaging. 
         [0088]    Referring to  FIG. 3  there is illustrated one example of a method of customizing a branded beverage for different consumer/customer need states. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer or customer  132  can place an order for mass customizable products via a network  104  by way of computing device  102 A, personal computer (PC)  102 B, data processing device  102 C, and/or by way of other types and kinds of devices and methods as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. In this regard, consumer/customer  132  can select products that combine micro-dosed ingredients  202  with macro-dosed ingredients  204  to form the mass customizable product. The consumer/customer  132  order is then used to configure at a manufacturer/bottler  106  a multiple stream filling system  200  such that the consumer/customer  132  order is produced on the filling line. The completed order can then be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  or other desired location  108 . 
         [0089]    For purposes of disclosure, a consumer can be defined as the buyer of the product and a customer can be defined as retail partners that are responsible for the sale of the product. A retail store is an example of a customer. As such, for purposes of disclosure a consumer/customer  132  can be either a consumer or a customer. A consumer/customer  132  can also be referred to as a consumer  132  or a customer  132 . In addition, for purposes of disclosure a computing device  102 A, a personal computer  102 B, and a data processing device  102 C can be referred to as a data processing device  102 . In addition, a data processing device  102 C can be a personal data assistant, a wireless phone, a pocket PC, and/or other types and kinds of data processing devices. 
         [0090]    In embodiments, orders can be accepted, used to configure a multiple stream filling system  200 , product can be mass customized manufactured to consumer/customer  132  specifications, and the products delivered to a destination  108  of choice. 
         [0091]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer  132  that likes a particular brand of diet cola can order different variations of the product tailored for different times in the day. For example, the consumer  132  may desire a diet cola with vitamins and certain nutraceuticals in the morning, a diet cola with energy supplement in the afternoon, and a diet cola with no caffeine in the evening. In this regard, the consumer  132  can place an order that is received at a multiple stream filling system  200  wherein the consumer&#39;s  132  mass customized order is processed, producing a week, month, or other time period supply of the different variations of the product that is then delivered to the consumer  132 . 
         [0092]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer may have a favorite team or maybe hosting a sports party such as a football championship game party and desire to have color coordinated beverage products matching the team colors. In this regard, the consumer  132  can order cases of the mass customized beverage products for example selecting the final color of the beverage products. The order can be received at a multiple stream filling system  200  where the mass customized beverage products are produced and subsequently delivered to the consumer  132 . For purposes of disclosure, products can be referred to as beverages and beverage products. 
         [0093]    In another exemplary embodiment, a customer  132  may desire to stock a mass customized beverage in his or her retail store. In this regard, perhaps the storeowner has a specific formulation that is associated with the store. The customer can place a mass customized order for cases of the specially formulated beverage product. The order is received at a multiple stream filling system  200  where it is produced and subsequently delivered to the customer  132 , wherein the beverage product can be sold in the owner&#39;s retail store. 
         [0094]    If the product is not available in stores as a standard stocked item, and/or is needed for a special event the consumer/customer  132  can order it, have it manufactured to consumer/customer  132  specifications and subsequently have the product delivered or otherwise picked up. The method begins in block  1002 . 
         [0095]    In block  1002  consumer/customer  132  selects a product. Such product selection can be via data processing device, online, at a vending machine  300  and/or by way of other types and kinds of selection methods as may be required and desired in a particular embodiment. Processing then moves to block  1004 . In block  1004  the consumer/customer  132  customizes the product to address specific need states of the consumer/customer  132 . For disclosure purposes needs state can be defined as different things consumer/customers  132  need at different times. An example may be the need for a sports drink after working out, or an afternoon energy boost late in the day. Processing then moves to block  1006 . In block  1006  the consumer/customer  132  order is received at product manufacturer/bottler  106  production lines wherein a multiple stream filling system is configured to manufacture the order. Processing then moves to block  1008 . In block  1008  products are produced with a formulation in accordance with the consumer need states. Processing then move to block  1010 . In block  1010  products are labeled with indicia. The label indicia include consumer/customer  132  determined customized product formulation and/or other indicia. Processing then moves to block  1012 . In block  1012  the products are delivered to the consumer/customer  132  destination  108  of choice. The routine is then exited. 
         [0096]    Referring to  FIG. 4  there is illustrated one example of a method of allowing a consumer to select the type and/or kind of packaging material to use during mass product customization manufacture. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer/customer  132  can in addition to determining the product mass customization formulation can also determine the type and/or kind of packaging utilized. For example if the consumer/customer  132  desired to have the product packaged in one liter packages the consumer/customer  132  could in addition to determining the product formulation itself also determine the type and/or kind of packaging to manufacture the product into. Then method begins in block  2002 . 
         [0097]    In block  2002  the consumer/customer  132  determines the packaging enclosure type. Processing then moves to block  2004 . In block  2004  the product manufacturing line if configured to use the consumer/customer  132  selected packaging. Processing then moves to block  2006 . In block  2006  the consumer/customer  132  product is mass customized by way of a multiple stream filling system  200  in accordance with consumer/customer  132  specifications and packaged in the select package. The routine is then exited. 
         [0098]    Referring to  FIG. 5  there is illustrated one example of a method of preparing a mass customized order upon the detection of a truck approaching a manufacturing facility. In an exemplary embodiment, a just in time mass product customization manufacturing model can be effectuated when a delivery truck  136  is on approach to the manufacturer/bottler  106  by data communicating over a network  104 , an estimated time of arrival, truck  136  data, and/or other types and kinds of data as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. This data can be received, data processed, used to obtain other data, and or otherwise utilized by the manufacturer/bottler  106  to prepare a mass customized order. In this regard, a multiple stream filling system  200  can be configured and a mass customized order tailored for the approaching truck  136 . Upon the truck  136  arrival to the manufacturer/bottler  106  the just in time manufactured mass customized order can be loaded onto the truck  136  and the truck dispatched to it destination. 
         [0099]    In embodiments, a truck  136  load can be mass customized as the truck  136  is on approach to the manufacturer/bottler  106  and loaded upon arrival. This can eliminate the need to pre-manufacture products, stock product, pull shipments together from a vast warehouse of inventory, and then in an inefficient manner try to load the truck. In operation, this can allow custom formulated product to be prepared in a just in time manufacturing method. 
         [0100]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, certain retail stores might want to sell their own brand of custom formulated beverage products. In this case the retail store delivery truck  136  can data communicate its nearing arrival status to the manufacturer/bottler  106 , the custom formulated beverage product can be produced by way of a multiple stream filling system  200 , and the custom formulated beverage product loaded onto the retail store delivery truck upon the trucks arrival at the manufacturer/bottler  106 . The method begins in block  3002 . 
         [0101]    In block  3002  a truck  136  is identified on approach to the manufacturer/bottler  106  and/or loading dock. As such, the truck can data communicate with manufacturer/bottler  106 , a data processing resource  112 , and/or data communicate in other ways and with other devices as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. 
         [0102]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, identification and/or data communication can include placing a mass customized order, communicating formulation information, communicating delivery destination, communication truck information, communicating information that can be used to obtain other data. Such other data can be from a data processing resource  112  and/or other types and kinds of data processing devices. Processing then moves to block  3004 . In block  3004  the manufacturing line is configured to produce the order for the identified truck  136 . Such configuration can include configuring a multiple stream filling system  200  and manufacturing products to fulfill a mass customized order. Processing then moves to block  3006 . In block  3006  products are produced and prepared for loading onto the truck  136 . Processing then moves to block  3008 . In block  3008  as appropriate, indicia is placed on the customized product packaging. Such indicia can be included on the label that is associated with the product packaging. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, such indicia can be a consumer/customer  132  supplied text and/or graphic indicia. In addition, such indicia can be customized based on the delivery destination  108  of the truck. Processing then moves to block  3010 . In block  3010  the mass customized order is loaded onto the truck  136 . The truck  136  can then be dispatched to a delivery destination  108  of choice. The routine is then exited. 
         [0103]    Referring to  FIG. 6  there is illustrated one example of a method of using the consumer/customer  132  supplied text and/or graphic indicia during the preparation of a mass customized order. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer/customer  132  can supply text and/or graphic indicia that can be used during the manufacture of the mass customized product. Such indicia can be graphics that get printed onto the product labels, product packaging, and/or used in other ways as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The method begins in block  4002 . 
         [0104]    In block  4002  the consumer/customer  132  provides text and/or graphic indicia. The consumer/customer  132  can supply such indicia by way of online, supply a physical copy of the text and/or graphic, and/or by other methods as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. Processing then moves to block  4004 . In block  4004  the manufacturing line is configured to use the consumer/customer  132  supplied indicia. Processing then moves to block  4006 . In block  4006  the product is manufactured and mass customized. The consumer/customer  132  provided indicia is utilized on the product label, packaging, and/or in other ways as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. The routine is then exited. 
         [0105]    Referring to  FIG. 7  there is illustrated one example of a method of a consumer/customer  132  placing a mass customizable order online with order pickup, shipping, or delivery options. In an exemplary embodiment, consumers/customers  132  can place orders for mass customizable products. The orders are received by a manufacturer/bottler  106 , wherein a multiple stream filling system  200  and/or other types and kinds of equipment can be configured. The consumer/customer  132  mass customizable product can be manufactured and delivered to a destination  108  of choice. Such destination  108  of choice can be a home, office, store, picked up by consumer/customer  132 , and/or other types and kinds of destinations  108  as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The method begins in block  5002 . 
         [0106]    In block  5002  the consumer/customer  132  selects and orders a product online to be manufactured to the consumer&#39;s/customer&#39;s  132  specifications. Processing then moves to block  5004 . In block  5004  the consumer/customer  132  order is received and the manufacturing line is configured. Such configuration can include configuring a multiple stream filling system  200 . Processing then moves to block  5006 . In block  5006  the consumer/customer  132  order is manufactured or otherwise produced. Processing then moves to block  5008 . In block  5008  the consumer/customer  132  picks up the order at a destination of choice. Alternatively, the order can be shipped or delivered to a destination  108  of choice. The routine is then exited. 
         [0107]    Referring to  FIG. 8  there is illustrated one example of a method of a consumer/customer  132  placing a mass customizable order related to a team, school, organization, and/or other event, wherein the order is produced, and delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, outcomes from events such as sporting events can be utilized during the mass customization process. In this regard, the current or final outcome of the event such as a race  122 A, a football game  122 B, and/or other types and kinds of events can be utilized during the mass customization process. 
         [0108]    In an exemplary embodiment, data regarding an event such as event  122  can be data communicated to a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116  by way of a network  104 . A consumer/customer  132  utilizing vending machine  300  having the capability of mass customizing products can formulate the consumer/customer  132  product  126  of choice and during the product manufacturing customize the label with information related to the event  122 . 
         [0109]    In a number of events  122  commemorative products packaging depicting the event (during the event and/or final outcome) can be including at the time the product is being manufactured by a vending machine  300 . In addition, such commemorative product  126  packaging depicting the event can optionally be ordered later by way of a manufacturer/bottler  106  and delivered to a destination  108  of the consumer/customer  132  choice. The method begins in block  6002 . 
         [0110]    In block  6002  the consumer/customer  132  selects a favorite team, school, event, and/or organization. Processing then moves to block  6004 . In block  6004  the manufacturer/bottler  106  receives the order or alternatively the consumer  132  utilizes a vending machine  300 . In this regard, the mass customizable product is manufactured based in part on the consumer/customer  132  selection. Processing then moves to block  6006 . In block  6006  the product is mass customized manufactured and customized indicia related to the team, school, organization, and/or other event can be applied to the product label, and/or packaging. Processing then moves to block  6008 . In block  6008  the mass customized order is delivered or dispensed to the consumer/customer  132 . The routine is then exited. 
         [0111]    Referring to  FIG. 9  there is illustrated one example of a method of dynamically rendering and applying a unique label to a mass customized product at the time of manufacture. In an exemplary embodiment, as consumers/customers  132  create custom formulations the need arises to dynamically customize the label and product packaging such that the indicia on the mass customizable product is accurate with respect to what is in the product packaging. In addition, as custom text and graphic indicia are desired and/or required to be added to certain of the mass customized product packaging the need arises to be able to dynamically render and apply a unique label to a mass customized product at the time of manufacture. 
         [0112]    In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer submits a short message, along with their name and city, to a beverage manufacturer. This message could be submitted through a website, by filling out a postcard at a customer location, or by entering the information into a computer kiosk in a public location. The message would then go into a database, be screened for inappropriate language, and sent to the printer/labeler  220  by way of controller  206 . The messages in the database would be printed on the mass customized product packaging coming down the assembly line. The messages could be ones that were gathered locally, or ones gathered from across the around the world. One message could be printed on several products, or on a single product. The products would then be filled and distributed as normally done. 
         [0113]    A promotional advantage, around this concept could encourage someone who has read a bottle to go to the website of the beverage manufacturer and respond back to the person whose message they received, allowing the beverage manufacturer the opportunity to foster connections between consumers. 
         [0114]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, when the internet  104  is used to respond to messages, consumers will be able to see where their message was printed and what others thought of the message. In this regard, responses to the messages can be posted to an internet web-site. 
         [0115]    The ability to gather and to disseminate numerous, random messages from other consumers is a new brand building tool. The message gathering and print methods permit the thoughts of consumers to be incorporated onto packaging virtually instantly, which promotes timeliness. The method begins in block  7002 . 
         [0116]    In block  7002  the product specifications are determined for the mass customizable product. Such product specifications can include custom text and or graphic indicia. Processing then moves to block  7004 . In block  7004  the product ingredient label is dynamically modified to reflect the current specific mass customizable product being manufactured. Processing then moves to block  7006 . In block  7006  the dynamically produced product labeling is applied to the current mass customizable product packaging. The routine is then exited. 
         [0117]    Referring to  FIG. 10  there is illustrated one example of a method of obtaining symptoms, illness, health, wellness, and/or other medical information from a consumer/customer  132  and then formulating and mass customizing products for the consumer/customer  132  based in part on the obtained consumer information. In an exemplary embodiment a consumer/customer  132  can enter at a website medical conditions, exercise conditions, and/or other types and kinds of medical and/or exercise data. The consumer/customer  132  provided data can be data processed and products can be determined that best address the consumer/customer  132  need states, with respect to health and wellness conditions. In this regard, for example and not limitation, exercise equipment, health and wellness beverage products, and other types and kinds of products, as may be required in a particular embodiment, can be determined from the consumer/customer  132  data input. For purposes of disclosure symptoms, illness, health, wellness, and/or other medical information can be referred to as health and wellness information or health and wellness data. 
         [0118]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer  132  might not know what kind of beverage product would be best for them. In this regard, the consumer  132  can provide personal health and wellness information and the optimum beverage products to maximize the health and wellness benefits the consumer  132  desires can be determined, a multiple filling line system  200  can mass customize the beverage products, and the beverage products can be delivered to a consumer&#39;s  132  desired destination  108 . 
         [0119]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a customer  132  may operate a fitness center. In this regard, the customer  132  would like to offer to their consumers a beverage product that is optimized to maximize the health and wellness benefits based on the types and kinds of fitness activities available at the fitness center. The customer  132  can provide information related to the fitness center and the various fitness activities. Information supplied by customer  132  can be data processed and optimum beverage products designed to maximize the health and wellness benefits of the consumer can be determined, a multiple filling line system  200  can mass customize the beverage products, and the beverage products can be delivered to a customer&#39;s  132  desired destination  108 . The method begins in block  8002 . 
         [0120]    In block  8002  a consumer/customer  132  can use online tools, forms, or other data input interface to provide data related to symptoms, illness, health, wellness, and/or other medical information. Processing then moves to block  8004 . In block  8004  a manufacturing line or alternatively a vending machine  300  can be configured to produce the mass customizable product based in part on consumer input. Processing then moves to block  8006 . In block  8006  the product is mass customized and customized indicia as appropriate is utilized on the product label. Processing then moves to block  8008 . In block  8008  the mass customized order is delivered or otherwise dispensed to the consumer. The routine is then exited. 
         [0121]    Referring to  FIG. 11  there is illustrated one example of a method of allowing a consumer to select a product and then mass customizing a number of line extensions and/or derivative products based in part on the consumer selected product. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer/customer  132  can order a product such as cola beverage and specify that they would like all the line extensions or derivative products as part of their order. The order can be received at a vending machine  300  or at a manufacturer/bottler  106  wherein a multiple stream filling system  200  can produce the selected product and the line extensions and/or derivative products. In this regard, a cola beverage can be manufactured and dispensed from the vending machine  300  or delivered to the consumer/customer  132 , along with line extensions and/or derivatives such as a lime cola beverage, a cherry cola beverage, a vanilla cola beverage, and a diet cola beverage. 
         [0122]    A consumer/customer  132  can be introduced to new products by ordering a single product type that they may be familiar with and then specifying they want line extensions or derivatives of the selected product as part of their order. In this regard, consumers/customers  132  are exposed to and can try a large spectrum of products that are related to a product they selected. The method begins on block  9002 . 
         [0123]    In block  9002  the consumer/customer  132  selects a product. Processing then moves to block  9004 . In block  9004  the manufacturing line or vending machine  300  is configured to produce the mass customizable product as well as line extensions and/or derivative product related to the consumer&#39;s/customer&#39;s  132  selection. Processing then moves to block  9006 . In block  9006  the products are mass customized and customized indicia as appropriate is utilized on the products packaging. Processing then moves to block  9008 . In block  9008  the mass customized order is delivered to a destination  108  and/or dispensed to the consumer/customer  132 . The routine is then exited. 
         [0124]    Referring to  FIG. 12  there is illustrated one example of a method of marketing products by automatically identifying consumers, mass customizing new product launches, and delivering products to the consumers. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, consumers/customers  132  can be identified to receive product based on product criteria and/or marketing data  118 . In this regard, product criteria and/or marketing data  118  can be utilized to query a consumer/customer  132  list by way of a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116 . The consumer/customer  132  list can then be data communicated to the manufacturer/bottler  106  wherein a multiple stream filling system  200  can be utilized to mass customize orders for each of the consumers/customers  132  on the list. The completed orders can then be delivered to consumers/customers  132  destinations  108 A-B of choice. 
         [0125]    Alternatively, in an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a consumer can be identified as being part the consumers/customers  132  list generated by the product criteria and/or marketing data  118  while at a vending machine  300 . As such, the new product can be dispensed from the vending machine  300  to the consumer  132 . The method begins in block  10002 . 
         [0126]    In block  10002  a list of consumers/customers  132  is determined. Processing then moves to block  10004 . In block  10004  the manufacturing line or vending machine  300  is configured to produce the mass customizable new product or market offer. Processing then moves to block  10006 . In block  10006  the mass customized order is delivered to a destination  108  or dispensed to the consumer/customer  132 . The routine is then exited. 
         [0127]    Referring to  FIG. 13  there is illustrated one example of a method of allowing a consumer to select a product from a vending machine  300 , mass customizing the product using one or more micro-dosed and/or macro-dosed ingredients, and then dispensing the product to the consumer  132 . In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a vending machine  300  can comprise a multiple stream filling system  200 . In this regard, a consumer  132  can order a custom product from the vending machine and the product can be manufactured by combining one or more micro-dosed and macro-dosed ingredients to formulate the consumer  132  specified products. 
         [0128]    Ingredients in concentrated form can be stored in a vending machine and then combined as needed to form a wide variety of different products. Such wide variety offers consumers more choices. The method begins in block  11002 . 
         [0129]    In block  11002  a consumer selects a product at a vending machine  300 . Processing then moves to block  11004 . In block  11004  the consumer&#39;s product selection is mass customized using a multiple stream filling system  200 . Processing then moves to block  11006 . In block  11006  optionally the product packaging including shape forming and/or labeling is customized. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation a dynamically changeable blow mold can be utilized to effectuate the shape forming of the mass customizable product packaging. In this regard, an oversized blow molder can comprise different blow molds for each desired product packaging shape. In operation, the preform feeder would be indexed to the blow molder and would only feed a preform when the corresponding product packaging shape is needed. This way, a stream of product packaging in the required sequence arrives at the multiple stream filling system  200 . Processing then moves to block  11008 . In block  11008  the mass customized order is dispensed to the consumer. The routine is then exited. 
         [0130]    Referring to  FIG. 14  there is illustrated one example of a method of receiving and filling a mass customizable promotional order. In an exemplary embodiment, a consumer/customer  132  may elect to place an order for a product from a business/ecommerce business  114 . In this regard, the consumer/customer  132  can place such orders with the business  114  directly and/or by way of ecommerce. As example and not a limitation, network  104  and data processing equipment  112  and/or database  116  can be utilized as required and/or desired in a particular embodiment to effectuate ordering. In accordance with a cross promotion the ordering of a product from the business/ecommerce business  114  can trigger an order for a mass customized product from the manufacturer/bottler  106 . Orders from both the business/ecommerce business  114  and the mass customized order from the manufacturer/bottler  106  can then be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  destination  108  of choice. 
         [0131]    In an exemplary embodiment, such a promotional order originating from the business/ecommerce business  110  to the manufacturer/bottler  106  can be by way of an electronic order utilizing data processing device  112 , database  116 , and/or by other methods as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. 
         [0132]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a business  114  could sell exercise shoes. A cross promotional relationship could exist between the business  114  and the manufacturer/bottler  106  such that for every order of exercise shoes a supply of invigorating sports drink manufactured by way of a multiple stream filling system  200  is supplied to the consumer. In operation, a consumer  132  could order shoes in person or online from the business  114 . The order would generate a second order in accordance with the cross promotion agreement between the business  114  and the manufacturer/bottler  106 . Optionally, the consumer  132  could intervene in the mass customized product specifications. The order for the shoes is processed by the business  114 , and the mass customization by way of a multiple stream filling system  200  is produced by the manufacturer/bottler  106  and subsequently delivered to a customer  132  destination  108  of choice. 
         [0133]    In an exemplary embodiment a first order can originate from a consumer/customer  132  by way of computing device  102 A, personal computer (PC)  102 B, and/or data processing device  102 C. The first order can be received at a data processing resource  112 . A second order can then be generated by way of the data processing resource  112  and received at a manufacturer/bottler  106 . The first order can be processed by the business  114  and delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . The second order can be processed by the manufacturer/bottler  106  who uses a multiple stream filling system  200  to produce the mass customized product referenced in the second order. The mass customized product is then delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . The method begins in block  12002 . 
         [0134]    In block  12002  a promotional order is received at a manufacturer/bottler  106 . Such order is received from a data processing resource  112  resultant from a consumer/customer  132  placing a first order. The first order then generates a second order also referred to as a promotional order with the manufacturer/bottler  106 . Processing then moves to block  12004 . In block  12004  a consumer  132  and a product are determined. Processing then moves to block  12006 . In block  12006  optionally the product packaging including shape forming and/or labeling is customized. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation a dynamically changeable blow mold can be utilized to effectuate the shape forming of the mass customizable product packaging. In this regard, an oversized blow molder can comprise different blow molds for each desired product packaging shape. In operation, the preform feeder would be indexed to the blow molder and would only feed a preform when the corresponding product packaging shape is needed. This way, a stream of product packaging in the required sequence arrives at the multiple stream filling system  200 . Processing then moves to block  12008 . In block  12008  the mass customized order is manufactured and shipped and/or delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . The routine is then exited. 
         [0135]    Referring to  FIG. 15  there is illustrated one example of a method of effectuating a fundraising campaign between an organization and a number of consumers/customers  132  utilizing mass customizable product manufacturing. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, an organization  120  such as a school, team, event and/or other types and kinds of organizations can determine their own mass customizable products. In this regard, once the organization  120  determines their mass customizable products then consumers/customers  132  can place orders for the products. A data processing resource  112  and/or a database  116  can receive the organizations  120  mass customized product determinations and consumer/customer  132  orders. 
         [0136]    In an exemplary embodiment, consumers/customers  132  can be local consumers and customer businesses and can be contacted by way of a marketing effort implemented by the organization  120 . The data processing resource  112  can place orders with the manufacturer/bottler  106 , wherein a multiple stream filling system  200  can produce the mass customized product determined by the organization  120 . The product can then be delivered to the consumer/customer  132  destination  108  of choice. Portions of the proceeds can benefit the organization  120  as a fundraiser or other revenue producing activity. Such data processing as necessary can in part be effectuated by way of a network  104 . The method begins in block  13002 . 
         [0137]    In block  13002  an organization determines a fundraising product. Processing then moves to block  13004 . In block  13004  a number of consumers/customers  132  elect to buy the fundraising product. Processing then moves to block  13006 . In block  13006  optionally the product packaging including shape forming and/or labeling is customized. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation a dynamically changeable blow mold can be utilized to effectuate the shape forming of the mass customizable product packaging. In this regard, an oversized blow molder can comprise different blow molds for each desired product packaging shape. In operation, the preform feeder would be indexed to the blow molder and would only feed a preform when the corresponding product packaging shape is needed. This way, a stream of product packaging in the required sequence arrives at the multiple stream filling system  200 . Processing then moves to block  13008 . In block  13008  mass customized fundraiser product is manufactured and delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . Processing then moves to block  13010 . In block  13010  a portion of the proceeds is remitted to the organization. The routine is then exited. 
         [0138]    Referring to  FIG. 16  there is illustrated one example of a method of printing shipping information directly on the mass customized product packaging as preparation to shipping the product. In an exemplary embodiment, the product packaging containing the actual product can also be the shipping package. In this regard, shipping information and/or other indicia can be printed on the product packaging such that the product can be shipped to the consumer/customer  132  requiring no further packaging. The finished product can be deposited directly from the product manufacturing line for shipment to the consumer/customer  132 . 
         [0139]    In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, a new product formulation can be configured on the mass customization manufacturing line such that a multiple stream filling system  200  can produce the product. In addition, a consumer/customer  132  list can be determined and during the manufacturing of the product the shipping information and/or other indicia related to the consumer/customer  132  list can be printed onto the product packaging. The mass customized products can then be directly deposited with a courier service for delivery to the consumers/customers  132  destination  108  of choice. The method begins in block  14002 . 
         [0140]    In block  14002  an order is received. Processing then moves to block  14004 . In block  14004  a product shipping destination is determined. Processing then moves to block  14006 . In block  14006  optionally the product packaging including shape forming and/or labeling is customized. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation a dynamically changeable blow mold can be utilized to effectuate the shape forming of the mass customizable product packaging. In this regard, an oversized blow molder can comprise different blow molds for each desired product packaging shape. In operation, the preform feeder would be indexed to the blow molder and would only feed a preform when the corresponding product packaging shape is needed. This way, a stream of product packaging in the required sequence arrives at the multiple stream filling system  200 . Processing then moves to block  14008 . In block  14008  shipping information is printed on the product label. Processing then moves to block  14010 . In block  14010  the mass customized order is manufactured and shipped. The routine is then exited. 
         [0141]    Referring to  FIG. 17  there is illustrated one example of a method of collecting marketing data and/or conducting market research by allowing consumers/customers  132  to mass customize products. In an exemplary embodiment, as consumers and customers order mass customized products their orders offer insight into marketing information such as shopping, buying, need states, and consuming habits. As such, the marketing information can be collected from orders and stored. The method begins in block  15002 . 
         [0142]    In block  15002  consumers/customers  132  are allowed to order mass customizable products. Processing then moves to block  15004 . In block  15004  select mass customizable product information and/or consumer/customer  132  data is stored in a databases. Processing then moves to block  15006 . The routine is then exited. 
         [0143]    Referring to  FIG. 18  there is illustrated one example of a method of customizing product packaging with event outcomes. In an exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, outcomes from events such as sporting events, news events, and/or other events can be utilized during the mass customization process. In this regard, the current or final outcome of the event such as a race  122 A, a football game  122 B, and/or other types and kinds of events can be utilized during the mass customization process. 
         [0144]    In an exemplary embodiment, data regarding an event  122  can be data communicated to a data processing resource  112  and/or database  116  by way of a network  104 . A consumer/customer  132  utilizing vending machine  300  having the capability of mass customizing products can formulate the consumer/customer  132  product  126  of choice and during the product  126  manufacturing, customize the label with information related to the event  122 . 
         [0145]    As an example and not a limitation, if during a football championship game a certain team is leading at halftime, such data can be communicated to data processing resource  112 . When a consumer then requests a customized beverage from vending machine  300  the label can be printed indicating that the certain team lead at halftime. Later at the conclusion of the race where the opposing team has won, consumers obtaining product  126  from the vending machine  300  will be treated to commemorative product packaging depicting the outcome of the championship game. 
         [0146]    In another exemplary embodiment, consumers  132  can customize the product by selecting there favorite star or celebrity. Such favorite star or celebrity can be a sports figure, movie, and/or other types and kinds of favorite star or celebrity. The product  126  can then be manufactured and the product  126  packaging can be customized to indicate certain information about the star and/or celebrity. 
         [0147]    As an example and not a limitation, at vending machine  300  a consumer  132  could select a cola beverage with vanilla flavoring and vitamins, and at the same time the consumer  132  may indicate their favorite basketball player. The vending machine by way of multiple stream filling system  200  can manufacture the beverage to the consumer&#39;s specifications and include on the product packaging information related to the basketball player. 
         [0148]    In a number of events  122  commemorative products packaging depicting the event (during the event and/or final outcome) can be including at the time the product is being manufactured by a vending machine  300 . In addition, such commemorative product  126  packaging depicting the event can optionally be ordered later by way of a manufacturer/bottler  106  and delivered to a destination  108  of the consumer/customer  132  choice. 
         [0149]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, optionally an event outcome can be selected from a database or other source of outcomes based in part on the formulation of the product selected and/or being produced. 
         [0150]    In another exemplary embodiment, for example and not a limitation, optionally the formulation of the product can be selected based in part on the selected event outcome. In this regard, as example and not a limitation, the color of the product content can be optimized to correspond to the event outcome. As example, the color of the product contents can be formulated to be red in color for event outcomes associated with a particular sports team having red as a team color. Colors, flavoring, and/or other formulation elements can be optimized to correspond to the event outcome. 
         [0151]    In an exemplary embodiment, event outcomes can be stored in a database, accessible by way of a global network based data processing resource, included as part of a mass customized order, and/or made available in other ways as may be required and or desired in a particular embodiment. The method begins in block  16002 . 
         [0152]    In block  16002  a mass customized order is received from a consumer or a customer  132  for a product. Processing then moves to block  16004 . In block  16004  optionally, an event outcome is selected if not provided with the mass customized order. In addition, optional formulation of the product can either influence the selected event outcome, or the event outcome selected can influence the formulation of the product. In an exemplary embodiment, selecting event outcomes that correspond to formulation and vice versa can be used to optimize the consumer/customer  132  product occasion experiences. Such relationships between event outcomes and formulation can include, for example and not a limitation, matching team color, and/or selecting a formulation preferred by a team, personality, celebrity, organization and/or other match, correspondences, and/or preferences as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. Processing then moves  16006 . In block  16006  the product is produced by way of a multiple stream filling system. Processing then moves to block  16008 . In block  16008  the product is customized by disposing as indicia event outcome onto the product packaging. In this regard, event outcome can be printed on the product packaging. In addition, consumer/customer  132  supplied text and or graphic indicia can also be disposed as indicia and/or otherwise printed onto the product packaging. Furthermore, one of a number of event outcomes can be selected to use on one of a number of products being manufactured. In this regard, event outcomes can be selected and changed as a number of products are being manufactured as may be required and/or desired in a particular embodiment. Processing then moves to block  16010 . In block  16010  the product is dispensed or otherwise delivered to the consumer/customer  132 . In this regard, dispensing can be by way of vending machine  300 , or delivery can be to a destination  108  of choice. The routine is then exited. 
         [0153]    The capabilities of the present application can be implemented in software, firmware, hardware or some combination thereof. As one example, one or more aspects of the present application can be included in an article of manufacture (e.g., one or more computer program products) having, for instance, computer readable media. The media has embodied therein, for instance, computer readable program code means for providing and facilitating the capabilities of the present application. The article of manufacture can be included as a part of a computer system or sold separately. Additionally, at least one program storage device readable by a machine, tangibly embodying at least one program of instructions executable by the machine to perform the capabilities of the present application can be provided. The flow diagrams depicted herein are just examples. There may be many variations to these diagrams or the steps (or operations) described therein without departing from the spirit of the invention. For instance, the steps may be performed in a differing order, or steps may be added, deleted or modified. All of these variations are considered a part of the claimed invention. 
         [0154]    While particular embodiments of methods of distributing customized products have been disclosed in detail in the foregoing description and figures for purposes of example, those skilled in the art will understand that variations and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure. All such variations and modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the present disclosure, as protected by the following claims.