# Patent

## Title
System for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media

## Abstract

A system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media includes a kiosk having a plurality of vertical racks arranged in a circular formation, each vertical rack configured for storing a plurality of recorded media. A customer interface allows a customer to select or return a recorded media. A robotic element delivers the selected recorded media from the vertical racks to a media output, at the customer interface. The element also delivers a returned recorded media from a media input at the customer interface to the vertical racks. A computer controls operation of the kiosk, and an internet interface connects the kiosk to the Internet. The kiosk may communicate with a central server and/or other kiosks of a group, to locate a requested recorded media within a kiosk of the group. Once located within the group, the requested media may be reserved for customer pick-up.

## Background
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
This application claims benefit of priority to and is a continuation-in-part with respect to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/657,844, which was filed Mar. 1, 2005 and is incorporated herein by reference to the same extent as though fully replicated herein.


REFERENCE TO SEQUENCE LISTING
This specification is accompanied by sequence listings provided in the attached Appendices A-N, each of which are incorporated by reference as though fully replicated herein, and in the CD-ROM submitted herewith, in duplicate. The material submitted on CD-ROM also includes source code, submitted as Appendix N and also incorporated by reference as though fully replicated herein. Appendix N includes the following electronic files:









TABLE A





FILENAME
DATE
SIZE

















app30_migration.sql
Oct. 2, 2003
1053


delta_prod_data_migration.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
66319


identity_reset.txt
Oct. 7, 2003
2022


prod_data_migration.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
76378


steps_data_migration.txt
Sep. 29, 2003
501


v1.6newtables.sh
Jan. 9, 2004
1310


v1.6proc.sh
Feb. 27, 2004
2871


v1.6table.sql
Jan. 26, 2004
41721


v1.6trigger.sh
Jan. 9, 2004
1381


v1.6view.sh
Jan. 9, 2004
2353


ffadddelinquent.sql
Jun. 18, 2003
915


ffaddfranchisetitletypecap.sql
Sep. 5, 2003
798


ffbjpopulatekioskdailysummary.sql
Oct. 30, 2003
1333


ffbjpopulatereusablepromobydate.sql
Nov. 23, 2003
1538


ffcheckconfirmrequest.sql
Nov. 25, 2003
1358


ffcheckfailuretransaction.sql
Jul. 31, 2003
699


ffcheckinvaidoptionid.sql
Jul. 31, 2003
440


ffchecklastheartbeat.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
942


ffconfirmlinestatus.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1082


ffcopyfranchise.sql
Dec. 4, 2003
14675


ffcopykiosk.sql
Dec. 4, 2003
14460


ffcopykioskgroup.sql
Dec. 4, 2003
5137


ffcopykioskinventory.sql
Dec. 4, 2003
6687


ffdeleteadmindisc.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1051


ffdeletedelinquent.sql
Oct. 30, 2003
584


ffdeletefranchise.sql
Sep. 5, 2003
2079


ffdeletekiosk.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
5018


ffdeletekioskgroup.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1588


ffdeletepaymentcard.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
901


ffdeletepricemodel.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1611


ffdeletepriceoption.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1631


ffdeletepromo.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
865


ffdeletepromouse.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
870


ffdeletespecialpricing.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1168


ffdeletetitle.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
2044


ffgetalertemail.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
511


ffgetdelinquentlines.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
290


ffgetdenormtransactions.sql
Nov. 29, 2003
3704


ffgetdisc.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
6987


ffgetdiscallbyid.sql
Sep. 23, 2003
2274


ffgetdiscbyid.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2262


ffgetfranchise.sql
Jul. 30, 2003
746


ffgetfranchiseconfigurable.sql
Jan. 5, 2004
5711


ffgetfranchiselist.sql
Aug. 28, 2003
1014


ffgetfranchisetitletypecap.sql
Jul. 24, 2003
766


ffgetfranchisetranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
2476


ffgetkioskaction.sql
Jul. 23, 2003
401


ffgetkioskactionseqnum.sql
Jul. 23, 2003
532


ffgetkioskbasicstranslation.sql
Jul. 23, 2003
1896


ffgetkioskinventory.sql
Jan. 9, 2004
4799


ffgetkioskstatusdefinition.sql
Jul. 31, 2003
512


ffgetkiosktaxrate.sql
Jul. 23, 2003
480


ffgetkiosktimezone.sql
Nov. 6, 2003
631


ffgetkiosktimezonebykioskid.sql
Nov. 6, 2003
542


ffgetkiosktimezoneid.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1126


ffgetkiosktitle.sql
Jul. 16, 2003
1774


ffgetlineitem.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
3076


ffgetlineitembasic.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2516


ffgetlocale.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1236


ffgetoverduelines.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
306


ffgetpayment.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2761


ffgetpaymentcard.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2812


ffgetpaymentcardbynumber.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2816


ffgetpaymentcardid.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1346


ffgetpaymentprocessor.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1186


ffgetplaylist.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
2446


ffgetprocessorid.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
439


ffgetnrocvendor.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
433


ffgetpromocode.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
3410


ffgetpromoid.sql
Jun. 19, 2003
779


ffgetreceiptbasic.sql
Jun. 18, 2003
1101


ffgetserverconfig.sql
Jun. 18, 2003
379


ffgettitle.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
2242


ffgettitlelist.sql
Jan. 20, 2004
8645


ffgettransaction.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
2941


ffgettransactionactioncount.sql
Aug. 6, 2003
959


ffgettransactionbasic.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1392


ffgettransactionlinecount.sql
Jun. 20, 2003
595


ffgettransactionpromoid.sql
Sep. 25, 2003
695


ffgettransactiontotals.sql
Sep. 29, 2003
2478


ffgettransactiontypeid.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
863


ffgetunknowndiscbasic.sql
Aug. 26, 2003
596


ffisdiscexist.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
516


ffisinnochargeperiod.sql
Jun. 11, 2003
1301


ffislineitemexist.sql
Jun. 11, 2003
485


ffispaymentcardexist.sql
Jun. 19, 2003
754


ffispaymentexist.sql
Jun. 19, 2003
479


ffistransactionexist.sql
Jun. 11, 2003
505


ffpadddefaultfranchisetitletypecap.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1929


ffpadddisc.sql
Oct. 14, 2003
1945


ffpaddfranchisetranslation.sql
Oct. 3, 2003
1750


ffpaddkioskbasicstranslation.sql
Oct. 3, 2003
1680


ffpaddpropertygroupandmember.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
3514


ffpdeletedisc.sql
Oct. 3, 2003
1621


ffpdeletediscbykioskandslot.sql
Aug. 21, 2003
1639


ffpdeletepropertygroupandmember.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
4471


ffpgetdefaultlastupdatedby.sql
Jun. 11, 2003
441


ffpgetpricemodeldependency.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
1073


ffpgetpriceoptiondependency.sql
Sep. 5, 2003
1170


ffpopulatelegacytitle.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
3080


ffpopulatetitle.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
3635


ffpsavefranchiseconfigurable.sql
Jan. 5, 2004
6384


ffpsavepromo.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
2912


ffpupdatedisc.sql
Aug. 19, 2003
2089


ffpupdatefranchisetranslation.sql
Sep. 11, 2003
1944


ffpupdatekioskbasicstranslation.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
1777


ffptkioskactivity.sql
Nov. 26, 2003
5802


ffrptkioskdailysummary.sql
Oct. 20, 2003
14118


ffptreusablepromobydate.sql
Sep. 24, 2003
10651


ffrptuigetvalidpromocodeid.sql
Oct. 7, 2003
1465


ftptusedoncepromobydate.sql
Sep. 23, 2003
10309


ffsaveadmindisc.sql
Oct. 19, 2003
4485


ffsavedefaultkiosk.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
3601


ffsavedisc.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
5153


ffsavedischistory.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1212


ffsavefranchise.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
5581


ffsavekiosk.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
6614


ffsavekioskgroup.sql
Oct. 3, 2003
1846


ffsavekioskslot.sql
Oct. 14, 2003
1515


ffsavelineitem.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
5292


ffsavelocale.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1097


ffsavepayment.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
3563


ffsavepaymentcard.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
4646


ffsaveplayitem.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
1871


ffsaveplaylist.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
7827


ffsavepricemodel.sql
Feb. 27, 2004
3747


ffsavepriceoption.sql
Feb. 27, 2004
3792


ffsavepromouse.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2557


ffsavepropertygroup.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
1228


ffsavepropertygroupmember.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
968


ffsavepropertyplayitempolicy.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
1336


ffsaveregularpricing.sql
Feb. 27, 2004
2852


ffsavereusablepromo.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
725


ffsavespecialpricing.sql
Feb. 27, 2004
2870


ffsavetitle.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
3910


ffsavetitletranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
3204


ffsavetransaction.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
4630


ffsaveuseoncepercardpromo.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
743


ffsaveuseoncepromo.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
722


ffupdatekioskaction.sql
Jul. 23, 2003
622


ffupdatekioskbasics.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
1547


ffupdatekiosklastalertnonstatus.sql
Jan. 6, 2004
1245


ffupdatekiosklastalertstatus.sql
Jan. 6, 2004
1212


ffupdatekioskping.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1375


ffupdatekiosksetup.sql
Oct. 8, 2003
4780


ffupdatepromoline.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1125


ffupdatetitledescription.sql
Jan. 7, 2004
879


fftdefaultpricing.sql
Jun. 23, 2003
706


fftdelinquent.sql
Jul. 2, 2003
995


fftdischistory.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
797


fftdiscinventory.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
1256


fftdiscstatus.sql
Aug. 15, 2003
550


fftdwkioskdailysummary.sql
Sep. 11, 2003
863


fftdwreusablepromobydate.sql
Sep. 24, 2003
670


fftdwusedoncepromobydate.sql
Sep. 11, 2003
588


fftformattranslation.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
601


fftfranchise.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1902


fftfranchisetitletypecap.sql
Jul. 22, 2003
793


fftfranchisetranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
1288


fftgenre.sql
Jul. 2, 2003
541


fftgenretranslation.sql
Jul. 14, 2003
599


fftgroupcode.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
542


fftgroupcodekioskgroup.sql
Aug. 7, 2003
678


fftkioskaction.sql
Jul. 22, 2003
592


fftkioskbaiscstranslation.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
1093


fftkioskbasics.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1841


fftkioskgroup.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
579


fftkioskpaymentcardtype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
606


fftkiosksetup.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1897


fftkioskslot.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
671


fftkioskstatus.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
1017


fftlineitem.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1623


fftlocale.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
740


fftlogin.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
668


fftloginrole.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
522


fftlookup.sql
Jul. 10, 2003
624


fftlookuptranslation.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
723


fftlookuptype.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
523


fftmedia.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
679


fftoperation.sql
Aug. 27, 2003
542


fftpage.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
611


fftpayment.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1096


fftpaymentcard.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1270


fftpaymentcardtype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
654


fftpaymentcardtypetranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
696


fftplaylist.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
964


fftpricemodel.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
581


fftpriceoption.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
595


fftprocessor.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
551


fftpromo.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
928


fftpromotype.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
573


fftpromouse.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
687


fftpropertygroup.sql
Jan. 20, 2004
874


fftpropertygroupmember.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
738


fftpropertyplayitem.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
991


fftpropertyplayitempolicy.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
791


fftrating.sql
Jun. 23, 2003
572


fftratingsystem.sql
Jun. 23, 2003
578


fftregularpricing.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1009


fftresource.sql
Jul. 15, 2003
633


fftrole.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
592


fftrolepagerights.sql
Jun. 23, 2003
645


fftsequence.sql
Jun. 11, 2003
545


fftserverconfig.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
665


fftsitetype.sql
Jun. 23, 2003
519


fftspecialpricing.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1053


ffttexttransalation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
692


ffttimezonetranslation.sql
Jan. 9, 2004
625


ffttitle.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1176


ffttitletranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1022


ffttitletype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
536


ffttitletypetranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
661


ffttmpident.sql
Oct. 5, 2003
522


ffttransaction.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1489


tr_fftdefaultpricing_u.sql
Sep. 19, 2003
384


tr_fftdelinquent_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
360


tr_fftdischistory_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
368


tr_fftdiscinventory_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
376


tr_fftdiscstatus_u.sql
Aug. 15, 2003
361


tr_fftforniattranslation_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
442


tr_fftfranchisetitletypecap_u.sql
Jul. 22, 2003
530


tr_fftfranchisetranslation_u.sql
Sep. 19, 2003
462


tr_fftfranchise_u.sql
Aug. 7, 2003
354


tr_fftgenretranslation_u.sql
Sep. 19, 2003
435


tr_fftgenre_u.sql
Sep. 19, 2003
326


tr_fftgroupcodekioskgroup_u.sql
Aug. 7, 2003
466


tr_ffigroupcode_u.sql
Aug. 7, 2003
354


tr_fftkioskaction_u.sql
Jul. 22, 2003
416


tr_fftkioskbasicstranslation_u.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
464


tr_fftkioskbasics_u.sql
Jul. 29, 2003
356


tr_fftkioskgroup_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
361


tr_fftkioskpaymentcardtype_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
473


tr_fftkiosksetup_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
353


tr_fftkioskslot_u.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
392


tr_fftkioskstatus_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
356


tr_fftlineitem_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
347


tr_ffilocale_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
333


tr_fftloginrole_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
396


tr_fftlogin_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
386


tr_fftlookuptranslation_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
444


tr_fftlookuptype_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
351


tr_fftlookup_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
335


tr_fftoperation_u.sql
Aug. 26, 2003
354


tr_fftpage_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
319


tr_fftpaymentcardtypetranslation_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
505


tr_fftpaymentcardtype_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
396


tr_fftpaymentcard_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
368


tr_fftpayment_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
340


tr_fftplaylist_u.sql
Aug. 1, 2003
519


tr_fftpricemodel_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
421


tr_fftpriceoptionu.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
428


tr_fftprocessor_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
354


tr_fftpromotype_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
355


tr_fftpromouse_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
348


tr_fftpromo_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
328


tr_fftpropertygroupmember_u.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
528


tr_fftpropertygroup_u.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
382


tr_fftpropertyplayitempolicy_u.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
429


tr_fftpropertyplayitem_u.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
387


tr_fftratingsystemu.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
375


tr_fftrating_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
333


tr_fftregularpricing_u.sql
Aug. 27, 2003
389


tr_fftrolepagerights_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
459


tr_fftrole_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
319


tr_fftserverconfig_u.sql
Jul. 31, 2003
375


tr_fftsitetype_u.sql
Oct. 10, 2003
347


tr_fftspecialpricing_u.sql
Aug. 27, 2003
389


tr_ffttexttranslation_u.sql
Jul. 22, 2003
468


tr_ffttimezonetranslation_u.sql
Jan. 9, 2004
456


tr_ffttitletranslation_u.sql
Aug. 26, 2003
435


tr_ffititletypetranslation_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
463


tr_ffttitletype_u.sql
Jul. 25, 2003
354


tr_ffttitle_u.sql
Aug. 26, 2003
326


tr_ffttransaction_u.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
368


ffdefaultpricing.sql
Jun. 23, 2003
586


ffdelinquent.sql
Jun. 18, 2003
672


ffdiscdetail.sql
Jul. 4, 2003
426


ffdischistory.sql
Jun. 27, 2003
596


ffdiscinventory.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1358


ffdiscinventoryall.sql
Sep. 23, 2003
1341


ffdiscstatus.sql
Aug. 15, 2003
420


ffdwkioskdailysummary.sql
Sep. 11, 2003
756


ffdwreusablepromobydate.sql
Sep. 11, 2003
539


ffdwusedoncepromobydate.sql
Sep. 11, 2003
472


ffformattranslation.sql
Jul. 15, 2003
470


fffranchise.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
900


fffranchiseandprocessor.sql
Oct. 19, 2003
1205


fffranchiseandtranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
1843


fffranchisetitletypecap.sql
Aug. 29, 2003
655


fffranchisetranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
1050


ffgenre.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
442


ffgenreandtranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
710


ffgenretranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
480


ffgraphicplaylist.sql
Jan. 27, 2004
4078


ffgroupcode.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
433


ffgroupcodekioskgroup.sql
Aug. 29, 2003
514


ffkiosk.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1130


ffkioskaction.sql
Aug. 29, 2003
505


ffkioskbadslot.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
281


ffkioskbasics.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1679


ffkioskbasicsandsetup.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1734


ffkioskbasicsandtranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2460


ffkioskbasicstranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
952


ffkioskgenre.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
636


ffkioskgroup.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
476


ffkioskgroupcode.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
764


ffkiosklocale.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
575


ffkioskpaymentcard.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2203


ffkioskpaymentcardtype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
515


ffkioskproperty.sql
Jan. 8, 2004
936


ffkioskrating.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
642


ffkioskratingsystem.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
634


ffkioskregularpricing.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
750


ffkioskrolelogin.sql
Aug. 29, 2003
1254


ffkioskrolepage.sql
Sep. 29, 2003
499


ffkiosksetup.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
2090


ffkioskslot.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
459


ffkioskslotoffset.sql
Sep. 4, 2003
291


ffkioskspecialpricing.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
791


ffkioskstatus.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
949


ffkiosktexttranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1186


ffkiosktitle.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1444


ffkiosktitletype.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
1725


ffkiosktitletypecap.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
1782


fflineitem.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1892


fflocale.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
615


fflogin.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
538


ffloginrole.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
420


fflookup.sql
Jul. 15, 2003
564


fflookupandtranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1261


fflookuptranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
608


fflookuptype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
429


ffmedia.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
556


ffmediaplaylist.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
668


ffoperation.sql
Aug. 29, 2003
433


ffpage.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
480


ffpayment.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1296


ffpaymentcard.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
1181


ffpaymentcardtype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
494


ffpaymentcardtypeandtranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
861


ffpaymentcardtypetranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
575


ffpricemodel.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
478


ffpriceoption.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
485


ffprocessor.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
457


ffpromo.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
718


ffpromoall.sql
Sep. 23, 2003
702


ffpromotype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
433


ffpromouse.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
619


ffpropertygroup.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
611


ffpropertygroupmember.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
522


ffpropertyplayitem.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
661


ffpropertyplayitempolicy.sql
Dec. 30, 2003
627


ffrating.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
492


ffratingsystem.sql
Nov. 16, 2003
493


ffregularpricing.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
789


ffresource.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
538


ffrole.sql
Aug. 29, 2003
490


ffrolepagerights.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
554


ffsequence.sql
Jun. 11, 2003
487


ffserverconfig.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
510


ffsitetype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
426


ffspecialpricing.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
805


ffstaticplaylist.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
587


fftexttranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
538


fftimezonetranslation.sql
Jan. 11, 2004
506


fftitle.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
991


fftitleandtranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
1465


fftitletranslation.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
660


fftitletype.sql
Nov. 16, 2003 
431


fflitletypeandtranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
783


fftitletypetranslation.sql
Feb. 26, 2004
553


fftransaction.sql
Jul. 21, 2003
1164


ffuser.sql
Jul. 15, 2003
626


ffvideoplaylist.sql
Jan. 27, 2004
4730


adjustment.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
410


aem.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
1108


discinventory.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
776


lineitem.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
794


promo.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
1904


title.sql
Feb. 27, 2004
5011


transaction.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
4195


userpaymentcard.sql
Jan. 22, 2004
639


aemcomm.txt
May 22, 2003
1441


formmail.pl
May 19, 2003
29889


admin.web.xml
Feb. 26, 2004
15414


aemserver.properties
Aug. 19, 2003
553


aemserver.web.xml
Nov. 4, 2003
531


ffserver.properties
Feb. 26, 2004
1802


log.properties
Jul. 23, 2003
43


web.xml
Nov. 16, 2003 
13129


datepicker.js
Feb. 26, 2004
16723


dateutility.js
Oct. 7, 2003
3794


navigation.js
Jun. 15, 2003
530


simple.css
Sep. 26, 2003
2238


utility.js
Feb. 26, 2004
2388


admin.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003 
3411


companygroupdetailsjsp
Feb. 26, 2004
24135


companygrouplist.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
9086


companygroupqueryjsp
Feb. 26, 2004
6226


customerdetails.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
10945


customerhistoryjsp
Nov. 16, 2003
9781


customerlist.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
9766


customerquery.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
4986


dataexportjsp
Feb. 26, 2004
13133


discdetailsjsp
Feb. 26, 2004
13141


disclist.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
13971


discquery.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
4954


dumprequest.jsp
Jun. 19, 2003
1038


dvdplayerror.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
1452


formatlookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
7975


formatnamelookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
9596


genrelookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
8890


genrenamelookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
9617


helplist.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
6460


kioskdetails.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
25905


kiosklistjsp
Feb. 26, 2004
10433


kioskquery.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
6167


kioskreporterrorpage.jsp
Jun. 15, 2003
447


kioskstatus.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
7546


languagelookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
8473


latefeenotifyjsp
Feb. 26, 2004
5916


login.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
1570


lookuptablesmenujsp
Nov. 16, 2003
5503


marketing.jsp
Dec. 31, 2003
4272


marketingcommercialdeploymentjsp
Jan. 23, 2004
1799


marketingcorporatetoolsjsp
Jan. 23, 2004
3642


marketingfranchisereportingjsp
Jan. 23, 2004
1767


menuheader.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
3539


pricemodellookup.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
9321


priceoptionlookup.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
8828


pricing.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
26132


promodetails.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
12625


promolist.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
8487


promonotify.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
2569


querypage.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
8023


ratinglookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
10956


ratingsystemlookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
9333


refundreceipt.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004
5876


rentalreceiptjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
7311


reportsjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
11091


reportsqueryjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
26836


reportsreusablecodejsp
Nov. 16, 2003
9134


showdvdplayexception.jsp
Jun. 19, 2003 
176


sitetypelookupjsp
Nov. 16, 2003
8381


titledetailsjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
41079


titlehstjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
11416


titlequery.jsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
7521


titletypelookupjsp
Nov. 16, 2003
8259


titletypenamelookup.jsp
Nov. 16, 2003
9782


trailers.jsp
Jan. 23, 2004 
8410


transactiondetailsjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
38104


transactionlistjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
14931


transactionqueryjsp
Feb. 26, 2004 
4630


viewlogfile.jsp
Jun. 15, 2003 
881


adminenvironment.java
Nov. 16, 2003
10478


adminserversession.java
Oct. 3, 2003 
1372


adminservlet.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
20648


cmdgetconstants.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
1640


cmdgethelp.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1046


cmdgetinit.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
48624


cmdgetlookuptables.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
4318


cmdgetreports.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1900


command.java
Nov. 16, 2003
356


commandexception.java
Jun. 15, 2003 
341


commandtoken.java
Nov. 16, 2003
2381


ffserverproperties.java
Nov. 16, 2003
3418


aem.java
Apr. 17, 2004 
110537


aemapp.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
13310


aemexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
362


aemfactory.java
Mar. 1, 2004
375


arm.java
Mar. 25, 2004 
4836


armexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
303


barcode.java
Jun. 4, 2003
330


barcodereader.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1467


bootstrap.java
Mar. 10, 2004 
1427


carousel.java
Mar. 25, 2004 
10104


carouselexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
311


cmdgetkioskdetails.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
24743


cmdgetkiosklist.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
21084


cmdgetkioskstatus.java
Nov. 16, 2003
6812


creditcard.java
Aug. 29, 2003 
391


creditcardreader.java
Nov. 16, 2003
467


creditcardthread.java
Nov. 16, 2003
3397


door.java
Mar. 25, 2004 
5958


doorexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
304


dpec.java
Apr. 6, 2004
12744


fight.'ava
Mar. 10, 2004 
1031


lightexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
304


nmc.java
Nov. 16, 2003
3431


roller.java
Mar. 4, 2004
1360


rollerexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
307


sensor.java
Mar. 4, 2004
650


servo.java
Apr. 17, 2004 
6865


servocallback.java
Apr. 6, 2004
10638


servocallbackfactory.java
Mar. 10, 2004 
799


servoex.java
Apr. 17, 2004 
41228


servoexception.java
Jun. 5, 2003
304


servofactory.java
Apr. 1, 2004
2627


servoplus.java
Apr. 19, 2004 
9392


servoprime.java
Feb. 23, 2004 
199


comm.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
14481


commexception.java
Jun. 17, 2003 
359


aemgui.java
Mar. 30, 2004 
17844


commandmap.java
Mar. 24, 2004 
20760


tools.java
Mar. 30, 2004 
10031


aemserver.java
Nov. 16, 2003
9960


aemserverconfig.java
Nov. 16, 2003
2212


checkpromocodecommand.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
7626


command.java
Nov. 16, 2003
730


commandfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003
3982


confirmdispense.java
Feb. 27, 2004 
12432


discremoved.java
Nov. 16, 2003
10112


discreturned.java
Nov. 16, 2003
10720


garbagecollect.java
Sep. 10, 2003 
2560


getreceipt.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
6094


monitorserver.java
Sep. 10, 2003 
2364


ping.java
Nov. 16, 2003
13243


processpayment.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
11065


servletutils.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
6180


abstractbottombar.java
Jun. 4, 2003
1474


abstractcontentbar.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
8080


abstracthardwarethread.java
Mar. 1, 2004
1797


abstracttoolspanel.java
Mar. 3, 2004
21520


abstracttopbar.java
Jun. 4, 2003
1328


baseactionlistener.java
Jan. 21, 2004 
1266


cmdgetlanguagelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
17175


dvdplaybase.java
Apr. 1, 2004
84945


dvdplaylocale.java
Oct. 28, 2003
3642


datapacket.dtd
May 23, 2003 
282


datapacketcomposer.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
23560


nvpair.java
May 23, 2003 
2641


nvpairset.java
May 23, 2003 
2413


rcset.java
Jun. 13, 2003 
4183


rdatasetfieldvalues.java
May 23, 2003 
1631


rmetafield.java
May 23, 2003 
2608


rmetarow.java
May 23, 2003 
2736


admindatamodule.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
77453


admindatamoduleconstants.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
63002


column.java
Jul. 7, 2003
3371


databaseexception.java
Jun. 15, 2003 
336


databaseutil.java
Jun. 15, 2003 
2349


dataprovider.java
Nov. 16, 2003
885


dataproviderfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003
3952


dataproviderpool.java
Nov. 16, 2003
5781


datarow.java
Jul. 7, 2003
4083


datastorage.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
4309


ffserver.properties
Jul. 7, 2003
1384


idataprovider.java
Jun. 4, 2003
780


idataproviderfactory.java
Jun. 4, 2003
754


iprocedure.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
2480


iquery.java
Nov. 16, 2003
9317


locate.java
Jul. 7, 2003
321


logindatamodule.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
15240


parameterrow.java
Jul. 7, 2003
1834


proceduredataset.java
Jul. 7, 2003
1222


querydataset.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
11611


sqlstates.java
Jul. 15, 2003 
338


variant.java
Jul. 7, 2003
11119


variantformatter.java
Jul. 7, 2003
961


mssqldataprovider.java
Nov. 16, 2003
6400


mssqlprocedure.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
64208


mssqlproviderfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1580


mssqlquery.java
Nov. 16, 2003
48502


ibusinesstransaction.java
Jun. 17, 2003 
656


domdata.java
Mar. 19, 2004
70532


domdataexception.java
Aug. 7, 2003
363


persistencedata.java
Feb. 26, 2004
11344


aemserverobjectexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
718


dataaccessexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
1206


dvdexception.java
Jun. 15, 2003
260


dvdplayexception.java
Jul. 2, 2003
1697


exceptioncodes.iava
Feb. 26, 2004
4327


authorizingpaymentcard.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4798


badslots.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
2799


barcampegtest.java
Mar. 4, 2004
4855


cardreaderhid.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
3626


controller.java
Feb. 27, 2004
524


controllerex.java
Mar. 4, 2004
19133


controllerplus.java
Mar. 1, 2004
254


cycletest.java
Apr. 9, 2004
14916


deliveringdvd.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
2299


detectingdiscin.java
Mar. 10, 2004
1091


errorlog.java
Jun. 6, 2003
505


helpmain.java
Feb. 26, 2004
2251


identifyingdisc.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1362


initializingaem.java
Mar. 4, 2004
1197


inventorycheck.java
Apr. 9, 2004
15969


login.java
Mar. 1, 2004
1764


main.java
Apr. 1, 2004
1689


operator.java
Mar. 30, 2004
4441


pushingdiscalltheway.java
Mar. 19, 2004
1938


removediscs.java
Mar. 30, 2004
7925


removedvd.java
Apr. 1, 2004
2597


returnerror.java
Mar. 24, 2004
1930


returningmovie.java
Mar. 19, 2004
1710


servoparams.java
Mar. 3, 2004
274


servoparamsex.java
Mar. 4, 2004
10979


simpleremovediscs.java
Mar. 4, 2004
6629


slotcal.java
Mar. 3, 2004
270


slotcalex.java
Mar. 4, 2004
27924


swipepaymentcard.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
2478


unabletorecognizemovie.java
Mar. 24, 2004
1727


cmdgetdiscdetails.java
Feb. 26, 2004
10017


cmdgetdisclist.java
Feb. 26, 2004
16122


cmdgetformatlookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
15415


cmdgetformatnamelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
8722


cmdgetgenrelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
15544


cmdgetgenrenamelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
8520


cmdgetratinglookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
18066


cmdgetratingsystemlookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
15652


cmdgettitledetails.java
Feb. 26, 2004
14730


cmdgettitlelist.java
Feb. 26, 2004
21641


cmdgettitletypelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
15598


cmdaettitletypenamelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003
8857


cmdtrailerplaylist.java
Jan. 7, 2004
4945


disc.java
Nov. 16, 2003
8892


discapp.java
Feb. 26, 2004
35064


discindex.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4335


discindexitem.java
Feb. 26, 2004
10380


genreitem.java
Jun. 4, 2003
1262


inventory.java
Mar. 4, 2004
94014


inventoryexception.java
Jul. 2, 2003
941


localeindex.java
Jul. 14, 2003
1177


localeindexitem.java
Jul. 14, 2003
1135


paymentcardtypeindex.java
Aug. 5, 2003
1632


paymentcardtypeindexitem.java
Aug. 5, 2003
2081


playlist.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1153


playlistitem.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3968


pricingitem.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5993


slotindex.java
Mar. 4, 2004
3519


sorttitlediscindex.java
Sep. 29, 2003
3648


sorttitlediscindexitem.java
Jul. 14, 2003
3182


streetdatediscindex.java
Sep. 29, 2003
3672


streetdatediscindexitem.java
Jul. 14, 2003
3401


title.java
Feb. 26, 2004
13961


titleindex.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
2394


titleindexitem.java
Jun. 4, 2003
663


titletypeindex.java
Jul. 14, 2003
1464


titletypeindexitem.java
Feb. 26, 2004
2158


dvdplayformatter.java
Oct. 10, 2003 
2476


dvdplaylevel.java
Jul. 29, 2003
619


lckfilefilter.java
Aug. 1, 2003
557


log.java
Feb. 26, 2004
20142


logfile.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
3069


playlistmanager.java
Feb. 26, 2004
9086


trigger.java
Feb. 26, 2004
634


accountmanagertablemodel.java
Jun. 20, 2003
2976


aemcontent.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8940


badslotstablemodel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
3257


barcodehash.java
Jul. 30, 2003
453


buttonstatushash.java
Jul. 30, 2003
421


discinventorytablemodel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
3571


error.java
Aug. 6, 2003
2131


help.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3840


popupyesno.java
Jul. 30, 2003
383


slotcaltablemodel.java
Mar. 3, 2004
2894


sortingcolumnmodel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
9953


tablemap.java
Aug. 6, 2003
2078


testconnectionhash.java
Jul. 30, 2003
251


cmdgetcompanygroupdetails.java
Feb. 26, 2004
16756


cmdgetcompanygrouplist.java
Feb. 26, 2004
16718


cmdgetmarketing.java
Dec. 31, 2003 
950


cmdgetsitetypelookup.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
16183


franchise.java
Feb. 26, 2004
17918


cmdgettransactiondetails.java
Feb. 26, 2004
17436


cmdgettransactionlist.java
Feb. 26, 2004
19933


creditcard.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
7889


emailuser.java
Jun. 15, 2003
4995


itransaction.java
Feb. 26, 2004
565


lineitem.java
Feb. 26, 2004
54831


payment.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
33845


paymentcard.java
Feb. 26, 2004
30972


paymentcardfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
11065


paymentexception.java
Jun. 30, 2003
929


paymentprocesson.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
4331


processorfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
1126


receipt.java
Feb. 26, 2004
9970


receiptdata.java
Jun. 15, 2003
1027


receiptfactory.java
Feb. 26, 2004
17784


receiptlineitem.java
Jun. 15, 2003
795


receiptrules.java
Feb. 26, 2004
13135


refundtransaction.java
Feb. 26, 2004
11340


regulartransaction.java
Feb. 26, 2004
18307


renewaltransaction.java
Feb. 26, 2004
28121


transaction.java
Feb. 26, 2004
24278


transactiondetailsbean.java
Jun. 15, 2003
343


transactionfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
2671


verisignexception.java
Jul. 2, 2003
932


verisignprocessor.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
11697


verisignrules.java
Jun. 15, 2003
5507


verisigntransactionbean.java
Jun. 15, 2003
3867


cmdgetpricemodellookup.java
Feb. 26, 2004
16159


cmdgetpriceoptionlookup.java
Feb. 26, 2004
17304


cmdgetpricing.java
Feb. 26, 2004
43074


regularpricing.java
Sep. 8, 2003
2305


specialpricing.java
Sep. 8, 2003
2552


cmdgetpromolist.java
Feb. 26, 2004
14242


factorypromo.java
Feb. 26, 2004
25522


factorypromoreusable.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3872


factoryuseoncepercardpromo.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4065


factoryuseoncepromo.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4866


ipromo.java
Feb. 26, 2004
2066


ipromolookuptypes.java
Sep. 24, 2003
1511


promo.java
Feb. 26, 2004
15338


promocode.java
Jun. 15, 2003
3230


promocodelist.java
Jun. 15, 2003
262


promocollection.java
Feb. 26, 2004
1119


promoexception.java
Jul. 7, 2003
1250


promohistory.java
Jul. 7, 2003
2129


promoreusable.java
Aug. 4, 2003
3911


promostatuses.java
Jun. 15, 2003
356


promostorage.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1474


promotypes.java
Jun. 15, 2003
341


promousagecount.java
Jul. 7, 2003
592


promouse.java
Jun. 15, 2003
1385


promouseonce.java
Feb. 26, 2004
6383


promouseoncepercard.java
Aug. 4, 2003
5013


asynchrequest.java
May 30, 2003
2620


datarecordrequest.java
May 30, 2003
2149


datasetrequest.java
May 30, 2003
5800


getfragmentrequest.java
May 30, 2003
4622


getplcrecordrequest.java
May 30, 2003
4738


getrecordrequest.java
May 30, 2003
2275


irequest.java
Jul. 2, 2003
922


pingrequest.java
Nov. 16, 2003
3534


queryrequest.java
May 30, 2003
2287


request.java
Nov. 16, 2003
8625


requestfactory.java
Nov. 16, 2003
4383


requestlogger.java
Oct. 8, 2003
1992


synchrequest.java
May 30, 2003
2623


fragments.java
Nov. 16, 2003
2519


requestcontext.java
Jun. 27, 2003
1266


requestcontroller.java
Feb. 26, 2004
18096


aboutcompanyscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
6274


accountmanagerpanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
9183


aemstartuperrorscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3218


applicationinitializing.java
Oct. 15, 2003 
1471


authorizingpaymentscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5290


badslotspanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
4288


barcampegtestpanel.java
Feb. 27, 2004
8513


cardreaderhidpanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
3210


carttablescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
18426


controllerpanel.java
Feb. 27, 2004
270


controllerpanelex.java
Feb. 23, 2004
26290


controllerpanelfactory.java
Mar. 29, 2004
921


controllerpanelplus.java
Mar. 1, 2004
268


cycletestpanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
5178


deliveringdvdscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8591


discnotbelongscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4144


dvddescriptionscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
29758


emailscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8103


errorlogpanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
1102


errorscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
13401


gamedescriptionscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
24581


gameselectionscreen.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
27734


helpanswerscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
16534


helpmainscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
11272


identifyingmoviescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5071


initializingaemscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3766


inventorycheckpanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
2251


loginpanel.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5249


mainscreen.java
Mar. 30, 2004
15635


maximumdiscexceededscreen.java
Jan. 22, 2004
16350


movieselectionscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
28745


mustbel8screen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
7475


operatorpanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
7544


outoforderscreen.java
Dec. 30, 2003 
7255


paymentcardapprovedscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8836


promocodedescriptionscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
6761


promocodescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
12698


pushingdiscallthewayscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4632


removediscspanel.java
Nov. 16, 2003 
6089


removedvdscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5700


rentalagreementscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
15895


returnerrorscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4932


returningmoviescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4971


returnmoviescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5845


returnthankyouscreen.java
Apr. 7, 2004
15583


servoparamspanel.java
Mar. 1, 2004
268


servoparamspanelex.java
Mar. 1, 2004
14613


servoparamspanelfactory.java
Mar. 29, 2004
926


servoparamspanelplus.java
Mar. 1, 2004
223


simpleremovediscspanel.java
Feb. 26, 2004
6620


slotcalpanel.java
Mar. 1, 2004
264


slotcalpanelex.java
Mar. 3, 2004
10092


slotcalpanelfactory.java
Mar. 29, 2004
902


slotcalpanelplus.java
Mar. 1, 2004
265


swipepaymentcardscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
11557


timeoutscreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
9421


unabletorecognizemoviescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
9386


zipcodescreen.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8510


email.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8478


heartbeatmonitor.java
Feb. 26, 2004
24765


heartbeatthread.java
Apr. 6, 2004
3675


iemail.java
Feb. 26, 2004
915


ievent.java
Jun. 25, 2003
265


missingpostersthread.java
Nov. 16, 2003
7848


missingtrailersthread.java
Feb. 26, 2004
11914


queue.java
Feb. 26, 2004
8012


queueexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
357


queuejob.java
Feb. 26, 2004
5743


queuethread.java
Nov. 16, 2003
572


sendlogthread.java
Aug. 19, 2003
1400


servercommandthread.java
Apr. 6, 2004
8271


shutdownthread.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1276


taskexception.java
Aug. 18, 2003
911


dbaddtitles.java
Oct. 10, 2003
8535


dbconnection.java
Feb. 26, 2004
1433


dbinterbasemigration.java
Oct. 6, 2003
6613


dblegacytitles.java
Oct. 10, 2003
6745


dbmediaplaylist.java
Oct. 31, 2003
5890


dbservercommand.java
Oct. 31, 2003
3927


dbstaticplaylist.java
Oct. 31, 2003
5079


dbunicodeaddtitles.java
Nov. 16, 2003
16407


dbupdate.java
Jun. 27, 2003
5252


dbupdatemfg.java
Sep. 12, 2003
15148


garbagecollect.java
Nov. 16, 2003
2238


monitorserver.java
Feb. 26, 2004
4035


monitorserverthread.java
Nov. 21, 2003
4870


sendaemdata.java
Sep. 4, 2003
3558


sendpersistencedata.java
Sep. 4, 2003
2399


updatechecksum.java
Sep. 4, 2003
3088


screenproperties.java
Feb. 26, 2004
12070


texttorows.java
Nov. 16, 2003
1818


cmdgetcustomerdetails.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3596


cmdgetcustomerhistory.java
Nov. 16, 2003
11932


cmdgetcustomerlist.java
Feb. 26, 2004
11182


customerdetailsbean.java
Jun. 15, 2003
337


user.java
Jun. 15, 2003
5411


useractions.java
Nov. 16, 2003
5003


userstorage.java
Nov. 16, 2003
5957


discaction.java
Mar. 4, 2004
3510


discactionexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
378


discfound.java
Nov. 16, 2003
6380


discitem.java
Jun. 4, 2003
528


discmissing.java
Nov. 16, 2003
4576


discremove.java
Nov. 16, 2003
5859


discrental.java
Nov. 16, 2003
17957


discrentalexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
378


discreturn.java
Nov. 16, 2003
9215


groupcodeexception.java
Jul. 14, 2003
326


maxdiscsallowedexception.java
Jun. 25, 2003
436


nodiscinslotexception.java
Aug. 5, 2003
377


processpaymentvalidationexception.java
Aug. 5, 2003
398


promocodeexception.java
Aug. 5, 2003
368


removeop.java
Apr. 9, 2004
3512


removeopexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
374


rentop.java
Apr. 9, 2004
16824


rentopexception.java
Jul. 2, 2003
461


returnop.java
Mar. 25, 2004
7030


returnopexception.java
Jun. 4, 2003
375


environment.java
Nov. 16, 2003
4885


execcommandline.java
Feb. 26, 2004
3979


formatutil.java
Jun. 15, 2003
8269


formatutility.java
Jun. 15, 2003
2542


ienvironment.java
Sep. 10, 2003
668


lookuptable.java
Jun. 15, 2003
566


reportutil.java
Feb. 26, 2004
2732


stopwatch.java
Aug. 6, 2003
935


util.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
21009


utility.java
Jun. 15, 2003 
19615


bottombarmodel.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
16129


curvedborder.java
Jun. 4, 2003
1148


keyboardassembler.java
Feb. 26, 2004 
6959


tablerenderer.java
Jun. 4, 2003
812


topbarmodel.iava
Feb. 26, 2004 
6515


utility.java
Nov. 16, 2003
2243


addtitles.bat
Nov. 3, 2003 
562


aemapp.bat
Oct. 16, 2003
553


aemboot.bat
Oct. 13, 2003
313


aemclosed.bat
Jan. 27, 2004 
152


aemcreate.bat
Oct. 8, 2003 
549


aemdisplayoff.bat
Apr. 19, 2004 
61


aemdisplayon.bat
Apr. 19, 2004 
60


aeminst.bat
Aug. 7, 2003
366


aemmigrate.bat
Oct. 8, 2003 
541


aemship.bat
Oct. 13, 2003
413


aemstandalone.bat
Oct. 8, 2003 
419


aemstartapp.bat
Oct. 16, 2003
400


aemstartapp.vbs
Mar. 5, 2004
1601


aemtools.bat
Oct. 8, 2003 
468


0overdue.txt
Feb. 5, 2004
155


0promonotify.txt
Feb. 5, 2004
108


0refund.txt
Feb. 5, 2004
99


0rental.txt
Feb. 5, 2004
108


alert.content.txt
Feb. 26, 2004 
143









BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
This invention relates to a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media such as DVDs. More particularly, this invention relates to an apparatus for providing an automated, freestanding dispensing and retrieval system for automated retail distribution of recorded media, which is linked to a central server computer using the Internet.
2. Description of the Related Art
Retail outlets are commonplace hubs for sale or rental of recorded media. These outlets typically have a substantial inventory of optical media, and therefore require a building to house the inventory and provide a location for commerce. In addition, staff is required for sale and/or rental of recorded media, processing of returned media and restocking of returned or new media. These requirements result in considerable overhead to a person or company seeking to run a business that trades in recorded media—for example, wages and rent must be paid regularly.
Some wishing to cash in on the recorded media trade have sought to reduce the aforementioned overhead by offering a limited supply of recorded media at an existing establishment, such as a convenience store. However, as staff is still required for sales, rentals and restocking, others have attempted to reduce overhead associated with the trade of recorded media through electronic commerce (EC). In this type of business model, a customer submits an order for recorded media via the Internet. A central warehouse then ships the ordered media through the mail, or using a private courier. The cost of operating a retail location is avoided with this business model. However, Internet-based distribution systems often have significant liabilities.
One such liability is that a customer must wait for an order to be shipped from a warehouse location. Another disadvantage is that stock may not be available at the time the order is processed. If stock is unavailable, an order may be placed on back-order until the requested recorded media is available, at which time the customer may no longer be interested in the requested media. Alternately, the order may be canceled. Another significant disadvantage of an Internet-based distribution system is the impracticality for media rental. The rental business is one of immediacy; a customer will rent an item that is available immediately, but may not rent if it is not available immediately. A customer is much less likely to rent an item that is shipped after ordering, requiring days for delivery. In addition, once a customer is finished with a rented item, that customer must deal with the inconvenience of return-shipping the media to the distribution location.
SUMMARY
There is need for a system for automated dispensing and retrieval of recorded media that takes advantage of the benefits of Internet-based distribution (such as creation of customer accounts, electronic payment and accrual of valuable customer information) while eliminating the aforementioned disadvantages (such as an extended waiting period to view an ordered media after rental and the requirement for return-shipping the media). There is also a need for a system for automated dispensing and retrieval of recorded media that eliminates the need for a retail outlet, attendant staff and associated expenses.
In one embodiment, a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media includes a plurality of vertical racks in a circular formation, each rack configured for storing a plurality of recorded media. A customer interface allows a customer to select or return a recorded media. A robotic element delivers the selected recorded media from the vertical racks to a media output, at the customer interface. The element also delivers a returned recorded media from a media input at the customer interface to the vertical racks. A computer controls operation of the kiosk, and an Internet interface connects the kiosk to the Internet.
In one embodiment, a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media includes a kiosk body; a storage subsystem within the body, for storing a plurality of recorded media; a presentation device supported in association with the body for presenting information to a customer; a customer interface for interacting with the customer in a transaction for a recorded media; a computer for controlling operation of the kiosk; and a telecommunication subsystem for remote administration and billing interface with the computer. Program logic configured for interaction with the presentation device, facilitates selection and presentation of a particular category from the recorded media to consumers, according to predetermined selection criteria.
In one embodiment, an improvement in a kiosk used for dispensing and retrieval of recorded media includes a telecommunications system for exchanging data between a central administrator and the kiosk. The kiosk has electronic controls, responsive to instructions from the central administrator, for governing administration of the kiosk according to a selected one of a plurality of states. The include a first state which provides for automatic administration of the kiosk; and a second state which provides for remote administration of the kiosk via the telecommunications system, according to the instructions from the central administrator. The first state is governed by program instructions providing for one or more of: selecting a mix of recorded media for the kiosk inventory; converting a recorded media from rentable to saleable; performing software upgrades from one or more remote locations; performing analysis of the kiosk; predicting maintenance of the kiosk; determining an alarm condition; generating an alarm in response to the alarm condition; and performing maintenance of the kiosk



BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES
FIG. 1A is a perspective view showing a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media, in accordance with one embodiment.
FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the kiosk of FIG. 1A, with a transparent front door.
FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the kiosk of FIG. 1B, with the front door removed to show internal kiosk components.
FIG. 3 is a front perspective view of a horseshoe construct within the kiosk of FIG. 1, including a storage assembly for recorded media, a robotic element and an input/output module.
FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the horseshoe construct of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5A is a front perspective view of the horseshoe construct and storage assembly of FIG. 3.
FIG. 5B is a front perspective view of the horseshoe construct and robotic element of FIG. 3
FIG. 5C is a front perspective view of the horseshoe construct and input/output module of FIG. 3
FIG. 6A-6C are perspective views of the robotic element of FIG. 5B, with a gripping assembly for gripping and moving recorded media within a kiosk.
FIG. 7A is a side perspective view of the gripping assembly of FIGS. 6A-6C.
FIG. 7B is an alternate side perspective view of the gripping assembly of FIG. 7A.
FIG. 8A is a front perspective view of the input/output module of FIG. 3.
FIG. 8B is a rear perspective view of the input/output module of FIG. 8A.
FIG. 9 is a front perspective view of a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk with two customer interfaces, in accordance with one embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of the kiosk of FIG. 9, with a front door removed to show internal kiosk components including a horseshoe construct
FIG. 11 is a front perspective view showing the horseshoe construct of the kiosk of FIG. 10 in further detail.
FIG. 12 is a schematic view of the kiosk of FIG. 1A, illustrating exemplary display wings and an exemplary modular display topper.
FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating exemplary functionality and modularity of the kiosk of FIG. 1A.
FIG. 14 shows a top schematic view of a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media, with floor mounted graphics that demarcate an area proximate to the kiosk, in accordance with one embodiment.



DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Systems and methods now disclosed illustrate networked, automated kiosks that not only automatically perform physical dispensing and retrieval of recorded media, but that also collect data from transactions and other events and then report said data to a central database. This aggregation of information provides for remote tracking and analysis of data using a variety of metrics such as transaction time, transaction volume, customer information, inventory levels, etc. Reports of the aforementioned are for example generated according to the report framework summarized in Appendix K, and in accordance with exemplary software architecture outlined in Appendix L.
FIG. 1A shows a schematic perspective view of one embodiment of a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk for recorded media. System 100 includes a kiosk 101, having a kiosk body 102 that is for example shaped as a half cylinder with a front panel or door 104. A customer interface assembly 106 is for example mounted with door 104 and includes a customer interface 108, a card reader 110 for reading information from a card such as a credit or debit card, and an input/output module 112. As shown, customer interface 108 may be a liquid crystal display (“LCD”) touch screen 108; however, customer interface 108 may alternately be a combined display screen and keyboard and/or voice recognition device. Input/output module 112 includes a media input 114 for receiving recorded media into kiosk 101, and a media output 116, for dispensing recorded media from kiosk 101. Media input and output 114, 116 are for example slots which may include one-way doors or other covers.
FIG. 1B shows a schematic perspective view of kiosk 101 with a transparent door 104, for illustration of internal kiosk components. A storage subsystem such as horseshoe construct 118, has a plurality of vertical racks 120 suitable for storing a plurality of recorded media, such as DVDs. Horseshoe construct 118 is illustratively shown as a semi-circle, but may also be formed as a complete circle, or any part thereof. As used herein, “circular formation” refers to any formation along a complete circle, or any portion thereof. Racks 120 are arranged in said circular formation, and their size and number is selectable, for example according to the total number of media to be stored therein and/or the shape of horseshoe construct 118. Arranging vertical racks 120 in a circular formation may increase the packing density of recorded media within the kiosk
FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of system 100 with front door 104 of kiosk 101 removed, to further illustrate kiosk internal components. As shown, vertical racks 120 are for example mounted in a semi-circle within horseshoe construct 118 and are thereby proximate to a central robotic element 122. Recorded media storage capacity of kiosk 101 is based upon a number and a vertical size of vertical racks 120. Specifically, the number and the size of vertical racks 120 may be selected based upon required storage capacity of kiosk 101. Use of vertical racks 120 and horseshoe construct 118 may provide enhanced storage of recorded media within kiosk 101, as compared to ‘carousel type’ storage units, thereby increasing storage density of recorded media within kiosk 101.
As also shown in FIG. 2, kiosk 101 includes an internal computer 124 and power supply unit 126. Computer (also referred to as computer module) 124 includes at least a processing unit, volatile memory, storage unit and a telecommunication subsystem/communication interface for remote administration and billing interface with computer module 124. Computer module 124 is for example a Windows XP based personal computer configured for operation within kiosk 101. Power supply unit 126 may include an uninterruptible power supply (“UPS”) unit, for example having a battery, to provide power to kiosk 101 in the event that an external power supply is interrupted. Power supply unit 126 may also include other electronic components such as motion control electronics to operate robotic element 122.
FIGS. 3, 4 and 5A-5C show perspective views of horseshoe construct 118. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, vertical racks 120 are for example spaced along the curved portion of horseshoe construct 118, with robotic element 122 positioned equidistant from the horseshoe ends; however, alternate numbers and positions of racks 120 and alternate positioning of robotic element 122 may be employed, as a matter of design choice.
FIGS. 5A-C emphasize particular elements of horseshoe construct 118. For clarity, features of FIGS. 5A-C that are not specifically discussed herein below are depicted with dotted lines, with the emphasized features shown in solid lines. For example, as shown in FIG. 5A, each rack 120 is arranged as a vertical tower including a plurality of stacked shelves 128 for holding recorded media, and racks 120 partially surround robotic element 122. In one embodiment, each item of recorded media is enclosed in a media case configured for handling by robotic element 112. The media case for example includes one or more grip-enhancing features such as indentations or extrusions shaped to fit, respectively, corresponding extrusions or indentations of a y-axis gripping assembly 130 (FIG. 5B) of the robotic element 122. Grip-enhancing features may additionally or optionally include a textured area and/or a strip or patch of easy-grip material such as sticky rubber, to facilitate gripping by gripping assembly 130.
FIG. 5B shows y-axis gripping assembly 130, which for example utilizes the aforementioned specific case features to achieve secure gripping, and subsequent movement, of the recorded media within kiosk 101. Gripping assembly 130 is for example mounted with a rotational assembly 132 of robotic element 122 (see also FIG. 6B) for rotating gripping assembly 130 into position with any of the surrounding racks 12. Robotic element 122 for example facilitates movement of a gripped recorded media along the x-, y- and z-axes, as illustrated in coordinate system 500. In other words, as described further with respect to FIGS. 7A, 7B, gripping assembly 130 moves both horizontally and vertically (e.g., back and forth along the y-axis and up and down along the x-axis), in addition to rotating at an angle θ with respect to the y-axis. Upon command by computer module 124, gripping assembly 130 for example rotates via rotational assembly 132 until proximate a shelf 128 associated with a requested media. As shown, input/output module 112 is positioned within the range of rotational movement of gripping assembly 130, for example, opposite robotic element 122 along horseshoe construct 118. Assembly 130, driven by robotic element 122, may therefore retrieve the requested media, pivot (via rotational assembly 132) into alignment with output 116, and deliver the media through output 116. Conversely, upon command and via rotational assembly 132, gripping assembly 130 for example retrieves a returned media from input 114, and delivers the returned media to an associated shelf 128, for storage.
FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C emphasize particular elements of robotic element 122. In particular, FIG. 6A shows a y-axis drive motor 134, for moving y-axis gripping assembly 130 up and down along the y-axis, and a rotational axis drive motor 136, for driving rotational assembly 132 (shown in FIG. 6B). Gripping assembly 130 (FIG. 6C) for example rotates, via motor 136 and rotational assembly 132, to an angle θ with respect to the x-axis, the angle θ corresponding with a particular rack 120. Motor 134 moves gripping assembly 130 up or down, into position with a shelf 128 associated with a requested media. Gripping assembly 130 retrieves the media, rotates along the x-y plane via motor 136 and rotational assembly 132, and raises or lowers along the y-axis via motor 134 into position with output 116, to deliver the requested media. Media output 116 for example includes one or more sensors to verify removal of the media case from output 116.
FIGS. 7A and 7B show perspective views of z-axis gripping assembly 130. Assembly 130 for example includes a media gripper 138, sequenced by a gripper motor 140, such as a camshaft mechanism, to grip and release a media case. In one example of operation, robotic element 122 selects a media case (containing a recorded media) from a shelf 128 of a vertical rack 120. A grip sensor (not shown) for example indicates that the case is securely held by gripper 138, prior to delivery of the recorded media to output 116. In particular, once the case is securely held, a x-axis drive motor 142 moves gripping assembly 130 backward and forward along the x-axis (or back and forth at an angle θ in the x-y plane). Back and forth motion of gripping assembly 130 is for example facilitated by linear bearings 144 (FIG. 7B). Gripping assembly 130 may thus move forward to retrieve a deposited case from input 114, grip the case using gripper 138, and move backwards via x-axis drive motor 142, taking the case with it. The case may then be delivered, through the aforementioned rotational, up and down, and back and forth movements, to an associated shelf 128, for storage. As shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B, up and down movement of gripping assembly 130 along the y-axis may be facilitated by y-axis bearings 146 and a y-axis leadscrew nut 148.
FIGS. 8A and 8B show respective front and back perspective views of input/output module 112 and illustrate input 114 and output 116 in further detail. As shown, an input door solenoid 150 facilitates return of media through input 114.
As previously noted, media cases used with the described automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk may include features for facilitating gripping by gripping assembly 130. Such cases may also incorporate elements for indicating damage or abuse to recorded media within the case. For example, the media case may include a damage indicator for indicating possible damage to the case and/or recorded media contained therein. Kiosk 101, through use of the one or more case sensors 152 located at input 114, for example reads a temperature indicator such as a temperature sensitive coating on a returned media case to determine if the media case (and thus the recorded media therein) has been subjected to extremes of temperature, potentially damaging the recorded media. Case sensors 152 read for example detect a color or compositional change in the aforementioned temperature sensitive coating. Alternately or optionally, case sensors 152 may be temperature sensors, to sense an actual temperature of the case. In one embodiment, if a case sensor 152 determines damage to a media case, a case rejection mechanism in communication with the sensor 152 (for example by internal circuitry), prevents return of the damaged case at media input 114. In one aspect, a subscriber service may be enforced by use of a subscriber case that presents a unique electronically scannable indicia to identify that the case is authorized for use in subscription use or use within a particular kiosk or sub-group of kiosks, etc. A user may present this case for scanning and authorization to proceed with a transaction. The subscriber may have pre-approved billing arrangements.
As also shown in FIGS. 8A and 8B, a kiosk sensor such as camera 154 is for example mounted with kiosk 101, to monitor operation thereof. A still or video camera 154 may image a person engaging with the kiosk, for example in a credit card transaction. FIGS. 8A, 8B show one possible position of camera 154 relative to input/output 112. As shown, camera 154 is mounted within kiosk 101; however, it is to be understood that camera 154 may equally be mounted external to kiosk 101, for example to one side of, or above, touch screen 108. The following Table B identifies screen shots, viewable on touch screen 108, as provided in Appendix M:







TABLE B





Screen Shots-Appendix M




















Version 2 Screen Shots





action.jpg





addmovie.jpg





anime.jpg





authorizing.jpg





authorizingWithTrivia.jpg





cartwpromo.jpg





checkout.jpg





comedy.jpg





delivering.jpg





DeliveringDVDBuy.jpg





DeliveringDVDRent.jpg





deliveringsam.jpg





DiscDoesnotBelong.jpg





DoYouNeedMoreTime.gif





drama.jpg





email.jpg





family.jpg





forei gn.jpg





helphowdoi.jpg





HelpMaxDVD.jpg





helpscreen.jpg





helpscreenmore.jpg





homejpg





horror.jpg





identifying.jpg





identifyingWithTrivia.jpg





InitializingScreen.jpg





keyboardzip.jpg





MachineFullForReturn.jpg





Main.gif





Main.jpg





mainWithWhiteBackground.jpg





MaxDiscExceeded.jpg





more.jpg





MovieDetail.jpg





moviedetailgod.jpg





moviedetailpay.jpg





moviedetailsam.jpg





moviedetailscary.jpg





moviedetailtriplets.jpg





newrelease.jpg





newreleasemore.jpg





OpsDiscNotCurrentlyAvailable.jpg





OpsExpiredPaymentCard.jpg





OpsPaymentCardNotRecognize.jpg





OpsPromoNotRecognize.jpg





OpsServerCommDifficulties.jpg





OpsTitleUnavailble.jpg





OpsUnableToProcessRental.jpg





OpsUnableToReceive.jpg





OpsUnableToVerifyZip.jpg





OpsUnableVeri fyPaymentCard.jpg





payment.jpg





payment735.jpg





paymentemail.jpg





paymentemail735.jpg





paymentpromo.jpg





promoscreen.jpg





promowhatis.jpg





PushDiscAllTheWay.jpg





QuickPoll1.jpg





QuickPoll2.jpg





quickpolla.jpg





remove.jpg





RentalAgreement.jpg





rentscreen.jpg





rentscreen1disc.jpg





rentscreen2.jpg





return.jpg





return2.jpg





ReturnDVD.jpg





returnWithTrivia.jpg





romance.jpg





S1.jpg





S2.jpg





S3 jpg





S4.jpg





scifi.jpg





selectmovie.jpg





selectmovieadd.jpg





sports.jpg





StartupError.jpg





thankyou.jpg





thankyou735.jpg





thankyoupromo.jpg





thankyoureturn.jpg





thankyoureturnWithTrivia.jpg





thankyouWithTrivia.jpg





Tool_BadSlots.jpg





Tool_BarCamPegTest.jpg





Tool_CardReaderHlD.jpg





Tool_Controller.jpg





Tool_CycleTest.jpg





Tool_InventoryCheck.jpg





Tool_Login.jpg





Tool_Operator.jpg





Tool_ServoParams.jpg





toppicks.jpg





UnableToAcceptCreditCard.jpg





UnableToAcceptReturn.jpg





UnableToRecognize.jpg





viewall.jpg





war.jpg





bytes





Version 2.5 Screen Shots





BuyConfirmationScreen.jpg





CartScreen1.jpg





CartScreen2.jpg





EmailScreen.jpg





MainScreen.jpg





MainScreenTrailer.jpg





MovieDetailScreen1.jpg





MovieDetailScreen2.jpg





MovieSelectionScreen.jpg





PromoCodeDescriptionScreen.jpg





PromoCodeScreen.jpg





RentalAgreementScreen.jpg





RentalSalesAgreementScreen.jpg





ReturnDVD.jpg





ReturnThankYouScreen.jpg





TakeDVD.jpg





Tool_RemoveDiscs.jpg





TransactionTimeOut.jpg





UnableToRecognizeDVD.jpg





ZipCodeScreen.jpg










FIG. 9 shows one exemplary system 200 with a kiosk 201 having two customer interfaces 202A and 202B. Customer interfaces 202A, 202B may each be similar to customer interface assembly 106 of FIG. 1A; each including respective customer inputs (e.g., LCD touch screens) 204A, 204B and input/output modules 206A, 206B, each input/output module including a respective input 208A, 208B for receiving recorded media, and an output 210A, 210B, for dispensing recorded media. Card readers 212A, 212B for example read information from credit cards inserted therein. Kiosk 201 may incorporate additional interfaces 202, as a matter of design preference. Likewise, two half-cylindrical kiosks 101 or 201 may be positioned back-to-back to provide a cylindrical kiosk station, for example with multiple interfaces 202 positioned about the circumference of the station.
FIG. 10 shows one view of kiosk 201 with a front door 214 removed for purposes of illustration. Kiosk 201 includes internal horseshoe construct 216, with a plurality of vertical racks 218 and a robotic element 220 having a y-axis gripping assembly (see FIG. 11). Power supply 222 for example includes a UPS unit for powering kiosk 201 if an external power supply is interrupted. Other electronics, e.g., motion control electronics for operating robotic element 122, may be further included with power supply 222. A computer module 224 for example controls operation of kiosk 201.
FIG. 11 shows horseshoe construct 216, vertical racks 218, robotic element 220 and y-axis gripping assembly 226 in further detail. Horseshow construct 216, vertical racks 218, robotic element 220 and y-axis gripping assembly 226 are for example similar to horseshoe construct 118, vertical racks 120, robotic element 122 and y-axis gripping assembly 130 of FIG. 3. FIGS. 9, 10 and 11 are best viewed together with the following description.

    
    
        In kiosk 201, robotic element 220 may deliver selected recorded media to one of input/output modules 206(A) or 206(B). For example, if a first customer interacts with customer interface 202(A) and a second customer interacts with customer interface 202(B), robotic element 220, using y-axis gripping assembly 226, delivers a first recorded media, selected by the first customer, to input/output module 206(A) and delivers a second recorded media, selected by the second customer, to input/output module 206(B). Input/output modules 206 may include one or more sensors (e.g., monitor sensors 358, FIG. 13) to determine acceptance of the selected recorded media by customers. Kiosk 201 may contain part or all functionality of kiosk 101, described above.
    
    


Systems 100, 200 may include a plurality of kiosks (e.g., one or more of kiosk 101 and/or kiosk 201) co-located and ‘grouped’ together via a kiosk-to-kiosk telecommunications device such as an Internet interface, or a telecommunications device facilitating interface between a central server and the kiosks. For example, kiosks 101, 201 regularly communicate operating conditions such as functional status, program or operational errors, temperature and other environmental conditions, and CPU and memory load to a central administrator associated with the central server, according to update protocol governed by program instructions included in hardware or software operable with computer 124. Kiosks may likewise communicate with each other and the central server to provide additional inventory capacity at a particular location. For example, multiple kiosks may be provided at a location where inventory of a single kiosk is frequently exhausted, to increase inventory. These grouped kiosks may communicate (e.g., using the Internet, a wireless interface or a wired face) inventory status information directly with one another, enabling recorded media to be located within any kiosk of the group. In another example, each of the grouped kiosks communicates its inventory status to a server (e.g., a server located on the Internet or with central administrator), which may then be interrogated by one or more kiosks to locate stock of recorded media within other kiosks of the group. Program instructions for example provide for listing of access to inventory information within and between kiosks, as exemplified in the Data Caching and Framework information of Appendix A.
In one example of operation, a potential customer requests a certain recorded media from a first kiosk of a group. Where stock of the recorded media has been exhausted from the first kiosk, the first kiosk communicates with other kiosks of the group (e.g., directly or via a server) to locate stock of the recorded media. If the recorded media is stocked by one or more other kiosks of the group, the first kiosk identifies the one or more other kiosks, for example directing the potential customer to the one or more other kiosks via a message displayed upon a touch screen 108, 204A or 204B.
In one embodiment, where a first kiosk is exhausted of a recorded media requested by a customer, the first kiosk may locate and reserve stock of the recorded media within another kiosk of the group. If this reserved recorded media is not claimed within a certain time period, the reservation may be automatically cancelled.
As shown in FIG. 12, a system for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk includes one or more presentation devices that for example serve as marketing display units. FIG. 12 depicts system 100 with kiosk 101 including exemplary display wings 228 and an exemplary display topper 230. As illustrated, display wings 228 and topper 230 are modular presentation devices supported in association with kiosk body 102; however, it will be understood that display wings 228 and/or topper 230 may also be integrated with kiosk 101, as a matter of design preference. Modular display wing 228(A) is illustratively shown with a plurality of active display panels 232 (e.g., LCDs) that may, for example, display active advertisements (e.g., film trailers) of remaining inventory within kiosk 101, or other information, through control of kiosk 101 (or via the central server connected to kiosk 101). Modular display wing 228(B) is illustratively shown displaying a static advertisement 234 of recorded media within kiosk 101; static advertisement may also display other notices or advertisement information. As shown, modular display topper 230 has a single active display screen 236 (e.g., a cathode ray tube display, a liquid crystal display, a back-lit four color display, etc.) and may include other audio visual equipment, such as lights and speakers. Modular display topper 230 for example displays marketing material (e.g., related to remaining inventory) or other information upon screen 236.
FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating functionality and modularity of system 100. FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2, 12 and 13 are best viewed together while reading the following description. Computer module 124 is preferably connected to the Internet via an Internet interface 402, so that kiosk 101 may initiate and verify credit card transactions. In one example, kiosk 101 makes a credit transaction via the Internet and then sends a transaction receipt to a customer's email account (thereby avoiding the need to print paper receipts). Should an Internet transaction such as electronic billing fail, an error message similar to those shown in Appendix C may be generated at the customer interface 108. A kiosk communication framework is for example employed in governing e-commerce in accordance with Appendix J.
Kiosk 101 may also include a local wireless interface 406 (e.g., a WiFi Hub) that allows kiosk 101 to serve multiple business functions and provide wireless connectivity to the Internet via Internet interface 402.
Telecommunications device/internet interface 402 also allows functionality of kiosk 101 to be managed or administered from a central administrator remote from the kiosk by a management team 504 or a maintenance team 502, for example employing operations summarized in Appendix D. Maintenance team 502 and management team 504 may be co-located or separate from one another. In an embodiment, calibration software 304 and monitor sensors 358 are accessible from remote maintenance locations by maintenance team 502. In one example of operation, calibration software 304 may be automatically triggered by computer module 124 to perform routine checks on one or more components (e.g., robotic element 122, computer module 124, etc) of kiosk 101. Calibration for example follows steps outlined in the Calibration Tool User Manual, attached as Appendix G.
Results from these calibrations may then be available via Internet interface 402, and/or automatically uploaded to maintenance team 502. Maintenance team 502, therefore, only need visit kiosk 101 when physical maintenance or repair is necessary.
Kiosk 101 may include one or more embedded controllers (e.g., embedded controller 370) that have built-in processing capability and associated firmware (e.g., firmware 372). In one example, embedded controller 370 may reside within robotic element 122 to initiate, control and complete predetermined mechanical operations based upon firmware 372.
In one embodiment, firmware 372 includes program instructions for initiating, controlling and completing mechanical administration of kiosk 101. Embedded controller 370 uses firmware 372 to identify and/or resolve software and/or mechanical problems that may occur within kiosk 101, for example controlling mechanical kiosk components to perform predetermined mechanical functions. If a mechanical problem is detected within kiosk 101, embedded controller 370 may restart one or more embedded controllers, including itself, to attempt to resolve the problem. In another example, if embedded controller 370 controls movement of one or more mechanical elements (e.g., elements within robotic element 114), firmware 372 may also include instructions that move these mechanical elements through one or more sequences designed to repair certain mechanical problems. For example, firmware 372 includes instructions that move the mechanical elements to dislodge interfering objects and/or reposition moveable items. Where recorded media becomes dislodged or out of position, firmware 372 may include instruction to return the recorded media to appropriate inventory position within vertical racks 120.
Embedded controller 370 may further employ firmware instructions to detect and/or diagnose potential error conditions within kiosk 101, using one or more monitor sensors. A plurality of monitor sensors 358 (e.g., cameras, lasers, “stack sensors”, contacts, etc.) may be mounted internally and/or externally to kiosk 101 to monitor operation thereof. Controllers 370 for example acquire data from monitor sensors 358 and process the data with algorithms of firmware 372 to determine whether an alarm state exists. Firmware 372 may further provide functionality to report acquired and/or processed data indicative of an alarm state to other embedded controllers and/or to computer module 124.
In one embodiment, diagnostic software 319 within computer module 124 acquires information from monitor sensors 358, and reports this information, as a status of kiosk 101 for example, to management team 504 and/or maintenance team 502 via Internet interface 402. Diagnostic software 319 may also process this information to determine if an ‘alarm state’ has occurred. Kiosk monitoring for example provides sensors 358 and basic alert support as described in the attached Appendix I.
To increase alignment tolerances of mechanical components during construction of kiosk 101, computer module 124 and embedded controllers (e.g., embedded controller 370) may include calibration software 304 (where included with embedded controllers 370, calibration functions described herein may be stored as firmware 372). A calibration process of calibration software 304 may, for example, determine alignment of robotic element 122 with vertical stacks 120 of horseshoe construct 118 after kiosk 101 is constructed. In particular, embedded controllers within robotic element 122 may interface with one or more robotic sensors 358 to provide location feedback to calibration software 304. Calibration software 304 may, for example, populate a database/table 322 with location/position and tolerance information determined during the calibration process. Once the calibration process is complete, database/table 322 may be utilized during operation of kiosk 101. Further calibration may occur periodically, and/or upon command from management team 204 and/or maintenance team 502. In one example, database/table 322 is updated with calibration information during normal operation of kiosk 101. Calibration information is for example generated at pre-programmed intervals, or in response to external triggers.
System 100 may also include one or more proximity sensors 354 to detect proximity of persons to kiosk 101. For example, proximity sensor 354 mounted on the front of kiosk 101 may detect a person (i.e., a potential customer) approaching kiosk 101. Metric software 314 within computer module 130 may collect proximity information from proximity sensor 354 to build statistical information of a person's behavior around kiosk 101, for example. This statistical information may include one or more of: a time of detection, a length of detection (i.e., how long the person stayed proximate to kiosk 101), distance of the person from kiosk 101, etc. Other statistics may be derived from this information; for example, computer module 130 may also determine ratios between persons proximate to kiosk 101, persons interacting with consumer interface 104 of kiosk 101 and customers completing a transaction with kiosk 101, thereby determining a number of persons passing but not interacting and/or transacting with kiosk 101.
System 100 may also include biometric sensors 356 to identify persons interacting with customer interface 104. In one example, biometric sensors 356 may allow kiosk 101 to determine a person's approximate age by analyzing their facial images. In another example, biometric sensors 356 may allow kiosk 101 to identify individual people utilizing one or more of: facial image recognition, fingerprint recognition, iris recognition, etc.
Kiosk 101 may also include one or more interfaces to allow media to be downloaded into alternative media storage devices. Kiosk 101 may, for example, include hardware to distribute recorded media to an alternate storage device (e.g., by recording data from the recorded media to an alternate format). In another example, kiosk 101 may include a local wired interface 404 (e.g., an Ethernet port or a USB port) to allow an external media storage device to connect to kiosk 101 and receive transmitted media. In another example, kiosk 101 includes a local wireless interface (e.g., Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz wireless 802.11 network, infra-red, optical, etc.) that allows a data storage device, proximate to kiosk 101, to receive transmitted media. In one example, recorded music is transmitted to an MP3 player.
Kiosk 101 may also include hardware to allow recorded media to be delivered to hardware distant from kiosk 101. For example, recorded media may be purchased at kiosk 101 and delivered (e.g., via email) to one or more remote destinations. Computer module 124 may therefore include appropriate software to control and allow transfer of recorded media to one or more other formats, and may also include software to authorize and/or distribute media from a remote location to another remote device.
FIG. 14 shows a system 1400 for an automated dispensing and retrieval kiosk, e.g., kiosk 101, with floor mounted graphics 600 that demarcate an area 602 proximate to kiosk 101. These floor mounted graphics 600 may include active elements 604 for interaction with persons proximate to kiosk 101. For example, active elements 6064 may generate one or more sensory experiences within area 602, such as lighting, odor, sound, humidity, etc.
Returning to FIG. 13, an active display wall 506 may be associated with, or attached to, kiosk 101 to provide additional advertisement display. For example, active display or video wall 506 may represent modular display wing 228(A), FIG. 12, and thus include one or more active display units such as LCDs that display information relating to current inventory of kiosk 101 (e.g., to display trailers for films of inventory within kiosk 101). For example, hardware or software of computer 124 (and/or a remote server 508 in communication with kiosk 101 via telecommunications device/Internet interface 402) includes algorithms for determining the available inventory and advertising one or more recorded media of the available inventory on the display units or on customer interface 108.
Video wall 506 for example receives instructions based upon the recorded media therein, such as instructions to display trailers of new or under-rented media. In another example, active display wall 506 is not necessarily proximate to kiosk 101, but is still controlled by kiosk 101 (e.g., via an Internet or wireless connection).
Kiosk 101 may further include one or more integrated internal environmental control units 360 that allow operation of kiosk 101 within extreme environments. Environmental control units 360 maintain a controlled environment within kiosk 101, for example. If kiosk 101 is utilized in a controlled indoor environment, environmental control units 360 may be superfluous. However, if kiosk 101 is located in an outdoor environment, environmental control units 360 may include one or more modular units such as a heater unit 362, a cooler unit 364 and a humidity unit 366.
Computer module 124 may contain inventory management software 320 for managing inventory of recorded media within kiosk 101, as exemplified in the data and caching framework provided with Appendix A. In one example, inventory management software 320 performs calculations to determine one or more inventory alarm conditions. For example, inventory management software 320 may determine an alarm condition when inventory drops below a certain number. In another example, inventory management software 320 may determine an alarm condition when inventory exceeds a certain level (i.e., when inventory overstocking is in operation). When an alarm condition occurs, an alarm is generated and may be provided to one or more of cell phones, pagers, email addresses, etc., via Internet interface 402. Inventory management software 320 may also include inventory overstocking routines 324, thereby maximizing operation of kiosk 101, for example. Alarms related to inventory, kiosk operational status and other kiosk parameters may be generated and broadcast according to a system monitor service that is for example independent of kiosk system 100 software, in accordance with the architectural overview provided in Appendix F.
Inventory management software 320 may also include media selection routines 326 utilizing algorithms to select a recorded media mix for stocking kiosk 101, based upon historical performance of specific recorded media. Media selection routines 326 may analyze historical information relating to consumer selection of a specific recorded media to predict future selection levels.
Computer module 130 may also include shopping cart software 308 that implements a shopping cart feature for use by customers interacting with customer interface assembly 106. In one example, the shopping card feature operates as a transaction selection aggregation tool.
Computer module 130 may also implement suggestive selling routines 328 (shown within inventory management software 320 for purposes of illustration) that implement a ‘rent-me’ feature that allows a shortcut to certain recorded media, for example from an initial screen display or a main menu of the customer interface. The ‘rent-me’ feature may further implement a most direct path to transaction completion for the recorded media. In one example, a customer presses one button to initiate a transaction. The customer may select a title or icon on an initial screen of customer interface 108 to progresses immediately to a payment stage requesting a credit card to be presented.
Suggestive selling routines 328 within inventory management software 320 may, for example, make certain recorded media (e.g., new and/or popular titles) directly available from an initial interaction screen of customer interface 104. Screens other than the initial screen of customer interface 108 may also include buttons that directly initiate transactions. Additionally, system 100 may include program logic for selecting and presenting a particular category from the recorded media to consumers according to predetermined selection criteria, including statistical information such as historical consumer preference of media, available inventory, excess inventory and inventory for sale. The particular category, and/or advertising associated therewith, is for example presented to the consumer on display wings 228, topper 230 or customer interface 108. The statistical information may likewise facilitate determination of media to offer with the rent-me feature.
Computer module 124 may also include remote upgrade software 310, whereby a remote station (e.g., management team 504 and/or maintenance team 502) may send new software to computer module 124. Upgrade software 310 facilitates download, install and execution of the new software without local interaction (i.e., without requiring personnel to attend kiosk 101). In one example, upgrade software 310 allows computer module 124 to periodically (e.g., daily or weekly) interrogate a remote server 508 (e.g., accessible by maintenance team 502) to download new software, if available. Thus, computer module 124 is automatically updated without external initiation. Upgrades may be automatically verified, for example by implementing the testing plan outlined in Appendix E.
Computer module 124 may also include maintenance software 312 that allows maintenance of kiosk 101 to be performed from a remote location. For example, maintenance team 502 may interrogate maintenance software 312 to determine one or more internal temperatures and other internal environmental parameters of kiosk 101. Kiosk 101 may, for example, include one or more internal environmental sensors 352 that interface to maintenance software 312. Maintenance software 312 may also determine when critical maintenance of kiosk 101 is necessary, and may automatically request this maintenance of maintenance team 502, and/or perform critical maintenance, where possible. In another example, algorithms within maintenance software 312 may predict and request preventative maintenance, thereby preventing failure of kiosk 101. Such maintenance is not limited to physical maintenance of mechanisms within kiosk 101, but may also include maintenance of data and software of kiosk 101.
Computer module 124 may also include metric software 314 that monitors transactions of recorded media to determine certain metrics and may export these metrics to other servers. Metric software 314 may, for example, deliver point of sale demographic data, derived from these metrics, to other servers that may monitor more than one kiosk. In another example, metric software 314 delivers demographic data to rating servers.
Computer module 124 may also include survey software 316 invoked to run a survey acquisition funded from external sources (i.e., a survey paid for by an external entity). In one example, a survey may specifically target customers that complete transactions for one or more specific recorded media. Upon request for or completion of a transaction for a predetermined recorded media, computer 124 may run software 316 to present a survey at customer interface 108, for example posing a series of consumer queries chosen from the poll questions presented in Appendix B, to gain metric data. The gained data may be used to update the statistical information utilized in connection with the rent-me and advertising capabilities described herein.
Inventory management software 320 may also include a suggestive selling algorithm 328 that actively promotes marketing of remaining inventory items, thereby improving inventory turnover of kiosk 101. In one example, suggestive selling algorithm 328 may modify one or more marketing displays of kiosk 101 to advertise remaining inventory items.
If a customer inputs an email address in order to receive a transaction receipt, this email address may be stored within kiosk 101 and/or sent to remote server 508 that is for example accessible by management team 504, for marketing purposes. Further, a customer may be given an opportunity to input a second email address (e.g., an email address of a friend) to receive invitations based upon the customer's transaction. In one example, a customer may input one or more friends' email addresses to receive advertisements for a certain recorded media; these email addresses may also be stored and used for marketing purposes. In one example, emails containing advertisements, which may be selected according to the aforementioned statistical information, may be periodically generated and sent by kiosk 101. In another example, kiosk 101 may allow a person interacting with customer interface 108 to send an advertisement to an email address. For example, if a person, interacting with consumer interface 108, touches an advertisement on the screen, kiosk 101 may request an email address from the person and then send a copy of the advertisement to the email address. This email address may also be stored for marketing purposes. Further, kiosk 101 may include promotional codes within these emails that allow the recipient to receive one or more transactional discounts.
Kiosk 101 may also be utilized for public service announcements. Computer module 124 may include alert software 318 that allows kiosk 101 to periodically connect to one or more government agency databases (e.g., via the Internet) to download one or more public service announcements or alerts. For example, kiosk 101, utilizing alert software 318 and Internet interface 402, may automatically, or upon command from a remote server such as server 508, connect to a government server and download one or more amber alerts and/or terror alerts. These alerts may then be displayed on one or more advertisement/marketing displays (e.g., modular display topper 230, display wings 228A, 2288 and/or customer interface 108) of kiosk 101. In another example of operation, these alerts may be sent to kiosk 101 manually (e.g., via management team 504) for display on one or more marketing displays of kiosk 101.
Where kiosk 101 operates for recorded media rental (i.e., allowing a customer to rent one or more recorded media from an inventory of recorded media stored within kiosk 101), inventory management software 320 may provide for converting a recorded media item from rentable to saleable. For example, one or more software algorithms monitor rental frequency of recorded media and thereby make decisions, based on predetermined limits, thresholds and other information, to convert one or more inventory items from rental items to sale items. For example, if kiosk 101 has twenty recorded media of one film, as this film becomes less popular the frequency of rental of associated recorded media reduces. Algorithms of inventory management software 320 may then determine that ten of the twenty recorded media containing this film may be sold, for example. As the frequency of rental for the remaining ten recorded media reduces further, algorithms of inventory management software 320 may determine that stock of associated recorded media should be reduced further. As items of inventory are sold, kiosk 101 may inform management team 504 that space is available within kiosk 101 for new recorded media, for example.
The exemplary source code of Appendix C, in compiled form, may be used to provide program instructions configuring system 100/200 for operations as described herein, where the program instructions may reside on circuitry, for example as shown in the case of computer 124 and embedded controller 370 (for purposes of illustration, Appendix C may be viewed with Appendix H, which provides exemplary case studies of code migration). Unless otherwise noted, it will be appreciated that what is shown is a non-limiting embodiment and the circuitry may be more broadly provided on any electronically programmable system, such as a computer having a single processor, multiple processors or in a distributed processing environment. Likewise, data storage may be local to the kiosk, adjunct to a server, or in a distributed or shared databasing environment.
Changes may be made in the above systems without departing from the scope hereof. As apparent from reading and fully understanding this specification, kiosks 101, 201 are modular in both functionality and serviceability. These modules may include software and hardware. In particular, these modules are field selectable, replaceable and maintainable, for example facilitating configuration of kiosks 101, 201 to provide functionality as desired for various levels of business and maintenance. It should thus be noted that the matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. The following claims are intended to cover all generic and specific features described herein, as well as all statements of the scope of the present method and system, which, as a matter of language, might be said to fall therebetween.

## Claims

1. A kiosk for dispensing and retrieving recorded media employing a robotic element, the kiosk comprising:
a telecommunications system for exchanging data between a central administrator and the kiosk, the kiosk having electronic controls responsive to instructions from the central administrator for governing administration of the kiosk according to a first state and a second state;
wherein the first state provides for automatic administration of the kiosk, the first state comprising first program instructions for one or more of:
selecting a mix of recorded media for the kiosk inventory,
converting a recorded media from rentable to saleable,
performing software upgrades from one or more remote locations,
performing analysis of the kiosk,
predicting maintenance of the kiosk,
determining an alarm condition,
generating an alarm in response to the alarm condition, and
performing maintenance of the kiosk; and

wherein the second state provides for remote administration of the kiosk via the telecommunications system according to the instructions from the central administrator, the second state comprising second program instructions initialized at a remote server of the central administrator for maintenance of the kiosk, wherein the second program instructions include program instructions for:
performing a routine to check on performance of the robotic element,
selecting a mix of recorded media for the kiosk inventory,
converting a recorded media from rentable to saleable,
performing software upgrades from one or more remote locations,
performing remote analysis of the kiosk,
predicting maintenance of the kiosk,
determining an alarm condition,
generating an alarm in response to the alarm condition,
updating a protocol regularly, wherein the kiosk reports kiosk operating conditions to the central administrator via the telecommunications system, and
performing remote maintenance of the kiosk.

2. The kiosk of claim 1 wherein the first and/or second program instructions comprise software.

3. The kiosk of claim 2 wherein the software is operable at one or both of a local computer within the kiosk and a remote server associated with the central administrator.

4. The kiosk of claim 3 wherein the software for selecting a mix of recorded media comprises algorithms for determining the mix based upon historical performance of specific recorded media.

5. The kiosk of claim 4 wherein the software for determining an alarm condition comprises inventory management software having algorithms for determining an alarm condition based upon inventory of recorded media within the kiosk.

6. The kiosk of claim 1 further comprising controllers embedded within the kiosk, wherein—
the controllers include firmware, and the first and/or second program instructions are contained in the firmware; and
the controllers are configured to control one or more mechanical components within the kiosk.

7. The kiosk of claim 1 wherein the first and/or second program instructions include program instructions for automatically calibrating the kiosk utilizing one or more sensors for providing calibration information for one or more systems within the kiosk.

8. The kiosk of claim 1 wherein the second program instructions comprise software.

9. The kiosk of claim 1 wherein the second program instructions are configured to generate an alarm comprises initializing software for broadcasting the alarm condition to one or more of cell phones, pagers and email recipients.

10. The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising an internal environmental control unit for maintaining an environment within the kiosk, wherein the internal environmental control unit is operable with the first state or the second state.

11. The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising an interface operable with the telecommunications system for communication between the kiosk and one or both of a remote server associated with the central administrator and a second kiosk.

12. The kiosk of claim 11, further comprising hardware to distribute inventories of recorded media between the kiosk and one or both of the remote server and the second kiosk, via the interface.

13. The kiosk of claim 1 wherein the kiosk is one of a group of kiosks and further comprises an interface between the kiosk and other kiosks in the group, and wherein the telecommunications system is configured to exchange data between the kiosk and the other kiosks in the group via the interface, and wherein the kiosk communicates directly with the other kiosks in the group to locate stock of recorded media.

14. The kiosk of claim 13 wherein the kiosk is configured to identify one or more other kiosks of the group that have stock of a particular recorded media.

15. The kiosk of claim 14 wherein the kiosk is configured to reserve stock of the particular recorded media within the one or more other kiosks of the group for a potential customer.

16. The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising hardware and software for delivering inventories of recorded media via the interface to the remote server associated with the central administrator.

17. The kiosk of claim 1 wherein the robotic element includes an embedded controller resident therein, and wherein the kiosk is configured to initiate, control and complete predetermined mechanical operations of the robotic element in the second state utilizing the embedded controller.

18. The kiosk of claim 17 wherein the embedded controller is configured to detect and diagnose potential error conditions using one or more monitor sensors.